northern europe tours

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Northern Europe

SEE ALL NORTHERN EUROPE TOURS

FEATURED TOURS

Save up to $558

Easy Pace Budapest, Vienna and Prague Guided Tour

Easy Pace Budapest, Vienna & Prague

6 Locations

3 Countries

Price $3,416

Save up to $1,000

Spectacular Scandinavia and it's Fjords Guided Tour

Spectacular Scandinavia & its Fjords

15 Locations

Price $6,425

Save up to $1,300

Grand Scandinavia

17 Locations

4 Countries

Price $7,734

Save up to $1,224

Scandinavian Heritage

25 Locations

Price $12,248

Save up to $866

Country Roads of Scandinavia

12 Locations

2 Countries

Price $5,695

Save up to $1,139

Country Roads

Natural Wonders of Iceland

Price $7,595

Northern Lights of Scandinavia

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FROM OUR BLOG

HOW TO SPEND 24 HOURS IN COPENHAGEN, DENMARK’S TRENDY CAPITAL

How does one spend only 24 hours in Copenhagen, the beautiful gateway to Scandinavia famed for its progressive ideals, cutting-edge design, and sumptuous gastronomy?

A way to truly take advantage of your time is through a guided tour. Insight have three trips that take you on an adventure through Scandinavia, and all stop by the Danish capital to show you the best sights ( Spectacular Scandinavia & Its Fjords ), ( Grand Scandinavia ), ( Country Roads of Scandinavia ).

With our careful planning and keen eye for detail, we’ve compiled the perfect itinerary below – this is what to do and what to see with 24 hours in Copenhagen.

Cobblestone alley in Copenhagen, Denmark

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Discover inspiring, magical moments captured by our guests in Northern Europe

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Northern Europe Tours

Northern Europe Tours and Trips 2024/2025

A trip to northern Europe will allow you to discover and experience the unique culture of the Nordic countries. A tour of Norway’s fjords is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Copenhagen in Denmark is a foodie’s dream while Finland offers the chance to travel to the Arctic north in the hope of witnessing the haunting and ethereal Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights.

+300 Trips in Northern Europe with 351 Reviews

Starts Reykjavik, Iceland
Ends Reykjavik, Iceland

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Tour Type Group Tour
Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Waterfalls Natural landmarks sightseeing , Waterfalls , Volcanoes & Spas 'data-more-tripid='16027'>+2 more
Accommodation Hotel
Transport Coach
Age Range 18-80 yrs
Operated in English
Brochure Price: US$ 1,445
Special Deal (15%): - US$ 217
Total Price from: US$ 1,228
Sep 03 Only 8 seats left
Sep 05 Only 8 seats left
View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Starts Basecamp Oulanka, Finland
Ends Basecamp Oulanka, Finland

Finnish Wilderness Week

Activities Winter adventure & Trekking and Hiking
Accommodation Resort & Lodge
Transport Bus & Snowmobile
Age Range 16-95 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 3,598
Special Deal (6%): - US$ 223
Total Price from: US$ 3,375
Dec 08 Only 8 seats left
Dec 15 Only 8 seats left

Starts Helsinki, Finland
Ends Vilnius, Lithuania

Baltic Experience

Tour Type Small Group Tour
Activities Countryside and village visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites Countryside and village visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , National parks , Museum and gallery visits & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='3058'>+3 more
Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
Transport Ferry, Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
Age Range 15-99 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 3,180
Special Deal (10%): - US$ 318
Total Price from: US$ 2,862
May 11 Only 6 seats left
May 22 Only 1 seat left

Iceland Discovery

Activities Adventure & Waterfalls Adventure , Waterfalls , National parks & Glaciers 'data-more-tripid='3060'>+2 more
Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
Transport Boat & Minibus
Brochure Price: US$ 3,815
Special Deal (15%): - US$ 572
Total Price from: US$ 3,243
May 10 Only 3 seats left
May 13 Only 5 seats left

Iceland Winter Trip (Private)

Trip customizable
Tour Type Private Tour
Activities Trekking and Hiking & Adventure Trekking and Hiking , Adventure , 4x4, quad and ATV trips & National parks 'data-more-tripid='43666'>+2 more
Accommodation Hotel & Resort
Transport 4WD Jeep & Private Vehicle
Age Range 1-79 yrs

Starts Copenhagen, Denmark
Ends Stockholm, Sweden

Scandinavian Escape

Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='37659'>+1 more
Transport Coach & Ferry
Age Range 10-99 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 3,020
Special Deal (34%): - US$ 1,020
Total Price from: US$ 2,000
Aug 18 Only 7 seats left
Sep 29 Only 7 seats left

Ends Oslo, Norway

A Taste of Scandinavia

Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Active and outdoor 'data-more-tripid='5504'>+2 more
Transport Train, Bus & Ferry
Brochure Price: US$ 2,670
Special Deal (10%): - US$ 267
Total Price from: US$ 2,403
May 26 Only 3 seats left
May 30 Only 2 seats left

Spectacular Scandinavia & its Fjords

Activities Adventure & Art and architecture Adventure , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='21156'>+3 more
Age Range 5-99 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 6,525
Special Deal (15%): - US$ 979
Total Price from: US$ 5,546
May 05 Only 10 seats left
May 12 Only 7 seats left

Starts Kvitavatn, Norway
Ends Kvitavatn, Norway

Norway Cross-country Skiing

Activities Skiing and Snowboarding & Winter adventure
Accommodation Lodge
Age Range 14-95 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 2,998
Special Deal (10%): - US$ 298
Total Price from: US$ 2,700
Jan 18 Only 8 seats left
Feb 08 Only 8 seats left

Starts Oslo, Norway
Ends Helsinki, Finland

Scandinavia Explorer

Activities Countryside and village visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites Countryside and village visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3059'>+2 more
Accommodation Hotel & Hut
Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat & Ferry
Brochure Price: US$ 6,530
Special Deal (10%): - US$ 653
Total Price from: US$ 5,877
May 18 Only 2 seats left
May 22 Only 5 seats left

Highlights of Scandinavia

Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cruise Sightseeing Tours , Cruise , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='21235'>+2 more
Accommodation Hotel & Villa
Brochure Price: US$ 2,595
Special Deal (26%): - US$ 680
Total Price from: US$ 1,915
May 10 10+ seats left
May 17 10+ seats left

Starts Toronto, Canada
Ends Toronto, Canada

Gems of West Greenland: Fjords, Icebergs, and Culture

Tour Type Cruise Tour
Activities Cruise
Accommodation Ship Cabin & Hotel
Transport Cruise Ship, Flight & Helicopter
Age Range 8-99 yrs
Operated in English, German
Jul 14 Only 4 seats left
Jul 23 Only 4 seats left

Starts Bergen, Norway
Ends Bergen, Norway

Walking the Fjords

Activities Trekking and Hiking
Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
Transport Ferry, Coach & Train
Sep 28 Only 8 seats left
Jun 07 Only 8 seats left

Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords

Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='20886'>+2 more
Transport Coach, Ferry, Train & Boat
Brochure Price: US$ 5,225
Special Deal (17%): - US$ 900
Total Price from: US$ 4,325
May 12 10+ seats left
May 19 Only 6 seats left

Northern Europe Tour Reviews

Northern europe — tour highlights and travel tips.

