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Denmark and Norway may be two utterly stunning Scandinavian countries that are pretty similar but that’s probably why their differences stand out so much. From their many traditions and customs to their attractions, wildlife, and landscape. Choosing between Denmark and Norway can often be tricky. 

Denmark is a country full of beautiful, colorful towns and cities, glorious docks and fishing areas, as well as countless places to explore with friends, family, and loved ones. It’s also one of the happiest places on the planet and when you visit you’ll understand why. Norway , on the other hand, is known for stunning fjords and jaw-dropping scenery. Many think of Norway as a cold country and while that may be true it does see some hot days for a short period throughout the year. 

Each country has its perks, so we’ve put together this guide to help you choose between the two. We’ve looked at how much you’ll need to budget for a seven-day trip to each place, what kinds of accommodation you can book, and the hidden beaches you never knew existed. Our guide will give you a broad overview and by the end, you should have made up your mind as to which to visit first.

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Accommodation

Whether you are traveling to Denmark or Norway, you’ll need to find a place to stay for your vacation. Denmark has a lot to offer visitors from romantic getaways in a 20th-century Moorish-inspired palace to a unique Copenhagen city-style break onboard a converted barge, Denmark has every type of accommodation you can think of to match your reasons for your vacation. 

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Just like the locals a trip to Denmark will have you fall in love with its way of life, and living like a local by staying in AirBnB’s, you’ll surround yourself entirely with the goodness Denmark brings. But other options include sleeping in a beer can, up in the trees in your very own treehouse, and even camping in the Scandinavian wildlife park. Prices for accommodation vary greatly depending on what you are looking for. 

Norway isn’t much different in terms of variety. From villas and self-catering apartments to luxury lodges, five-star hotels, and romantic ‘birdhouses’ surrounded by nature, you can truly enjoy your surroundings. However, if you prefer being at one with nature, then you’ll be happy to know that there are over 1000 campsites across Norway. Some of these campsites are rather unique and allow you to sleep on the bank of a river. 

When backpacking, it can often be more appealing to wild camp. Norway’s right to roam means you have free access to the countryside and as long as you are respectful you can camp and stay pretty much anywhere. So sleeping under the stars and the northern lights has never been more accessible. 

Winner: Norway. Not only is it cheaper than Denmark, but you can also sleep under the stars and the northern lights absolutely free. 

Before deciding between two destinations for your vacation, you’ll want to look into how much things cost. From accommodation, food, and drinks to sightseeing, transport, and flights. We’ve looked at the average costs of three key components of any vacation; accommodation, food, and sightseeing activities. All our figures are what you’ll need to budget daily for each part and they do not include flights or additional transport. 

A seven-day trip to Copenhagen in Denmark will cost a solo traveler on average around $1,379. For a couple, it will cost on average around $1,967 and for a family of four, you’d be looking to pay around $3,731 for just 7 days. You may find that hotels work out a little more expensive per night than booking a holiday home and vice versa.  You can also save a bit of money by looking for free activities or by cooking some meals yourself instead of eating out every night.

When comparing these same components for a vacation in Norway you’re looking at things being a little cheaper. The average cost of a seven-day trip to Norway for a solo traveler will cost you around $500 dollars cheaper than in Denmark. For a couple, the average cost is roughly $300 dollars cheaper than in Denmark, which works out at $1,673.00.

And for a family of four, you’d be expecting to pay around $800 less than you would for a seven-day trip to Denmark. This is an incredible saving if you’re looking for a cheap destination.

Just like Denmark you can also visit Norway on a budget if you opt for free attractions, hostels over up-market hotels, or book into a self-catering apartment so you can cook your own meals on some days. 

Winner: Norway. Everything is a little cheaper from accommodation to food and sightseeing.

You may not realize this but Denmark is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. It has over 7,400 kilometers of coastline, an incredible 174 Blue Flag beaches, and 18 blue flag marinas. Breathtaking sandy beaches stretch along the east and west coast of Denmark, so no matter what you’re searching for, whether that’s a child-friendly beach with shallow waters or a remote coast where you can perfect your water sports skills, Denmark has you covered. 

Some of the best beaches in Denmark include Lonstrup Beach, Sondervig Beach, Nordstranden, and Palm Beach. Norway on the other is filled with underrated beaches that not many people know about. From golden strips of sand that are great for surfing to small bays overlooking glorious mountains and striking coastline, Norway has plenty to offer the discerning traveler no matter what time of year your visit. 

Some of Norway’s best beaches include Godalen Beach, Paradisbukta, Haukland Beach, and Uttakleiv. Norway’s beaches don’t just offer great views of the mountains, from some of them you’ll even be treated to an unspoiled view of the Northern Lights in all their grandeur. Some of Denmark’s beaches on the other hand offer some rather spectacular photo-worthy sunsets. So beach walks in the evening are just as romantic in person as they are in the movies. 

Winner: Denmark. It only just pips Norway to the win here, simply because of the incredible amount of award-winning beaches you can find.

Traditional Danish cuisine centers heavily around meats and fish, but it’s also known for its rye bread and fruit and cream desserts. A lot of Danish food is based on foods that can be easily farmed or gathered during the country’s short summer. Norwegian cuisine is very similar with a heavy focus for most dishes being on meats and fish, however, it’s less about robust, powerful flavors and more about the quality and subtleties of the foods in front of you. 

While you will Smorrebrod (open-faced sandwiches) in both Denmark and Norway, you’ll also find that Denmark has some of its own traditional dishes, just as Norway has its own. Caramelized potatoes or kartofler are often served as a side dish at Christmas in Denmark whereas in Norway you’ll find that it’s a Christmas tradition to have Lutefisk .

The national dish of Denmark is called Stegt flæsk med persillesovs which is essentially a combination of crispy pork, potatoes, and parsley sauce. The national dish of Norway however is called fårikål which is a mutton and cabbage stew. 

Here are 3 traditional Danish foods you need to try:

• Frikadeller – Savory pork meatball served with brown sauce, potatoes, and cabbage.
• Koldskål – ‘Cold bowl’ is a traditional summer dish made from cold buttermilk soup, biscuits, and fruit.
• Pølser – the ultimate street food. Known as a gourmet hot dog it’s normally made using red sausages, bread, and a range of toppings.

Here are 3 traditional Norwegian foods you need to try:

• Fiskegratin – known as the ultimate comfort food, fiskegratin is essentially fish macaroni cheese. 
• Reindeer Steak – no trip to Norway would be complete without trying reindeer meat. It’s normally served with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. 
• Skoleboller – ‘School buns’ are essentially like donuts and have a custard filling, with grated coconut sprinkled on the top. 

Winner: Both. Whether you’re in Denmark or Norway, tasting their regional traditional foods is a must, and both offer something a little different.

Denmark may be known widely for its historic architecture and idyllic landscapes, but there’s a little side to Denmark not many people may be aware of. Its nightlife, especially in Copenhagen, is on a whole new level compared to Norway. One of Copenhagen’s most well-known clubs is Culture Box. The club itself is divided into four different areas and bars, with each differing in ambiance and theme. 

Another well-known club is Rust which blasts out varied music from indie-pop to hip-hop and electronic music. It’s one of the best places for a party. If you’re looking for something a little different you’ll want to try Vega where you’ll be treated to jazz, rock, and disco music to dance the night away too. However, there are plenty of other bars, nightclubs, and pubs to choose from for a good night out. 

Norway may be known as an otherwise cold country but its nightlife is anything but cold. In fact, it can be rather electrifying, especially in Oslo. But it’s not only Oslo that has a rocking nightlife scene, Bergen, Tromso, and Stavanger are also places in Norway where the nightlife is off the charts. If you’re looking for the whole package of ample spaces for your dance moves, good vibes, and great food then you’ll want to spend at least one night of your vacation in Oslo at Kulturhuset. 

Other great clubs in Norway include Stratos, No Stress, Bardus Bar, and Bar Bache. When comparing the price of drinks, you’ll realize that Norway works out a lot less expensive than Denmark. Although both have a lot of great clubs where you’ll be able to have fun and drink to your heart’s content, you’re wallet with certainly be happier with a nightout in Norway. But remember you’ll need to budget for this, especially if you’re on a booze-filled hen or stag party. 

Winner: Norway. There are loads of bars, clubs, and nightclubs you can go to, plus alcoholic drinks are a lot cheaper.

Attractions

The kingdom of Denmark is a sovereign state littered with palaces and castles across its landscape. Arguably, however, many of Denmarks top attractions happen in the great outdoors. After all, it is home to some of the most stunning natural sights on earth, such as floating sand dunes, majestic cliffs, and vast pine forests. Depending on your interests, you can discover Thy National Park, take a trip to Copenhagen Zoo, or revel in the magnificent Egeskov Castle. 

But that’s not all, Denmark is filled with history, religion, and fun in the form of Viking burial grounds, churches, and amusement parks. Norway however, seamlessly blends the old with the new. It’s one of the most affluent countries in Europe so you can expect to find a range of high-quality experiences wherever you go. Norway has some fantastic rail routes all across the city so it would be a shame to miss the opportunity to use them. They offer some truly extraordinary views of the country. 

For the hikers and walkers, you’ll love exploring the 399-meter summit of Mount Floyen where you’ll have views overlooking Bergen city. You also won’t want to forget or miss out on the numerous Fjords that cover the country, the most well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord. But Norway also offers you a chance to visit the Arctic Circle, Ski the Lyngen Alps, and marvel at the Arctic Cathedral. 

Winner: Both. Whether you visit Denmark or Norway you will have plenty to fill your days no matter your interests.

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Norway vs Denmark: How to choose between Denmark and Norway

Today, we’re going to be tackling the Norway vs Denmark debate head-on, with some insights into factors which might affect your choice, depending on whether you’re visiting or relocating. So, if you’re ready, let’s get started…

Trying to decide between Denmark and Norway is a difficult choice. After all, the countries in the Scandinavian region are similar in many ways, but they all have their unique benefits to explore.

Scandinavian languages are also very similar , and many of the regions share common myths and legends too, but if you really want to see incredible fjords, you’re going to need to head to Norway.

If—on the other hand—you’re looking for history and culture, then you might fare better in Denmark.

Whether you’re trying to choose where to visit between Norway and Denmark, or you’re considering settling down in the Nordic region indefinitely, you’ll have your work cut out for you.

Hopefully, the following will help you choose between Denmark and Norway…

Norway vs Denmark: The initial differences

Norway and Denmark are both regions of Scandinavia, known for their amazing scenery, their wonderful people, and Viking history .

Denmark is a country of beautiful, colorful towns and cities, stunning docks, and fishing areas, as well as countless places to settle down and enjoy some lunch with friends.

If you’re keen to check out one of the happiest places in the world, and you love seafood, then you’re going to be right at home at Denmark. The region spreads over the Jutland Peninsula, covering about 17,000 miles.

With about 5.6 million people living in Denmark, the location has plenty of opportunities to socialize, but it’s not overly crowded either.

Norway is best-known for its beautiful fjords and the amazing scenery all over the country. Although the temperatures aren’t always high here, Norway is one of the most dramatically beautiful places on earth. The region is also home to several world records .

Norway has slightly fewer people living in it than Denmark, at around 5.4 million. The location is also very scarcely populated, as many regions are uninhabitable due to the severe cold.

Don’t let this scare you away though — Norway has plenty of amazing winter sports and activities to make up for it. Plus, it’s a great place to go searching for the Northern Lights .

Norway or Denmark: What to expect from Norway

When you’re deciding whether to visit Norway or Denmark, you’ll quickly discover the two locations are very different in what they can offer.

While both counties have a lot of Viking heritage and history to offer, Norway is definitely the place to go if you’re looking for beautiful outdoor experiences.

The stunning fjords aren’t always ice and snow either. You can also visit the UNESCO World Heritage site , Geirangerfjord, where you’ll often find more lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls, and even a place where you can take a dip.

Norway is a top destination for hikers, with locations like Pulpit Rock, Priekstolen, to visit. You can even climb all the way to the top of the beautiful Preacher’s Pulpit, where you can look over the edge of a cliff to the water below.

Norway’s incredible sights make it one of the most picture-friendly destinations in the world, but this country is more than just a perfect location for snapshots. If you love driving, you can drive through an almost endless coastline of winding roads, and potentially spot a few whales along the way.

Norway is also one of the most eco-friendly destinations in the world too.

Visit Denmark or Norway? What to do in Norway

If you decide you’re going to visit Norway when making your decision between Norway and Denmark, you’re sure to find plenty of great things to do. We recommend starting your trip with a visit to Norway’s capital city of Oslo .

This wonderful location is surprisingly forward-thinking, with everything from heated roads to modern buildings and bars.

Oslo is where nature and urban elements come together to create something entirely new. You’ll see beautiful green hills and mountains on the horizon, while checking out local stores. For a touch of history, visit the Viking Ship or Munch museum.

If your decision to visit Norway came from a passion for exploration, then head to the second largest city of Bergen for a day or two. This incredible location is home to a wide range of historical and cultural attractions for visitors, as well as a range of natural wonders.

Bergen is known as the gateway to the fjords , and it’s ideal for anyone who loves the outdoors.

If you’re tired of Bergen (as odd as it might sound), you can also discover more natural beauty at the Lofoten islands. This is an archipelago within the Artic circle offering things like fishing villages, waterways, and coastal lines, and so much more.

You can even take a Norwegian coastal voyage around this region and do a spot of bird watching.

For those looking for something a little cosier, visit the small town of Flam in Norway, where you can take a break around the western fjords. There’s a ton of natural beauty here once again, and you can take a trip on one of the most famous railways in the world.

Denmark or Norway: What to expect from Denmark

So, if Norway is the place to go for truly dramatic scenery and outdoor beauty, what makes Denmark a great visitor’s location? If you’re planning on visiting Denmark, one of the first things you’ll notice is all the water.

If you like fishing, or seafood, you’re going to find plenty of ways to spend your time here. You can even check out some beautiful boats along the docks and learn about the Vikings while you’re in the country.

Denmark is also famous for the sheer sense of happiness enjoyed by its citizens. This is one of the happiest places in the world, thanks in part to things like better work/life balance, safer streets, and welcoming people.

You can discover hygge in the heart of Denmark with a delicious pastry and a warm drink, and take a little of the happiness back home with you.

Denmark is also a great place for educational purposes. You can learn about famous people like Hans Christian Andersen, and check out the Little Mermaid statue when you’re visiting Copenhagen.

Plus, there are plenty of great museums around Denmark to visit too, where you can learn about Vikings, Nordic culture, and companies like Lego.

Denmark is also a place famous for its healthy living. You’ll have no problem finding somewhere to stop for a healthy snack, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to take part in if you want to get active.

Plus, everything you want to see is reachable by bike, giving you the perfect opportunity to put your cycling skills to the test.

Visit Norway or Denmark? What to do in Denmark

Like Norway, Denmark has plenty of things you can do if you’re looking for a fun way to spend a few hours on your trip. The great thing about Denmark is a lot of great sights and destinations are located pretty close together. This makes it easier to explore more of the country in one go.

You can even cycle around many of the biggest tourist attractions.

If you want to start with an authentic taste of Denmark, make sure you plan a trip to the capital city of Copenhagen . This is a must-visit destination for most travellers, and it’s where you’ll find everything from ski-slopes to stunning stores.

If you’re a fan of beautiful architecture and art, plan a trip to the ARoS art museum, where you can take a walk around a 360-degree rainbow made of glass, to see Aarhus from a whole new angle.

Alternatively, show your appreciation for Denmark’s contributions to the world of toys by visiting the Leo house. The Lego house features a host of color-themed zones to keep the whole family entertained, and there’s a guide to lego history too.

Speaking of architecture, it’s always worth visiting Nyhavn when you’re in Denmark, to get a view of the beautiful 17 th century canal, complete with old wooden ships. The region is also packed full of wonderful colorful houses which make for a great photo opportunity.

Alternatively, head over to Roskilde for a look at the amazing Roskilde Cathedral .

If you’re feeling particularly daring, there are activities in Denmark for thrill seekers too. 50 minutes outside of Copenhagen is the Camp Adventure treetop experience, where you can climb to the top of a tower to see for miles around.

On the other hand, you can go bridge walking over Little Belt Bridge.

If you’re visiting Denmark at a specific time of year, be sure to check if there are any ongoing festivals happening. The country is home to some amazing outdoor events.

Should you live in Denmark or Norway?

Making the decision to live in Norway or Denmark is a lot tougher than figuring out whether you should visit one country over the other. You can even visit Norway and Denmark if you like, as the two locations are quite close together.

When it comes to life in these two Scandinavian countries, it’s crucial to ensure you understand your options.

The first thing to know is all of Scandinavia represents a beautiful and opportunity-rich place to live. The Nordic countries, such as Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Sweden, all offer a great experience for expats.

Finland and Norway are in the top ten in many categories for quality of life, in fact.

Norway is among the top five countries in the world for health and wellbeing, and Denmark frequently ranks among the happiest locations in the world.

Although you will need to learn a new language, regardless of whether you choose Norway or Denmark , you should find it simple enough to adapt to a new way of life. Both Denmark and Norway are likely to be top options if you’re a fan of environmental protection.

These two countries support renewable energy efforts to address things like climate change.

Norway is 1 st in the world for environmental friendliness , and Denmark ranks among the top 10 countries too. Norway also ranks among the top countries in the world for security and safety, while

Denmark is well-known around the world for the sense of security locals feel. You’ll frequently sere people leaving their belongings unattended here.

For quality of life, both Denmark and Norway promise a clean, safe, and environmentally conscious home. Political stability is also another factor worth noting for local peace of mind. The two countries perform very well, and citizens have generally good feelings about their government.

Is Denmark the same as Norway?

When you’re trying to choose whether to live in Norway or Denmark, you’ll notice many aspects of the two countries are very similar. Even the languages of Scandinavia have a lot of similarities .

Both Denmark and Norway have excellent quality of life to offer, particularly when it comes to work/life balance. The countries are among the top ten in the world for working experience.

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Norway tends to have a lot of job options in the fields of healthcare, manufacturing, and engineering. Denmark can make it a little tougher to find a role initially, but you’ll have no problem getting good pay.

Once you find a career in Denmark, you won’t have to worry about things like high taxes, as you should also have money for things like food, expenses, and savings, provided you’re working full time.

The biggest issue is finding suitable employment isn’t always easy in Denmark and Norway. Remember, both countries have plenty of access to Scandinavian talent.

In terms of some of the major differences between Denmark and Norway, let’s look at some basic facts.

For instance, if you lived in Norway instead of Denmark you would:

• Live up to 0.9 years longer, as the life expectancy for men and women is higher.
• Make up to 43.9% more money, due to a massive GDP per capita in Norway.
• Pay a 31% lower rate for the highest tax category.
• Be 26.3% more likely to get a job in the field you want to explore.

If you found a home in Denmark rather than Norway, you would:

• Live in a more diverse climate with nice summers.
• Be 17.3% less likely to be obese, due to healthier living.
• Have access to excellent work/life balance and quality of life.
• Be able to travel to various sights and locations a little easier.

Is Denmark or Norway more expensive?

When it comes to visiting Norway vs Denmark, you may find the two locations have similar pricing structures for flights, accommodation, and entertainment. Usually, you can plan a comprehensive trip to Scandinavia to suit virtually any budget.

However, it is worth noting life in Norway or Denmark can be very expensive in the long-term.

The cost of living in Scandinavian regions can be quite a shock to external visitors and expats. This is because Denmark and Norway rank towards the top of the most expensive places to live in the world.

Norway is more expensive than Denmark by a small percentage. The average cost of living is around $1922 in Norway, and approximately $1753 per month in Denmark.

Despite a wonderful quality of life in both Denmark and Norway, both represent expensive options if you’re planning on starting fresh. The after-tax salary you can expect from Norway and Denmark is quite good, but there are a lot of taxes to consider.

On average, average-tax salary in Denmark will cover about 2 months of expenses, compared to only 1.6 months in Norway.

Aside from rent, housing, and food expenses, you’ll also need to consider things like getting around in Norway and Denmark. Denmark can be a little less expensive from a public transportation perspective.

You can generally visit most locations with a bike, or travel by foot to keep costs low.

On the plus side, more than four out of five expats from Denmark say they end up with more than enough income after taxes and expenses to cover their daily cost of living.

Household incomes are generally quite high in Scandinavian countries, ensuring local citizens have plenty of opportunity to enjoy a higher quality of life, despite the expenses of taxes.

Choosing between Norway vs Denmark

Scandinavia and the Nordic region stand out as one of the most beautiful and compelling places in the world. If you’re looking for somewhere to visit to refresh and revitalize your mind, both Norway and Denmark are great choices.

You could even make your trip a full tour of Scandinavia and visit both Norway and Denmark at the same time, along with trips to Sweden and Finland.

Getting around in Scandinavia is quite simple, so it’s easy enough to jump between locations if you want to absorb as many sights and experiences as possible. Alternatively, if you only want to visit one destination, the guidance above should help.

Denmark is a small, easy-to-traverse country with tons of heritage and history.

Norway is likely to be the choice for you if you’re searching for awe-inspiring sights and plenty of outdoor activities.

If you’re thinking of moving to Norway and Denmark, then both locations offer a fantastic quality of life and various employment options.

However, you might find it’s more difficult to live in Norway, because life can be a little more expensive. Although it may be easier to find a job in Norway initially because of its larger size.

Remember to do your research in depth if you’re thinking of moving to Denmark or Norway. Check out the other articles on this website and speak to locals if you have to chance for a deeper insight into what life can really be like.

Scandification: Discovering Scandinavia.

Now read these: — The pros and cons of living in Iceland — The pros and cons of living in Denmark — The pros and cons of living in Sweden — The pros and cons of living in Finland — The pros and cons of living in Norway — Norway vs Sweden, the key differences — Sweden vs Demark, how to decide — Iceland and Greenland, how they differ — What is Denmark famous for ?

Scandification explores and celebrates the magic of Scandinavia. Stay tuned and we’ll bring the essence of Scandinavia to you.

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• Denmark , Norway

Denmark vs. Norway

Table of Contents

Denmark and Norway, two jewels of Scandinavia, have something for every traveler. With their captivating cultures, breathtaking natural beauty, and the allure of adventure, your journey is bound to be unforgettable. Ready to discover what these Scandinavian paradises have in store for you? Read on and let your Nordic journey begin.

History & Culture

Have you ever wondered about the past and traditions of Denmark and Norway? They are like two books filled with interesting tales. Let’s turn their pages!

In Denmark, your journey back in time starts with the Vikings. Yes, those brave seafarers came from here! They left their mark with stunning artifacts and tales of daring adventures. Fast forward to the Renaissance, and you find Denmark thriving as a naval power. The Danes have a thing for fairy tales too. Ever heard of Hans Christian Andersen? That’s their pride!

Norway, on the other hand, shares the Viking heritage. But its history takes a twist with a stronger focus on farming and fishing communities. It also had its share of naval prowess, especially during the Age of Vikings. Norway’s cultural identity is tied up in its love for nature. They have a deep respect for the land, which is seen in their folklore and traditions.

Danes are known for their love of ‘hygge’, a concept that’s all about coziness and comfort. They value simplicity and contentment. You’ll notice this in their lifestyle and social interactions. It’s a big part of why Denmark often ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world!

