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A trip to Scandinavia will lead you to enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures — a major draw for tourists around the globe. Scandinavian tours offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring ancient Viking sites to witnessing the magical Northern Lights, ensuring every traveler finds something to captivate their senses amidst the beauty of the Nordic region.
- Dining at some of the best and most creative restaurants in the world in Copenhagen
- Visiting the Little Mermaid statue on a guided walking tour of Copenhagen
- Exploring the colorful streets of Bergen, Norway, known as the gateway to the fjords
- Touring Kronborg Castle, Shakespeare's inspiration for Elsinore in Hamlet
- Sailing the archipelago of Sweden, each island more charming than the next
- Taking the Flam Line railway through stunningly beautiful scenery
- Sampling traditional Finnish sauna culture and enjoying a refreshing dip in a frozen lake
- Boating through Norway's stunning fjords
- Learning about Scandinavian history at the Viking Ship Museum
- Staying in the world's first ice hotel, opened in 1990 in Sweden
- Watching reindeer races and experiencing Sami culture in Lapland, northern Sweden
- Breathing the impossibly fresh air of Iceland - plus scuba diving between tectonic plates, glacier walking, hiking volcanoes, and soaking in natural hot springs
- Marveling at the architectural wonders of Helsinki, including the iconic Helsinki Cathedral
- Floating in a wetsuit down an icy river in Finland
- Witnessing the stunning beauty of the Lofoten Islands in Norway
Scandinavia Tours & Travel Guide
Scandinavia Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Encompassing the lands of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland, Scandinavia is known for its beautiful scenery and lovely locals. It's a land where a blend of traditional culture and innovation has led to some of the coolest cities in the world.
Fashion-forward and cutting-edge, Copenhagen, Stockholm, and the like remain remarkably approachable and charming, thanks to neighborhoods with grand palaces, cobblestone streets, and a workmanlike but immensely pleasant approach to life.
Scandinavia has a whimsical air about it. Outside cities, one encounters jaw-dropping landscapes, from glaciers to fjords to a veritable winter wonderland.
Scandinavia is a perfect travel destination because of its jaw-dropping beauty, endless history, celestial phenomena, and stunning attractions. It has so much to offer adventure seekers, luxury travelers, history buffs, and naturalists.
Not only do tourists flock to it, but according to the World Happiness Report, its residents are among the happiest people in the world.
Five Great Countries of Scandinavia
Scandinavia comprises five captivating countries, each offering its own unique charm and allure. From the rugged landscapes of Norway to the modern design of Denmark, the rich cultural heritage of Sweden, the pristine natural beauty of Finland, and the ethereal landscapes of Iceland, Scandinavia beckons with diverse experiences waiting to be discovered.
Sweden takes up the largest part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. It came from a history of poverty and developed into an advanced economic state with a standard of living and life expectancy that ranks one of the best in the world.
Sweden has thousands of coastal islands, lakes, lush forests, and glaciated mountains. Its main cities are the eastern capital, Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. It is the fourth largest country in Europe, but even in a large city like Stockholm, which is spread over 14 islands, you can easily escape to the shoreline, a lovely park, or even hop on a ferry to a resort island in the Stockholm Archipelago.
Viking history has deep roots in Sweden. Around 700 A.D., Scandinavian shipbuilders perfected the Viking ship, which they used to conquer by sea. If you visit the Swedish city of Birka, you can visit one of these ships.
You can also visit the Vasa, the most powerfully armed warship that sank within 20 minutes of its first journey. The ship is on display at Stockholm's Vasa Museum, where you can learn more about this embarrassing mishap and see the ship in its true beauty.
Sweden loves its music! It has produced big-time artists like Abba and Swedish House Mafia. You can visit the ABBA City Walk in Stockholms Stadsmuseum and ABBA The Museum in the Djurgården area of the city. It is the third biggest exporter of music, following the U.S. and U.K.
If you plan on visiting in the summer, there are many Swedish music festivals you can choose to attend.
Also known as the "Land of a Thousand Lakes," Finland has 188,000 lakes and the highest water-to-land-mass ratio of any country in the world.
Perfect for hiking, two-thirds of Finland is covered by woodlands, making it the most forested country in Europe.
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is one of the most fantastic food scenes in Europe. Market stalls overflow with seasonal produce and local delicacies. Most dishes contain potatoes, and bread is a part of every meal.
For a gastronomic experience, you will want to try a Finnish banquet. It begins with a fish course, such as salted herring, followed by meat, such as reindeer, served with a salad, cheese, and possibly a meat or vegetable side dish.
Desserts are usually made from cooked berries or fresh with a warm sauce.