There are many incredible places to go backpacking around the world, but none as great as Northern Europe. Gets lost in their endless royal palaces, castles, expansive forests, cross-country railways, snowy glaciers, and so much more. While Paris and Rome get much of the hype of Europe, a tour to Northern Europe will allow you to escape the heavily populated areas and harsh climates and discover more hidden gems of Europe – minus the crowds. Northern Europe is vast and you could easily spend a couple weeks traveling the countryside, but they are all well connected with railways and public transportation that makes it easy to get around. While you're in Northern Europe, don't forget to at least consider to take a tour to Scandinavia .

Tour Highlights

One of the most popular countries in the world, England , is a dream destination with all of its beauty and grandeur. Rich in history you can explore some of the best historical palaces and castles all across London , Liverpool, Manchester, and York.
Stare in awe at the Northern Lights in Iceland from November to March as you witness one of the best natural phenomena’s in the world.
A trip to Scanadinavia will show you some of Northern Europe’s iconic landscapes taking you from Stockholm’s Royal Palace, down to the Round Tower of Copenhagen, then to the fish markets of Sweden , and finishing it off with the impressive churches and art galleries of Oslo , Norway .
For one of the most affordable Northern European experiences, a trip to the Baltics is recommended! With a combination of Medieval and Baroque style architecture, you’ll find an endless supply of castles, cathedrals, bazaars and art galleries to keep you wondering at the marvel of human creativity.

Travel Tips

The climate around Northern Europe can be very unpredictable so be sure to pack multiple layers and additional clothes. Additionally, it’s highly suggested to bring an umbrella (especially in London) in case of showers.
There are a few standards in most Northern European countries including: Avoid being overly noisy, ensure you are always punctual to events/meetings, and greet others with a handshake.
While tipping at restaurants and bars is not mandatory in Europe, unlike in other Western countries, it is suggested to round off the bill upwards with a tip to avoid change.

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Follow Your Compass North

Immerse yourself in ethereal panoramic landscapes and breathe in the pure mountain air of this unspoiled land. Whether it’s cool and creative culture, or mesmerizing vistas and adventure you seek, Iceland is where you’ll find it.

There’s no need to choose between chic Scandinavian cities and unbridled natural phenomena. Discover the fascinating diversity of the Nordic region and experience more of the world with a combination travel package.

Tall tales are made in Norway, where nature takes on epic proportions. Mountains of dizzying heights, fjords where Vikings once roamed and awe-inspiring northern lights are the perfect setting for making travel legends of your own.

Wander back in time on twisting cobblestone lanes, and fast forward through to dazzlingly chic modernity. From archipelagos and lush greenery, to crisp white winter wonderlands, the majesty of Scandinavia is alive in Sweden.

Discover a land of pure wonder and adventure. Where lush flora dazzles under the summer's midnight sun and white winters provide the backdrop for aurora spotting, tranquil nights in ice castles and chance encounters with Santa, himself.

Welcome to a place where pristine nature blends seamlessly with chic modernity. Where towering mountains cradle majestic glaciers and lush forests are dimpled by crystalline lakes. Welcome to the North.

Dive into the cool creativity and abundant natural beauty of the country where the West and East combine in spectacular fashion. Experience the truly original and off-beat Finland for yourself.

Follow in the intrepid footprints of true explorers that came before you and experience the rugged natural beauty and enchanting culture and traditions of Greenland, where adventure is yours to discover and memories are yours to create.

Discover a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich cultures and friendly locals on your journey to the North with Nordic Visitor. You could experience the northern lights, glittering fjords, and ancient castles with the help of local travel experts based in Reykjavík, Stockholm and Edinburgh.

Destinations

Discover 14 delightful destinations across the North.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in South Iceland

Ways to Travel in Northern Europe

Explore the North your way with these top travel styles.

Self-drive Packages

Drive famous scenic routes at your own pace.

Small Group Tours

Travel in a small group with an expert local guide.

Private Trips

Enjoy an exclusive experience with a private guide.

Nordic Cruises

Sail stunning seas and discover coastal attractions.

Train Tours

Journey by rail for beautiful views and a smooth ride.

Independent Travel

Explore on your own and take guided excursions.

Most Popular Summer Tours

Discover top-reviewed summer tours that our customers love and get excited for your next adventure. Imagine staying up late with the midnight sun in the Nordics, or soaking up the green scenery of Ireland and Scotland.

Iceland Full Circle Classic

Classic scotland, highlights of norway, hurtigruten cruise, norwegian fjords & expert tour guide.

Best of Scandinavia Classic

Train & cruise, most popular winter tours.

Choose from these favourite winter trips that are highly rated by our clients. You could chase the magical northern lights in the Nordics, or immerse yourself in Scotland’s mystical landscapes on your next winter trip.

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape

Northern lights & cruise, norway in a nutshell® & northern lights express, fjords & tromsø, iceland full circle classic - winter, northern lights circle tour.

cuillin mountains from ashaig beach isle of skye scotland

Spring Sale

Check out these special offers to save up to 20% or to get free accommodation upgrade on selected tours across our destinations.

Get in touch with one of our local travel experts

Whatever your needs, we are here to help. If you have any questions about our packages or services, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Nordic Visitor Reviews

Find out what our wonderful customers thought about their Nordic Visitor trips.

Amy Woods United States

I have already recommend Nordic Visitor to several friends and family members! We had an absolutely amazing trip and... read more

I have already recommend Nordic Visitor to several friends and family members! We had an absolutely amazing trip and I can't wait to come back! Everyone was helpful and patiently answered all of my questions. I'm very happy we chose Nordic Visitor for our trip and I would choose them again!

Jennifer United States

On our trip, we met a few other Americans. Told them about Nordic Visitor and they were impressed. I found Nordic... read more

On our trip, we met a few other Americans. Told them about Nordic Visitor and they were impressed. I found Nordic Visitor's website very user-friendly. I love that all the documents sent was super easy to just hand the concierge and the 2 excursions we booked already had our names down. I loved the 2 excursions in the package we chose. Overall, it exceeded my expectations and I'm so glad I chose this particular trip.

Your Dedicated Travel Agency

Trust Nordic Visitor’s team of local travel experts to plan an unforgettable trip for you, full of must-see attractions. Our consultants have experienced the tours themselves and will share their insider tips and favourite hidden gems with you. We are always making sure that our packages are of the highest quality, so that you have an incredible travel experience.