Norwegians also cherish simplicity, but in a different way. They call it ‘koselig’. It’s a bit like ‘hygge’, but with more emphasis on enjoying the outdoors, even in cold weather. You’ll see this love for nature reflected in their traditions and everyday life.

So, in the culture and history contest between Denmark and Norway, it’s not about who wins. It’s about the unique flavor each country brings. Will it be Denmark’s seafaring past and ‘hygge’ lifestyle or Norway’s nature-loving culture and ‘koselig’ concept that appeals to you more?

Attractions & Activities

Denmark and Norway are both full of things to see and do. Let’s take a look at what these two Scandinavian gems have to offer!

In Denmark, you can’t miss visiting Copenhagen, the capital city. The iconic Little Mermaid statue and the colorful buildings of Nyhavn are must-sees. For history buffs, the National Museum of Denmark is a treasure trove. Love castles? Then, you’ll be thrilled by the Renaissance-era Kronborg Castle.

Norway, on the other hand, offers breathtaking natural attractions. The famous fjords, like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, are truly awe-inspiring. If you’re up for a thrill, try hiking to Pulpit Rock for a view you’ll never forget. Oslo, the capital city, is home to the Viking Ship Museum, a nod to Norway’s rich history.

Copenhagen also offers a lot of green spaces. You can relax in the beautiful King’s Garden or visit the Copenhagen Zoo. For a unique experience, try a canal tour around the city.

Norway’s activities are more focused on nature. You can go on a fjord cruise or try cross-country skiing. For a touch of culture, visit the outdoor Norsk Folkemuseum in Oslo.

In summary, if you love cityscapes and history, Denmark might be your go-to place. But if you prefer nature and outdoor activities, Norway could be your perfect fit. So, which one tickles your fancy, the historical charm of Denmark or the natural beauty of Norway?

The beaches of Denmark and Norway? Ah, each one is a little slice of heaven. Let’s dive into the sandy shores and crisp waters of these Scandinavian gems.

Denmark is flat and surrounded by seas, so it has plenty of beaches. One favorite is Skagen’s Sønderstrand. It’s in the north, where two seas meet. You can literally stand with one foot in each sea! The beach is long, about 60 miles (around 96.5 kilometers), and is known for its soft sand and light.

Amager Beach in Copenhagen is another Danish gem. It’s a man-made island stretching about 2 miles (around 3.2 kilometers). Perfect for a city break, right? You’ll find white sands and a view of the Øresund Bridge, linking Denmark and Sweden.

Norway, famous for its fjords, isn’t known for beaches, but it has some hidden gems. Huk Beach, near Oslo, is small but beautiful. It’s about 0.6 miles (roughly 1 kilometer) long, and it offers lovely views of the fjord.

Kvalvika Beach in the Lofoten Islands is another Norwegian beauty. It’s hidden between mountains and can only be reached by a 1.2-mile (around 2 kilometers) hike. The effort is worth it, trust me! The view of the turquoise sea against the rugged mountains is just breathtaking.

In conclusion, Denmark’s beaches are easily accessible and family-friendly, while Norway’s are more secluded and adventurous. Are you looking for convenience and city views, or are you up for a little adventure with stunning nature?

Eating, Drinking & Nightlife

Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff: food, drinks, and nightlife in Denmark and Norway. Are you ready for a culinary and entertainment journey?

Danish cuisine is all about simplicity and freshness. Smørrebrød, an open-faced sandwich, is a must-try. For a sweet treat, try Danish pastries. They’re flaky, buttery, and absolutely delicious.

When it comes to drinks in Denmark, Carlsberg beer is quite popular. If you’re brave, try snaps, a strong Danish liquor often enjoyed with meals. It’s definitely an experience!

Copenhagen is known for its vibrant nightlife. There are jazz clubs, dance clubs, and cozy pubs. If you’re into live music, check out VEGA, one of the city’s top concert venues.

Now, let’s head over to Norway. Norwegian cuisine is heavily influenced by its coastline. Fresh seafood is a must. Try Rakfisk, a traditional dish of fermented fish, if you’re feeling adventurous!

Norwegians love their coffee. They’re one of the top coffee-consuming countries in the world. So, grab a cup and enjoy. For something stronger, try Aquavit, a spiced spirit that’s a favorite in Norway.

Nightlife in Norway is diverse. Oslo has everything from high-end clubs to local pubs. If you’re in the mood for a show, check out the National Theatre in Oslo.

In summary, Denmark offers classic dishes, strong drinks, and a lively music scene, while Norway brings fresh seafood, unique coffee culture, and a diverse nightlife to the table. So, are you leaning towards Danish comfort food and lively clubs, or does Norwegian seafood and a cup of rich coffee sound more appealing?

Denmark and Norway are both shopping heavens, each in their own unique way. Ready to fill up your shopping bags?

In Denmark, Copenhagen’s Strøget is a must-visit. It’s one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe, full of shops. You can find big brands and Danish designers all in one place.

For a more local experience, Torvehallerne in Copenhagen is a treat. It’s a market where you can buy fresh food, flowers, and Danish delicacies. If you’re a book lover, check out the charming secondhand bookshops around the city.

Norway also offers a wonderful shopping experience. Oslo’s Karl Johans Gate is the main shopping street. It’s lined with shops, from high-end brands to local Norwegian designs.

In Bergen, you’ll find the famous Fish Market. Besides fresh seafood, it also sells crafts and souvenirs. If you’re into vintage stuff, Oslo’s Grunerløkka district has cool secondhand shops and indie boutiques.

In a nutshell, Denmark offers a blend of modern and traditional shopping, while Norway provides a mix of high-end and local shopping experiences. So, are you excited to shop for Danish designs or would you rather explore Norwegian boutiques?

Accommodation

Finding a place to stay in Denmark and Norway is easy, with lots of options to suit your style. Let’s find the perfect one for you!

In Denmark, Copenhagen offers luxury hotels with stunning views of the city. You can also find budget-friendly hostels that are cozy and clean.

For a unique Danish experience, try staying in a holiday cottage. They’re popular in coastal towns and offer a home-like comfort.

In Norway, Oslo has a range of hotels from luxury to budget. Many are located near popular attractions, making sightseeing a breeze.

You can also try cabin stays in Norway. They’re especially popular in the countryside and offer stunning views of the natural landscape.

To sum it up, Denmark offers everything from luxury hotels to cozy cottages, while Norway has a range of hotels and unique cabin stays. So, are you dreaming of a luxury hotel in Denmark’s capital or a cozy cabin in the Norwegian countryside?

Family-Friendliness & Children’s Activities

Traveling with kids? Both Denmark and Norway roll out the red carpet for families. Let’s see what they offer!

In Denmark, Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen is a hit with kids. It’s an amusement park right in the city center. It has fun rides, games, and even live performances.

Another great Danish spot is the National Aquarium, also known as Den Blå Planet. It’s Northern Europe’s largest aquarium, full of fascinating sea creatures.

Norway is also family-friendly. The Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology in Oslo is fun and educational. Kids can learn about science and technology through interactive exhibits.

Another Norwegian highlight is the Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park. It’s the most visited attraction for families with children in Norway. It offers a zoo, a water park, and even a pirate village!

In short, Denmark offers city-based family attractions, while Norway provides a mix of educational and outdoor fun. So, are you thinking about a thrilling amusement park ride in Denmark or an educational adventure in Norway?

Getting There & Getting Around

Wondering how to reach and navigate Denmark and Norway? Both countries offer convenient options, making your journey smooth and enjoyable.

To reach Denmark, Copenhagen Airport is the main international gateway. It’s about 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city center. Many airlines operate flights to Copenhagen from major cities around the world.

Once in Denmark, getting around is easy. The country has an efficient public transportation system. Trains and buses connect cities and towns. Bicycling is also popular in Danish cities.

Norway is also accessible by air. Oslo Airport is the largest, around 22 miles (35 kilometers) from the city. Like Denmark, many airlines fly to Norway from international destinations.

Getting around in Norway is best done by public transport. Trains, buses, and ferries connect different parts of the country. For city travel, Oslo has trams and buses.

To conclude, both Denmark and Norway are easy to reach and navigate. Denmark offers efficient public transport and bike-friendly cities, while Norway’s public transport provides easy access to its scenic landscapes. So, are you ready to hop on a Danish bike or explore Norway’s scenic routes by train?

Curious about the weather in Denmark and Norway? Let’s dive in!

Denmark has a temperate oceanic climate. Summers are pleasant, with temperatures around 68°F (20°C). It’s perfect for outdoor activities.

Winters in Denmark can be chilly. Temperatures drop to around 32°F (0°C). But don’t worry, it’s still a good time to visit, especially if you like cozy indoor activities.

Norway’s weather varies with its geography. Coastal areas have milder winters and cooler summers. Summer temperatures are around 60°F (15°C), while winter temperatures hover around 30°F (-1°C).

Inland Norway, especially the mountainous areas, can get much colder. In winter, temperatures can drop to -4°F (-20°C).

To sum up, Denmark’s weather is mild and stable, while Norway offers a range of climates depending on where you are. So, are you up for a mild Danish summer or would you prefer a cool Norwegian one?

Concerned about safety while traveling? Both Denmark and Norway are known for being safe.

In Denmark, crime rates are low. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas. But by staying alert, you should be fine.

Norway is also considered safe. It shares the same concern of petty crime in crowded places. Just like in Denmark, keep an eye on your belongings.

Unique to Norway, you should be aware of natural hazards. If you’re hiking in the mountains, remember that the weather can change rapidly.

Summing it up, both Denmark and Norway are safe destinations with low crime rates. Just remember to be aware of your surroundings. So, are you ready to explore Denmark’s safe streets or venture into Norway’s safe but wild outdoors?

Wondering about the costs in Denmark and Norway? Let’s find out!

In Denmark, the local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 120 DKK (about 19 USD). Transportation is also reasonable, with a one-way ticket on local transport costing around 24 DKK (roughly 4 USD).

Accommodations in Denmark can vary. Budget options start from 400 DKK (approximately 63 USD) per night. More luxury stays will, of course, cost more.

Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK). It’s known for being one of the more expensive European destinations. A meal at a budget-friendly restaurant might set you back about 200 NOK (23 USD). A one-way ticket on local transport is about 36 NOK (4 USD).

Accommodation prices in Norway are similar to Denmark. You can find budget options from 600 NOK (70 USD) per night. Luxury accommodations will cost more.

In conclusion, both Denmark and Norway can be pricey compared to other destinations. However, with careful planning, affordable options are available. So, are you ready for the Danish value or the Norwegian experience?

Which Is Better – Denmark or Norway?

Making a choice between Denmark and Norway isn’t easy. Both countries have a lot to offer.

History and culture enthusiasts might lean towards Denmark. Its rich Viking history and cultural sights like Tivoli Gardens and the National Aquarium make it a standout.

If attractions and activities are your thing, both countries have their merits. Denmark has city-based fun, while Norway offers outdoor and educational experiences.

For beach lovers, the choice might hinge on personal preference. Norway’s fjord beaches are unique, while Denmark’s sandy beaches are more traditional.

Foodies and night owls might prefer Denmark for its world-renowned cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Norway, on the other hand, offers unique culinary experiences and a more laid-back night scene.

When it comes to safety, both countries are considered safe. However, remember to stay alert, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Ultimately, your choice between Denmark and Norway will depend on what you’re seeking from your trip. Are you ready to make your pick?

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Travelling Without a Passport

Your Perfect Scandinavia Itinerary (1 week, 2 weeks, or 3 weeks)

As far as European travel destinations go, Scandinavia is easily one of the most captivating. This enchanting region is your gateway to out-of-this-world natural beauty, the northern lights , and an enviable lifestyle that’s considered to be one of the happiest and healthiest on the planet.

I could wax poetic about Scandinavia all day long, but don’t worry — I won’t waffle on. If you’re reading this post, I’m guessing you’ve already decided you want to explore this breathtakingly beautiful corner of Northern Europe and you’re looking for some itinerary inspiration. Mapping out a Scandinavia itinerary can be as frustrating as it is fun, so let’s dive right in! 

If you’re not sure what to do with your time in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, here are a few itinerary ideas that’ll give you a taste of the region’s greatest hits.

Travel to: Scandinavia

One-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Stockholm -> Oslo

Thinking of visiting Scandinavia and only have one week to spare? Not to worry! You can still get a feel for the region by visiting its effortlessly cool capital cities over the course of seven days. 

The perfect introduction to Denmark , Sweden , and Norway , this route is great if you’re after a mix of stellar historical attractions, bohemian charm, and a dose of hygge for good measure. Get ready to explore everything from opulent palaces to top-notch museums and world-renowned cuisine in these stylish capitals. 

Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo are connected by frequent and reliable high-speed trains, so travelling between the cities is a breeze.

Two-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Stockholm -> Oslo -> Bergen -> Flåm -> Sognefjord

With two weeks to spend in Scandinavia, you can travel through the contemporary capital cities and explore one of the most spectacular regions in this part of the world: the western coast of Norway .

Immerse yourself in Copenhagen’s superb cafe and culinary scene. Stroll through the cobbled, medieval streets of Stockholm’s Old Town. Learn about Viking history in Oslo. Take in the spectacular vistas on a train ride from Oslo to Bergen. And get ready to be blown away by the spellbinding scenery in Sognefjord. 

See Also: 11 Best Things to do in Stockholm While Travelling Solo

Three-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Gothenburg -> Stockholm -> Oslo -> Trondheim -> Bodø -> Lofoten Islands -> Tromsø

Planning to spend three weeks travelling around Scandinavia? Lucky you! This itinerary will take you through the region’s capital cities before heading to Northern Norway for a glimpse of the country’s wild, unspoiled wilderness and (hopefully!) the northern lights.

You could follow this itinerary any time of the year, but Northern Norway is especially magical during the winter months — and, of course, it’s also the best time to see the northern lights . 

Speaking of the northern lights, Tromsø — a small city located 350km north of the Arctic Circle — is renowned for being one of the best places in Europe to witness the remarkable phenomenon that is the aurora borealis. If you have your heart set on seeing those otherworldly celestial lights dancing in the night sky, plan to spend at least a few days here to increase your chances of spotting them.

Want more itinerary ideas? Explore our range of Scandinavia tours and trips to find your perfect adventure now.

Can’t-miss sights and experiences in Scandinavia

Now that you’ve got your itinerary sorted, it’s time to start planning the most exciting part of your Scandinavia sojourn: everything you’re going to see and do in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Fuel your wanderlust and get even more amped up about your trip with these can’t-miss attractions and experiences.

• Sail Norway’s fjords. It’s no secret that Norway has some of the most astonishingly beautiful fjords on the planet. There are more than 1,000 fjords dotted around the country’s coastline, but Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord are two of the most famous.
• Visit Copenhagen’s famous landmarks. The colourful facades at Nyhavn, the famous Little Mermaid statue, and Tivoli Gardens are a few musts when you’re sightseeing in Denmark’s laid-back capital.
• Go island-hopping around the Stockholm Archipelago. Made up of roughly 30,000 islands, this is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and go hiking, sea kayaking, or cycling alongside fields of wildflowers and sweeping views of the Baltic Sea.
• Try an open-faced sandwich. Smörgås in Swedish, smørrebrød in Danish, smørbrød in Norwegian — the pronunciation of this traditional Scandinavian sandwich may change depending on which country you’re in, but one thing they all have in common? They’re delicious (and you have to try one while you’re in this part of the world).

• See the stunning landscapes of the Lofoten Islands. You’ve probably seen photos of the Lofoten Islands’ craggy mountains and idyllic fishing villages on Instagram, but nothing compares to seeing the rugged beauty of this remote archipelago in person.
• Explore Denmark’s fairy tale castles. Frederiksborg Castle (which can be visited on an easy day trip from Copenhagen) is a highlight for any castle fanatic, but there are plenty of grand palaces scattered throughout the country.
• Celebrate Midsummer in Sweden. Thinking of heading to Scandinavia in June? Try to plan your visit to coincide with Swedish Midsummer, an annual festival that celebrates the start of summer with traditional food, music, and a whole lot of pickled herring and schnapps.
• See the northern lights . Head to Tromsø — Norway’s gateway to the Arctic — for the chance to cross this once-in-a-lifetime experience off your bucket list.

Getting around Scandinavia 

Thanks to an extensive network of train, ferry, and bus services, travelling between Scandinavian countries is both easy and convenient.

Express trains are available between popular destinations (like Copenhagen and Stockholm, for example) and overnight trains are ideal for longer journeys. However, like almost everything else in Scandinavia, train tickets are expensive. Booking ahead and buying an Interrail or Eurail pass will help to keep costs down.

Buses are surprisingly comfortable in Scandinavia, and they offer a viable alternative to the region’s rail network. It’s also worth noting buses are the best transport method of choice when travelling to remote destinations or around the northern reaches of Sweden and Norway.

If you’re short on time — and if you’re planning to travel to the far north — hopping on a flight with a local carrier is your best bet.

Ferries are also an essential part of the Scandinavia travel experience, so don’t forget to pack your motion sickness remedies.

Keep in mind that it may be more difficult to get around the northern part of Sweden and Norway during the winter — especially if you’re planning to rent a car or travel by bus. It’s entirely possible to run into service disruptions or road closures due to inclement weather, so extra planning and preparation is necessary for a Scandinavian holiday in winter. 

What does your dream Scandinavian itinerary look like? Let us know in the comments!

Ashley Nitransky

Ashley is a Content Editor at TourRadar. When she’s not writing, travelling, or obsessively checking flight prices on Skyscanner, you can find her attempting to fine-tune her photography skills or watching a shark documentary.

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Explore the Hidden Treasures of Northern Denmark and Southern Norway

Get to know the lesser-known heroes of two countries in one trip, taking in the dazzling scenery of southern norway’s coastal communities alongside the cultural gems of northern denmark..

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Aalborg’s harbor in Northern Denmark

Courtesy of Destination Nord

This 10-day tour of northern Denmark and southern Norway covers local culinary delights and off-the-beaten-track experiences that help you get under the skin of this beautiful part of Europe. Discover dramatic waterfalls and churches hidden under the sand, sail across fjords, and hike to the Trolltunga, a stunning rock formation that juts out over a lake in Norway. From jaw-dropping scenery and cozy fishing villages to world-class eats, these under-the-radar destinations are an ideal way to travel deeper in the Nordic countries. Turn to 50 Degrees North for even more travel advice.

Trip Highlight

Bolder lodges.

Trip Designer

The nordics.

The Alvar Aalto-designed Kunsten Museum of Modern Art

Day 1 Explore Architecture and Design in Aalborg

Skagen’s yellow houses

Day 2 Discover the Painter’s Colony of Skagen

The Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse

Photo by Daniel Villadsen

Day 3 Uncover the Secrets in the Sands of Råbjerg Mile

North Shore Surf

Courtesy of VisitNordvestkysten

Day 4 Explore the Beach Towns of Denmark’s West Coast

Fiskebrygga in Kristiansand

Photo by Victoria Nevland/Visit Sørlandet

Day 5 Welcome to Kristiansand, Norway

The Lindesnes Lighthouse, Southern Norway

Photo by Peder Austrud/Visit Sørlandet

Day 6 Explore Mandal and More Along Norway’s Southern Coast

Sogndalstrand, Southern Norway

Photo by Christine Baglo/Visit Norway

Day 7 Norway’s Otherworldly Scenery

Preikestolen in Stavanger (Pulpit Rock)

Photo by Casper Tybjerg/Visit Norway

Day 8 Stavanger and Beyond

Trolltunga, Southern Norway

Courtesy of @kaptenhall/Trolltunga Adventures

Day 9 Norwegian Nature

Tre Sverd, Stavanger

Photo by Brian Tallman Photography

Day 9 City Life in Stavanger

©Frank Fischbach/500px

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Must-see attractions.

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Frederiksborg Slot

One of Denmark's most impressive buildings, this gigantic, Dutch Renaissance–styled fortress-palace rises proudly out of photogenic moat-lake Slotsø…

Mind-blowing Lego models, fun rides and the happy-family magic associated with great theme parks have transformed Legoland into Denmark’s most visited…

Hammershus Slotsruin

The impressive ruins of Hammershus Slot, dramatically perched on top of a cliff 74m above the sea, are the largest in Scandinavia. The castle was thought…

Tivoli Gardens

Dating from 1843, tasteful Tivoli wins fans with its dreamy whirl of amusement rides, twinkling pavilions, carnival games and open-air stage shows…

Christiania

Escape the capitalist crunch and head to Freetown Christiania, a hash-scented commune straddling the eastern side of Christianshavn. Since its…

Rosenborg Slot

A 'once upon a time' combo of turrets, gables and moat, the early-17th-century Rosenborg Slot was built in Dutch Renaissance style between 1606 and 1633…

ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum

Inside the cubist, red-brick walls of Aarhus’ showpiece art museum are nine floors of sweeping curves, soaring spaces and white walls showcasing a…

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Denmark and beyond

Best of Nordic Countries in 3 Weeks – Scandinavia Itinerary

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Planning a trip to Nordic countries? We’d be happy to help you craft a perfect Nordic itinerary or, Scandinavia itinerary (as some may call it), or Northern Europe itinerary.

Itinerary for Scandinavian Countries: An Introduction

First off, let me tell you that a trip to Scandinavia is going to be the best trip of your life. Why? Well, Nordic countries are consistently being listed as the top happiest countries, consistently. Plus, they are stunningly gorgeous!

Nordic Countries or Nordics or Norden consists of five beautiful Northern European countries of Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland along with their associated territories of Svalbard, Greenland, Faroe Islands, and Åland Islands .

Why am I telling you this?

Because…

The terms Scandinavia (Scandia) and Nordics are used interchangeably by foreigners (I’ve been a culprit too before I explored the Nordic region) but they aren’t.

Finns and Icelanders are always quick to correct travelers who call them Scandinavians .

What’s the Difference between Scandinavian Countries and Nordic Countries?

The term ‘Scandinavia’ is commonly used ONLY for Denmark, Sweden, and Norway while the term ‘Nordic countries’ is used for Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, Faroe Islands, and Åland Islands .

However, the associated territories of Svalbard (Norwegian archipelago) and Greenland are technically neither Scandinavia nor Nordics.

The Scandinavian Peninsula (not to be confused with the Scandinavian Region ) geographically comprises Norway and Sweden only.

To sum up, Northern Europe consists of the Nordics (Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland) and the Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). Some definitions of Northern Europe also include the United Kingdom and Ireland .

I guess, this topic makes for another blog post. Let’s now move to Nordics itinerary, the sole reason you’re here 🙂

I’ll be using Scandinavia and Nordics, both terms in my post for the ease of getting found by people randomly searching the terms Scandinavia and Nordic Countries.

The Nordic region is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly regions in Europe. Also, it’s one of the most expensive regions in Europe. Believe you me, exploring the region is worth every penny.

Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway are part of Europe’s Schengen Region. Read everything you need to know to score a Schengen visa for your Nordics trip.

Scandinavia Itinerary: Summer in Scandinavia

We spent 3 weeks in Scandinavia during the summer. The summer is magical here. It’s the time of the year when the sun refuses to go down and shines through the entire day and night. Seriously.