A popular leisure activity in Finland is relaxing in a sauna. There are around two million saunas for a population of less than six million. International sauna championships are held each year to see who can last the longest in the hottest temperatures.
Finland is also the safest place in the world. People feel safe walking alone anywhere at any time of day here. According to Reader's Digest, 11 out of 12 wallets purposely left around Helsinki were returned. Try doing that in Los Angeles!
Finland also has the cleanest tap water and air in Europe. It took the number one spot for the happiest place in the world. Wouldn't you love to go and see for yourself why it won that title?
What was once a land run by ruthless Vikings has become one of the most peaceful communities in the world. It also has one of the world's oldest monarchies.
Danish people follow hygge (say "hoo-ga"), a way of living well each day and living in the moment. It is a feeling of cozy contentment and enjoying the simple things in life. At its core, hygge is about building trust and intimacy with others. It's one of the reasons Denmark was ranked so high on the happiest countries list.
Public transport is very efficient. Most people ride bikes, one of the best ways to enjoy the city. Even the royal family transport their children on bikes when they go to school in the mornings.
The country is so beautiful it's no wonder people want to be outdoors riding a bike. Others who choose not to ride use the metro, bus, train, taxi, and car. It only takes 15 minutes to travel from the airport to the city center by metro, and trains run 24 hours a day.
Norway is the northernmost, easternmost, and westernmost Scandinavian country. Nearly 70% of Norway is uninhabitable and covered by mountains, glaciers, moors, and rivers.
Like Finland, Norway is a very safe place to visit. People come here to experience the midnight sun, and a 24-hour day leaves much time for attractions and exploring.
Polar bears are a famous sight on guided tours and boat rides. Norway also boasts the best and freshest-tasting salmon in the world. In fact, the salmon is so good that the Norwegians introduced salmon sushi to the Japanese back in the '80s!
There is much debate about whether Iceland is part of Scandinavia or not. Many say that Icelandic culture, history, and language are too closely tied to that of Scandinavia for it not to be Scandinavian.
Conversely, Iceland is listed as a Nordic country, whereas Scandinavia is a peninsula of which Iceland is not a part geographically.
Regardless, Iceland is a place of extreme geological contrasts. The striking landscape consists of volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, glaciers, and lava fields. Known as "The Land of Fire and Ice," Iceland has some of the largest glaciers in Europe and is home to the world's most active volcanoes.
Equality and freedom are at the top of Iceland's totem pole. The country ranks extremely high in quality of life, gender equality, and democracy.
It is also one of the countries with the highest rankings in the world for education, health care, and internet availability.
Iceland's history is full of violent Viking blood feuds and family traditions. Icelandic authors write tales of their culture in books, and more books per capita are published here than in any other country in the world.
Top Attractions on Scandinavian Tours
Discover the wonders of Scandinavia through its top attractions, where ancient history meets modern innovation amidst breathtaking landscapes. From iconic landmarks to natural wonders, each attraction offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry and stunning beauty of the Nordic region.
- The Northern Lights:Witness the awe-inspiring dance of the aurora borealis, which paints the night sky with vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple. You can see the northern lights best in Norway's Lofoten Islands, Sweden's Abisko National Park, and Iceland's remote countryside.
- The Little Mermaid: Encounter Copenhagen's iconic bronze statue perched gracefully on a rock along the Langelinie promenade. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale, this landmark attracts visitors from around the world.
- Stockholm Old Town (Gamla Stan): Step back in time as you wander the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, Stockholm's historic heart — marvel at the colorful buildings, charming squares, and landmarks like the Royal Palace and Nobel Museum.
- Geirangerfjord:Cruise through the breathtaking beauty of Norway's Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters. Admire the Seven Sisters and the Suitor, among other natural wonders.
- The Blue Lagoon: Indulge in ultimate relaxation at Iceland's Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by lava fields. Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters known for their healing properties and marvel at the surreal landscape of volcanic rock and steam.
- Suomenlinna Fortress:Explore Helsinki's maritime heritage at Suomenlinna, a UNESCO-listed sea fortress spread across several islands. Wander through its historic ramparts, tunnels, and museums, learning about its rich history as a strategic military stronghold.
- Vasa Museum: Immerse yourself in maritime history at Stockholm's Vasa Museum, home to the remarkably well-preserved Vasa warship. Discover the story of this 17th-century vessel, which sank on its maiden voyage and was salvaged centuries later.
- Hallgrimskirkja:Ascend the tower of Reykjavik's Hallgrimskirkja church for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Admire the unique architecture of this modernist masterpiece and take in vistas stretching to the distant mountains and sea.