Why book with us

Experts in tailor-made Nordic, Scottish and Irish travel
Regional teams based in Iceland, Sweden & Scotland
Dedicated to providing personalised, quality service
Flexible booking policies available for your peace of mind

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a leading Northern Europe travel agency, with passionate local experts who know our destinations inside out. You’ll have a personal travel consultant to plan your dream tour using their in-depth knowledge. They will be delighted to arrange an unforgettable trip for you.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

You are in good hands

Rest assured that we’re there for you throughout your trip. Should anything unexpected crop up, like unusual weather or events, we’re here to look after you. We’ll amend your itinerary as appropriate, all while keeping you safe and informed. Our 24/7 helpline means we’re only a call away.

Flexible tour options

Nordic Visitor packages are designed to incorporate the best routes and attractions. But we can tailor your Iceland itinerary to match your wish list, whether you have a particular experience in mind or you’d like personal recommendations. Ask your dedicated consultant and they will create your dream trip.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

Handpicked hotels

Having a clean, comfortable and friendly place to retreat to after a day of exploring is of the utmost importance when you travel. That’s why we personally handpick every accommodation included in your itinerary, ensuring that each one meets our high standards when it comes to quality, location and character.

Travel Ideas and Tour Themes

Find the perfect trip to suit you with these special themed packages.

Northern Lights Packages

Top vacations, honeymoon & romance tours, family trips, nordic and europe highlights.

Make memories as you uncover stunning natural wonders and top cultural attractions on a Nordic Visitor tour. Head to Europe, and soon you could…

Discover Iceland's Golden Circle, home to Geysir , Gullfoss waterfall and Þingvellir National Park
Tour dramatic fjords and the colourful capitals of Norway , Sweden and Denmark in Scandinavia
Roam the Scottish Highlands and uncover scenic spots like Glencoe , Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye
Expect ancient castles and beautiful coastline at Irish spots like the Rock of Cashel and the Cliffs of Moher
Marvel at Alpine peaks and pretty villages on a getaway to Switzerland , Austria , Germany and beyond
Experience historic UK attractions in the likes of London , Edinburgh and Bath on a multi-country tour
Take a boat trip along Norway’s stunning Geirangerfjord and admire the Seven Sisters waterfall
Go dog sledding , chase the aurora, or stay in a Rovaniemi ice hotel when you visit Lapland in winter
Explore wild Arctic landscapes when you visit Greenland’s Ilulissat Icefjord or Spitsbergen in Svalbard

Frequently Asked Questions About Nordic Visitor

If you’d like more information about taking a Nordic Visitor tour, read on. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here for your convenience.

It’s good to know that when you choose Nordic Visitor, you can Book With Confidence , safe in the knowledge that your payments are protected. If you want to know more about our processes and payment details, check out our booking terms and FAQs .

1. Which destinations can I explore with Nordic Visitor?

Nordic Visitor can plan your trip to the following countries in Europe:

• Iceland
• Scotland
• Ireland
• The UK
• Norway
• Switzerland
• Sweden
• Finland
• Denmark
• Greenland

We also offer Northern Europe packages in the following destinations:

• Scandinavia – a group of countries, comprising Norway, Sweden and Denmark
• The Alps – visit Austria, Germany and Switzerland on an Alpine getaway
• Lapland – a region spanning the northern reaches of Sweden and Finland
• Svalbard – a remote Norwegian archipelago located in the Arctic Circle

2. What is the difference between Scandinavia and the Nordics?

The term "Scandinavia" commonly refers to Norway, Sweden and Denmark. " Nordic countries " is used definitively for Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland. This also includes their associated territories of: Svalbard, Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and the Åland Islands.

You may have guessed from our name that we originated as a Nordic travel agency. We now also specialise in Scotland and Ireland, two Celtic countries that are close to the Nordics.

3. Which Nordic country should I visit?

All of the Nordic countries are worth visiting at least once in your lifetime! Essentially, where to go in the Nordics depends on the sort of sights and experiences you’re looking for on your next getaway.

If it’s volcanoes and glaciers you seek, opt for a trip to Iceland. This island country will mesmerise you with its geysers, ice caves, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and so much more.

In Norway, the country with the longest coastline in Europe, you can expect a land of majestic mountains and fjords. Meanwhile, Denmark flaunts one of the world’s coolest capitals, Copenhagen, awash with cobblestone streets and first-class restaurants.

As for Sweden, you could soak up trendy cities, picturesque countryside and sandy beaches in the south of the country. Or head north during the winter months to experience the snow-laden scenery of Lapland, a region that Sweden shares with Finland.

For a Nordic aurora borealis tour , the top places to go are Iceland, Northern Norway, Lapland, and Svalbard. They are all located within or very close to the Arctic Circle, near the North Pole, where northern lights activity occurs. Here you have the best chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon in the Nordics.

Read this guide to the Nordic countries to help you choose where to visit.

4. How do you travel between Nordic countries?

As the Nordics are neighbouring countries, situated in Northern Europe, you can travel easily between them.

The Scandinavian nations, in particular, are very well connected with rail, road, sea and air links. You could drive, fly or take the train between Sweden, Denmark and Norway, and travel by ferry between the latter two countries. There’s also a Baltic cruise connection between Helsinki, Finland and Stockholm, Sweden.

Iceland, on the other hand, is located further away from the other Nordic nations. So if you want to explore Scandinavia and Iceland on a Nordic combination trip , the most convenient way to travel between them is by flying. The flight time from Bergen, Norway to Reykjavík, Iceland is 2 hours 15 minutes.

5. What is the best month to visit the Nordics?

The best month to explore the Nordics varies based on what you want to see and do. As these countries are located in the Northern Hemisphere, summer is from April to September, and winter is between October and March. Each season has its own appeal and reasons to visit.

For mild temperatures, long daylight hours, and green scenery, opt for a summer tour in the Nordics . This time of year is best for enjoying the outdoors and activities like hiking. Plus, if you travel to the northernmost parts of the Nordics, you’ll witness the midnight sun phenomenon.

The months of June, July and August are the most popular, as it’s when you get the best weather and summer holidays. April, May and September make up the “shoulder season”, and it’s an ideal time to travel in the Nordics if you’d prefer to be around fewer visitors.

A winter Nordic tour , on the other hand, offers different kinds of experiences. Think landscapes draped in frost, activities in the snow, and festive vibes. What’s more, as the night skies are darker for longer in winter, you have better chances of seeing the northern lights.

6. Who are Nordic Visitor’s travel experts?

Nordic Visitor is proud to be a local tour operator in Northern Europe, with offices in the capital cities of Iceland, Scotland and Sweden. Our travel experts are based in these countries and have extensively explored the regions they specialise in.

You’ll be assigned a dedicated travel consultant who will use their in-depth knowledge to arrange your tour for you. They’ll share personal recommendations and can customise your itinerary to match your particular interests.

Find out more about Nordic Visitor and our passionate travel experts.