Summer and winter are, in fact, two extremes in Nordic countries.

If winter in Nordics brings sub-zero temperatures, dark days, snow-covered landscapes, and Northern Lights ; summer brings endless days, nightless nights, vibrant landscapes, and Midnight Sun.

The desire to witness the Aurora Borealis dancing in the night sky is such a mad rush among travelers all around the world that they overlook the region’s beauty during summer.

Witnessing the Midnight Sun in summer is as magical as the Northern Lights in winter.

Having said that, the Nordics region deserves two essential trips – one in summer and one in winter and some more to drink in its ethereal beauty.

It’s time to plan your Scandinavia travel !

Scandinavia Itinerary 21 Days: An Overview

Our itinerary lets you explore four epic Nordic countries in 3 weeks.

♥ Denmark ♥ Sweden ♥ Finland ♥ Norway

This is what a brief Scandinavia itinerary 3 weeks looks like –

C openhagen (6 nights) – Ystad ( 2 nights) – Molle ( 1 night) – Helsinki ( 3 nights) – Rovaniemi ( 2 nights) – Oslo (2 nights) – Bergen ( 2 nights) – Hardanger (1 night) – Flam ( 1 night) – Oslo ( 1 night)

Day 1: Fly into Copenhagen Day 2: Explore Copenhagen Day 3: Explore Copenhagen Day 4: Explore more of Copenhagen Day 5: Day Trip to Dragor Day 6: Day Trip to Helsingor Day 7: Road Trip to Malmo (Sweden) via Orseund Bridge Day 8: Explore Ystad Day 9: Explore Skane County. Drive to Kullaberg (Molle) Day 10: Kullaberg to Kastrup, Copenhagen. Fly to Helsinki. Day 11: Explore Helsinki Day 12: Day Trip to Porvoo Day 13: Fly to Rovaniemi Day 14: Explore Rovaniemi Day 15: Fly to Oslo Day 16: Explore Oslo Day 17: Oslo to Bergen train Day 18: Explore Bergen Day 19: Hardangerfjord Day 20: Flam Day 21: Flam to Oslo Day 22: Fly back home

Before we elaborate on our Scandinavia itinerary let’s first discuss the basics of a trip to Scandinavia.

Scandinavia Trip Itinerary: Things to Know Before You Go

Best time to visit scandinavia.

It all depends upon your choices. If you’d love to witness the white nights and want to soak in the Midnight Sun, plan during the months of June , July , and August .

If you dream of sleeping under the Northern Lights , September to March is the best time to go.

The months of May and September see fewer crowds and thus, are less expensive in terms of accommodations.

How much does a Trip to Scandinavia cost?

Scandinavia is infamous for being the most expensive region in the world. To some extent, it’s true. Scandinavia can be exorbitant if you’re not watchful about how you spend your money.

There are ways to cut your costs in Scandinavia –

• A little planning goes a long way. You save money when you plan and book well in advance.
• Prefer apartments over hotels.
• Shop at local grocery stores and cook your own food. If cooking isn’t your thing, you can go for pre-made meals from supermarkets. Aldi, Lidl, Kiwi, Rema 1000, Netto, and ICA are some of the budget-friendly supermarkets in Scandinavia. K-Market in Finland and Coop Prix in Norway are good discount stores.
• Food Market Halls like Kauppahallit in Helsinki or Torvehallerne in Copenhagen are another great option to cut costs on food. They are way cheaper than restaurants yet a great local food experience.
• Take Self-guided city tours and look for free attractions. Almost, all major cities in Scandinavia have tons of free and budget things to do and see.
• Buy City Tourist Cards like Copenhagen Card or Oslo Card that save money on attractions and transport. They work wonders when it comes to saving time, money, and hassle. You can buy them online and collect them at the airport.
• Bring an eco-friendly reusable water bottle. It saves money plus the environment. A water bottle in Scandinavia costs about $5.
• The Everyman’s Right (Right to Roam) in Nordic countries except Denmark makes it easy to camp in the wild. You can save a lot of money on accommodation if you’re traveling to Nordic countries during the summer.
• We found Norway the costlier of all other Nordic countries. You can maybe cut your time in Norway and spend more time in other Nordic countries to save some money.

We roughly spent about $2500 per person for 22 days in Scandinavia.

Getting to and from Scandinavia

From Asia , the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, and the UK, the most convenient way of getting to and from Scandinavia is to fly. If you’re in Europe, you have the option to travel by train, bus, car, or ferry.

From India, only two airlines fly directly to the Scandinavian capitals. Air India flies into Copenhagen directly from New Delhi while Finnair flies into Helsinki directly from New Delhi. There are no direct flights to Oslo and Stockholm from New Delhi.

There are a few airlines that fly directly to the Nordic capitals from North America . Norwegian Air flies into Oslo, Finnair flies into Helsinki, and SAS flies into Stockholm, and Copenhagen, direct from New York.

We use and recommend Skyscanner for the best flight deals.

Getting Around Scandinavia

With a flexible range of transport options, Scandinavia is easy to navigate.

We used a rental car for most of our time in Scandinavia though we tried other modes of transportation like flights, trains, buses, and ferries to make our trip more varied and interesting.

Renting a car in Europe has its own set of rules. You can read our detailed guide to renting a car in Europe which will help you get started .

We always use and recommend Discover Cars for our car rental needs wherever we travel in the world.

We traveled by train from Oslo to Bergen which is considered one of the world’s most scenic train journeys (you gotta experience it), took a ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki, and boarded flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi and Rovaniemi to Oslo.

I’d recommend taking a night train ( Santa Claus Express ) from Helsinki to Rovaniemi if you’ve more time on hand. Also, Norway in a Nutshell package is a great way to explore the dramatic fjords of Norway .

Make sure to book all your intercountry transportation tickets in advance.

It’s recommended to buy a Scandinavia Pass to get around Scandinavia on a budget .

A Detailed Scandinavia Itinerary: Explore Nordic Countries in 3 weeks

As always, our itinerary is packed with activities and leaves less time to just sit and do nothing. We love to explore and mini-me too loves to be on the move. She’s that restless.

This itinerary is made in a way that’ll fit all kinds of travelers, be they family travelers, or solo travelers, or couple travelers.

You can make slight changes and modify the itinerary as per your needs like it misses the famous hiking attractions in Norway (Trolltunga and Preikestolen) that can be added if hiking is what appeals to you.

First Destination: Denmark

Days to spend: 6 days.

You’ll start your Scandinavia exploration with the world’s most bike-friendly city and capital of Denmark, Copenhagen.

How to Get to Denmark

There are regular airline connections from the rest of the world to Copenhagen, Denmark. If you have got a direct flight, that’s awesome else book a flight with the least layover time.

You’ll fly into Kastrup International Airport in Copenhagen which is just about 15 minutes away from the city center.

You can rent a car at the airport or else you can take a train or bus to Kobenhavn H (Central Train Station) from where you can take a subway, bus, or taxi to reach your hotel or apartment in Copenhagen.

If you’re not renting a car, it’s best to book a hotel in and around the city center for ease of access.

Discover the Best Places to Stay in and around Copenhagen City Center, Denmark

Where to Stay in Denmark

Travelers usually keep Copenhagen as the base and prime destination in Denmark. Other cities worth visiting and spending a night or two in Denmark include Aarhus, Aalborg, Skagen, Ribe, and Odense. Dragor, Helsingor, and Roskilde can be visited on a day trip from Copenhagen .

Here are our recommendations for the best places to stay in Danish cities:

• Hotel in Copenhagen: citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen
• Hotel in Aarhus: Villa Provence
• Hotel in Aalborg: Aalborg Hotel Apartments
• Hotel in Skagen: Skagenhus ved Kirken
• Hotel in Ribe: Den Gamle Købmandsgaard Bed & Breakfast
• Hotel in Odense: Hotel Odeon
• Hotel in Dragor: Dragør Hotel & Apartments
• Hotel in Helsingor: Charming and cozy annex
• Hotel in Roskilde: Ann’s cottage

Related Read: 10 Days in Denmark Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Copenhagen

Today, you’ll arrive at the Danish capital, Copenhagen. The day is at leisure.

You can explore the streets of Copenhagen and get familiar with the city depending upon the time you get here or can head to your hotel to relax after a tiring flight journey.

Where to dine in Copenhagen on day 1?

Laundromat Cafe is quite a nice place to have a quick bite. Kids will love it.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen : We recommend CopenhagenApartment and citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen .

Read our detailed guide to the best hotels in Copenhagen .

Day 2 – Explore Copenhagen

Start early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.

The attractions you’ll be visiting today include:

• Frederik’s Church
• Amalienborg Palace
• Rosenborg Castle
• Statens Naturhistoriske Museum
• Round Tower
• Christiansborg Palace

Where to dine and drink in Copenhagen on day 2?

• Breakfast: Bowl Market Copenhagen
• Lunch: Torvehallerne or Restaurant Amalie
• Coffee and Snacks: Original Coffee ILLUM Rooftop
• Taste the traditional Danish pastry at Conditori La Glace, one of the historic cafes in Europe .
• Dinner: Riz Raz

Special Recommendation: A scoop or two of organic ice cream at Hansens Is .

You can visit all the Day 2 attractions on foot. The day-wise itinerary is crafted in a way that needs minimal walking.

Transportation and many attractions are free with the  Copenhagen Card . It’s such a time and money saver!

Day 3 – Explore Copenhagen

This day is reserved for kid-friendly attractions. I mean, today you’ll explore the best things to do with kids and kids-at-heart 🙂

• Copenhagen Zoo
• Frederiksberg Palace
• Assistens Cemetery
• Jægersborggade
• Superkilen Park
• Experimentium

Recommended dining in Copenhagen for day 3:

• Coffee and Cakes: Hart Bageri
• Lunch: The Sixteen Twelve
• Dinner: The South Indian Frederiksberg

Day 4 – Explore more of Copenhagen or Take a Day-Trip to Roskilde

If you’re done with Copenhagen (which I doubt), you can take a trip to Roskilde .

Or you can explore:

• Freetown Christiana
• Gefion Fountain
• The Worker’s Museum
• The Copenhagen Lakes
• Tivoli Gardens

Food recommendations in Copenhagen for the 3rd day:

• Breakfast at Reffen
• Lunch: Restaurant Kastellet
• Coffee and Snacks: Mad & Kaffe
• Dinner: Tivoli Food Hall

Read our detailed 3 days in Copenhagen itinerary

Day 5: Day Trip to Dragør from Copenhagen

Head to Dragor , a cute little fishing town on Amager Island in Denmark.

The visit to this beautiful historic village gives you enough time to relax and take a break from the helter-skelter of sightseeing.

Make sure to take your kids to Den Blå Planet (National Aquarium Denmark), the largest aquarium in northern Europe. It’s on the way to Dragor.

If you plan to spend a night in this quaint village, we suggest booking the classic and beautiful Dragør Fort Hotel .

Where to eat in Dragor? Harborfront Dragør Strandhotel , and Restaurant Beghuset . Don’t forget to taste ice cream at Nam Nam Is .

Read our complete guide to Dragør, Denmark

Day 6 – Day Trip to Helsingor from Copenhagen

How can you visit Denmark and not visit Helsingor aka Elsinore , the home of Shakespeare’s Hamlet?

Encircled by Orseund, the Sound, and the expanse of water between Sweden and Denmark, Helsingor is a colorful town with cobbled streets and a rich history.

Kronborg Castle , a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Helsingor has been a perfect setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The castle hosts Shakespeare’s Festival every summer where international stars portray Prince Hamlet.

You can also visit the Maritime Museum of Denmark, the Culture Yard by AART , and the Danish Museum of Science and Technology .

Where to eat in Helsingør? Værftets Madmarked and Elsinore Street Food .

Note: You can add Aarhus to your Denmark Itinerary if you have an extra day or two. You’d love its Aros Aarhus Art Museum and Infinite Bridge.

How to Get Around Copenhagen? For the most part, Copenhagen is very well accessible by foot and public transportation. A rental car is good for day trips but not suggested for city excursions of course for obvious reasons. Guided tours are also a pretty good option to explore the city without any tension.

We love and recommend Discover Cars to rent a car wherever you go.

Second Destination: Sweden

Days to spend: 3 days.

On the sixth day of your Scandinavia adventure, you’ll say goodbye to Denmark as Sweden welcomes you with a friendly and warm smile.

How to Get to Sweden

Our itinerary needs you to have a rental car as you’ll be exploring the Swedish countryside which is otherwise inaccessible by public transportation.

It’s quite easy to get from Denmark to Sweden by air, bus, or train. There are buses and trains from Copenhagen to Gothenburg, Malmo, and Stockholm.

If you are planning to explore the far north of Swedish Lapland like Kiruna and Abisko, there are regular flights by Norwegian Air and SAS from Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Sweden

There are umpteen good stay options all across Sweden. Stockholm, being the capital and major city of Sweden offers a variety of hotels, apartments, and hostels for all budgets. Gothenburg, Gotland(Visby), Kiruna, and Skane (Ystad, Malmo, Molle, and Helsingborg) are other popular destinations in Sweden.

Malmo can be easily visited on a day trip from Copenhagen.

Here are the hotel recommendations for popular cities in Sweden:

• Hotel in Stockholm: NOFO Hotel; BW Premier Collection
• Hotel in Gothenburg: Hotel Vanilla
• Hotel in Visby: Hotel Villa Borgen
• Hotel in Kiruna: True Nature
• Hotel in Ystad: Charming Townhouse
• Hotel in Mölle: Pensionat Strandgården
• Hotel in Helsingborg: The Vault Hotel

Day 7 – Drive from Copenhagen to Malmo | Explore Malmo | Drive from Malmo to Ystad.

Take a beautiful drive to Malmo from Copenhagen via Öresund Bridge .

Check with your car hire company if your rental agreement allows you to cross international borders. Our car hire company gave us a paper that we showed at the border check.

If you don’t have a rental car , you can take a train (ACP Rail) or a bus (Flixbus, Netbuss, or Gråhundbus) from København H (Copenhagen Central Station).

Whichever mode of transport you choose, it usually takes about 40 minutes to reach Malmo from Copenhagen.

Great coffee with cakes and croissants at Noir Kaffekultur , that’ll be all you need for a great head start.

You’d love to check Turning Torso, Malmo Castle, and St. Peter’s Church before you have lunch at Sajvva , a great place in Malmo for vegans and vegetarians like me.

Once done with lunch, fasten your seat belt for another beautiful drive from Malmo to Ystad.

It’s a real delight to drive the awe-inspiring Sweden countryside.

We stayed at a lovely holiday cottage in Löderups Strandbad.

That’s all we needed – I mean a secluded cottage in the middle of the lush forest with a beach nearby, a perfect summer holiday.

Spend the day taking long walks through the forest and soaking in the warmth of the Midnight Sun while sitting at the beach with a glass of wine while kids cycle, run around, and play with the sand.

It’s always good to add such destinations to your otherwise action-packed itinerary. Isn’t it?

Here, you need to visit the nearest supermarket as you’ll have to cook your own dinner at your cottage.

If the idea of cooking on a vacation scares you, check out the best hotels to stay in Ystad, Sweden.

Day 8 – Explore Ystad

Ystad, a gorgeous town located in Skane county on the southern coast of Sweden with its cobbled streets lined with medieval, pastel-colored half-timbered houses, white-sand beaches, centuries-old historical sights, and ravishing rolling countryside all around is well worth a visit.

I instantly fell in love with its beauty.

Kurt Wallander’s crime series by Henning Mankell was set in Ystad. If you’re a Scandi-noir and Wallander fan, you can take one of the Wallander guided tours to see all the locations where the scenes were shot.

Don’t forget to visit the largest film studio in Scandinavia, Ystad Studios .

Where to eat in Ystad? Villa Strandvagen , Maltes Mackor , and Glassmakeriet .

Where to stay in Ystad? We recommend Hotell Bäckagården and Charming Townhouse .

Day 9 – Explore More of Skane County | Drive to Kullaberg

There are a whole lot of things to do in and around Skåne County (Scania) but we chose a few of those as we only had a day to explore Skåne.

We started our day with Ales Staner , a ship-shaped henge. It’s located in the tiny and beautiful village of Kåseberga . Legend has it that the ancient stone ship stands on the grave of a mythic king, King Ale.

Forget about history, the site where the stones are erected in the shape of a ship is utterly impressive. As soon as you hike the hill, you can’t help but admire the views overlooking the Baltic Ocean.

Our next stop was Skånes Djurpark in Höör Municipality, Skåne – a must-visit with kids. The zoo has more than a thousand wild as well as tame Nordic animals – elks, foxes, wolves, lynxes, bears, seals, and many more.

Kids had unlimited fun getting up close with animals, trying horse riding, enjoying the Shaun the Sheep theme park, and climbing the wooden bridges in the trees. Definitely, the best family fun in Skåne.

It was time for us to head to Kullaberg in Mölle, Sweden. It took us a little over an hour to reach Kullaberg Nature Reserve , a haven for outdoor lovers.

You can take scenic hikes, experience Porpoise Safari , check out the mysterious caves and coves, go fishing, admire the views from vantage points, paddle, swim, and so much more.

We enjoyed the Porpoise Safari in a RIB boat. The tour lasts for about an hour and costs Kr 450 per adult and Kr 300 per child.

We stayed at Pensionat Strandgården in Mölle. Wowzers it is! Highly recommended.

Where to eat near Kullaberg Nature Reserve? There aren’t many places to eat near the nature reserve. We tried Molle Krukmakeri and Ransvik Havsveranda and found them decent.

PS: And you can’t leave Sweden before you experience fika, one of the most beautiful coffee traditions around the world .

We wanted to extend the time in Sweden and explore Gothenburg and Stockholm and then take a ferry to Turku, Finland, or a flight from Stockholm to Helsinki, Finland but we came back to Copenhagen to catch our flight to Helsinki because car rental companies charge exorbitantly high if you pick your rental from one country and drop it in another. Check out 10 unusual things to do in Stockholm if you’re planning to add Stockholm to your Scandinavian itinerary.

Our car rental charges for 8 days (pick up and drop at Copenhagen Airport) were 8,000 INR ($ 100) and if we returned the car in Gothenburg, we’d had to pay 65,000 ($ 900).

Third Destination: Finland

Days to spend: 5 days.

You’d fall for this little country wrapped cozily into the far up north. Day 9 of the Scandinavia itinerary takes you to Finland.

How to Get to Finland

There are quite a good number of regular flights (Sichuan Airlines, Norwegian, SAS, and Finnair) from Copenhagen, Denmark to Helsinki, Finland. The journey takes a little less than 2 hours.

Where to Stay in Finland

Finland has awesome and unique stay options. For travelers, Helsinki remains the prime or first location in Finland. Summer or winter, you gotta plan a stay in Finnish Lapland to experience the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights.

Here are our recommendations for Hotels in Finnish cities:

• Hotel in Helsinki: Hotel F6
• Hotel in Turku: Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone
• Hotel in Porvoo: Small historic wooden house in Porvoo old town
• Hotels in Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Holiday Village ; Glass Resor t
• Hotel in Saariselka: Villa Karhunpesä ; Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Igloos and Chalets

Day 10 – Fly from Copenhagen to Helsinki | Explore Helsinki

Today, you have to drive back to Kastrup Airport (a 2-hour drive) and leave your car at the car rental drop to catch a flight to Helsinki .

Take a taxi, train, or bus to your hotel in Helsinki to drop off your bags and spend your day exploring the Finnish capital, Helsinki.

Take a self-guided or guided walking tour starting from Helsinki Central Station to explore the beautiful churches, charming streets, and markets of Helsinki.

Where to dine and drink in Helsinki on day 1?

• Lunch at Zucchini
• Coffee and Snacks at Karl Fazer Cafe
• Dinner at Kauppatori Market Square

Day 11 – Explore Helsinki

On your second day in Helsinki, you can go on island-hopping. Take a ferry from Market Square that takes you to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Vallisaari, and Lonna .

Once you’re done with the island-hopping, have a cup of coffee and snacks at Cafe Regatta .

If you’re traveling with kids, take them to the Linnanmaki Amusement Park, or else you can try the famous Finnish Sauna at Löyly , one of the most popular activities in Helsinki .

Where to eat in Helsinki on day 2?

• Lunch at Juuri  
• Coffee and Snacks at Cafe Regatta
• Dinner at Restaurant Savotta

Recommended Reading: Best things to do in Helsinki, Finland A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Helsinki, Finland

Day 12 – Day Trip to Porvoo from Helsinki

Want a break from city sightseeing? Hop on a bus and head to the little fairytale town of Porvoo. Less than an hour away from Helsinki, Porvoo makes for a perfect day trip.

What’s so special about it? Well, you’ll know once you’re there 🙂

It’s so pretty that you’d want to just pack it in your bag and take it back home 😉

Stroll the cobbled streets adorned with pretty rows of pastel houses, museums, and cafes, and make sure to taste Runeberg’s Torte and Brunberg’s truffle .

If you’ve time, you can take a bus from Porvoo to visit Klovharun , fondly known as Moomin Island.

Where to eat in Porvoo? Ani’s Cafe , Zum Beispiel ,  Sinne , and SicaPelle are some of the best places to dine and drink in Porvoo.

If you plan to stay in Porvoo, please, please book this Small historic wooden house in Porvoo’s old town .

Here’s the ultimate guide to the charming town of Porvoo in Finland

Day 13 – Fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi | Explore Rovaniemi

This day is solely for kids – the most awaited experience for kids. You are off to Rovaniemi – the official hometown of the kid’s beloved Santa Claus.

Norwegian Air and Finnair have regular flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Helsinki to Rovaniemi by air.

Santa Express Train is another good option provided you’ve enough time on your hands.

Pick up your rental car from Rovaniemi Airport and spend your day exploring Santa Claus Village – Cross the Arctic Circle, meet Santa Claus himself, feed the reindeer, and visit Husky Park.

Take that mandatory pic with the jolly man in the red!

Relax at your hotel and apartment before you start your hike to Ounsvara to witness the most unique and iconic natural phenomenon, the Midnight Sun .

Rovaniemi is one of the best places in northernmost Finland where you can experience full Midnight Sun when the sun stays above the horizon for about 70 days.

You can spot the magical phenomenon from May to August with June and July being the best months.

Where to eat in Rovaniemi on day 1?

• Lunch at Kotahovi Lapland Restaurant
• Coffee and Snacks at Coffee House
• Dinner at Restaurant Valdemari’s

Where to stay in Rovaniemi? Ukonloma Cottages , Kyyhkynen , Arctic Light Hotel , and Hostel Cafe Koti .

Day 14 – Explore Rovaniemi

Today, you’ll take a day trip to Ranua Wildlife Park , home to about 200 Arctic animals like polar bears, foxes, and lynxes.

Where to eat near Ranua Wildlife Park? We found the Wild Arctic restaurant good.

Try Rosso for Dinner and don’t forget to try Nordic’s pure ice cream by Arctic Ice Cream Factory . There are many outlets in Rovaniemi.

Read to know how a trip to Finnish Lapland in summer looks and feels like

Fourth Destination: Norway

Days to spend: 7 days.

Think Norway, think fjords. Majestic Norwegian fjords – there’s no match to them. There are 1000s of them dotting Norway’s coastline. It’s time to explore the sheer and unmatched natural beauty of Norway .