- Tromsø Arctic Cathedral: Marvel at the striking design of Tromsø's Arctic Cathedral, with its soaring triangular roof and stunning stained glass windows. Experience its serene interior and attend a concert featuring the cathedral's renowned organ.
- Santa Claus Village: Embrace the magic of Christmas at Rovaniemi's Santa Claus Village, located on the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland. Meet Santa, explore his workshop, and cross the magical line that marks the boundary between the Northern Hemisphere and the North Pole.
- Nyhavn: Wander along Copenhagen's picturesque waterfront, lined with colorful 17th-century townhouses, cozy cafes, and bustling restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely boat tour along the canal or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this historic district.
- Bergen Bryggen: Explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district in Bergen, Norway, renowned for its iconic wooden wharf houses dating back to the Hanseatic period. Stroll along the narrow alleyways, browse the boutiques and galleries, and learn about the city's maritime heritage.
- Lapland Wilderness: Experience the pristine beauty of Lapland's wilderness, where vast forests, shimmering lakes, and snow-capped mountains create an enchanting landscape. Embark on husky sledding adventures, reindeer safaris, and snowshoeing excursions in this Arctic wonderland.
- The Royal Palace, Stockholm:Visit the official residence of the Swedish monarch, the Royal Palace in Stockholm. Marvel at its grandeur, explore the opulent staterooms and witness the changing guard ceremony, a traditional display of military pageantry.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: Behold the awe-inspiring power of Iceland's Gullfoss Waterfall, located on the Hvítá River in the canyon of Haukadalur. Watch as torrents of glacial water plunge over two cascades into a rugged gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle amidst the dramatic Icelandic landscape.
Ways to See Scandinavia
You can plan an unforgettable trip to Scandinavia by choosing your own itinerary. Each Scandinavian tour package offers a unique way to explore the region's diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.
Here are some popular ways to experience this captivating region:
- Road Trips:An adventure through Scandinavia follows scenic routes that wind through picturesque countryside, along rugged coastlines, and past charming small villages. Explore at your own pace, stopping to admire breathtaking vistas, visit historic landmarks, discover hidden gems, and chase the northern lights at your own pace.
- Rail Journeys:Extensive rail networks connect major cities and scenic destinations in Scandinavia. You can board a train and enjoy panoramic views from the comfort of your carriage as you travel along tranquil lakes, lush forests, and rolling hills. Opt for iconic rail routes like the Norway in a Nutshell tour or the Arctic Circle train journey for an unforgettable experience.
- Cruises: Set sail on a cruise along Scandinavia's stunning coastline, navigating through majestic fjords, archipelagos, and pristine waters. Cruise itineraries often include stops at charming port cities like Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, and Bergen, allowing you to explore these vibrant cultural hubs and their surrounding attractions for a luxury Scandinavian experience.
- Guided Group Tours: Tour with a local guide as you explore Scandinavia's history, culture, and beauty. Travel experts create a variety of themed guided tours, including cultural excursions, culinary adventures, outdoor activities, and wildlife encounters. Benefit from insider knowledge, tips, and curated itineraries designed to showcase the best of the region.
- Self-Drive Adventures:Rent a car or camper and embark on a self-drive adventure through Scandinavia. This allows you to explore remote wilderness areas, off-the-beaten-path attractions, and charming rural villages at your own pace. Enjoy the freedom to create your itinerary and deviate from the beaten path to discover hidden gems along the way.
- Day Trips:If you're visiting Scandinavia independently, take advantage of guided day trips to popular attractions and natural wonders, such as UNESCO World Heritage sites, national parks, and scenic viewpoints. Join organized tours that depart from major cities and offer convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and immersive experiences tailored to your interests.
Whether you prefer the freedom of the open road, the romance of train travel, the luxury of cruising, or the convenience of guided tours, every traveler has a perfect Scandinavian experience.
Coffee and Tea Tours in Scandinavia
In Scandinavia, coffee culture reigns supreme, with the region boasting some of the highest coffee consumption rates in the world. Renowned for its strong brews and rich flavors, Scandinavian coffee is typically enjoyed as a daily ritual, with locals favoring dark roasts and bold blends. Varieties like Swedish Fika and Norwegian Kaffe are synonymous with social gatherings and cozy moments.
However, tea culture is also gaining momentum, particularly among health-conscious Scandinavians seeking alternatives to coffee. Green tea, herbal infusions, and specialty blends like lingonberry and elderflower teas are becoming increasingly popular, offering a refreshing and aromatic beverage option.