7. What is included in a Nordic Visitor tour?

When you take a tour with Nordic Visitor, you always get the following included in your travel package:

• All accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Local transport specified in the itinerary (for example, this may be a rental car, cruise, private transport, train tickets, or transfers)
• Activities specified on the itinerary (with the chance to add optional excursions)
• Entrance fees to attractions specified in the itinerary
• Your own personalised itinerary with a beautiful booklet about local attractions and practical travel information
• 24/7 helpline during your trip for support when you need it
• All taxes and service fees – no hidden charges

Depending on the travel style you choose, you’ll also have the following included in your Nordic Visitor package:

Self-drive tours:

• Car rental with a trusted local supplier
• Unlimited mileage
• CDW insurance
• Free unlimited Wi-Fi (Iceland)
• GPS (Scotland and Ireland)
• Authorisation for 2 drivers (Iceland and Scotland)

Small group tours:

• Service from a professional, English-speaking local guide
• Transportation in a premium mini-bus (with Wi-Fi on Iceland tours)
• Half board – some lunches and dinners provided

Private tours:

• Private service of a professional, English-speaking local guide
• Transportation in a comfortable, private vehicle
• Private airport transfers

8. Does Nordic Visitor have a flexible booking policy?

Yes, Nordic Visitor offers cancellation insurance which protects your payment. This means that, if you need to cancel, you will never lose the money you’ve paid to us. Or if you need to change your travel dates, we'll rearrange all your tour details in one place, so you have a hassle-free experience.

Read our Book With Confidence terms to find out how you can have peace of mind with risk-free, flexible booking.

If you do not have cancellation insurance with us, normal booking terms apply and we recommend you check with your private travel insurance provider.

9. Why use Nordic Visitor instead of booking everything myself?

At Nordic Visitor, we’ll save you time and effort by planning your getaway for you, based on your needs and requests.

When you arrange your trip yourself, you have to carry out all the research and book all parts of your tour separately. If you need to make changes to your itinerary, you have to do all the legwork yourself.

Nordic Visitor takes care of everything on your behalf, based on your needs and requests, so you can relax and look forward to your trip.

Our travel experts will design your route, planned in a way that’s both comfortable and convenient. For example, they’ll ensure you don’t cover the same stretch of road twice unnecessarily. They’ll also book you into high-quality accommodation, and share all their insider tips with you.

This means you can leave all the hassle of trip-planning to the experts, who are based in Iceland, Scotland and Sweden. They know our destinations inside out, so you can rely on them to incorporate the best sights and hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise know about.

What’s more, you get access to our 24/7 helpline during your trip. Should you need any support, we are only a call away. And if you need to make changes to your itinerary for any reason, you can leave all of that to us as well.

10. What sort of accommodation will I stay in?

We understand the importance of having a clean, comfortable and friendly place to lay your head after an exciting day of exploring. To ensure you get the best experience, we use our in-depth local knowledge to handpick the most suitable accommodation for you.

The hotels and guesthouses we feature in our tours are all highly rated by visitors. Our local experts have carefully selected each accommodation partner for their exceptional standards of quality, location and character.

As we have regional offices across the destinations we specialise in, we have close connections with our suppliers and we visit them regularly. This is why we are confident that the accommodation on your trip with us will meet or even exceed your expectations.

11. Will Nordic Visitor customise my tour?

Yes, you can easily customise your tour online. Add extra nights, upgrades and day trips to your liking as you go through the booking steps. If you’d like to make your itinerary more bespoke, don’t hesitate to speak to your dedicated travel consultant.

They will gladly tailor your tour to suit your tastes and preferences. You may have particular interests in mind, such as northern lights, hiking, photography or history. Perhaps there are certain places that hold special significance to you.

If you’re travelling to Europe with kids , your personal consultant will make sure every part of your itinerary is suitable for the whole family. Or if you’re on a honeymoon or anniversary trip in Europe , they’ll happily add romantic touches to make your couples break extra special.

Most of our travel styles are flexible. But bear in mind that small group packages are a little different, as you are on a fixed itinerary for the duration of the guided tour. However, you can add extra nights to the beginning or end of your trip.

12. Can I choose the arrival date?

You can choose from a wide range of arrival dates depending on the package and season you are interested in. All of our tours are available to purchase online, so pick the best date for you from the availability calendar.

If your travel plans have changed and you want to amend your arrival date, contact your travel consultant to rearrange your booking.

13. Will Nordic Visitor book my flights?

Return flights to your destination are not included in our packages. This gives you greater flexibility and allows you to save money by using your airline miles or taking advantage of airfare sales.

14. When should I book my flight tickets?

We’d advise that you look over flights for timings and dates, but hold off purchasing until you’ve booked your preferred tour. Once you’ve had a confirmation email from your personal travel consultant, you should then choose and pay for your flights.

Nordic Visitor packages come with daily itineraries and all of your accommodation organised for you. So once you have all of the arrangements confirmed, you can make an informed choice on your flight times. If you have any questions, you can always contact your consultant for advice.

15. What should I pack for my trip?

During your time in Northern Europe, you’ll be discovering new cities, towns and countryside. And with time spent outdoors, it’s best to be prepared for all kinds of weather.

Here’s our recommended packing list for visiting Northern Europe:

• Walking boots or shoes with good grip
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Insulated jacket
• Woollen or fleece jumpers
• Thermal base layers
• Warm hat, scarf and gloves
• Warm hiking socks
• Rucksack
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Quick-drying travel towel
• Sunscreen and insect repellent in the summer months
• Insulated coat and thick layers in the winter months

For detailed information on what to bring on your European trip, check out these guides:

• Iceland packing list
• Scotland packing list
• Norway packing list
• Lapland packing list
• Ireland packing list

About Nordic Visitor Tours

Nordic Visitor has been creating amazing travel experiences for customers across Northern Europe since 2002. We now have multi country tours and regional offices, but still retain our core values of providing great value packages and amazing service, before, during and after your trip. Reasons to choose us include:

Tailor-made itinerary: you deserve to have the vacation of a lifetime, so trust our tour operators to grant your travel wishes.
Quality checked accommodation: wherever you stay is guaranteed to be tried and tested by our local specialists to ensure you have an excellent stay.
Travel guide: your journey will be extra special with our team's insider travel tips and hidden gem attractions.
24/7 helpline: for peace of mind, there’s always a travel consultant on the other end of our 24/7 helpline.

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The Absolute Best Places to Travel in Northern Europe

If you love exotic landscapes, challenging hikes, and off-the-beaten-path attractions, we think these are the best places to travel in Northern Europe!

The colder regions of Europe often get overlooked by the mass tourist crowd in favor of sunny Spain or the gorgeous islands of Greece. Romantics head for Paris, France, and those obsessed with all things royal, usually land in London. However, for the traveler who loves exotic landscapes covered in snow, difficult hikes, and all things Viking, you can’t beat a trip that includes the best places to travel in Northern Europe!

Scavenger Hunts in Northern Europe

If you’re planning a visit to Northern Europe, don’t forget to download our adventure app and try one or more of our walking scavenger hunt tours ! We’ve created hundreds of exciting excursions in cities throughout the world , and our talented guides are creating additional options every day. Each experience includes a fun route to area attractions, facts about each stop, and photo challenges. Trivia questions will help test your knowledge and give you a chance to top the local leaderboard. Try one on your next trip!

