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Watching a sunset over snow covered mountains in Scandinavia

Best Things to Do in Scandinavia

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Scandinavia

Encompassing the lands of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland, Scandinavia is known for beautiful scenery and beautiful design. Lovely locals and a blend of traditional culture and innovation have led to some of the coolest cities around. Fashion-forward and cutting-edge, Copenhagen, Stockholm and the like remain remarkably approachable and charming thanks to neighborhoods with grand palaces and cobblestone streets, and a workmanlike but immensely pleasant approach to life. There's also a frequent dose of whimsy and wit in Scandinavia. Travel outside of the cities and the landscapes are jaw dropping - from glacier to fjord to a veritable winter wonderland. Scandinavia offers something to please every sort of traveler.

Top Scandinavia Experiences

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

Sailing the archipelago of Sweden, each island more charming than the next.

Taking the Flam Line railway through stunningly beautiful scenery  

Boating through Norway’s stunning fjords.

Learning about Scandinavian history at the Viking Ship museum.

Touring Kronborg Castle, Shakespeare's inspiration for Elsinore in Hamlet 

Breathing the impossibly fresh air of Iceland - plus scuba diving between tectonic plates, glacier walking, hiking volcanoes, and soaking in natural hot springs.

Floating in a wetsuit down an icy river in Finland.

Staying in the worlds first ice hotel, opened in 1990, in Sweden.

 

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Things to do in Scandinavia - Expert’s guide

1. Northern Lights

Northern Lights in Scandinavia

This marvel in the sky is one of the most sought after phenomenons. The lights are a collision between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the earth's atmosphere creating an array of green, pink, and violet colors. It is a must see on many travelers bucket lists and if you're able to travel to one of the scandinavian countries you may be able to cross it off yours whether it be by viewing it on the back of a dog sled, soaking in the blue lagoon, or snow shoe hiking to view it.  

2. Iceland's Blue Lagoon

Blue lagoon in Iceland

This magnificent lake is the perfect temperature to bathe in (39°C/102°F) and is surrounded by black lava fields covered in green moss.The warm seawater contains minerals and is great for treating the skin, especially those with Psoriasis. This spa is open all year round and has become Iceland's most visited attraction.The lagoon does fill up fast so it is best to book weeks in advance. You can also upgrade your general admission to receive a mud mask and massage in the water while sipping on a boozy beverage from the inbuilt water bar. It truly is an enchanting experience.  

3. Danish Royal Gardens

The beautiful gardens in Denmark

A peaceful get away from the hustle bustle of Copenhagen. The kingdom of Denmark is home to some of the oldest and most extravagant palace gardens. Denmark features three lush gardens: the King's Garden in Copenhagen, the Horsholm Garden in Denmark, and Frederiksborg castle gardens. If you visit during summer, it's recommended to go during the weekday when it's less crowded.

4. Geirangerfjord

Fjord travel scandinavia waterfalls

This fjord is found in Norway and is surrounded by waterfalls, snow covered mountain tops, and abundant green foliage. It is one of the most visited tour areas and you can see it by hiking tour or by boat.

5. Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen

This amusement park is wonderful for both young and old. It was founded in 1843 and has come to gain much popularity. Walt Disney took much of his inspiration from these gardens to create Disneyland and the park is now referred to as the “Disneyland of Scandinavia”. The park offers rides, games, musicals, ballet, and major concerts. It is open winter through summer making this an excellent Scandinavian attraction.

6. The Little Mermaid Statue

Little Mermaid statue Denmark

If you have ever seen the Disney movie “The Little Mermaid” or read the original story by Hans Christian Andersen, then you know that the story is about a mermaid who trades in everything to live on land with a handsome prince. This statue was inspired by the story and sits on the Langelinie Pier of Copenhagen. It's easily reached by foot or bike, but you can also view it on a boat tour. The statue is a must see and is often referred to as the symbol of Denmark.

7. Sweden's Ice Hotel

Scandinavian Ice hotel

There is truly nothing else like it. The hotel contains 70 deluxe suites all kept at 23 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only is it a hotel, but it’s an art exhibit made of ice from the river Torne. Every year it is recreated for the public's eye. You can choose to check it out or brave the night in a suite and if you're worried about freezing in your sleep, not to worry you will be bundled up in a heavy duty sleeping bag covered in reindeer skins.

8. Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna Finland fortress

This sea fortress is one Finland's most popular attractions. There is so much history and culture to be learned here. Originally used for protection of the eastern parts of Europe in the 18th century is now a place of residence and holds many museums. This is a great place to visit all year round and ferries can get very packed on summer days.

9. Preikestolen

Group observing the view at Preikestolen in Norway

If you're ready to add an amazing picture to your social media collection then you'll want to hike this mountain plateau. CNN has named it one of the worlds most spectacular viewing points. On this hike you can stop to rest along the lush path and take occasional dips in cooling water. Once you've made it to the top you'll get a breathtaking view of the Lysefjord. With a challenging effort level it's best to trek this journey on a guided tour.

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Scandinavia Tours Reviews & Ratings

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Trusted Customer
·
2024-02-04
Written on
Baltic Capital Cities by Explore!
Baltic Capital Cities
Trusted Customer
·
2024-02-01
Written on
Baltic Capital Cities by Explore!
Baltic Capital Cities
Interesting cities with beautiful old towns explored with a guide who knows them inside out. All the cities are different and it was wonderful to visit them in the winter.
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Ruben Espinoza
·
2023-11-14
Written on
Northern Lights of Scandinavia
Nice pace. First time I traveled via airport during a tour. Tour director was helpful. Insight should know that the ice hotel is not ready before December. They should feel free to share the information in the advertisements and not leave the tour director out on a limb.
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Harry and Liz Glover
·
2023-10-25
Written on
Baltic Capital Cities by Explore!
Baltic Capital Cities
Full on, varied and very interesting.
Carol
·
2023-10-21
Written on
Baltic Capital Cities by Explore!
Baltic Capital Cities
Trip was great but was spoiled by poor weather - not your fault I know but it did impact my enjoyment of the cities
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Trusted Customer
·
2023-10-16
Written on
Baltic Capital Cities by Explore!
Baltic Capital Cities
Good local guide, lots of walking tours and got to see alot in a short period of time.

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