In countries like Sweden and Norway, coffee remains the beverage of choice, often accompanied by traditional pastries like cinnamon buns and cardamom rolls. In contrast, tea is more prevalent in Finland and Denmark, where it is enjoyed alongside sweet treats and savory snacks.
While wine may not be as central to Scandinavian culture as coffee and tea, there's still a burgeoning wine scene to explore.
Countries like Denmark and Sweden are known for their wine industries, producing high-quality wines from local grapes and imported varieties. Visitors can sample crisp whites, robust reds, and sparkling wines at vineyards and wineries across the region, offering a delightful complement to the Nordic culinary experience.
Scandinavian Wildlife
Scandinavia's diverse landscapes offer sanctuary to a rich array of wildlife species, both on land and at sea. The vast forests, rugged mountains, and expansive tundra provide habitats for various iconic animals, making the region a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike.
In addition to the abundant reindeer populations roaming freely across Norway, Sweden, and Finland, Scandinavia is also home to majestic predators such as the tundra wolf and the elusive wolverine. Brown bears and moose are common sights in the dense forests of Sweden and Finland, while the Arctic fox adapts to the harsh conditions of the northernmost reaches.
Along the coastline, the frigid waters teem with marine life, offering opportunities for breathtaking encounters with whales, seals, and sea eagles. With its impressive wingspan, the majestic white-tailed sea eagle symbolizes the region's untamed beauty and can often be spotted soaring overhead or perched on rocky cliffs.
During certain times of the year, lucky travelers may even glimpse the mighty polar bear, especially in the remote reaches of Svalbard, an archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole. These magnificent creatures epitomize the Arctic wilderness and serve as a reminder of the fragile balance of the region's delicate ecosystems.
Exploring Scandinavia's wildlife is a thrilling adventure. It is an opportunity to connect with the natural world and gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate ecosystems that sustain these remarkable creatures. Whether trekking through the wilderness or cruising along the coast, encountering Scandinavia's wildlife will leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Scandinavian Arts, History, Culture, and Folklore
Scandinavian art greatly influenced the social and political landscape. In the 1950s, minimalistic Scandinavian design, with its simple lines and functionality, became known. It has become trendy worldwide.
Their love for nature is intertwined with the furniture design, displaying wood floors and finishes, live plants, and neutral colors. If you've ever shopped at Ikea, you can understand the minimalistic art that has swept the nation.
Scandinavian Legends
Scandinavians are big on their legends and mythology. Scandinavian folklore represents the entirety of myths, traditions, customs, fables, and superstitions that originate from Norse mythology and are shared by the countries of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands.
While visiting a museum in Sweden or listening to a tour guide, you may hear of mythical creatures such as dwarves, trolls, elves, the holder, the Nokken, and the mare. While some may be more hesitant to believe, one thing is for sure — the fairytale-like men who plundered and pillaged by sea on dragon ships known as the Vikings were very real, and Scandinavia can teach you all about them.
Sports in Scandinavia
Consider spending a day watching or even participating in one of the strange sports Scandinavia has to offer.
These unusual yet very entertaining sports include underwater rugby, wife carrying (men carrying their wives around town doing obstacle courses) in Finland, bandy (a common ball game with the rules of football and hockey combined), betting on reindeer races, and ice yacht races.
Of course, skiing, a trendy sport in Norway that can be done all year round, is a staple sport in Scandinavia.
Must Try Scandinavian Foods
If you love fish, Scandinavia is the place for you. Fish is a staple food in Scandinavia, so many dishes contain it. For example, Gravlax, which is raw slices of salmon cured with sugar and salt served with sweet mustard sauce, or creamed potatoes with dill. Pickled and fried herring is also very popular.
If you're not a fan of seafood, there are many meat options, too. Raggmunk is fried Swedish potato pancakes served with pork and lingonberries, a tasty delicacy.
Smoked reindeer meat, known as Souvas, is a popular Nordic tradition. Smorrebrod is a traditional Danish dish that consists of rye bread topped with liver patė, bacon, and deep-fried onions. And if you're in Sweden, you'll find Swedish meatballs on the menu everywhere you go.
Scandinavia Reviews & Ratings
Well organised and interesting however I felt
Well organised and interesting however I felt the itinerary let the leader and trip down when we visited the Aland Islands, where everything was closed and we wander...
Most of the trip was very nice
Most of the trip was very nice, however Lillihammer and Mora were questionable stops and Åland was a total bust. I realize Lillihammer and Mora are somewhat dictate...
I
Ian Efford
Nov 2024
Written on
Scandinavia
*Personal information removed by Feefo*, our trip manager, made the experience the best it could be. He ensured there were always activities for everyone, whether yo...
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