The Best Places to Travel in Northern Europe

“Northern Europe” is a bit difficult to define, but it’s often categorized as countries above the 54th Parallel North, or roughly in line with the southern border of the Baltic Sea. This includes all of Scandinavia, most of the United Kingdom, and the northernmost cities of Continental Europe. That’s what we will use as our definition for this article.

Now that our parameters are set, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to travel in Northern Europe!

1. Drive The Ring Road of Iceland

There is no landscape on earth quite like Iceland. “The Land of Fire and Ice” is majestic, mystical, and full of history. From active volcanoes to snorkeling with Humpback Whales, there is an adventure for every traveler in this northern paradise.

Your trip will start with a flight into the funky capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. From there, we recommend renting a camper van or SUV and driving The Ring Road . The Ring Road is the main Highway that circumvents the entire Island. Most of Iceland’s best sights can be seen from here on a 10-day trip. Check out the Golden Circle where you can snorkel between two continents at Silfra, explore Thingvellir National Park, and check out the show at Geysir Park.

Next, you’ll visit waterfalls and black sand beaches on the southern and eastern coast, including the famous Diamond Beach. In the north of the country, you can snorkel with Humpback Whales in Strytan, and then continue your hunt for waterfalls and canyons around the loop back to Reykjavik.

The interior of Iceland is magical as well, full of colorful mountains in Landmannalaugar and glacier peaks. However, the roads are only open in the middle of summer, from June-August, usually. You kind of have to pick your poison with Iceland travel. If you want ice caves and the best Northern Lights possibilities, winter is your time. If you want to go see the interior then summer is your best bet. In the summer months, you also have almost 24 hours of daylight, so that helps get all those sights in easily!

2. Explore The Top Trio of Norway

The Scandinavian nation of Norway should be at the top of any nature lover’s list! The mountain peaks, the fresh air, the deep blue fjords… heaven! From epic waterfalls to death-defying cliff overlooks, Norway has some serious beauty and adventure! With all those waterways, navigating around Norway can be a bit difficult, but with a little planning and flexibility, it can be the trip of a lifetime. We recommend spending a few nights in each of these areas and taking day trips and excursions from each.

Oslo is the oft-overlooked capital city of Norway, but Bergen is kind of the cultural capital. Oslo hasn’t been the capital that long, and much of it was destroyed in a fire in the 1600s, so so you won’t get the rich history there that you do in Bergen. Spend a day in Oslo, then move on to greener pastures.

We recommend you spend at least a couple of days in Bergen. The brightly colored wooden buildings of Norway’s second-largest city look like something straight off a postcard. Bergen is a mecca of culture and history. Visit the gorgeous Fantoft Stave Church, explore the museums, and stop by the historic Fish Market.

From there, you can hop on one of Bergen’s Fjord day trips to Mostraumen Fjord, or a slightly longer trip to Sognefjord or Flåm-which we highly recommend. Flam is adorable! You can also very easily take the train from Bergen to Flåm. Bergen is also the closest city to the famous cliff overlook of Trolltunga, which is a hike you don’t want to miss!

Tromso is a gorgeous town far above the Arctic Circle, in Northern Norway, famous for its nature activities. This is your chance to fulfill all your winter wonderland fantasies. Hunt for the Northern Lights. Marvel at the Midnight Sun. Search for wild reindeer or take a dog-sledding tour. Enjoy a concert at the Arctic Cathedral. Go on a whale safari or kayak the northern fjords on a guided tour. When in the city, make sure to take the Fjellheisen cable car up for a stellar view of the area. Tromso is gloriously beautiful! Just don’t forget your parka!

Stavanger is your mecca for hiking! It has an adorable Old Town too, but Stavanger is the perfect place to camp out a couple of nights and make the day trips to Lysefjord, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), and Kjerag. Pulpit Rock and Kjerag are two of Norway’s most easily accessible and popular hikes. You have likely seen both of these beautiful multiple times in your Insta feed. Kjerag is the rock wedged between two cliffs that the craziest hikers brave their life on to get that perfect photo. Pulpit Rock is a large, cliff overhang with incredible Norwegian fjord views. Both of these places are must-visit sights in our opinion!

3. Basque in The Quaintness of Tallinn, Estonia

Cutest” “Old Town in the world” award goes to… drum roll, please… Tallinn, Estonia! This place is seriously a fairytale and so underrated! A walk around Tallinn is like stepping back into a Medieval world of knights and castles, princesses, and perfect castle turrets. Pass by the multiple booths of fresh-flower merchants and enter the twin-towered gate to Old Town. You’ll instantly be greeted by a cobblestone maze of high-end cafes and stunning architecture.

Tallinn has one of the most intact medieval city walls anywhere in Europe. Parts of the wall are open for tourism. You can stroll at the top of the city on a covered wooden path, and several of the towers along the path now serve as city museums.

The Downtown area is laced with period actors selling their wares in costume. The food is fantastic. You can even experience a true Medieval meal at Ill Draakon. Fish for pickles in a barrel, be denied any kind of silverware, and have an absolute blast at this themed restaurant in the town square.

You can do everything, or nothing at all, in the city of Tallinn. Either way, you’ll enjoy some of Europe’s best food, the most beautiful architecture, and a quirky, entertaining personality that will lift the spirits of any weary traveler.

4. Sauna Hop in Finnish Lapland

Finland has emerged as a leader in travel for Scandinavia in recent years. It’s no surprise either. Finnish Lapland has done an excellent job of drawing in tourists. It plays on its natural beauty and incredible snowy landscape to provide adventures of all kinds to tourists who don’t mind a few cold nights.

Then, there are the saunas! Finland has a little over 5 million people, and those people enjoy well over two million saunas. To say it’s a Finnish pastime is the understatement of the century. To do it correctly, you must spend your time in the sauna until you’re nice and sweaty, run and jump in the nearest snowbank or icy body of water. It’s a thrill like no other! Don’t worry. Unless you have been diagnosed with epilepsy, it’s a safe activity and has been tested thoroughly by every Finnish local and the bravest tourists.

We recommend you spend a couple of days in the capital city of Helsinki. It has some excellent restaurants and cafes, a lovely national museum, and several stunning cathedrals. Plus the seaside port and Old Market Hall are a must-see. The market is a bit touristy, but worth it for the Lohikeitto (salmon soup)! It’s the perfect antidote for a cold Helsinki day.

From there, snag a bus or rental car and head up to paradise in Rovaniemi. Book a few days at Apukka Resort. Here is your one-stop shop for reindeer sleigh rides, dog sledding excursions, and Northern Lights tours of every kind. They have lodging ranging from glass-topped Aurora cabins, to villa-style lodges, to campers by the lake. Or, for the really adventurous, book a night in their ice hut and see if you can make it through until morning in -10C temps. You would think with all this on offer that Apukka would cost you an arm and a leg, but surprisingly, it’s one of the cheapest resorts in the area (which still isn’t cheap, Finland is very expensive).