How to Get to Norway

Rovaniemi, Finland to Oslo, Norway is about 4 hours away by flight with a stopover in Helsinki. There’s no direct flight from Rovaniemi. You can come back to Helsinki and spend a day maybe before catching a flight to Oslo.

Where to Stay in Norway

Norway’s capital, Oslo has amazing accommodation options. Other cities of interest in Norway include Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger, Tromsø, Trondheim, the Lofoten Islands, Kristiansund, and Ålesund.

Here are the hotel recommendations for major Norwegian cities:

• Hotels in Olso: Thon Hotel Storo ; Camillas Hus
• Hotel in Bergen: Scandic Flesland Airport
• Hotel in Flåm: Flåm Ferdaminne
• Hotel in Stavanger: Historical apartments in the heart of the old town
• Hotel in Tromsø: Water-View Home
• Hotel in Trondheim: Affordable three-bedroom apartment
• Hotel in Lofoten: Sennesvik Apartments
• Hotel in Kristiansund: Blåbærdalen 20 Luksusvilla
• Hotel in Lyngstad: Ola Bua Near The Atlantic Road
• Hotel in Ålesund: Hotel Brosundet

Day 15 – Fly from Rovaniemi to Oslo | Explore Oslo

Your Norway itinerary starts in the capital city of Oslo.

From Rovaniemi, it’s about a 4-hour flight to Oslo including a short stopover at Helsinki. Take a shuttle train (Flytoget) to the city center and maybe a taxi from there to your hotel, drop off your luggage and freshen up before you start the sightseeing.

It’s always a good idea to book a hotel in the city center to save time and money on transportation.

On your first day in Oslo, you’ll explore:

• Oslo Opera House
• Frogner Park
• Slottsplassen
• Karl Johans Gate
• Nobel Peace Center
• Oslo City Hall

Where to eat in Oslo on day 1?

• Lunch at Tunco
• Coffee and snacks at Funky Fresh Foods – DogA
• Dinner at Freddy Fuego Burrito Bar Tjuvholmen

There are many awesome places to dine in Oslo but are expensive. I’ve suggested the ones we found cheap yet best – the absolute value of money.

Where to stay in Oslo? Mad Architect’s Shared Apt – Sørenga – Homestay, Thon Hotel Storo , and Camillas Hus .

Day 16 – Explore Oslo, Norway

The second day in Oslo starts with an Oslofjord cruise and then a ferry to the Bygdøy peninsula . The peninsula is brimming with famous Norwegian museums like the Kon-Tiki Museum, Fram Museum, Viking Ship Museum, and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History .

You can’t visit Oslo with kids and not visit one of its amazing museums.

Make sure to grab an Oslo Pass to save money on museums and other major attractions in Oslo.

We recommend visiting the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norwegian Folk Museum), Fram Museum, and Kon-Tiki Museum.

Dining recommendations for your 2nd day in Oslo: Mamma Pizza Osteria , Haralds Vaffel , Habits Coffee , and Oslo Street Food .

Try Statholdergaarden if you want to splurge on food.

Read our guide to the best things to do in Oslo, Norway

Day 17 – Oslo to Bergen on Bergen Railway | Explore Bergen

Day 16 of your Nordic Countries tour is beautiful. Today, you’ll ride one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, the Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen) from Oslo to Bergen .

This train journey is a part of the famous Norway in a Nutshell tour but that needs you to get down at Myrdal to board the Flåm Railway ( Flåmsbana ), another popular scenic train ride from Myrdal to Flam.

We didn’t take the package so traveled to Bergen.

The journey is exhilarating and the best introduction you can have to the Norwegian landscape.

Read all about the scenic train journey from Oslo to Bergen

If you book Norway in a Nutshell Tour , your transportation is managed by them but if you’re exploring Bergen (Gateway to the fjords) and Norwegian fjords on your own like us, the best way is to rent a car.

The car rental services aren’t available at the Bergen Railway Station which means you’ll have to catch a bus (Flybussen) to reach the Bergen Airport and rent a car.

Once you’ve rented a car, check in your hotel, relax, and spend the evening strolling the colorful lanes and pretty harbor of Bryggen and check out the Bergen fish market.

Where to dine in Bergen?

• Coffee and snacks at Lovetann Kaffebar
• Dinner at Trekroneren

Where to stay in Bergen? Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Bergen , YM40 , Bjørnestrand Fjordside View , Scandic Flesland Airport

Day 18 – Explore Bergen

The entire day is dedicated to exploring Bergen . Ride the Fløibanen funicular and/or the Ulriken cable car to get 360-degree panoramic views over the city.

Visit the KODE Art Museums , especially KODE 4 which has Kunstlab where kids can learn the art while playing.

Next, you can visit Bergen Science Center Vilvite (kid-friendly) or Bergenhus Fortress depending upon the time and interest.

You can take the cruise along the Osterfjord if you’ve time and energy. The cruise leaves from the fish market pier. The last cruise leaves at 6 pm during the summer season and 2 pm otherwise.

Dining suggestions for 2nd day in Bergen:

• Lunch at Bare Restaurant
• Coffee and snacks at Godt Brod
• Dinner at the Horn of Africa

With more time, you can take one of many beautiful day trips from Bergen .

PS: We loved Bergen so much that the plan for the second visit is already on my mind. We explored Bergen in the summer and now are keen to witness the magic of Bergen in winter.

Day 19 – Drive to Hardangerfjord from Bergen | Explore Hardanger

The day finally is here when you’ll witness the majestic Norwegian fjord up close. A beautiful drive from Bergen to Hardangerfjord takes less than 2 hours.

The third-longest fjord in the world and second-longest in Norway, Hardangerfjord is wild and stunning.

There are many ways you can revel in the beauty of the fjord – hiking, walking, cruising, kayaking, and many more.

Where to eat in Hardanger? Hardangerviddahallen Restaurant & Cafe, Restaurant Fjell & Fjord, and Mabodalen Camping and Hyttesenter.

Where to stay in Hardanger? Hardangerfjord Hotel , Mo Gardsferie , Apartment in Herand , Vik Pensjonat Og Hytter , and Jaunsen Gjestegjevarstad .

Day 20 – Drive to Flam | Explore Flam

Today, drive the beautiful stretch from Eidfjord to Flam. There are many beautiful stops on the way to Flam like Voss, Gudvangen, and Stalheimskleiva .

Don’t rush but try to soak in the experiences.

You can opt for a Norled express boat from Bergen to Flam along the Sognefjord if you’ve enough time. The round-trip takes the entire day and the single journey takes over 5.5 hours. The boat leaves at 8:00 and makes brief stops at fjord villages on the way before it reaches Flam. The return trip starts at around 15:00 in the afternoon.

Once you reach Flam, take a fjord cruise or fjord safari through UNESCO Nærøyfjord , the most dramatic and wildest arm of the Sognefjord.

The three-hour tour passes through endless waterfalls, mountainside farms, little fjord villages, and colossal mountains.

One of the tours ( Heritage Taste Fjord Safari ) lets you get down to the beautiful village of Undredal , famous for its authentic goat cheese.

You can taste different varieties of cheese and jams at Eldhuset.

Once you’re done with the fjord cruise, board the Flamsbana for the most enchanting train journey from Flam to Myrdal and back.

Where to eat in Flam? Fretheim Hotel Restaurant, Flam Marina and Appartement Cafe, Green Norway Flam, and Bakkastova .

Where to stay in Flam? Flåm Marina , Flåm Ferdaminne , and Visit Undredal .

Related Read: 7 Days in Norway Itinerary 2 Weeks in Norway Itinerary

Day 21 – Road Trip from Flam to Oslo

Day 21. Sigh! We are almost done with our Nordic Countries exploration. Wait! The best is yet to come 🙂

Today, you’ll drive one of the loveliest road trips you’ve ever driven in your life. Believe you me.

The road trip from Bergen via Flam to Oslo passes through exciting tunnels, medieval churches, cute towns, mountain passes, national parks, dramatic fjords, and whatnot.

The entire road journey (300+ km) takes around 5 to 6 hours including the time spent at stopovers.

Here’s a detailed post about the road trip from Bergen to Oslo

You can retire to your hotel or check out the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower in the evening. Climb the observation deck on top of the jump tower to enjoy the panoramic views over Oslo. The evenings are special as they bring beautiful sunsets over Oslofjord .

Day 22 – Fly Back Home

Finally, it’s time to say goodbye to the Nordics. I don’t like the endings especially when it comes to beautiful trips but as they say, “All good things must come to an end.”

You’ll fly out from Oslo to head home, wherever in the world it is. If you have a flight late afternoon or evening, you can spend some time exploring more of Oslo or maybe shopping for souvenirs. We recommend Way Nor for souvenirs.

Phew! This is an exhaustive guide to Scandinavia and we hope it helps travelers across the world to travel to this beautiful region in Northern Europe.

So, it’s basically a Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland itinerary! You can add Iceland to this itinerary to explore the entire Nordic region. I purposely left Iceland as we have planned to visit it sometime soon during the Northern Lights season 🙂

Suggested Scandinavia Itineraries

For all those who don’t have 3 weeks to devote to the trip but still want to explore Scandinavia. Don’t worry, we have got you covered!

Here are suggested itineraries for Scandinavia for 15 days, 14 days, 12 days, 10 days, and 7 days:

Scandinavia Itinerary 15 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark | Explore Copenhagen

Day 2: Explore Copenhagen

Day 3: Take a Day trip to Kronborg Castle from Copenhagen

Day 4: Fly from Copenhagen to Stavanger, Norway | Explore Stavanger

Day 5: Hike Pulpit Rock

Day 6: Fly from Stavanger to Bergen | Explore Bergen

Day 7: Hike Trolltunga

Day 8: Take a Day Trip to Flåm to experience Norwegian Fjord Cruise (Nærøyfjord) and Flåm Railway

Day 9: A Scenic Train Journey or a Road Trip from Bergen to Oslo

Day 10: Explore Oslo

Day 11: Fly from Oslo to Stockholm, Sweden | Explore Stockholm

Day 12: Explore Stockholm

Day 13: Fly from Stockholm to Helsinki, Finland | Explore Helsinki

Day 14: Explore Helsinki

Day 15: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 14 Days (Bonus: Vibrant Estonian Capital of Tallinn)

Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki, Finland | Explore Helsinki

Day 2: Explore Helsinki

Day 3: Take a Ferry to Tallinn, Estonia | Explore Tallinn

Day 4: Explore Tallinn | Overnight Cruise from Tallinn to Stockholm, Sweden

Day 5: Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Fly from Stockholm to Copenhagen | Explore Copenhagen

Day 7: Explore Copenhagen

Day 8: Fly from Copenhagen to Oslo, Norway | Explore Oslo

Day 9: Explore Oslo

Day 10: A Scenic Train Journey or a Road Trip from Oslo to Bergen

Day 11: Explore Bergen

Day 12: Explore Flåm and the Norwegian Fjords

Day 13: Drive or Fly from Bergen to Stavanger | Explore Stavanger

Day 14: Fly Back Home

PS: Alternatively, you can join Norway in a Nutshell Tour on Day 10 that starts in Oslo and covers the beautiful Flåmsbana train ride and fjord cruise, and ends in Bergen. In that case, you can trade the day dedicated to Flam for the Trolltunga hike.

Scandinavia Itinerary for 12 Days: An Exciting Scandinavia Road Trip Itinerary

Day 3: Drive to Gothenburg, Sweden | Explore Gothenburg

Day 4: Drive from Gothenburg to Stockholm | Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Drive from Stockholm to Oslo

Day 7: Explore Oslo

Day 8: Drive from Oslo to Bergen

Day 9: Explore Bergen

Day 10: Explore Flam and Norwegian Fjords

Day 11: Drive from Bergen to Stavanger | Explore Stavanger

Day 12: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 10 Days

Day 3: Fly from Copenhagen to Stockholm, Sweden | Explore Stockholm

Day 4: Explore Stockholm

Day 5: Fly from Stockholm to Oslo, Norway | Explore Oslo

Day 6: Fly from Oslo to Bergen | Explore Bergen

Day 7: Take a Day trip from Bergen to Flåm | Cruise Nærøyfjord | Ride Flåmsbana

Day 8: Fly from Bergen to Helsinki, Finland | Explore Helsinki

Day 9: Explore Helsinki

Day 10: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Stockholm, Sweden | Explore Stockholm

Day 2: Fly or Board a Train from Stockholm to Copenhagen, Denmark | Explore Copenhagen

Day 3: Explore Copenhagen | Overnight Cruise from Copenhagen to Oslo, Norway

Day 4: Explore Oslo

Day 5: Fly or Board a Train from Oslo to Stockholm | Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Explore Stockholm

Day 7: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Trip Itinerary: FAQs

What are the Scandinavian countries?

Denmark, Norway, and Sweden are Scandinavian countries, geographically. However, Finland, and Iceland, along with the Faroe Islands, Greenland, and Åland are also considered Scandinavian countries, traditionally. Ideally, they all together are called – Nordic countries.

How many days do you need to visit Scandinavia?

You need at least 10 days to explore the best of Scandinavia. 10 days in Scandinavia allows you to tick off the highlights of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, however, it’d be a bit rushed trip. 2 weeks in Scandinavia are perfect to discover Scandinavia in a relaxed manner while 3 weeks in the region lets you discover the hidden gems or add some of the lesser known places.

What are the best months to travel in Scandinavia?

If you go by book, the summer months of June, July, and August are the best months to visit Scandinavia. It’s when the weather is just perfect, the days are endless, and the magic of the midnight sun adds to the experience. However, I feel winter in Scandinavia is extra special too because it brings the otherworldly northern lights and hygge , mysa , and koselig !

Is it expensive in Scandinavia?

Yes, Scandinavia is costly! Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland rank on the top among the most expensive countries to travel to and live in the world. Yet, there are many ways you can visit Scandinavia on a budget if you choose rental vacation homes over hotels, cook your own food over eating out, visit free attractions, use discount passes, and plan well in advance. Also, planning to go during the low season also helps.

Which Scandinavian country to visit first?

It doesn’t matter which Scandinavian country you visit first. You can start in Sweden or Denmark or Norway or Finland depending on where there are a good number of direct as well as cheap flights to and from your home country available. Your Scandinavian itinerary mostly starts and ends in different countries.

Which country is better in Scandinavia?

Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland; each Scandinavian country is different and more beautiful than the next. Denmark has world-class design and architecture, Norway has unearthly fjords and wilderness, Sweden has lush woodlands, pristine lakes, and islands, and Finland has stunning lakes, and traditional sauna culture, and it is home to the Santa Clause.

Is it easy to travel between Scandinavian countries?

Yes, traveling between Scandinavian countries is quite easy and comfortable. With extensive road, rail, air, and sea networks, getting around Scandinavia is a breeze. Express trains, overnight cruises, short ferry rides, long-distance coaches, low-cost flights – options abound. And, not to mention, a road trip around Scandinavia is the way to go if you have time.

What’s Scandinavia known for?

Scandinavia is famous for its Viking heritage, stunning landscape, endless forest cover, pristine lakes, magical fjords, gushing waterfalls, beautiful beaches, remarkable design, and architecture, royal palaces, pretty churches, unique culture, mouth-watering cuisine, charming towns, northern lights, midnight sun, and happy vibe. It’s one hell of a region!

So, when are you planning your trip to Scandinavia? If you need any further assistance as you plan to travel to Scandinavia, let us know in the comments section below. We’ll be more than happy to help!

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Anjali Chawla

7 thoughts on “Best of Nordic Countries in 3 Weeks – Scandinavia Itinerary”

Hello Anjali! What a nice web travel spot you ve created. I am heading to Denmark, Sweden and Finland for 10 days with 3 kids ( 13 to 20 yrs.), mid january. I am from Argentina and that´s our summer holidays. Do you think it still would be an acceptable idea ( short days, cold cold cold ).

Hey Fernando!

I and Neha love it when our readers find our content helpful because that’s our ultimate goal 🙂 Thank you so much for your kind words.

Fernando, the plus points of visiting the Nordic countries in winter are – fewer crowds, lower costs, loads of winter activities, and a chance to witness Aurora Borealis while the downsides include chilly and windy weather, shorter days (translates to less exploration time), and closed roads (matters if road tripping is on your list). Also, many sights and activities remain closed or open on a limited schedule during winter.

Having said that, I’d say winter is a good time to go if your travel goal is to catch the northern lights and indulge in winter sports.

If you can postpone your plan then I’d recommend visiting from late May to early June when the weather is just perfect, days are long, crowds are limited, and all the sights and activities are open.

If you can’t put off your plan then make sure to pack well for your winter adventure as you’ve kids traveling with you. As they say, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.” You gotta exercise caution while packing for your trip so you and your kids can feel comfortable during wintertime and enjoy snowy activities.

Be ready to layer up or bundle up. You must pack insulated, well-ventilated, and weather resistant jackets, waterproof lower, fleece leggings, long-sleeved tops, thermal underwear, warm sweaters to layer on tops, waterproof boots with a good grip, warm cap, war, and waterproof gloves, warm scarves, and thick socks. Make sure that the material of clothes is lightweight and quick dry.

Hope that helps. If you’ve any further questions or concerns, please let me know. I’m here to help!

Happy Travels!

Glad you liked the article and found it helpful. Hope it helps you plan your Scandinavia trip

The best information I read and don’t know even what is Nordic. It’s nice to know and learn other countries and one day we can visit this places.

So beautiful even looking only on the photos. Just saving money for the next holiday. Bon Voyage!

This sounds amazing! Thank your for your hard work in putting it together. I I’m not sure when we’ll be able to go, but it sounds like a dream vacation.

Excellent info – thank you! If I have 4 weeks to travel around these gorgeous countries, is there anywhere you’d add to the above itinerary?

If you have 4 weeks in Scandinavia, I’d suggest you to add 2 or 3 more days in Denmark to explore the charming cities of Aarhus and Odense and 2 to 3 days in Norway for Stavanger, Pulpit Rock Hike, or maybe a visit to Jostedalsbreen National Park. You can also refer to the itineraries for Denmark and Norway on my blog for more ideas.

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Travel Scandinavia: 15-Day Itinerary For Denmark, Sweden, & Norway

Scandinavia is a vast region of Europe, but it's possible to hit the highlights in 15 days on this epic road route.

Read update

Travel Scandinavia: 15-Day Itinerary For Denmark, Sweden, & Norway

• Start your Scandinavian adventure in Copenhagen, Denmark. Take a walking tour, try traditional Danish dishes, and explore iconic landmarks like Rosenborg Castle.
• Head to Malmö, Sweden, and experience the charm of its Old Town and historic sites. Don't miss the Disgusting Food Museum or a stroll through Kungsparken.
• Travel to Gothenburg, Sweden, and enjoy the city's museums, botanical gardens, and delicious seafood at the fish market. Take a day trip to the stunning Fløyen mountain in Bergen, Norway, for breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.

Scandinavia is an appealing region in Northern Europe that attracts tourists for its progressive policies, clean streets, vegan food options, stunning scenery, and reputation for happiness. Exploring the trifecta of Scandinavia is possible in just 15 days for travelers willing to move quickly, cruising from Denmark to Sweden to Norway and seeing the highlights that these Scandinavian countries offer. Rent a car and drive this route, or book train tickets to travel between cities.

Note: This article suggests accommodations in these Scandinavian countries based on extensive research. We selected hotels with a user rating of 7.0 or higher competitive rates, positive reviews, as well as their attractive amenities.

UPDATE: 2023/09/25 13:38 EST BY MARIAM ADAMA

Scandinavia is one of the most fascinating regions in Europe and the world. This list has been updated to include even more tours and adventures for travelers to explore on their Norway, Sweden, and Denmark itineraries.

15 Day One: Arrive In Copenhagen

Travelers can plan to start their journey through Scandinavia in Copenhagen, the incredible capital city of Denmark. This is accessible from major North American airports and by train from Western Europe, particularly from Hamburg, Germany. After arriving in Copenhagen, spend the rest of the day recovering from jet lag and exploring the city on foot. Some important landmarks to walk to include Rosenborg Castle , Amalienborg, and The Round Tower. For dinner, try the national dish, Stegt Flæsk Med Persillesovs (Fried Pork Belly With Potatoes and Parsley Sauce).

• Dining Tip: Restaurant Klubben is one of the top spots to try this nationally renowned meal
• Tour Suggestion: Copenhagen Highlights Express 2-Hour Walking Tour
• Where to stay: Absalon Hotel
• Address: Helgolandsgade 15, Copenhagen 1653 Denmark
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Bicycle Rental, Bar/Lounge

14 Day Two: Nyhavn And Tivoli Gardens

On the first full day in Copenhagen, start the morning in Nyhavn, the 17th Century waterfront and entertainment district. This cobbled street has colorful homes facing the water and boasts lots of cafés. For lunch, try smørrebrød, a delicious meal consisting of a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich made with rye bread.

In the afternoon or evening, have some fun at Tivoli Gardens. This amusement park is one of the oldest in the world and offers rides for adults, rides for kids, souvenir shops, and relaxing green garden spaces.

• More Amusements: Theater and ballet performances take place at Tivoli
• Admission: $145 DKK/ $20 USD general entrance. Tickets for all entertainment are available online
• Hours: Monday through Sunday, 11 AM to 10 PM
• Where to stay: 71 Nyhavn Hotel
• Address: Nyhavn 71, 1051 Copenhagen, Capital Region
• Amenities: Restaurant, Free WiFi, Business Center

Dining Tip: Schønnemann is one of the top places in the city to try smørrebrød

Related: A Travel Guide To Denmark: Tourists Should Plan Their Trip Around These 10 Things

13 Day Three: Explore Malmö

Leave Denmark and cross the Öresund Bridge - the world's longest cable-tied road bridge - into Sweden in the morning. Travelers can rent a car to cross the bridge, or it's also possible to take a 30-minute train ride into Malmö, Sweden's third-largest city, instead. Once in Malmö, get settled and head out to explore the quaint town on foot or by bicycle.

Start off enjoying Sweden by exploring Malmö's Old Town historic district and the picturesque Malmöhus Castle. View the futuristic Turning Torso tower, then step back in time at the 14th-century gothic marvel that is St. Peter’s Church, and take in the inventiveness of Swedish art and design at Malmö Konsthall . Travelers who aren’t interested in art and architecture might have more fun at the Disgusting Food Museum or walking through peaceful Kungsparken, a famous city park.

• Dining Suggestion: For dinner, try authentic Swedish meatballs at Två Krögare Bullen
• Tour Suggestion: Malmö & Lund Tour, Crossing the Øresund Bridge to Sweden
• Where to stay: Mayfair Hotel Tunneln
• Address: 4 Adelgatan, Malmö 211 22 Sweden
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Free Breakfast, Concierge

12 Day Four: Experience Fika In Lund

The next morning, depart Malmö and travel north to Lund, a charming, historical town in the south of Sweden. Lund dates back to the 10th century and is one of the oldest cities in the country - as is its awe-striking Lund Cathedral. Travelers can have their first Swedish Fika experience mid-morning at one of the many coffee shops and bakeries lining the streets. In the afternoon, it's a great idea to stroll around the Lund Botanical Gardens, or the fantastic open-air museum Kulturen Museum , which features historic buildings and beautiful gardens.