5. Take the Ferry to St. Petersburg, Russia

While Russia is causing some trouble on the world scene at the moment, and we wouldn’t recommend this trip currently (actually it isn’t running right now), normally you can book a ferry from Helsinki, Finland to St. Petersburg, Russia. This ferry is a sort of an ill-kept secret and a loophole for getting into Russia without a visa. Russian visas are expensive.

With a tour package from St. Peters Line , you can take the ferry from Tallinn, Estonia, or Helsinki, Finland, and spend up to 72 hours in St. Petersburg, visa-free! There are a few rules you have to abide by, like taking a guided excursion into the city, but all-in-all it’s an easy and cheap way to get a taste of Russia!

6. Put Your Liver to the Test in Dublin, Ireland

There is no place on earth more lively than a Dublin pub. Pull up a barstool. Tap your foot to the rousing tune of a live band playing traditional music as drunken revelry entertains all your senses. If you’re lucky, perhaps an old Seanchai (traditional Irish folk teller) will regale you with a limerick or two.

Aside from the pubs, Dublin is a lovely city, full of gorgeous cathedrals and tons of history. Most of the city seems to be owned by either Guinness or Jameson, and there are a number of great rivalry tales. Plus, two pretty awesome brewery tours.

If you have the time, rent a car and do a loop of the Emerald Isle. There is no landscape on Earth that’s quite as peaceful as the Irish countryside. You can fish in quaint seaside villages, and explore some of our oldest human creations in the Neolithic passage tombs of Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne.

Drive Slea Head Loop. Stop at all the little beehive huts and Celtic burial grounds along the route. Stop off for a Guinness at the Dingle Pub. Drive the Ring of Kerry and experience paradise on Earth. Traverse the massive monasteries and abbey ruins like the Rock of Cashel, and visit every castle you can. It’s a road trip for the books! Oh, you can even stay in a renovated castle. Book a night in Wilton Castle for excellent service and a historical tour of this storied property.

For the very best way to explore Dublin, hop on one of our app-guided scavenger hunts of the city. Our hunts are chalked full of fun photo and trivia challenges and introduce you to the city in an adventurous competition that’s guaranteed to be the best part of your trip! Check out “ The Dublin Adventure ”, or the spooky ghost hunt, The Dark, The Dead, and The Doomed. ”

7. Explore the Complicated History of Riga, Latvia

Latvia not on your bucket list? It should be! Riga is a stunning city with an interesting history. It served as a major port for most of its existence and has been fought over by pretty much every major power in its turbulent past. It was founded by Germans and was going to be the Nazi headquarters for Northern Europe had Hitler succeeded. Riga has excellent free walking tours, led by local historians, and we recommend you take as many as you can!

Try all the local delicacies at the sprawling Riga Central Market. Take a dive off the bungee platform and enjoy the gorgeous Baltic Sea at Dārzu ceļš. Outside of the museums and architecture of Old Town Riga, Latvia is filled with gorgeous national parks and Baltic Sea beaches that are thriving in the summer months. If you want to avoid mass tourism, see amazing scenery, and get a little history in too, you can’t beat a week in Latvia!

8. Experience Pure Peace In The Faroe Islands

If you really don’t like people, head for the remote Faroe Islands. Holy cow are they beautiful? You get all the green swept fields of Ireland, the waterfalls and cliffside views of Iceland, and none of the tourist crowd!

We definitely suggest you do a road trip—with a few ferries thrown in. Visit the giant puffin colony of Mykines. Mykines is the westernmost island and can be accessed by ferry from Størvágur. Take some time to visit the lighthouse and explore a local village after admiring the cutest birds ever. You must make the hike to the stunning Lake Sørvágsvatn on Vágar Island. It’s the largest lake in the Faroe Islands, and it famously appears to be hanging off a cliff into the sea. The hike takes about an hour, and it’s fabulous!

The other must-see sight is the village of Gásadalur and its glorious waterfall, Múlafossur. The typical Faroese village has all the grass-covered roofs of your Faroe dreams and some of the most beautiful towering-mountain surroundings. The Faroe Islands are not a cheap trip, but they are beautiful and secluded, which sounds pretty good to us!

9. Cruise the Canals of Stockholm, Sweden

The capital of Sweden is a gem! The city proper is spread over 14 islands and covered in glorious palaces, museums, and castles that will keep you busy for weeks! Make sure to visit the opulent Royal Palace, on par with any in Europe. Make sure to stop in the Vasa Museum, The Swedish History Museum, and The Medieval Museum to get your history fix. Stroll the gardens of Drottningholm Castle , Sweden’s most intact and glorious residence from the 1600s. Stroll Strandvägen boulevard with some swiss chocolate in hand.

If you’re an ABBA fan, the famous Swedes have their own museum in Stockholm ! Stroll around 13th century Gamla Stan (Old Town). Cruise through the ancient canals and under beautiful bridges on a Paddan boat tour, and with all that sightseeing, don’t forget to take some time for a Fika (coffee and cake break)!

10. Medieval Castles and Beasts in Scotland

Castles, kilts, scotch, and Nessie, that’s what a vacation in cheery Ol’ Scotland will get ya. We don’t know about you, but that all sounds pretty good to us. Start your trip with our fun-filled “ Fairy Tale Capital” scavenger hunt and learn all there is to know about the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Town Edinburgh. It will get you all caught up on your Scottish history and give you a good overall layout of the city. Then, you can go back and explore in detail anything that strikes you as interesting!

After a couple of days in the city taking in Parliament, the cathedrals, and Castle Rock, hop in the car for the ultimate road trip! Head for Lochness and try to snap a shot of the Lochness Monster. Explore the remains of 13 intact castles on The Castle Trail in Aberdeenshire.

Next up are the incredible landscapes and eery mists of the Isle of Skye. You can hike its glens and explore caves for days, not to mention the gorgeous waterfalls and sandy beaches. With tons of wildlife and over 200 species of birds, the island is a haven for nature lovers!

However, make sure to save a couple of days in your itinerary for Glasgow to admire the Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, catch an opera, and check out Glasgow Cathedral. We have a tour of glorious Glasgow , too!

Visit the whiskey distilleries on the isles of Islay and Jura. Climb The UK’s highest peaks in the Grampian Mountains, and make sure to take the tour of Melrose Abbey! Alternatively, you could just hop from castle to castle and keep your fairytale dreams alive for weeks.

11. Take A Pilgrimage in Lithuania

Like Latvia, the Baltic country of Lithuania might not be on your radar. However, there are some interesting sights in this little northern beauty. First of all, let’s talk about the “Hill of Crosses.” This quirky little sight is in northern Lithuania and has been a pilgrimage route since the first crosses were placed there after an uprising in 1831. Over the proceeding generations, pilgrims and tourists have left their mark on the grassy hill with what has turned into one of the largest collections of crosses and crucifixes in the world. Estimates as of 2006 put it at more than 100,000 crosses, and that was a long time ago. It’s kind of fun to just wander the sight and see the relics placed there by the faithful and the curious. It’s a weird sight, but worth a look!

The rest of the country is full of weird and quirky history too. Visit the Cathedral of St. Anne, the church Napolean tried to steal. Lurk through the underwater tunnels and escape routes of Kulgrinda, carved by Lithuanians over the centuries to escape their numerous invaders. Hike The Hill of Witches Trail and marvel at all the wood carvings of mythical beasts and little gnomes that dot the path.

We recommend a few days in the capital city of Vilnius too. It’s a beautiful city full of culture and history. Napolean was so impressed by Vilnius that he wrote home to his wife to tell her of its beauty. You can get an awesome view of the city from the Hill of Three Crosses, peruse the cafes and shops of one of the most well-preserved medieval Old Towns in Northern Europe, and even visit the weirdly-placed Frank Zappa Memorial. The singer had absolutely no ties to Vilnius or Lithuania and never visited there, but it’s one of two places in the world with a memorial to him. We told you Lithuania is quirky! If you like an off-the-beaten-path getaway, you’re gonna love this little Baltic jewel.

12. Connect With Your Inner Viking in Denmark

Copenhagen Denmark is a travel destination full of wonder and history. The city is full of museums, historic royal palaces, and fun amusement parks. Almost every major city in the world has a hop-on-hop-off tour, but not many of them are done by boat! In the gorgeous Danish capital, you can hop off at all the major sights from your canal cruise, and hop back on to the next sight down the waterway… so much more fun than a bus!

If you really want to explore the canals in luxury though, book a hot tub boat with Copehhot ! That’s right, you can cruise around the canals of Copenhagen in a hot tub boat, complete with champagne or a bucket of beer. Awesome! You’ll also want to make pitstops at The Little Mermaid Statue, Tivoli Gardens, and several of the country castles surrounding the city.

Once you have thoroughly explored the capital, head north and visit the acclaimed open-air museum of Den Gamble By. It contains over 75 historic buildings collected from multiple townships all over the country. The live period actors and furnishings really make you feel as if you have stepped back in time.

Hop over to the city of Odense and visit the historic home and museum of famous writer Hans Christian Anderson. Then, head for Randers and check out the amazing 3-domed zoo with an Asia, Africa, and South America Dome. It’s a paradise with free-roaming monkeys! One of the coolest zoos anywhere in the world!

Denmark is a small country, and you can feast your way through it on a 7-10 day trip pretty easily. Of course, you won’t see everything, but you can certainly make a good dent!

13. Explore The Shipyards of Belfast, Northern Ireland

Start your tour of the capital of Northern Ireland with a Let’s Roam scavenger hunt! It’s one of the best ways to get to know the city and have a really good time doing it. Work your way through difficult trivia questions, photo and video challenges, and much more on our adventure through the heart of Belfast. Simply download our adventure app and purchase tickets for the “ Bold and Beautiful Historic Belfast ” experience. Once purchased, our hunts can be done at any time, so they easily fit into the dead space of your trip itinerary. They may even turn out to be your favorite part of the trip. Give it a shot. We know you’re gonna love it!

If we could pick one thing that Belfast is famous for, it would be the RMS Titanic. The famous tainted ship was assembled right in the heart of Belfast at the Harland and Wolff Shipyard. After a period of abandonment, the Belfast Lough has been reconfigured as the Titanic Belfast Museum. The giant museum resembles four-ship bows and is quite an architectural feat to gawk at. Plus, you know, it’s full of Titanic memorabilia and history.

The Titanic museum isn’t the only great museum in Belfast though. The Ulster Museum boasts an impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian mummies, and Neolith war items and jewelry. The Ulster also has a great folk museum, east of the city, where you can experience a taste of ancient Northern Ireland village life.

Make sure to stop by the iconic City Hall, take in the smells of the Botanic Gardens, and visit the Grand Opera House before leaving the city. If you choose to tour around the rest of Northern Ireland. We recommend that you head north to the tip of the peninsula and visit Giant’s Causeway and The Old Bushmills Distillery. Oh… and The Dark Hedges are a beautiful place to snap those vacation Insta shots!

14. Pay Homage To The Beatles In Liverpool, England

Ahh, Liverpool… home to The Beatles, the world’s greatest second-hand shops, and a pretty great futbol club! In fact, it’s mostly Beatles fans and futbol fans, coming to Anfield, that target Liverpool as a travel destination, but it’s so much more than that! The city has a grit about it that is amusing and interesting. It’s a university city that still has kind of a rebellious vibe about it.

Start your trip with a visit to The Beatles Story . The world’s most iconic quad started their career here in Liverpool, and the most thorough museum dedicated to their lives and work is rightly here. Aside from the museum, you can visit The Cavern Club. The original club was one of the first places The Beatles played regularly and become the heart of the rock and roll scene in Liverpool in the 1960s.

After all the rock and roll and violent futbol stadium chants, make a stop at the Liverpool Cathedral to repent and take in the stunning architecture. Liverpool is a great city to just wander. Step into the record shops and vintage stores. Grab a coffee and hang out at The Royal Albert Docks, the old Victorian docks in Liverpool harbor.

If you have some time on your trip, drive through Manchester. Have a look around, and then swing up through the Yorkshire Dales. This part of the Northern English countryside is absolutely stunning, especially Malham Cove, The Forbidden Corner, and Aysgarth Falls. You really can’t go wrong actually, Northern England is beautiful anywhere you go!

Not sure where to start? We recommend our “ Lucky Liverpool ” walking scavenger hunt!

15. Refresh Your World War II History In Gdansk, Poland

Poland is a huge country, and there are so many places that you should visit there! Let’s start with the gorgeous Old Town of Krakow, home to the first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wawel Castel. Then, there’s the capital of Warsaw and the World War II concentration camps of Auschwitz-Birkenau, Sobibor, and Treblinka. But, if we are sticking to our definition of Northern Europe, Gdansk is as far south in Poland as we are allowed to go, but don’t get sad yet. Gdansk is amazing!

Start your tour of the city with the emasculate St. Mary’s Basilica. This baby is huge, one of the three largest brick churches in the world! Yes, the world! It’s gorgeous. Then, move on to ice cream at Neptune’s Fountain, before hopping into The Museum of The Second World War. Do a little shopping in The Long Market. Gaze at all the pretties in The Amber Museum, and wander through the incredible shipyard.

Once you have finished your tour of the city, spend a couple of days taking some excursions. Head north to see the imposing Wisłoujście Fortress and Moat. Then, spend a day wandering the gardens and interior of Malbork Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest castle in the world! It’s a 13th-century beast, and it’s beautiful!

If you have time to see more of Poland, do it! However, you can easily spend a week in the stunning city of Gdansk. The architecture is to die for, with all those soaring epithets and red-tile roofs. The food is hearty and tasty. The city is clean and vibrant and full of history. We love everything about it, and we are sure you will too!