• Fika is a Swedish custom of having a coffee break with something sweet and in good company
• Dining Suggestion: Top Fika spots in Lund include Ebbas Skafferi, Love Coffee, and Coffee Break
• Tour Suggestion: Half Day Walking Tour in Lund City and University
• Where to stay: Scandic Hotel Star Lund
• Address: 5 Glimmervaegen, Lund 224 78 Sweden
• Amenities: Free Parking, Free WiFi, Pool

11 Day Five: Gardens And Museums In Gothenburg

On day five, depart Lund and drive (or take the train) to the picturesque city of Gothenburg. This idyllic Swedish destination deserves more than a day of exploration, so check into a hotel or Airbnb and prepare to spend some time here. Visit the Gothenburg Museum of Art , the science center Universeum, and the Volvo Museum. Then, head to the Gothenburg Botanical Garden and stroll amongst the greenery before sitting back and enjoying a nice dinner.

• Dining Suggestion: Zamenhof offers all-day dining in Gothenburg, and wine on tap
• Tour Suggestion: City Sightseeing Gothenburg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Where to stay: Hotel Scandic Rubinen
• Address: Kungsportsavenyn 24, Gothenburg 400 14 Sweden
• Amenities: Great option, with reasonable prices and great comfort, excellently located in the midst of the exciting neighborhood of Avenyn

Related: Skane, Sweden: Why It's The Perfect Stockholm Alternative

10 Day Six: Fish Market And Magasinsgatan

Spend another day in Gothenburg, waking up early to visit the fish market, Feskekôrka. For seafood lovers, this market is paradise. The vast building contains stalls selling fresh local fish and other seafood items, plus there are restaurants inside where travelers can sit down to try the fish in a prepared dish.

In the afternoon, go shopping at Magasinsgatan , a stylish district with shops, courtyards, and cafés. Enjoy one last Swedish Fika experience here before driving to Oslo for the night.

• Dining Suggestion: Restaurant Gabriel is a must-try restaurant at Feskekôrka, with inventive and amazing seafood
• Tour Suggestion: Make Your Own Tour - Guided Walking Tour
• Where to stay: Amerikalinjen
• Address: Jernbanetorget 2, Oslo 0154, Norway
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Fitness Center, Free Breakfast

9 Day Seven: Explore Oslo

The seventh day is the time to make the most of one full day in Norway’s capital city, the beautiful Oslo. The history of Oslo dates back to the 1000s, during the Viking Age, yet it is one of the most vibrant, modern, and fast-growing cities in Europe. Start the day off well in the Norwegian capital by rising early and getting breakfast at Erlik Kaffe in downtown Oslo.

Then, go to Vigeland Sculpture Park, where plenty of unique sculptures by iconic Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland are displayed in the city's green space. Make a stop at the National Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History. Later in the day, travelers can go to the waterfront and get out on a boat for a different view of the city, cruising around the edges of the Oslofjord.

• Tour Suggestion: Guided Oslo Fjord Cruise by Silent Electric Catamaran
• Where to stay: Hotel Bristol
• Address: Kristian IVs Gate 7, Oslo 0164 Norway

Related: 11 Things To Do In Stockholm: Complete Guide To This Vibrant Swedish City

8 Day Eight: Arrive In Bergen

Depart from Oslo and embark on one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, the Oslo-Bergen train ride. Crossing Norway by train in the Bergen Line is a bucket list event, as the journey takes travelers through some of the most breathtaking views of Scandinavia, across mighty fjords, and atop the Hardangervidda Plateau. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to return a rental car to Oslo and purchase a train ticket to Bergen on the high-speed train.

• Travel Time: The ride takes anywhere from 6.5-7 hours
• Train Schedule: There are departures in the morning, afternoon, and evening daily
• Tickets: One-way ticket prices start at $105 USD

By departing from Oslo on a morning train, travelers will have a chance to explore Bergen in the evening. Walk around Bryggen, a colorful neighborhood on the wharf.

• Dining Suggestion: Pingvinen or Bryggeloftet & Stuene Restaurant are both great choices for dinner
• Tour Suggestions: Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum
• Where to stay: Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Bergen
• Address: Rosenkrantzgaten 7, Bergen 5003 Norway

7 Day Nine: View The Bergen Peninsula From Fløyen

Another full day in Bergen means a chance to get outside the city center and appreciate the incredible natural landscapes of Norway. Go hiking to Fløyen mountain for beautiful views of Bergen and its surroundings. The popular hiking route is a 5.8 km out-and-back trail , open year-round. Dogs are welcome to join their owners if they are on a leash.

• Distance: 3.2 km
• Elevation: 297 m
• Hiking Time: Avg. 1h 20
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Where to stay: Fløien Apartments
• Amenities: Kitchen, Washing Machine, Heating
• Alternative Activities: Private day trip to the Vorings Waterfall— Norway's most visited

Related: A Travel Guide To Stockholm: 11 Things To Know While Planning Your Trip

6 Day Ten: Departure Flight (Optional Stop In Stockholm)

Start the last day of this Scandinavian adventure with a quick breakfast before heading to the airport to catch a flight home.

Depending on travelers’ timeline, they may choose to book a flight to Stockholm, Sweden, from Bergen and depart for North America from there since Stockholm is a bigger travel hub than Bergen. This also offers a chance for a final look at Sweden and some time to explore its capital.

• Dining Suggestion: Lovetann Café & Bistro is a great breakfast spot; the popular Chèvre toast is sure to be a delicious goodbye to Norway.
• Tour suggestion: Old Town Tour of Stockholm
• Where to stay: Bank Hotel
• Address: Arsenalsgatan 6, Stockholm 111 47 Sweden
• Amenities: EV Charging Station, Free WiFi, Fitness Center

5 Optional Side Trip - Day Eleven: Trip First Day To The Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands are a remote self-governing territory of Denmark and are worth a visit. Most flights leave from Copenhagen, so it would be better to put this side trip at the start of one's itinerary (there are also flights from Paris, Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Oslo, and Bergen). These islands only have a population of 54,000 and are one of the most interesting places to visit.

Fly out to the Faroe Islands and stay in Tórshavn. Tórshavn is the main settlement, with a population of 14,000.

• Tour Suggestions: Faroe Islands Highlights Tour
• Where to stay: Havgrim Seaside Hotel
• Address: 14 Yviri við Strond, Tórshavn 100, Faroe Islands
• Amenities: Boutique Hotel, Centrally Located, Great Views

4 Optional Side Trip - Day Twelfth: Trip Second Day In The Faroe Islands

Unfortunately, less than three days are not enough to see much of the many islands of the Faroe Islands. But it is enough time to see some of the main highlights and some of the natural wonders on the island group . Explore more of the rugged subpolar oceanic climate. Hopefully, one will have had enough time to have explored the main town on the first day.

On the second day, spend the night in the fjords of the Faroe Islands. Consider staying in a stunning cottage like Fjord Cottage tucked away in the pristine fjords.

• Tour Suggestions: Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein - Viewpoint Cruise
• Where to stay: Fjord Cottage
• Address: Gerdisvegur 15, Søldafjørdur 660, Faroe Islands
• Amenities: Views Of Fjords, Peaceful, Rural Retreat

3 Optional Side Trip - Day Thirteenth: Return From The Faroe Islands

Hopefully, one will be able to get an evening flight on the third day in the Faroe Islands. One may be regretting one will be leaving so soon. But at least one saw them. Take the time to explore more of the island with its lakes, dramatic seaside cliffs, and forgotten fjords. In the evening, flies back to Copenhagen and stays at the Absalon Hotel for the start of the mainland Scandinavia trip. Alternatively, if one is seeing the Faroe Islands at the end of the tour on the mainland, then consider flying to Scotland or Iceland.

• Tour Suggestion: Flam: The Famous Viking Village Experience

2 Day Fourteen: One More Adventure in Copenhagen

As travelers return to Copenhagen, they are presented with the perfect opportunity to explore all the wonders they may have missed during their initial visit. Travelers must take a day or two to fully immerse themselves in the city's charm and discover why Copenhagen has been named one of Europe's most livable cities. For those who prefer guided tours, there are several highly rated bus tours available that showcase the city's rich history and culture. Art enthusiasts will also find Copenhagen to be a haven of creativity and inspiration. A visit to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, one of the city's most revered museums, is an absolute must. Here, visitors can marvel at a vast collection of Mediterranean antiques and 19th-century art. The exhibitions at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek are diverse and fascinating, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to masterpieces by Van Gogh, sculptures from Greece, and works of art from Denmark and France.

• Tour Suggestion: 3h walking tour
• Where to stay: citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen
• Address: H. C. Andersens Boulevard 12, 1553 Copenhagen, Capital Region
• Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-FiBusiness center

Related: Top 10 Hidden Gems In Copenhagen, Denmark That You Can't Miss

1 Day Fifteen: A Delightful Culinary Adventure Before Departing Copenhagen

Food is an exciting part of traveling. After stopping by several restaurants and dinners spread across Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, what better way to top off the itinerary than by experiencing a delightful food tour? Food lovers and curious travelers can savor some of Denmark's cuisine, from street food to snacks and pastries. Travelers can hop from eating spots to markets and restaurants, or they can also join one of many food tours in Scandinavia.

• Tour Suggestion: The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour
• Where to stay: Scandic Norreport
• Address: Frederiksborggade 18, 1360 Copenhagen, Capital RegionRegion
• Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi available in all areas

A quick guide to the Scandinavian countries

Scandinavia is a huge and varied region. Stretching from the frozen Arctic wastes of the north, to the gentle, rural flat lands of the south, it’s an epic destination that you’ll need time to enjoy fully.

Visit Scandinavia and you can explore cities known for their cutting-edge design and culture, visit tiny villages perched on mountain tops, and enjoy endless opportunities for getting outdoors and close to unspoilt nature.

This guide will tell you all you need to know about Scandinavia and give you some ideas about where to go and what do if you visit.

Countries Location When to visit Living in Scandinavia Cheapest countries to visit Facts about Scandinavia

Which countries are in Scandinavia?

We wish there was a simple answer to this question, but the whole idea of ‘Scandinavia’ varies depending on who you speak to and where you ask the question!

Most people consider Scandinavia to include Norway , Sweden and Denmark , though this is open to much debate – not least in the Scandinavian countries themselves.

Geographically, at least, the Scandinavian peninsula includes Norway, Sweden and northern Finland .

However, since Denmark used to control land in southern Sweden, and its language shares common characteristics with its northern neighbours, it’s considered part of Scandinavia too.

So… what are the Nordic countries?

There’s often confusion between the Scandinavian and Nordic countries, and it’s easy to see why.

Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably, but the general consensus is that the five Nordic countries are Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland, plus their associated territories (so that’s Greenland, Svalbard, the Faroe Islands and the Åland Islands).

Where actually is Scandinavia?

Norway and Sweden are on the Scandinavian Peninsula, right in the north of Europe. It’s actually Europe’s largest peninsula, stretching from inside the Arctic Circle to the shores of the Baltic Sea. It covers some 289,500 square miles!

Denmark lies to the south of the peninsula and is connected to the Swedish city of Malmö by bridge , and to mainland Germany on its southern border.

Finland lies to the east of Sweden, across the Gulf of Bothnia. It has land borders to the west with Sweden, to the north with Norway and to the east with Russia.

What’s so great about Scandinavia?

The Scandinavian countries share certain geographical and cultural characteristics that make them totally different from other parts of the world.

Apart from Denmark, all of the Scandi countries have land within the Arctic Circle and experience extreme variations in length of day and night – from 24 hours of daylight in summer (the midnight sun) to 24 hours of darkness in winter (the polar night).

All of the Scandinavian nations are rightly proud of their natural environment, and wherever you go you’ll find that people seem to love outdoor activities, from wild swimming and long-distance cycling to Arctic skiing and wildlife watching.

However, you shouldn’t let these similarities make you think that all of the Scandinavian nations are the same, or that if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all! Each country has its own proud identity, its own little quirks and its own not-to-be-missed sights.

Best for cycling

Most Danes own a bike and the country is pretty flat – its highest point is only 170m above sea level. There are also around 12,000 km of cycle paths! So Denmark is a great country for cyclists in particular.

Big cities like Copenhagen tend to be very safe for cyclists, with way more bikes than cars. Around a third of Copenhagen’s residents cycle to work. There’s more on cycling in Copenhagen in this guide .

Best for hygge

Although all Scandinavian countries have their equivalent of the natural urge for cosiness and comfort, it’s the Danish hygge that has really caught the popular imagination.

So if you decide to visit Denmark, this is your chance to light some candles, cosy up in a warm jumper, and enjoy a comforting drink in front of a roaring (and preferably very stylish) roaring fire!

Best for New Nordic cuisine

It was Copenhagen’s Noma restaurant that spearheaded the trend for New Nordic cuisine, with chefs Claus Meyer and Rene Redzepi using local and seasonal ingredients – think reindeer, moss and sea buckthorn – to create fine-dining meals.

With two Michelin stars at its height, and voted the world’s best restaurant for four years, it was at the forefront of the culinary movement, and today Denmark still keeps the tradition alive, with some 26 Michelin-starred restaurants. But you don’t have to spend loads of cash to enjoy great food in Denmark; there are loads of excellent, affordable lunch restaurants across the country. It’s surprisingly easy to find cheap, tasty food in Copenhagen .

Other fun things to do in Denmark

Go shopping

Denmark is known for its design, and the Danes are super stylish dressers. So make sure you hit the fashion shops – read this guide for tips on where to go and what to buy first.

And if you’re hankering after some Danish design classics to take home, check out Copenhagen’s flea markets – you never know, you might just strike lucky and come across some original Arne Jacobsen cutlery!

Stay on a houseboat

The most atmospheric place to stay in Copenhagen is on a houseboat alongside one of the city’s canals or on the harbour. You can see some of our favourites in this guide .

Visit Legoland

Okay, we know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you have kids in tow, you can’t miss a trip to one of Denmark’s most popular attractions.

Legoland is in Billund, but it is actually possible to visit it on a day trip or a weekend away from Copenhagen. This guide has all the tips you need for a stress-free trip to the world’s first Legoland.

Have a beer

It may be home to one of Europe’s best-known beers, but Denmark also boasts a fast-growing craft beer and micro-brewery scene.

These affordable bars let you try some of Copenhagen’s more interesting beers without breaking the bank.

Discover the Vikings

Denmark is the spiritual and historical home of the Vikings – and you don’t have to venture far from the capital to see evidence of their influence on the country.

It’s still possible to see lots of Viking attractions in and around Copenhagen and learn all about about the legendary warriors and their ways (it wasn’t all chaos and violence!).

Cross ‘The Bridge’

Made famous by a certain Scandi-noir crime drama, the iconic and very long Øresund Bridge connects Denmark with Sweden and the rest of Scandinavia.

Want to cross over? Here’s all you need to know about the 16km-long crossing between Copenhagen and Malmö .

Best for fjords

Along its 63,000 miles of twisting coastline, Norway has more than 1000 stunningly dramatic fjords – these are some of the best ones .

These deep inlets formed by glaciers during the Ice Age are considered so important geographically that they have Unesco heritage status.

They also happen to be jaw-droppingly beautiful – you won’t find better fjords anywhere on Earth!

Best for skiing

Norway has thousands of kilometres of powdered runs for cross-country skiing.

It’s also the most mountainous of the Scandinavian countries, so you’ll find plenty of Olympic-level downhill runs.

Across the country (even in cities like Oslo!) you’ll also find stomach-churning ski jumps.

Best for whale watching

The waters off Norway’s Vesterålen islands are home to minke, humpback, pilot and sperm whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises.

Whale-watching safari boats from Andenes are so confident of a sighting that you’ll get your money back if you don’t see any whales.

You can take tours from many of Norway’s coastal towns. This polar whale and sea bird safari from Tromsø is a good option.

Other fun things to do in Norway

Take a selfie

Norway’s Trolltunga is the ultimate selfie spot and is fairly easy to reach, either under your own steam or on an organised hiking tour . Just don’t lean back too far!

There’s nothing like waking up in the morning to views of the mountains, then leaping into a fjord for a refreshing dip.

Wild camping is allowed pretty much anywhere in Norway , making it easy to pack your tent and head off into the wilderness.

Walk on a glacier

With more than 1600 glaciers, Norway is the place to do a spot of glacier climbing. Check out this guide if you want to visit the best of these vast ice caps.

Ride the Flåmsbana railway

One of the world’s most scenic railways, and the highest in northern Europe, the Flåmsbana winds its way from Myrdal along the picturesque Flåm valley to the spectacular Sognefjord.

Take a Hurtigruten cruise

It may be expensive, but this once-in-a-lifetime trip along the stunning Norwegian coast is a real adventure – and definitely one for the bucket list. You’ll find all you need to know in our essential guide to the Hurtigruten boats .

Best for islands

With more than 24,000 islands in the Stockholm archipelago alone, Sweden is a great place to jump on a ferry for a spot of island-hopping.

This guide shows you some of the best islands to visit when you’re in Stockholm.

You’ll also find peaceful, calm and often completely uninhabited islands just outside Gothenburg , Piteå and countless other Swedish towns.

Best for quirky hotels

Sweden is home to the original ice hotel , which is rebuilt each year from blocks of ice dug out from the frozen river nearby.

But this is really just the start. Travel around the country and you will find all sorts of weird and wonderful places to stay, including an old jumbo jet and some crazy floating hostels .

Best for hiking

Sweden has some of the world’s most spectacular hiking trails , with around 40 long-distance footpaths covering the country.

They range from gentle day hikes to full-on month-long 500km trails, like the famous (and gruelling!) Kungsleden trail .

This is one of the most dramatic walking routes in Scandinavia, passing through Arctic wilderness, wild moorland, pristine forest and snowy mountainscapes.

Wherever you are, Sweden’s ‘right to roam’ rules make the country a great place for camping wild (similar rules apply in Norway, too).

Other fun things to do in Sweden

See the northern lights

Sweden is one of the world’s best places for seeing the northern lights . You’ll need to plan ahead if you want a chance at catching this awe-inspiring phenomenon.

Go dog-sledding  

What better way to experience the Swedish Arctic than with thick snow, sleds and fluffy huskies? These are some of our favourite places to go dog-sledding .

Check out the wildlife

Wolves, moose, beavers, reindeer – and even bears – can all be found in Sweden if you know where to look. The best way to improve your chances of an encounter is to join one of the many wildlife watching tours .

Ride the Blue Train

Travel in style between Gothenburg and Stockholm on the Blue Train . You can sit back and admire the views from the wood-panelled retro carriages – or head to the piano bar for a drink.

Sleep in a castle

Treat yourself to a night or two in a real Swedish castle or grand manor house. These are some of the best ones .

Chill out at a spa

Soaking beneath the stars in a hot tub surrounded by snow, watching the northern lights playing across the sky – this is one of Sweden’s most magical experiences. Check out some of Swedish Lapland’s top spas here .

Best for saunas

There’s nothing the Finns love more than a sauna. There are an estimated two million of the things in Finland – not bad for a country of around 5.5 million people!

They consider the sauna to be healthy, enjoyable, and an integral part of their social life. The sauna can even be a place to do business deals.

Be prepared: most Finns go in naked, and there may be birch branches flailing around!

Best for wild swimming

Finland has been called the land of a thousand lakes – although, in fact, there are closer to 200,000.

The cold, clear water is perfect for jump into after a sauna, but there are all sorts of other activities you can enjoy on the water, like this canoeing trip in Finnish Lapland .

Best for Moomins

Created by Finnish author, Tove Jansen, the Moomins are omnipresent in Finland, with their own theme park, museum, statues, shop – and even a chain of cafés. Don’t miss out!

Which are the best Scandinavia countries to live in?

Well, Finland is a pretty good bet, having recently been cited as the world’s happiest country, according to the 2019 UN World Happiness index.

But actually, all of the Scandinavian countries come in the top ten, with Denmark ranked 2nd, Norway 3rd, Iceland 4 th (if we’re including the Nordic countries) and Sweden 7th. Not bad, eh?

Reasons why the Scandi countries rate so highly include a lack of corruption, high life expectancy, good health and social care, high incomes, and low levels of gender and wealth inequality.

So if you’re okay with cold weather and relatively high living costs, the Scandinavian countries are a great bet.

Which Scandinavian countries are cheapest to visit?

All the Scandinavian countries are expensive to visit, with the cost of eating out and alcohol particularly high, though public transport often costs less than you might expect.

According to the Big Mac index, which shows how much the famous McDonald’s hamburger costs in different countries, Norway is the most expensive Scandinavian country, followed by Sweden, Finland and then Denmark.

For more details on what you can expect to pay for day-to-day items, see our guide to costs in Sweden and Norway .

When is the best time to visit Scandinavia?

Each season has its own advantages and disadvantages.

In winter, you can enjoy the archetypal snowy landscapes, skiing and polar nights (at least in Sweden, Norway and Finland).

On the other hand summer brings the joys of lake swimming, hiking and the eerie midnight sun.

Check out our guides for more on the best time to visit Denmark , Norway and Sweden .

Essential facts about Scandinavia

Here are some handy facts and figures about this vast region.

What do the Scandinavian flags look like?

All the Scandinavian flags feature the Nordic cross in an off-centre design in various colours. They’re very, very similar, so here’s a handy guide:

Scandinavian countries by population

Scandinavian countries by area, which scandinavian countries are in the eu.

Denmark, Finland and Sweden are members of the EU. Norway is not, but it is a member of the EEA (European Economic Area), allowing free access across borders with EU countries.

Which Scandinavian countries are members of Nato?

Norway and Denmark are officially members of Nato: Sweden and Finland are not.

Which currencies do they use in Scandinavia?

Norway uses the Norwegian krone (NOK); Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK); Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK); and Finland uses the euro (EUR).

See also: Cool places to stay in Scandinavia Best places to visit in Scandinavia

Nordic vs Scandinavian: are you using them correctly?

You may also like.

The 16 best places to visit in Scandinavia

Sweden vs Norway, which one should you visit?

Where to see the northern lights in Scandinavia

Nordic folklore: 12 creatures from Norse mythology

Where is the Arctic Circle, and is it even real?

Denmark vs Finland: which one should you visit?

Which are the cheapest Scandinavian countries to visit?

12 magical Christmas markets in Scandinavia (2023 update!)

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just so you know, everyone in the nordics know that scandinavia is denmark, sweden and norway and this isn’t something that’s “discussed”. There’s a pretty clear distinction between the nordic countries and the scandinavian countries and as a scandinavian living in London, i know no one in the nordic countries questions the two different definitions. It’s on the outside that people don’t understand the difference, such as in london 🙂 Iceland and Finland are not Scandinavian, but they’re part of the nordic countries. Just thought i’d clear it up for you.

Thanks for the comment! That is actually explained in the guide, but thanks for the added clarification 🙂

I think you missed the point Carol was trying to make: that in the guide, it says that even people in Scandinavian countries dispute which countries are actually Scandinavian, and Carol points out that she, as a Scandinavian, says that no one she knows of in these countries question it. Great article, thank you!