16. Photograph The Iconic Bridges Of Hamburg, Germany

Much like Gdansk, in Poland, Hamburg is the one German city that pretty much fits our rules for being included in Northern Europe. This German beauty is worth a visit for sure. It’s the second-busiest port in all of Europe. It’s the second-largest city in the country, a major metropolis of harbors and canals, and is the largest non-capital city in the European Union. Those are some pretty major stats.

Take a boat tour down the Zolkanal to Speicherstadt. This city of warehouses is a feat of architectural genius. A canyon of red brick, Gothic Revival “cliffs”, soaring up from the canal, all built on oak piles. It’s quite a sight! Few of the warehouses built in the 1880s are still used for storage. Most are now apartments or tourist interests, like Miniatur Wunderland- a warehouse turned into a miniature moving world, complete with just about everything you can think of. It contains scale models of part of Italy, The United States, Hamburg itself, and Switzerland, among other famous places.

Check out a concert at the iconic Elbphilharmonie Orchestra. Not only is the talent exceptional, but the building is a stunner! Join the locals for a picnic on the green spaces of Planten un Blomen. Take a harbor boat tour in one of the beautiful paddle boats. Photograph all the stunning bridges. Did you know that Hamburg has more bridges than Amsterdam, London, and Venice, combined?! That’s an insane amount of bridges. Make sure to take a gander at Hamburg City Hall too.

If you’re going to Hamburg to party, you certainly won’t’ be alone. Its Reeperbahn District needs no introduction. It’s famous for its wild bars, numerous prostitutes, and a plethora of porn shops and strip clubs. The Saturday night tradition is for the wildest of partiers to wander down to the Fischmarkt and party on out until morning light. It might be one of the wildest nights in Europe, but if you’re young and up for it, it’s a night you won’t forget! Never mind. Strike that. You probably won’t remember any of it!

Whether you enjoy gorgeous architecture, hearty German food, tons of naval and maritime history, or a good party, Hamburg has something to offer every kind of adventurer!

Closing Thoughts

Well, now that your next 16 vacations are planned, which epic destination are you going to start with? Let us know in the comments!

It’s a tough decision. Northern Europe is a mecca of Viking and Celtic culture, has some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and contains some of Earth’s most charming cities. You should probably just quit your job and go visit them all! ( Disclaimer: We offer travel guides and adventure inspiration here on Let’s Roam. We do not recommend that you take our financial advice.)

We do, however, know a thing or two about budget travel! For a few tips on how to save some money on Europe travel, don’t leave without reading our tips for traveling Europe on the cheap !

Taking your whole family? No problem! You can still travel for cheap. Find out “ How To Travel On A Budget With Your Family. ” With these budget travel tips in tow, you can enjoy your vacation and not regret your life choices once you get back home!

Frequently Asked Questions

There are some iconic travel destinations in Northern Europe ! Hike the incredible overlooks of Norway. Drive the Ring Road of Iceland , or enjoy a quiet holiday on the quaint Faroe Islands.

There are magnificent places to see in Northern Europe ! It’s full of historical sights, stunning architecture, and arctic adventures! Explore the quirky capital of Iceland , take a road trip around the Emerald Isle, or try a dog sledding excursion in Finnish Lapland!

Northern Europe has some stunning cities. The canals and waterways of Hamburg and Copenhagen are perfect for boat tours. Tallinn, Estonia is one of the most intact medieval towns, and the pubs of Dublin offer some of the friendliest locals in the world!

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€100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Focus on Scandinavia

The last dinner was terrible, there was another group there they emptied the small buffet, mushroom soup, white rice, potatoes, beef meat balls salad some tomato thing apple dessert, white bread and butter, a terrible last impression of cosmo tour if it wasn't for tunde tour director I think I probably would never book with cosmos again just a average tour with highlights last night in Denmark dinner was also a joke skip all dinners and give your clients a choice, of local eateries.

Spectacular Scandinavia & its Fjords (Classic, 15 Days)

Great tour. Well planned and executed. Greg was a terrific caring guide. Very knowledgeable too.

Grand Scandinavia (Classic, 20 Days)

Our Tour Director, Greg Collin went over and above. All upbeat, helpful and made tour extra special with his attention to detail. This is the second trip I have had Zoltan Lukacsz as our driver he is brilliant. The coach is always clean, he even cleans the front windows every time we stop for a break. It was great to see the driver and director working so well together.

Capitals of Scandinavia (10 Days)

Our Tour Director Mike was very knowledgeable about all the places we went to The be my guest lunch was off the beaten track and was sensational. As a solo traveller I felt reassured as Mike was making sure I was Ok. We had a wonderful bus driver Greg who made sure we had a safe journey in unpredictable weather

Northern Capitals

It was excellent tour

Best of Iceland

Fifa made the tour GREAT. She was entertaining, flexible, helpful, positive, informative and kept a great pace. She added a few stops and made sure that everyone was able to experience the activity they were most looking forward to. Also, we were very lucky, for the most part the weather really cooperated and all the waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, beaches, and all of the other sights were more impressive in person, than in pictures. Plus the Puffins arrived right before we did!!

Scandinavian Escape

Fast paced tour covering highlights of 3 countries. Local walking guides were good though variable. Bus driver Lukash was excellent. Was disappointed in tour leader - was less informative and less helpful than expected.

10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Copenhagen to Helsinki

Inga and Lukaz did a fantastic job. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and thought it was one of the best vacations I’ve ever had.

Sightseeing

A Taste of Scandinavia

Nikolai was FANTASTIC!!!! He was a great tour leader. The tour took us to many places and he educated us well. However, just a few negative comments. The hotels were not satisfactory ....I am used to better hotels when I travel. Carrying my luggage throughout the tour was very burdensome. I am an older person, and although I am in great shape, I did not want to be responsible for carrying my luggage everywhere. There was an 89 year old man on our trip. He had a real hard time catching up. I usually go on escorted tours where my luggage, and everything else, is handled by the guides, not by me. I loved the places that wer went to and overall I would suggest people take Tourradar and Intrepid if they don't mind doing some of the labor involved.

What people love about Nordic / Scandinavia Tours

Great tour, short but hit all the places that were on the initinery and the pick up from the hotel was very swift and easy. The guides for the 2 trips were friendly. I love how Mahlia (or Maria?) added her personal touch and stories to the pitch on the bus. I had a great trip in Iceland and want to come back again in different seasons.

I was worried about the culturally mixed tour clients due to some negative reviews from previous clients. But I enjoyed the experiences of mixing with participants from Mexico and the Philippines. Yes sometimes bilingual guides’ presentations were not clear, and I had to ask for clarifications. Hotels were better than I had expected from the reviews; except in one-hotel the lightening was so bd

My trip was well organized. The Tour Leader Amanda and the Driver Raffie were both excellent. The cities, sites, people, and events experienced were a joy.