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Denmark Itinerary

Last Updated on February 13, 2024

by Emily Marty

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Denmark is a very popular tourist destination, and the perfect visit to this stunning Nordic nation wouldn’t be complete without a proper Denmark itinerary. If you’re planning on spending 5 to 7 days in Denmark, then read on! This trip outline covers the country’s highlights, as well as some lesser-known attractions that are well worth a visit in their own right. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Denmark?

A key part of planning any holiday is figuring out how many days to spend at your destination. If you’re putting together an itinerary for a trip to Denmark, you’re probably wondering what the minimum length of time you’ll want to spend there to get a feel for the place is. 

Naturally, this varies somewhat from person to person, and will largely depend on what you like to do on your holidays, as well as what appeals to you about visiting Denmark in the first place.

With that in mind, trying to spend at least 5 days in Denmark is advisable, as it will allow you to visit a few of the country’s major cities and ensure that you don’t feel rushed in going from point A to point B. 

Bear in mind that both Denmark and its cities are remarkably compact, so getting around is generally quick and straightforward. In fact, you can see a great deal of the country in just five days as a result 

Having said that, you’re hardly going to run out of things to do if you end up spending one week in Denmark, instead.

Having an extra couple of days in the Nordic nation means you can visit some of the countryside, for example, or explore some of its nature reserves or even head to places like Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød or Kronborg Castle in Helsingør, several of which are fairly easy to access from the cities.

On the other hand, if you only have 3 days in Denmark or less, then plan on spending that in Copenhagen and maybe heading out on a day trip from the capital rather than planning to explore Denmark in its entirety. 

Getting To & Around Denmark 

One of the best things about visiting Denmark is how easy it is to get around once you’ve arrived in the country. Let’s be honest – Denmark is definitely on the smaller size, especially compared to other Nordic and Scandinavian countries like Norway , Sweden and Finland .

Combine this with the comprehensive and reliable Danish train network, which will take you to just about any town or city with ease (and often in a fairly short span of time, too), and Denmark is pretty much the ideal destination if you’re planning on travelling without a car. 

In fact, Denmark is perhaps one of the few countries in Europe where hiring a car has arguably next to no benefit beyond the flexibility that it offers.

Rail services in Denmark will get you pretty much anywhere a car can in the same amount of time, and, naturally, if you end up hiring a car for your trip, you’ll need to worry about parking, paying for petrol, and so on. 

Buses represent another great alternative to travelling by car in Denmark. Much of the country is well-serviced by buses, tickets for which tend to be on the more affordable side, compared to equivalent train services. You can view train & bus schedules here.

As far as airports are concerned, flying into Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport, which is Denmark’s largest, will give you access to the greatest range of airlines and flight routes.

Conveniently, you can take the local metro service directly from the airport into downtown Copenhagen and Copenhagen Central Station, which usually only takes around 15-20 minutes.

The country’s other major airports are near the cities of Aarhus, Aalborg, Billund, and Odense.

5 to 7-Day Denmark Itinerary 

This itinerary will see you arriving in Copenhagen, the country’s cosy capital. After spending a few days there, you’ll be moving onto Aarhus, where you’ll spend a couple of days; this is where the five-day version of the itinerary ends.

If you decide to stay for 7 days in Denmark, then you’ll be heading to Aalborg for days 6 and 7 of the trip. 

Day 1 – Copenhagen 

For day 1 of your trip, you’ll be arriving in Copenhagen ! A city with seemingly endless charm and charisma, Copenhagen is the historic and unique capital of Denmark and is home to beautiful architecture, quaint canals, and plenty to do and see. 

Why not start your holiday off with a bang and visit some of the city’s royal palaces? The castles of Rosenborg, Amalienborg, and Christiansborg are all well worth checking out, featuring some stunning and fairly distinct architecture.

Make sure to purchase a Copenhagen Card if you plan on visiting a lot of attractions. You can also take a bike tour if you want to explore some of the sights with a tour guide.

For unforgettable views of Copenhagen, you can climb to the top of the city’s Round Tower – just try not to get dizzy! 

Finally, you can finish the day off with a walk around the city’s iconic Nyhavn district and wandering around the cobblestone streets in the centre of the city. Known worldwide for its charming, colourful townhouses, cafes, and bars, Nyhavn is pretty busy in the warmer months, but its atmosphere simply has to be experienced firsthand. 

If you’re hungry, head to one of Copenhagen’s many fantastic food markets such as TorvehallerneKBH or Reffen. For those looking for something a bit more high-end, there are also countless fine dining establishments that call the Danish capital home. You can also take a food tour to try some of the nation’s iconic dishes.

It’s also recommended that you spend tonight, as well as nights 2 and 3 of your trip, in Copenhagen. 

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Ascot Hotel – This luxury hotel is in the centre of Copenhagen close to most major attractions. They offer a large range of rooms as well as breakfast daily and a gym onsite.

The Square   – This 4-star hotel is right across from Tivoli Gardens and has rooms suitable for singles, couples and larger families. There’s also a bar and common lounge for guests to enjoy.

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or visiting Denmark on a budget, then this hostel has dorm and private rooms, excellent common areas, 24-hour reception, and a bar on site!

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Copenhagen hotels!

Day 2 – Copenhagen 

On the second day of this Denmark itinerary, you’ll be visiting some of Copenhagen’s cultural highlights, including its world-famous Tivoli Gardens. The second-oldest amusement park in the world, Tivoli is, naturally, pretty old-school, but it’s still worth checking out for its historical value and unique atmosphere. You can pre-buy tickets here.

Afterwards, you can head to the National Museum of Denmark, which is home to a number of vital artefacts from the Viking era. The impressive Gundestrup Cauldron, thought to have been created sometime in the Iron Age, is a particular standout. 

The second day is also the perfect opportunity to try some delicious baked goods, which are something that Denmark is actually pretty famous for. We recommend the chain Meyers Bageri; with several locations across the city, their cinnamon rolls are not only traditional but absolutely delicious!

What’s more, at the end of each day, they donate any unsold bread and cakes to charities across Copenhagen that work to support the homeless, so your money will be going to a good cause. 

Day 3 – Humlebæk & North Zealand Day Trip 

For the third day of your holiday, we recommend taking a day trip from Copenhagen to North Zealand, described by many as the ‘Danish Riviera.’

It’s a popular holiday destination among Copenhageners, and Humlebæk, one of the region’s more significant towns, is just over 30 km away from Copenhagen itself and easily accessible via train. 

Humlebæk is home to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, which actually happens to be one of the most famous modern art museums in the world. So, if you’re a fan of the arts, then you’ll definitely want to head to Humlebæk and get to know some of the finest contemporary artworks in the world. 

Afterwards, you can either explore more of Humlebæk and the charming nearby beach of Nivå or head further afield and discover more of the North Zealand region.

If you’re not keen to head to North Zealand, consider heading out on a day trip to nearby Malmo, Sweden . Or, if you’re interested in Viking history, head to Roskilde which is also within easy reach of the Danish capital and won’t take long to get back to Copenhagen. Its main cathedral is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Do keep in mind that the next day of your trip will see you travelling from Copenhagen to Aarhus, so you might want to make sure not to overdo it! 

Day 4 – Aarhus 

On day 4, you’ll be making the trip from Copenhagen to Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city. If travelling by train, you can expect the journey to take a little over three hours. 

Once you’ve arrived, we suggest acquainting yourself with the city by going on a walking tour of its downtown area. The food market Aarhus Street Food is the perfect place to grab some authentic and delicious local fare; located just off the wharves in the Kødbyen district, this is a fantastic option if you’re keen for a more relaxed, affordable location for a bite to eat. 

Then, you can pay a visit to the open-air museum Den Gamle By, which features reconstructions of a variety of historic buildings and feels like something of a time capsule! 

Note that you should plan to spend tonight and tomorrow night in Aarhus. 

Where to Stay in Aarhus

Hotel Oasia – This 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a hip place to stay in the centre of Aarhus. They have a great, central location, plenty of plush rooms on offer and a lovely breakfast buffet available in the morning.

Villa Provence – Those looking for a bit of luxury will love this plush hotel in the Aarhus canal area. Located within easy reach of the train station and close to the top attractions, they have a range of lovely rooms to choose from.

BOOK1 Design Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this highly-rated hostel in the centre of Aarhus. They have a range of dorms and private rooms available along with good self-catering facilities for guests to use.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Aarhus hotels!

Day 5 – Aarhus 

We recommend that you use day 5 of your trip to visit some of Aarhus’ excellent cultural attractions, starting off with the tranquil Botanical Garden (the greenhouses are especially impressive!). 

Then, you can head to the ARoS Art Museum and Moesgaard Museum; ARoS is one of Scandinavia’s most significant art museums, while the Moesgaard Museum features a number of fascinating exhibits related to archaeology and anthropology. 

If you’re planning on seeing Denmark in 5 days only, then this will be the last day of your trip. So, if you’re flying home from Copenhagen, make sure to factor that into your plan for the day; note that the time it takes to reach Copenhagen from Aarhus via train is usually around 4 hours. 

Day 6 – Aalborg

Seeing Denmark in 7 days? Then, for day 6 of your trip, you’ll want to head north from Aarhus to Aalborg; travelling between the two cities usually takes a little over an hour by train. 

Once you’ve arrived in Aalborg, we suggest heading to the Maritime Experience Centre at Springeren, which is a must-see for enthusiasts of maritime history. 

Or, if Vikings are more your thing, you can head to the Viking Museum at Lindholm Høje, which is just north of Aalborg city. Home to museums and a burial ground, the Viking Museum is absolutely fascinating, even if you don’t have much existing knowledge of the Vikings or their culture. 

Afterwards, you might like to climb the observation tower, Aalborgtårnet, for a view over the city. You can easily combine this with a walk into downtown Aalborg, which makes for a fantastic way to get your bearings here. 

If you’re keen on sampling the local Danish fare during your trip, then you may want to consider heading to Mortens Kro for dinner tonight. Regarded by many as one of the best restaurants in the city, Mortens Kro specialises in serving up fairly typical Danish cuisine, as well as a number of vegetarian options. Both a la carte and tasting menus are available, and booking in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment. 

We suggest that you spend the night in Aalborg, keeping in mind that tomorrow may be the last day of your trip, and, as such, you’ll need to make arrangements to return to Copenhagen then, if that’s where you’re flying home from. 

Where to Stay in Aalborg

Zleep Hotel Aalborg – Those looking for a hip, mid-range place to stay in Aalborg will love this 3-star hotel. They have chic rooms on offer, an on-site bar to lounge in and a great breakfast available for guests each morning.

KOMPAS Hotel – If you’re after a bit more luxury in Aalborg, then this hotel is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of the city close to all of the best attractions, there are lovely rooms to choose from, a great breakfast on offer and plenty of other amenities for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Aalborg hotels!

Day 7 – Aalborg 

For the last day of your trip to Denmark, we recommend taking a day trip from Aalborg to Rebild National Park ( Rebild Bakker in Danish). Buses departing from central Aalborg will take you to and from the national park, with a journey time of a little under an hour. 

The area comprises some lovely hilly heathland and is the perfect place for a hiking trip or picnic. Don’t expect much elevation gain, of course, but the park is truly tranquil, making for a nice change after nearly a week spent exploring Denmark’s incredible cities. 

Once you’re back, we suggest (unless you’re vegetarian/vegan) sampling the local seafood, which makes up a massive part of the local cuisine. One of the best places for it is the restaurant Fisk & Skaldyr, which specialises in serving seafood of the highest standard to diners. 

With oysters, salmon, mussels, prawns, eel, lobster, and halibut on the menu, seafood lovers are truly in for a treat here. The desserts are also to die for!

Note that there aren’t any vegetarian/vegan mains on the menu, so plant-based diners will likely want to contact the restaurant ahead of time to see if they’re able to accommodate dietary requirements. 

Have More Time? 

If you’d like to spend more than 7 days in Denmark, then you may want to head to Odense from Aalborg; the 3rd-largest city in Denmark, Odense is the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen and has its own unique character and plenty to see and do! Billund is home to the original LEGOLAND , too, which is great fun for children and adults alike. 

Or, if you want to see Denmark at its ‘peak,’ you can visit Himmelbjerget; it’s one of the highest points of the Danish landscape with an elevation of a whopping 147 metres! Its name even translates to ‘sky mountain,’ in reference to its height (which is impressive by Danish standards, in any case). 

Denmark is an incredible country, and both its cities and its countryside have so much to offer visitors. We hope that this itinerary helps you craft the perfect plan for your trip to Denmark and that you have an amazing time there!

Are you planning to visit Denmark? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

The Essential Guide to Visiting Copenhagen in Winter

Copenhagen or Stockholm: Which City to Visit?

About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

Hi Emily, Thanks for putting out such detailed itinerary. I am looking for a week travel to Denmark and this really helped a lot to put things in place specially to explore areas outside of Copenhagen. Thanks again. Best wishes for future travels.

Regards Milan

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The Ultimate Scandinavia Guide: The Best Times & Places to Visit

Are you thinking about planning a trip to Scandinavia ? Made up of Sweden, Denmark and Norway, this region is a top destination whether you’re looking to experience the northern lights or visit the grand capital cities. 

This useful guide will help you figure out the best times to visit and the best places to see in Scandinavia. Get ready for a bucket-list worthy trip to the land of the Vikings, steep mountains, long fjords and majestic waterfalls.

Best time to visit Scandinavia

With four distinct seasons, Scandinavia has plenty to offer all year long. When is best to visit for you is personal and may depend on your pre-booked holidays, what you want to see and experience, or your preferred season.

Read below for a short-and-sweet guide to the best time to visit Scandinavia.

• During the summer months, you could take on a self-drive trip around Scandinavia or join a small guided tour  with a local guide
• Throughout the year, travel around Scandinavia independently via scenic trains and cruises journeys

1. Best time to visit Scandinavia for weather

Summer in Scandinavia, the months of July and August , is a great time to visit. At this time of year, you’re more likely to have pleasant and stable weather. Nature comes alive and locals and visitors alike can enjoy the great outdoors.

Another bonus of summer is the extended daylight hours. Take advantage of long days with more sightseeing and excursions.

The summer is also a good time for a road trip. Take the wheel, enjoy the warmer weather, go off the beaten track, and find your own corner of paradise.

• Browse these summer Scandinavia packages

2. Best time to visit Scandinavia for quieter travel

Scandinavia is very popular with travellers – for excellent reasons! But do you dream of a quiet holiday, to experience the natural wonders in peaceful reflection? Or to capture the perfect photos without too many distractions?

Travelling during in winter has many benefits that you may enjoy. One of which is experiencing the country at your own relaxed pace.

If you would like to take advantage of the fairer weather and quieter attractions, visit during the shoulder season in May or September .

3. Best time to visit Scandinavia to see the northern lights

While summer may be ideal to visit the Nordic countries , it is not the best time to see the northern lights.

To see the aurora borealis you need a clear, dark sky, which is difficult to find in the Arctic region. This includes Northern Norway, Svalbard, Finnish and Swedish Lapland where the sun doesn't fully set in summer.

For the best chances of dark skies and northern lights spotting, visit Scandinavia and especially its northern reaches between October and March.

• Check out Scandinavian northern lights tours

Best places to visit in Scandinavia

Encompassing Denmark, Norway and Sweden, this northern region of Europe has so much to offer. While planning a trip around Scandinavia, the only challenge you’ll have is to narrow down the places you’ll want to see.

Here are some suggestions to add to your Scandinavian itinerary: 

1. Oslo, Norway

Norway's capital, Oslo , is a must-see city blending nature with modern, urban vibes. Chances are you will fly into Oslo to visit Norway, making it a perfect first stop on your itinerary!

Head outdoors to admire the green hills and surrounding mountains of Oslo. Or enjoy the vibrant cultural life, visiting world-renowned museums and galleries, such as the Munch Museum or the Kon-Tiki Museum .

• Book one of these Norway holiday packages

2. Bergen, Norway

Bergen , Norway’s second largest city, is a great place to experience rich cultural and historical attractions, as well as seeing majestic natural wonders.

Nicknamed the "Gateway to the Fjords", you’ll find yourself at the doorstep of Norway’s’ longest fjord, Sognefjord , and the beautiful Hardangerfjord.

You can also spend hours walking around the streets of this vibrant city, exploring museums and its old town, the UNESCO World Heritage site Bryggen .

• Look up city breaks in Scandinavia to explore Bergen as well as the capital cities
• Related: 7 Scandinavian cities you need to visit

3. Lofoten islands, Norway

Discover Norwegian natural beauty at its finest in the Lofoten islands .

As an archipelago within the Arctic Circle, this region boasts plenty of dramatic scenery with mighty mountains, craggy coastal lines, pristine waterways and quaint fishing villages. Svolvær, the main community of Lofoten, is a popular stop on the Norwegian Coastal Voyage.

This is an excellent place to visit for keen bird watchers in summer, and for those chasing the northern lights  in winter.

• Explore tours to the Lofoten islands

4. Flåm, Norway

The small town of Flåm is an ideal stop to relax during a bustling trip around Norway or Scandinavia.

Nestled at the heart of the western fjords, you’ll find a wealth of natural attractions a stone’s throw from this tiny village. Admire the mighty mountains, stunning fjords, and powerful waterfalls.

From here, you could hop on a fjord cruise, or aboard the famous Flåm Railway , known as one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world!

• Experience the comfort of train travel and see the sights from your window with one of these Scandinavian tours by rail

5. Preikestolen, Norway

Conquer your fear of heights at the gravity-defying Preikestolen . Its name means "Pulpit Rock", given because of its odd shape resembling a preacher’s pulpit.

You could admire it from a boat tour along the fjords, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could hike up Pulpit Rock . It takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to make this 8-kilometre (5-mile) round trip.

At the top, enjoy the views over the Lysefjord from the 604-metre (nearly 2,000-feet) high cliff!

• Visit Scandinavia in the summer months, June , July or August , to go hiking, kayaking and more

6. Sognefjord, Norway

Prepare to be amazed by Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. Also known as the "King of the Fjords", it's a breathtaking site with towering mountain peaks and tranquil waters.

If you take part in the legendary Norway in a Nutshell© tour , you will pass through Aurlandsfjord , an arm of the Sognefjord. This will allow you to really take in its vastness. Sognefjord itself also extends inland to Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen national parks.

7. Geirangerfjord & Nærøyfjord, Norway

Escape to an area of renowned natural beauty. The UNESCO World Heritage-protected Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are often referred to as the "world’s most stunning fjords" and you're in for a treat.

Spend a day cruising along their peaceful waters, looking up at the steep mountainsides, and spotting wildlife. You could also admire views of powerful waterfalls, such as the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil .

• Sail along fjords, rugged coastlines and across the Baltic Sea on a cruise of Scandinavia

8. Stockholm, Sweden

Discover Stockholm, the enchanting capital of Sweden. Here you can spend your days discovering Swedish culture and history.

Wander through the cobblestone streets of the 13th-century old town (Gamla Stan). This area is dotted with interesting attractions such as the Nobel Museum and the Royal Palace.

You could also head out to Djurgården to visit the Vasa Museum, the most visited museum in Scandinavia. Or take a boat trip around the stunning Stockholm archipelago .

• Explore these Sweden holiday packages

9. Gothenburg, Sweden

While making your way through Sweden, don’t forget the western city of Gothenburg. With its chilled-out and trendy vibes, the country's second largest city is one of the best vacation spots in Sweden .

Here, you’ll discover neoclassical architecture along quaint streets and grand canals. You could dine at romantic gastropubs in Haga, ride rollercoasters at the 1920s Liseberg amusement park, and take a cruise along the Gothenburg archipelago.

• Check out these tours of Sweden to explore the country in more depth
• Related: Best group tours in Europe for solo travellers

10. Icehotel, Sweden

Sleep on ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL in Sweden – a quintessential Nordic experience!

During the day, you can try your hand at fun winter activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing or snowmobiling. By night, keep warm on a reindeer-skin-covered ice bed. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the dancing northern lights in the sky above. 

• Head north to have a  winter getaway in Lapland

11. Copenhagen, Denmark

Travel to the fairytale city of Copenhagen, where you’ll discover royal palaces, nods to writer Hans Christian Andersen, and canals lined with colourful houses.

You could easily fill several days visiting all of Copenhagen’s cultural and historical attractions. But make sure to visit the extravagant Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish Royal family, and Tivoli Gardens, the world's second oldest amusement park.

• Visit Copenhagen as part of a  Scandinavian triangle tour that also includes Stockholm and Oslo

12. Helsinki, Finland

While not technically part of Scandinavia, don’t forget Finland when travelling through the Nordic countries.

Cross the Baltic Sea to Helsinki and experience Finnish culture at its finest. Here, you’ll find modern buildings alongside ornamental, Art Nouveau architecture, which makes exploring the city a real treat.

We recommend checking out the Design District, Temppeliaukion (an incredible rock-carved church), and Market Square.

• Take an  independent tour of Scandinavia including Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway

13. Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland

Relive childhood fantasies by visiting the official hometown of Santa Claus in the capital of Finnish Lapland.

After you’ve met the jolly old fellow, make sure to visit the Arktikum museum. Or head into the great outdoors to experience the stunning beauty of the Arctic wilderness.

Rovaniemi is also a good spot to chase the northern lights during the winter months.

• Visit in  December , January , February or March to enjoy the winter wonderland

Planning your trip to Scandinavia

Booking a trip to Scandinavia couldn't be easier with Nordic Visitor. You can take your pick from the large selection of self-drive itineraries , train and cruise packages , and guided group tours .

Choose your favourite itinerary and we'll do the rest for you. We'll book your accommodation, in-country transportation and transfers, and activities. So all you have to do is fly here and enjoy your holiday! 

When you’re ready to start planning your Scandinavian getaway, get in touch with our travel consultants who can arrange it all for you. They can even customise your itinerary should you have any particular needs and interests.  We’re here to help you make the most of your time in Scandinavia!

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

SCANDINAVIAN ROAD TRIP

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HIGHLIGHTS OF SCANDINAVIA & FINLAND CRUISE

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Legoland is a very famous attraction for kids in Denmark

See our guide for Denmark ↓

Welcome to Denmark

Denmark has clean air, a beautiful landscape, and charming historical towns, and Denmark is bike-friendly and is lovely to visit if you like to see beautiful castles, amazing beaches and great restaurants.

Denmark has clean air, a beautiful landscape, charming historical towns, and is bike-friendly.

The Danes have a very ordered but happy lifestyle and are always in the top 3 in the world with one of the happiest populations.

So, don’t just go to Copenhagen but explore the coastlines, the small cities, and the beautiful national parks. There is much to see and do, and we recommend travelling beyond the capital. 

This travel guide to Denmark can help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Denmark.

Heritage sites in Denmark

Top destinations in Denmark

About the happy Danes

Weather in Denmark

Hotels in Denmark

What is Denmark famous for

Denmark is most well-known for its Danish design, Nordic cuisine and Viking Unesco heritage sites .

Denmark's territory incorporates the Jutland Peninsula,  and around 406 islands and 80 are inhabited.

Geographically, the country consists of the peninsula of Jutland, Funen and the islands of Zealand.  The capital is Copenhagen in Zealand, which offers a fantastic array of museums, beautiful architecture and gourmet restaurants.

Denmark has a wide variety of attractions and destinations. Because the sea surrounds the country, there are plenty of wide-open  sandy beaches . With a 7400 km coastline, almost the same as Brazil, you are never far from a beach in Denmark.'

Denmark consists of more than 400 picturesque islands and the peninsula of  Jutland . On the island 'Of Zealand', you find the capital,  Copenhagen , known for many  historical attractions  and the amusement park  Tivoli . From Copenhagen, you can take the bridge to Malmø in Sweden.

Denmark has a beautiful, soft, harmonic landscape, enchanting islands and wide sandy beaches.

The country also has a great  Viking history . It is renowned for its old castles and palaces, art museums, beautiful endless beaches and adventure parks for kids, as  Legoland  in Billund, the same town where the production of Lego bricks started in 1949.

Danish design and architecture

Danish design and  architecture  have been world-renowned for decades, and if you are interested in architecture, Denmark and Copenhagen are worth visiting. Danish design is clean lines, graceful shapes, and functionality. The Danish competencies in design have also allowed for big businesses such as iconic brands such as  Bang & Olufsen ,  George Jensen  and  Royal Copenhagen.  

Destinations in Denmark

Funen (Fyn) and the principal city here,   Odense , is home to Hans Christian Andersen, who is renowned for his many fairytales. Still, Funen also offers sandy beaches and very cosy villages.

In Jutland (Jylland), the most significant cities are Aarhus

and Aalborg , which we recommend you visit when you are in Denmark.

Why visit Denmark

Denmark offers many  Viking attractions  and  Royal castles  and is one of the oldest kingdoms in the world. Some Vikings' sites are heritage centres such as  "Kongernes Jelling".

Denmark is a green country with rolling farmlands – ideally suited for cycling and active holidays. For families with children, Denmark has world-class theme parks and family attractions with fun and learning for all the family, such as Djurs Sommerland and Fårup Sommerland. 

See 12 reasons to visit Denmark

See popular cities in Denmark

About Denmark

Denmark shares a border with Germany to the south with an 86-kilometre land border. Regarding language and culture, Denmark is more related to the Nordic countries as  Sweden  and  Norway .

Denmark is the bridge between northern Europe and  the Nordic countries  like Norway and Sweden. The Danes are relatively liberal and progressive and are, in general, good at speaking English.

It is easy to get around in Denmark because Denmark has a well-developed transportation system. The road network connects all parts of the country; railways and air links provide fast transport, while ferries and many bridges connect the islands.

The politics of Denmark take place within the framework of representative parliamentary democracy, a constitutional monarchy and a decentralized unitary state in which the monarch of Denmark, Queen Margrethe ll, is head of state. 

Denmark is a prosperous and thriving nation of 5.7 million people – and as an independent country since the late 10 th  century, it is also one of the oldest countries in Europe. Denmark's political system is a constitutional monarchy, allowing it to combine its nearly 1.000 years of history and tradition with all the features of a modern democratic state.

What is the meaning of "hygge"

The warm glow of candlelight is 'hygge'. For Danes, ' hygge' is sitting around a table, discussing life's big and small things with good friends or family. The word comes from another Nordic country, Norway - and here, it means 'well-being'. In essence, 'hygge' means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people.

See more about Danish hygge

Famous companies from Denmark

Denmark is a developed and industrialized country with a market economy, and many of the largest companies are household names worldwide. 

Perhaps you already know some of the other companies coming from Denmark:

• Carlsberg Beer
• Lego® 

Denmark is renowned for its design, high quality, and innovative products. See more:   Danish brands and shopping

Nordic New Cuisine

Denmark is known for its beautiful design and architecture, but today, Denmark is equally famous for its food called  Nordic New Cuisine  and the world's best restaurant, Noma in Copenhagen.

Like the Danish design and architecture, the world-famous new Nordic cuisine is known for simplicity, elegance, and style. Denmark has some of the world's best restaurants with NOMA in front, but you can also find many other restaurants from the Michelin Guide in Denmark. But visiting some of the high-quality casual and traditional Danish restaurants is also worth visiting.

In general, Denmark is a culinary treat. Fresh Danish Baked goods and open-face sandwiches, locally called 'smørrebrød'. Denmark has some of the best gourmet restaurants in the world, with an impressive collection of more than twenty  Michelin Stars restaurants.

  Denmark is also famous for "Nordic Noir"

Nordic Noir refers to the crime fiction genre known as Scandinoir or Scandicrime. Best known in the rest of the world are the Killing, Borgen and the Bridge,

Denmark has a rich history of films and TV series that audiences love and have received many international awards.

In Denmark, you find many great architects, actors, musicians,  ballet dancers, opera singers, and others who enrich Danish culture.

See more about Nordic Noir  

  Denmark - a green nation

Denmark has a long tradition of ambitious energy and climate policies based on consensus in the Danish Parliament. The environment often played a role when they built a new building in Denmark. Denmark has introduced a clear vision of becoming independent of fossil fuels by 2050 as one of the first countries in the world. 

Denmark is also one of the world's largest exporters of wind turbines, and the most famous company is Vestas.

Denmark is a biking country with more than 10,000 km of biking routes . More than 40 per cent of Copenhagens residents bike to work every day, and it is one of the best capitals in the world to discover by bike.

Danish lifestyle and traditions 

Danes are the most satisfied and happy people in the world. The Danish people appreciate an addition to the daily work to have a high quality of life where there is time for family, friends and leisure activities.  Visit Denmark and take your time at a cosy café or restaurant, meet the Danes, get notice of the country's history by visiting the many attractions or visit the beautiful, clean, soft Danish nature. Denmark is great for  biking , and where ever you go, you meet people riding their bikes; for transport, fun or the sports of it. Denmark is one of the countries where bikes are the most widely used.  It also means that facilities for biking are good in Denmark, making it more convenient and safe than many other places in the world.

Most Danes have excellent language skills and speak more languages. They are taught English in elementary school, and it is easy for the Danes to deal with other countries, travel or work, and may explore the world as tourists.

  The weather in Denmark

Despite the country's northern position, Denmark's weather is not extreme. Denmark is in the temperate climate zone, and the country has mild weather due to west winds and the seas that surround Denmark.

January is the coldest month and August's warmest month, although the warmest summer nights are in July. Average daytime temperatures range from 2°C (35.6°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in August. Rainy days are likely all year round, while snowfall only happens occasionally during winter.

Rainy days are likely all year round, while snowfall only happens occasionally during winter.

Because of Denmark's northern location in Europe, daylight hours vary significantly. During winter, sunrise is about 8 am and sunset is at 3:30 pm, whereas a summer day starts at 3:30 am, and sunset is as late as 10 pm.

Greenland and the Faroe Islands

Greenland and the Faroe Islands belong to the Kingdom of Denmark

The Faroe Islands and  Greenland  in the North Atlantic have autonomous self-rule but belong to the Kingdom of Denmark.

The Faroe Islands' Home Rule is from 1948, and Greenland's home rule was made in 1979. In 2005, a new self-government arrangement came into force in the Faroe Islands, and in 2009 a self-government arrangement for Greenland replaced the Greenland Home Rule Arrangement.

Summer music events and festivals

The biggest festival in the Nordic countries and perhaps the most famous worldwide is the Roskilde rock festival in the city of Roskilde, 30 km from Copenhagen. The most beautiful festival in Denmark is the Smukfest in Skanderborg, nearby Aarhus.

The Jazz Festival is one of the most significant music events in Copenhagen. In Aarhus, it is the Northside Festival, and outside the big cities, we can recommend the Tønder folk music festival or the Riverboat Jazz Festival in Silkeborg.

See here for information about more  festivals and events  in Denmark.   

More facts about Denmark

Denmark's political system is a constitutional monarchy, allowing it to combine its nearly 1.000 years of history and tradition with all the features of a modern democratic state.

Greenland and the Faroe Islands are parts of the kingdom of Denmark, but both Greenland and the Faroe Islands enjoy extended self-rule.

Denmark's coastline is 7,314 km. It corresponds to almost one and a half metres of coast per inhabitant. The official language is Danish, and the currency is the Danish Kroner.

Denmark includes several islands, such as Zealand (Sjælland), Funen (Fyn), Bornholm and Jutland. The terrain is low and flat to gently rolling plains.

Today, Denmark is a modern, prosperous nation. The country has a market economy, and the Danes enjoy a high standard of living. They have a good welfare system and are members of the European Union (EU) and the  Schengen agreement .

The country has a high-tech agricultural sector and world-leading companies in pharmaceuticals, maritime shipping and renewable energy.

Administratively, the country is divided into five regions, and 98 local authorities, called 'kommuner. Denmark is an urbanized country, with around 85 per cent of the population living in cities. Copenhagen is the capital, and the region has approximately 625.000 inhabitants. Aarhus is the second-largest, with 338.000 inhabitants. 

In Denmark, 64 per cent is under cultivation, and deciduous or coniferous forests cover 12 per cent.

 Facts about Denmark

Health care is free

Education is also free

Denmark is the longest-uninterrupted monarchy in Europe

Denmark is the world's leading producer of windmills

Some of the best restaurants in the world are in Denmark as 

Significant Languages Danish, Faroese, Greenlandic, German; note: English is the predominant second language Religions Evangelical Lutheran 74.7%, Muslim 5.5%, other/none/unspecified 19.8%

Time Difference UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Daylight saving time (summertime) +1hr begins last Sunday in March and ends last Sunday in October

Potable Water Yes

International Driving Permit Suggested Road Driving Side Right

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s) 230 V / 50 Hz /

Plug type(s): C, E, F, K

Telephone Code: 0045 

See more facts about Denmark 

What to See and Do in Denmark

Most Popular Attractions

The Brave Vikings

Top 9 Architecture

Top 9 Family Attractions

Top 9 Museums

In The Footsteps of Hans Chr. Andersen

Heritage in Denmark

Best Season

Getting to Denmark

Must see cities in denmark.

Popular Regions in Denmark

North Zealand

South Jutland

East Jutland

North Jutland

South Zealand

Discover the cosy denmark.

The King's Garden in Copenhagen

The Deer Park

The Funen Village Museum

Tivoli Gardens Copenhagen

The Old Town Museum

The Latin Quarter in Aarhus

Tivoli Friheden

Top viking attractions.

The Viking Ship Museum

Vikingmuseum Ladby

Trelleborg Viking Fortress

The Jelling Monuments

The Museum Ribes Vikinger

Ribe VikingeCenter

Lindholm Høje - The Vikings in Aalborg

Viking Museum in Aarhus

The National Museum

Bork Vikingehavn

Visit the royal castles.

Amalienborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace

Rosenborg Castle

The Danish Riviera

Kronborg Castle in Denmark

Frederiksborg Castle

Fredensborg Palace

Nyborg Castle

Egeskov Castle

Amazing danish architecture.

National Aquarium Denmark

The Royal Playhouse

The Royal Danish Opera House

The Tietgen Students' Residence

Bølgen (The Wave)

The Black Diamond

Aros Art Museum

LEGO® House

Amazing nature in denmark.

Marielyst Beach

Rubjerg Knude

Blåvand Beach

Stevns Klint Experience

Hornbæk Beach

Bellevue Beach

Amager Beach

Løkken Beach

Shopping in Denmark

Shopping in Copenhagen

Shopping in Odense

Shopping in Aarhus

Shopping in Aalborg

Shopping in Vejle

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How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia – 10 Tips for the Perfect Vacation

As a former travel consultant and Scandinavian product design specialist, I’ve created and booked MANY trips throughout the Nordic countries. Before diving into booking local tours and hotels, there are a few questions that you want to ask yourself. In this, “ how to plan a trip to Scandinavia ” guide, I will walk you through the process. I will also help you get a clear picture of what kind of trip you are looking for, making the planning process fun and easy.

Let’s plan a trip to Scandinavia!

10 Tips Planning Your Scandinavian Vacation

1. should you do the scandinavian trip planning yourself or hire a professional.

I have been on both sides of the fence. If you want to save time and have somebody else take care of the arrangements for you, your best bet is to hire a professional to put together the tour for you.

If you need a professional to help plan your Scandinavian vacation, please feel free to leave a comment below, and I will be happy to make suggestions. (There is a tour operator article in the making, so will post that when done).

But, if you enjoy researching your destinations, and want to make sure that you get what you are looking for,  making your own arrangements is the way to go. Making your own arrangements is also, a way to stay 100% in control of your trip. Another benefit is the enjoyment of how your trip evolves, to find new places to visit, and new things to discover.

Putting together the arrangements with accommodation, local tours, transportation, and other events does not have to be hard. Many online resources can be of great assistance, many of them which we share on this site. Being in charge of your own arrangements will give you flexibility, 100% control, and most likely save you money as well.

2. Group Travel vs. Exploring Scandinavia on Your Own

When you travel, do you want to explore on your own or be part of a group? With escorted group tours, you have set departure dates to choose from, with most arrangements booked for you. You have a daily program to follow, with a tour guide and driver taking care of you.

Depending on the tour you join, the group size usually varies from small groups of 12 people up to a full coach of 50+ passengers. If you enjoy traveling with others and having a set schedule for 10 to 14 days, this could be a good option for you. You will not miss the highlights, but you might miss out on some of the unique, more personal experiences. If escorted tours are for you, view Scandinavian group tours here  (coming soon).

If you enjoy exploring on your own , and like the flexibility to your itinerary, a customized trip, with your wants and needs in mind, will work best for you. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have local tours booked, in fact you should. But, instead of a full pre-booked 10-day program, you might book a castle tour in Copenhagen, a 3-hour walking tour in Stockholm, and a half-day fjord hiking tour in Geiringer Norway. The rest of the time, you might want to leave open to explore on your own.

It is still a good idea to plan out a daily itinerary for your trip, it will be flexible, and your interests will get priority. Last minute changes, depending on the day, might make for some unexpected highlights. The thing is you never know when you run into an intriguing street performer or strike up an interesting conversation with a local. Don’t rush, enjoy the moment.

3. Your Travel Budget

Do you have a set budget for your trip? Maybe this is a once in a lifetime experience where the memories are more important than the cost of things? Either way, it is a good idea to decide how much you are willing to spend on your Scandinavian adventure.

When budgeting for your trip, include the following;

• International airfare
• Transportation – local and between the Scandinavian destinations
• Accommodation
• City passes
• Local tours
• Planned events

You might also want to include a daily budget for meals, souvenirs, and other spending.

4. Destinations to Include in Your Scandinavian Trip 

When planning your trip to Scandinavia, there is a lot to see. The duration of your tour, along with your personal interests, decides what destinations to include. To give you some ideas, I provide some destination suggestions depending on different interests.

Natural Scenic Beauty

• Fjord Norway with the Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord – deep fjords and stunning mountains,
• Mons Klint on the east coast of Denmark – chalk white cliffs along the coast,
• Österlen Skåne Sweden – open landscapes and a light that artists crave,
• Stockholm Archipelago – get lost among the islands,
• Lapland northern Scandinavia – snow, silence, and undiscovered winter beauty.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife. In the summer, enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and boating. In the winter, snowmobiling, husky ride, and snowshoeing will allow for exciting activities.

Natural Phenomenon – Northern Lights

Northern Scandinavia, with destinations like Tromso and Kirkenes in Norway, along with Kiruna and Riksgränsen in Sweden, are great places to see the Northern lights . Looking at the Nordic countries, northern Finland and Iceland, are other great places to see this natural phenomenon.

Weather permitting, the Aurora Borealis, dancing greenish bluish light on the dark sky, is a unique experience. For best chance to view the Northern lights visit northern Scandinavia in September to early April.

Suggested read:

• The Complete Guide for the Best Chances to the See the Northern Lights in Norway
• 29 Northern Lights Tours in Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland

Natural Phenomenon – Midnight sun

Enjoy the sun visible pretty much all night long, this can be experienced north of the Arctic circle. Great places to see the Midnight sun in Scandinavia is Narvik Norway, or Kiruna Sweden.

In Scandinavia, you are never far from the water, and water activites are easily accessible. Some fun boating suggestions would be;

• Canal tour in Copenhagen,
• Archipelago tour in Stockholm or Gothenburg,
• Ferry ride between Copenhagen and Oslo,
• Ferry ride between Helsingor Denmark and Helsingborg Sweden,
• Fjord tour in Norway from Balestrand to Bergen,
• Cruise tour of Scandinavia.

Architecture

Scandinavia is filled with history and architecture. Just walking around the cities, you will be surrounded by it.

Here are a few places, with unique architecture, worth a visit in Norway;

• One of the stave churches in Norway,
• The opera house in Oslo ,
• The restaurant Under in Lindesnes.

In Sweden some of the interesting architectural landmarks are;

• Turning torso in Malmo,
• Ice hotel in Jukkasjarvi,
• City hall, the woodland cemetery, and the library in Stockholm.

Some architectural suggestions to visit in Denmark;

• Louisiana Art museum north of Copenhagen,
• The round tower in the capital,
• Moesgaard museum in Arhus.

Viking History

Some suggestions to get a taste of the Viking history:

• Do a guided tour in the footsteps of the Vikings in Roskilde Denmark,
• Discover the Viking history around Stockholm with a guided tour,
• Visit mythical rune stones in Lund, Sweden,
• Visit a Viking ship museum in Oslo.

Scandinavian Design

The capitals offer many designs shops worth visiting, here are a few suggestions;

• Stockholm – Svenskt Tenn, NK Nordiska Kompaniet and Design torget.
• Copenhagen – Georg Jensen, Illums Bolighus and Royal Copenhagen.
• Oslo – Pur Norsk, Glasmagasinet and Norway designs.

If you are interested in crystal, the district “ kingdom of crystal ” in Småland, Sweden, is well worth a visit.

Winter Wonderland Adventures

Lapland, including northern Sweden, Norway, and Finland, offers many fun winter activities.

Reindeer-safari, husky ride, ice fishing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling are just a few of the many fun winter activities that you can experience up north. Add hunting for the northern lights to your list, and you have an experience of a lifetime.

Kirkenes Norway, Kiruna Sweden, and Rovaniemi Finland are great winter destinations.

Denmark and Sweden will not disappoint when it comes to unique, well-kept, castles. There are many gems that you can visit for the day, some you can even spend the night in.

Denmark castle suggestions;

• Kronborg Castle , also known as the Hamlet castle, located in Helsingor,
• Frederiksborg Castle, in Hillerod, is a unique place with amazing gardens,
• Amalienborg Castle, the home of the royal family in Copenhagen,
• If you want to spend a night in one of them – Kokkedal Castle north of Copenhagen is an excellent choice.

Sweden castle suggestions;

• Drottningholm Castle in Stockholm, one of the many royal palaces and a UNESCO listed site,
• Sofiero Castle, former summer residence of the royal family in Helsingborg,
• Kalmar Castle, is off the beaten path, but a unique one,
• At the Kronovall Castle in southern Sweden, you can spend the night and enjoy a delicious meal and a tour of the wine cellar.

If you are interested in cars, Volvo and Saab have made their marks in Sweden. A thrilling experience is ice driving on a lake, but there are more fun things for car lovers;

• Ice driving in Åre northern Sweden,
• Saab car museum in Trollhättan Sweden,
• Volvo museum in Gothenburg,
• Join a car racing event in Denmark.

Thrilling Adventures

Nordic nature offers many exciting adventures. These are just a few tours to get your adrenalin going;

• Winter activities like snowmobiling or husky rides in Lapland,
• Watch the northern lights from a hot air balloon up north in Sweden,
• White water rafting and glacier hiking in Norway,
• Skydiving and ziplining in Denmark.

Mindfulness, Yoga, Massage, and Meditation

In unique Scandinavian environments, you can enjoy exercise, mindfulness, yoga, and meditation. Here are a few relaxing activities to try;

• Take a yoga class in Stockholm,
• Join a yoga and hiking retreat in Molde Norway,
• Enjoy a meditation and spa experience in Copenhagen.

If you have a specific interest, please leave a comment below, and we will be happy to give you some tips and ideas on how to experience that in Scandinavia.

5. Get There… Best Ways to Get to Scandinavia

Depending on where in the world you are visiting from, you have a few different alternatives arriving in Scandinavia.

If  flying, start your trip in one of the capitals by flying into Stockholm Arlanda , Copenhagen Kastrup , or Gardermoen Oslo.

Many airlines can get you there. Scandinavia Airlines, SAS, fly many international routes, they are part of the Star Alliance and collaborate with many airlines around the world.

Flying from the USA or Canada:

• SAS Scandinavian Airlines
• Norwegian (budget)
• United Airlines

Flying from Europe:

• British Airway
• Ryan Air (budget)

Flying from Australia or New Zealand:

• Air Singapore

You can also use a service like Expedia to find airline tickets.

From Europe, you can also arrive in Scandinavia via car, train, bus, or ferry.

6. Best Ways to Travel Between Sweden, Denmark, and Norway

Scandinavia is a great place to get around using public transportation like train, ferry, flight, underground, and buses. Transportation well-connected, frequent, and used by pretty much everybody. Locals often use bus or train commuting to work.

Tip: Most places will require you to have a ticket before getting on the bus, underground or train. Ticket stations are located on the platform or station for purchase.

If you want to explore more remote areas, you might want to consider renting a car.

How do you travel between the Scandinavian countries Sweden, Denmark, and Norway?

Flying between different cities in Scandinavia will quickly take you between locations but, there are other maybe more scenic ways to cross the borders.

Sweden – Denmark

Malmö Sweden and Copenhagen Denmark , connected by the Öresund bridge and tunnel, makes it quick and easy to travel either by train or car between the two countries.

The maybe more scenic way is to take the ferry between Helsingborg Sweden and Helsingor Denmark. A 20-minute ride, where you will get a view of the beautiful Hamlet castle arriving on the Danish side.

Sweden – Norway

With a long land border between Sweden and Norway, you can easily cross by car or train.

Denmark – Norway

Traveling between Copenhagen and Oslo can be done with a scenic overnight ferry ride. If you prefer to be moving during the day, enjoy a train or bus ride along Sweden’s west coast. This is a train-ride, that will take you about 8 – 9 hours depending on the day.

Sweden – Finland

Finland might be on your bucket list and added to your itinerary. Taking the ferry from Stockholm Sweden to Helsinki Finland, is a fun way to travel between the two countries.

Travel the Scandinavian Countries

7. Scandinavian Accommodation

When you decide on where to stay. Think of how many people are in your travel party? Are you traveling with kids? How many people do you want in a room? If you are 4 people, for example, do you want a family room or two double rooms?

Another thing to consider is if you are looking for a specific style of accommodation. Do you want convenience, funky, unique, exclusive, or maybe simple?

In Scandinavia, you have many unique options. You can stay in a treehouse, lighthouse, ice hotel, castle, airplane, the smallest hotel in the world, boat hotel, or a plain and simple hotel room. You can make it as fun and crazy as you want it to be.

As far as the room size, in general, rooms are smaller than hotel rooms in the US, for example. If you want more than two people in a room, look for a family room. Some hotels allow for a rollaway bed or fold out couch, when traveling with kids.

No matter the standard of your accommodation, you want to make sure it is in a good location. Making it easy to explore your surroundings.

Read more about hotel options here:

Scandinavian Hotels – The Ultimate Guide

• Copenhagen hotels near Tivoli

8. Local Tours, Excursions and Time to Explore on Your Own

The key to a great vacation is to keep a balance between booked activities and free time. What you can experience in a guided 3-hour city tour, walking or biking, can save you a ton of time in the long run. City tours are usually done in small groups, or as a private tour for you and your travel party.

You will get to see the city highlights, plus you can ask your local guide for tips and ideas of restaurants, events, and other local things going on in the area when you are there.

Here are some tours we suggest:

• 21 Biking, Walking and Canal Tours in Copenhagen Denmark
• 29 Sightseeing Tours in Oslo
• 29+ of the Best Tours in Stockholm
• Norway Northern Lights Tour Packages in Tromso, Lofoten and Alta

Depending on your interests and destinations, you might want to book some more guided tours ahead of traveling. For example, if you plan on going up north to do winter activities like snowmobiling, husky rides, and reindeer safari, you will need to book that ahead of time. Don’t risk that your wanted tour is sold out.

If you want to do the “ Norway in a nutshell ” Oslo to Bergen, for example, including the famous Flam railway and a fjord tour, make sure to book ahead of time.

The key is to plan out your itinerary with a balance of planned activities and free time to explore.

9. Itinerary Suggestion – Sweden, Denmark and Norway in 13 days / 12 nights

Here is a brief overview, itinerary suggestion, for a pretty standard trip of the 3 Scandinavian capitals, including fjord Norway. Depending on your interest, put your touch on the trip, with preferred local tours and accommodations.

Day 1 – Stockholm, Sweden

If you start your trip arriving in Stockholm, flying from overseas, you will most likely land in the morning. It’s always convenient to have made arrangements for a driver to pick you up when you arrive. Take that first day to adjust and get to know the area. In case of delays, don’t book any guided tours this day.

• Spend the night in Stockholm.

Day 2 – Stockholm, Sweden

Guided city tour in the morning.

Explore on your own in the afternoon.

Day 3 – Stockholm, Sweden

Archipelago day tour, or depending on your interests, maybe a Viking tour, or a day on Djurgarden to explore the many museums.

Day 4 – Stockholm, Sweden to Copenhagen, Denmark

Take the train from Stockholm to Copenhagen.

Explore Copenhagen on your own when you arrive.

• Spend the night in Copenhagen.

Day 5 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Explore the city on your own in the afternoon.

Visit Tivoli in the evening.

Day 6 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Day excursion – do a castle tour, or take the train to Helsingor and visit the Hamlet castle on your own. Depending on your interests, you might want to visit a museum, shop, or just stroll around. Here are some more tips on what to do in Copenhagen .

Day 7 – Copenhagen, Denmark

In the morning, take a canal tour of Copenhagen.

In the late afternoon board the ferry to Oslo.

• Spend the night on the ferry.

Day 8 – Oslo Norway

You will arrive in Oslo in the morning, make sure to get up early to see the beautiful entrance, arriving in Oslo.

Do a guided afternoon city tour.

• Spend the night in Oslo.

Day 9 – Oslo Norway

Explore the city on your own. Oslo has a great city card that gets you into many of the museums.

Day 10 – Fjord Norway

The first part of your Norway in a Nutshell tour – Take the train from Oslo via Myrdal and Flåm, and experience the famous Flåm Railway. Then take the ferry from Flåm to Balestrand. This quaint little town is well worth a visit and a great place to spend the night.

• Spend the night in Balestrand.

Day 11 – Fjord Norway

Do a RIB boat safari in the morning.

The second part of your Norway in a Nutshell tour – Take a ferry ride from Balestrand to Bergen.

• Spend the night in Bergen.

Day 12 – Bergen Norway

If you like hiking, do a guided hiking tour in the morning and explore on your own in the afternoon. You can take the Floibanen funicular to the top of Mount Floyen, for a beautiful view.

Day 13 – Bergen Norway

After many memories are created, it is time to fly back home from Bergen.

10. Now It’s Your Turn, Plan Your trip to Scandinavia!

Each and every trip to the Scandinavian countries will be unique, depending on your interest, destinations, duration, and personal preferences. My hope with this article is to help you figure out what’s the perfect Scandinavian vacation for you and your travel party. Let’s recap some of the things to consider;

• Will you take care of the arrangements, yourself, or hire a tour operator?
• Will you travel with a group, or will you travel independently?
• What’s your budget?
• Depending on your interests, what destinations do you want to visit?
• How will you get there?
• How will you travel within Scandinavia?
• What type of accommodation are you looking for?
• What do you want to experience? What local tours do you want to include in your trip?

These questions will help you plan out your Scandinavian vacation. When that is done, it is time to start booking your trip.

• Start booking your international flight
• Accommodation (book with free cancelation if available)
• Scandinavian transfers (trains can be booked 90 days prior to traveling)
• Get travel insurance

I would love to hear from you. Have you been to Scandinavia, or maybe you are planning on going? What’s your favorite booking tips? Please share in the comment section below,

Just want to let you know;   some of my posts might contain affiliate links.  If you buy something through those links, it will not cost you  a penny more, but I might earn a commission.  That will allow for this site to  keep going.  Thanks!

Written by  Veronica

Born and raised in Sweden, now living in the US, Veronica has a passion for Scandinavian travel. As a former product design specialist with a Scandinavian tour operator, she has extensive knowledge of tour planning and the Scandinavian countries.

17 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia – 10 Tips for the Perfect Vacation ”

As a parent, one of the most stressful things to do for me is planning trips. We have to put into consideration each and every member of the family and interest is really important when it comes to trips. I so much love how you’ve listed and explained the facts to consider, it’s very important to know if you can plan it yourself, or hire someone to do it.

If you decide to hire somebody to plan your trip or do it yourself, depends on what you are looking for. There’s really not a right or wrong answer. What you do want to take in to considoration is your travel party, in your case your family, and your interests. Have a good balance of planned activities and free time to explore. Also, consider to break up into smaller groups for a couple of hours if you want to do different things. Scandinavia is very family friendly and there are plenty of fun activities for the whole family.

These are some very good tips to know to travel to the Scandinavian places and I really like it too because I haven’t ever thought that this is really neccessary. I like the way this works and I think maybe after the pandemic, it would make a whole lot of sense for me to go down to maybe Norway.

Norway is a beautiful place. I will be happy to help you out with destination ideas and suggestions of things to do while there. Just let me know 🙂

Thank you for your comprehensive article on planning a trip to Scandinavia.  I am well traveled but I have yet to see the Northern Lights.  I have always chosen to instate the help of a professional planner when traveling.  I feel it translates to a certain confidence when I am actually on my trip.  Trip insurance enhances that confidence for me.  The peace of mind is worth every penny.  Thanks again for the great article.

The Northern Lights are amazingly beautiful, and it is absolutely worth the trip to go see them. Scandinavia, Iceland or somewhere else, the Northern Lights are a beautiful natural phenomenon. Always weather permitting though so you will have to give yourself some time when you do go hunt for it. To use a travel professional to help you with your trip, like you say, can give that extra confidence. It’s great to have that contact person if there are ever any issues that come up. Thanks for your feedback, and if you ever decide to go hunt for the Northern Lights, get in touch and I will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Nice comprehensive list of things to do in Scandinavia! Although we’ve been to Norway, we’ve never done a fjord cruise and that is something that we’re quite interested in. But we wouldn’t want to go on a large cruise ship. Are there any smaller vessels that do multi-day cruises of the fjords? More like the size of a river cruise or one of those smaller expedition type ships?

Exploring the fjords from the water is an amazing experience. Norway offers everything from RIB boat tours, to larger ships with Hurtigruten going up the coast of western Norway, and everything in between. The Sognefjord in a Nutshell tour , will take you from Oslo to Bergen on a combined train and fjord cruise tour. On a tour like this, you will discover small gems like the town of Balestrand. From here you can discover more of the fjords on a RIB boat, a small boat that will get you close to the wildlife and deeper into the fjords. Hurtigruten offers different expedition cruises along the coast of Norway, where they also cruise many of the fjords. Perfect if you want to maximize your trip and have a little bit more time to explore.

Hi Veronica, My husband and I are from Australia and are in the early stages of planning a trip to the UK, Iceland and Scandinavia during August/September/October in 2023, including hopefully seeing the Northern Lights and tick off a bucket list item. I have found this webpage a great starting point, thank you very much, and still have plenty more reading and research to do obviously.

We want to plan our itinerary and trip, but should we go through a tour company to organise the Northern Lights part, and which country would give us the best chance to see them please?

Any other advice would be greatly appreciated too. Thank you in advance.

I suggest that you read this article https://explorenordic.com/best-northern-lights-tours-in-iceland-norway-finland-and-sweden/ it has a ton of information about the Northern Lights. Tour suggestions if you want to book it yourself as well. If you have any question, let me know I will be happy to help, Veronica

Hi there, I need urgent help for planning a 3-week trip in Denmark/Norway/Sweden. We’re traveling by car and because of other issues the vacation-planning has slid down into the “lowest priority” category. I am feeling the stress (it’s my doing, of course!) and need help to salvage this! We are four people, I’m the mom. Let me know if it’s possible for you to help me snap this into focus. I have a vague idea where we want to go and what we want to do. Thanks in advance!

V good and in-depth information. Covered almost all points/ aspects with tips . Thank you so much

Glad you liked it! If you have anything else you would like me to add please let me know.

Very detailed and informative. Thanks for sharing your insight. Had few questions : we are vegetarian ( Not even seafood) are there enough options for vegetarians? Secondly, we prefer airbnb so that dinner wis can Donot our choice. Are there options or good airbnb in Norway. And Denmark. Lastly , can we stay at one place in Norway and cover everything or need to move around along with our luggage Thanks in advance

Hi Raj, Scandinavia offer a verity of Vegetarian food. There is also a sustainable thinking and a lot of restaurants use local organic produce. There are plenty of Airbnb options in the larger cities like Oslo and Copenhagen. When you get out of the bigger cities I would suggest that you stay at a bed and breakfast or hotel if Airbnb is not available. When it comes to cover things in Norway, if you share with me the things you would like to see and explore I will be happy to give you some more information. How much time do you have? If you want to explore some of the fjords and have some what limited time, I would suggest that you do Norway in a Nutshell from Oslo to Bergen. You can read more about that here https://explorenordic.com/norway-in-a-nutshell-tour-oslo-bergen/ . I do suggest getting out of Oslo to explore more of the countryside that’s where you fill find amazing nature and stunning scenery. Will be happy to help if you have more questions,

We are planning a trip to Scandinavia August 2023. I’m afraid I waited too long to get tours I really wanted but I have family in Norway who have a hytte for us to stay in. One thing I am curious about is the visa process. Are there any resources you can recommend

Hi Kristina,

Where are you from? Norway is part of the Schengen Agreement. The Visa rules depends on where you are from. Here are some helpful links about Visa to Norway, hope that helps.

https://www.norway.no/en/usa/services-info/visitors-visa-res-permit/visitors-visa/ https://www.udi.no/en/word-definitions/persons-who-do-not-need-a-visa-to-visit-norway-/

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Welcome to Scandinavia

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Scandinavia is a historical and geographical region centered on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe and includes the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway and Sweden. With a royal history, UNESCO World Heritage sites, sustainable living and Nordic cuisine, the region offers unique explorations including Vikings, Sami Culture, design and architecture, Northern lights, the Mid Night Sun, the Fjords and much more!

Only in Scandinavia

With a royal history, unesco world heritage sites, sustainable living and nordic cuisine, the region offers unique explorations including vikings, sami culture, design and architecture, northern lights, the mid night sun, the fjords and much more.

Sweden is a Scandinavian nation with thousands of coastal islands and inland lakes, along with vast boreal forests and glaciated mountains. Its principal cities, eastern capital Stockholm and southwestern Gothenburg and Malmö, are all coastal.

Denmark, officially the Kingdom of Denmark, is a Scandinavian country in Europe and a sovereign state. The southernmost and smallest of the Nordic countries, it is south-west of Sweden and south of Norway, and bordered to the south by Germany.

Norway is a Scandinavian country encompassing mountains, glaciers and deep coastal fjords. Preserved 9th-century Viking ships are displayed at Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum. Norway is also known for fishing, hiking and skiing, notably at Lillehammer’s Olympic resort.

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All major airports in Scandinavia are well connected to India by leading European carriers

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All tourist spots offer a wide variety of stay options including leading hotels, guest houses and home stays

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Indian food, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, is easily available through several Indian restaurants

Scandinavia makes shopping an absolute pleasure - from classics to up-and-coming talent, this is where you will find the best buys

Getting around

The public transport infrastructure in Scandinavia is reasonably priced, quick, efficient and reliable

Pulsating with energy and glitter, Scandinavia is an expedition into the heartland of clubs and party hot spots

Ferries, Cruises and Voyages

Boats and ferries sail up and down the coast, in sheltered waters and across open seas, to towns and villages

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Tours of Norway, Sweden and Denmark

Discover jaw-dropping landscapes and cultural cities on your trip to Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Your tour can be customised by the travel experts at Nordic Visitor, who are based in Stockholm and will use their insider knowledge to create the perfect itinerary for you.

ITINERARY IDEAS FOR PACKAGE TOURS TO SWEDEN, NORWAY AND DENMARK

Interested in tours of Norway , Sweden and Denmark ? We can help!

These three countries make up Scandinavia , a region in Northern Europe that you can visit in one incredible trip. There is so much to see on a tour of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Discover glittering fjords, Viking ships, and cool, contemporary cities.

Our Scandinavia experts are based in Stockholm, the Swedish capital. They can tailor your itinerary to your tastes and interests. You could join a guided small group tour , take the wheel on a self-drive trip , or opt for an independent experience of the region.

Plus, when you book Norway, Sweden and Denmark tours with Nordic Visitor, you get tried-and-tested accommodation, transportation reservations, and many other benefits as part of the package. You’ll also enjoy the personal service of your own dedicated travel consultant.

Keep browsing below to explore ideas for package tours to Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Experts in tailor-made Scandinavia tours
• Based in Sweden, Iceland & Scotland
• Local staff with first-hand Nordic travel experience
• Dedicated to providing personalised, quality service

ENJOY A GUIDED SMALL GROUP TOUR

Take your pick of small group tours to Denmark, Norway and Sweden, travelling with like-minded visitors. Get to know Scandinavia really well with these itineraries where an expert guide will be escorting tours.

Highlights of Scandinavia

Sweden, denmark & norway.

Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark

Highlights of Scandinavia & Finland Cruise

Finland, sweden, denmark & norway.

Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Estonia

Highlights of Scandinavia & Baltic Cruise

Finland, estonia, sweden, denmark & norway, natural wonders of iceland.

Highlights of the Ring Road

Wonders of the Norwegian Fjords

Norway in a nutshell® & expert tour guide, scenic south iceland, geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon, complete iceland, iceland full circle & the westfjords.

1166521 ISK

1049869 ISK

Northern Lights Circle Tour

Highlights of norway, hurtigruten cruise, norwegian fjords & expert tour guide, winter highlights & northern lights, ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Wonders of the Norwegian Fjords & Oslo

Wonders of the norwegian fjords & hurtigruten cruise, see the capitals of scandinavia.

Explore the Scandinavian Triangle, a circuit made up of Stockholm in Sweden, Copenhagen in Denmark, and Oslo in Norway. Visit all three capital cities in one amazing trip.

Capitals of Scandinavia

Best of scandinavia classic, train & cruise, capitals of scandinavia in winter, best of scandinavia classic - winter, capitals of scandinavia & norwegian fjords, best of scandinavia & finland cruise, best of scandinavia & baltic cruise, train, cruise & ferry, best of scandinavia at leisure, capitals of scandinavia & finland cruise, capitals of scandinavia & baltic cruise.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

The Nordic Countries Classic

Train, cruise & self-drive.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Estonia

The Nordic Countries Complete

Best of scandinavia & norway cruise, best of scandinavia & finland cruise - winter, capitals of scandinavia & finland cruise - winter, scandinavian travel experts.

As a travel agency based in the Nordic region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Scandinavia. We offer a variety of tours — both independent and guided — that include the must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights that are hand-picked by our own Scandinavian travel experts. To ensure a stress-free trip, we handle all the local details for you — accommodations, activities, rental car (for self-drive tours), cruise/train tickets and other services.

Oh, and we can customise your itinerary! If you decide you want to add extra nights at a certain location, for example, your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be happy to make suggestions and modify your itinerary.

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Alan and Donna

Scenic circle of scandinavia, june 2019, our experience with nv has been a joy.

Our experience with NV has been a joy. Alda has been terrific and very accommodating to our needs and we could not have asked for more from you or her. 

Mary Jane, United States

Nordic odyssey, august 2018, i have already recommended nordic visitor to others..

I have already recommended Nordic visitor to others. The price was very reasonable, and accommodations top notch. As we did the self guided tour the side tours available that we took were top rate. We enjoyed being able to spend time exploring on our own and not being bound by a full schedule. The transportation was wonderful. Our guide, Alda, was very helpful.

Lisa, United States

A tale of four cities, may 2018, wonderful experience with nordic visitor..

Overall a wonderful trip and wonderful experience with Nordic Visitor.

Philip, United States

Highlights of scandinavia, august 2017, the information packet provided at the beginning was very helpful.

The information packet provided at the beginning was very helpful particularly the maps being marked up

Jenna, United States

The golden triangle of scandinavia, august 2016, completely lived up to our expectations.

Irja was wonderful! She put our trip together perfectly and our entire visit from one country to the next was seamless. It could not have been any easier or well coordinated. My emails were responded to promptly and all my questions were answered thoroughly and with patience. I usually plan all my trips myself but it was so nice to let Irja know what I wanted and let her do all the tedious planning and booking. It was really amazing and our trip completely lived up to our expectations! I feel like a spoiled traveler now because Irja took a lot of the travel planning headache away from me and she did a really great job. We really appreciated the complimentary upgrades too!

Alan, United States

The golden triangle of scandinavia, april 2016, high degree of professionalism.

Probably the most important service I received was Cecilia's prompt answers to all my questions. My requests were handled expeditiously. As for the accommodations, they ranged from very good to excellent. Of particular note is the fact that Cecilia had to react quickly to hotel employees' strike at one of the hotels. She quickly found arranged for me to stay at another hotel, which was most impressive (both her ability to improvise and the quality of the hotel). She was also quite helpful in recommending certain places of interest to visit and the advisability of purchasing city passes for transportation and sightseeing.

Golden Route of the Nordic Countries, May 2019

Superb customer service.

Mikael provided superb customer service. Very pleased with his attention to detail. He was very courteous and quite helpful.

Anosha, United States

Nordic odyssey, july 2018, we will definitely use your services when we travel again.

We were very happy with everything. We did four countries during our tour and we enjoyed it very much. We were also able to customize many options which was great. I have to say a huge "thank you" to Alda. She was very knowledgeable and very helpful. She also helped us customize our tour the way we wanted. We will definitely use your services when we travel again. 

Graham, Singapore

The classic scandinavian roundtrip, april 2018, it was so user friendly.

It was so user friendly and Cicci was very good in answering any queries promptly

Highlights of Scandinavia & Baltic Cruise, June 2017

Your professional attitude in handling the minutest details is something i admire the most.

I have done two once circle tour of Iceland and now Scandinavian east to west. Your professional attitude in handling the minutest details is something I admire the most. It helps everyone to be prepared. Thanks

Highlights of Scandinavia & Baltic Cruise, July 2016

We´d like to return.

The tour was highly enjoyable. We visited some wonderful places. Whilst we like to be independent, the organisation of our transport and accommodation was very good and allowed us to really relax and unwind. There are many places we'd like to return to. More time in Norway is certainly on our agenda!

Classic Scandinavia, June 2019

The location of the hotels could not have been better.

The location of the hotels could not have been better - all centrally located with access to points of interest and public transport. Transportation between cities was also well-planned.

Jasper, United States

Highlights of scandinavia & finland cruise, may 2018, allowed us to truly relax.

We were just thrilled with how wonderful the trip was, and are very grateful to Alda for all of her hard work and flexibility with our changing needs and many requests. Having all of the trip details planned by you allowed us to truly relax and enjoy an unparalleled vacation.

Roger, South Africa

The golden triangle of scandinavia, september 2017, nordic visitor handled everything very professionaly.

Nordic Visitor handled everything very professionaly.

Marlene, New Zealand

Scandinavian highlights by car, september 2016, highly recommended.

My only question is: Why is there not an "Excellent" option? Our holiday was most excellent in every way...! From my first email enquiry regarding the tour to the last minute of our holiday every aspect was excellent. Cecilia made the whole planning experience smooth and seamless, and the tour itself was most excellent. Wow! What an incredible job Nordic Visitor does! We felt so spoilt because everything had been done for us... all we needed to do was drive and have fun. This was an incredible tour and I can't speak highly enough about the slick operation Nordic Visitor runs. Highly, highly recommended!

Laurie, United States

Highlights of scandinavia & finland cruise, july 2016.

The support that Cicci and her colleagues provided was outstanding. We had a few minor things that needed to be adjusted during our trip and we received immediate and prompt service. All questions were addressed quickly and when changes were required, all our requests were met with a willing attitude. The trip was wonderful and it was nice to know that we had someone to contact should we have encountered any problems.

The Classic Scandinavian Roundtrip, May 2019

Greatly appreciated.

The fact that the travel documents clearly laid out the necessary transfers for trains, boats, planes, etc. was greatly appreciated. When the transfers involved a tricky change, the documents made sure to describe the signs as well as possible to assist. It was also nice to have all of the documents given to us in a single email so access was simple and easy.

Duncan, Australia

Golden route of the nordic countries, may 2018, went very smoothly.

I was very impressed with the efficiency of your staff and how processes that were meant to work actually went very smoothly. We have been traveling for many years and your organization is the least stress creating travel group we have experienced.

Scandinavian Highlights by Car, September 2017

Definitely recommend your company.

I would definitely recommend your company. Very helpful on the phone when booking and arranging extra items such as GPS. Very good English spoken.

A Tale of Four Cities, July 2017

Amazing tour.

This was an amazing tour for us to take as a family holiday (with teenagers) giving us a little insight into each country. Clearly planned to make the most of each city.  

Matt, United States

Scandinavian highlights by car, june 2016, went incredibly smoothly.

We had a great experience from the very beginning. Cicci was always quick to respond to emails and answered all our questions prior to us making our final booking. Once we booked all the details (hotels, etc) started coming in and it was really helpful to have the "highlights" booklet to help us plan what we wanted to see and where we should stop each day on our drive. Really everything went incredibly smoothly through out the entire trip! We have no complaints!!

Getting to Scandinavia

Many of Nordic Visitor’s tours of Scandinavia begin in Stockholm, Sweden’s capital and largest city. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the main gateway for international air travel in Sweden and is served by dozens of airlines. Furthermore, it serves as a major hub for SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) and Norwegian Air.

Here are examples of other airlines that fly to Stockholm Arlanda: United Airlines, British Airways, Air France, EasyJet, Lufthansa, KLM, Icelandair, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways

We recommend checking airline websites directly for flight availability and timetables. You can also use an airfare search engine, such as Skyscanner, Dohop or Kayak, for example.

Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages, but all of our itineraries can be customised with extra nights in Stockholm, or another arrival city in Scandinavia, if you’d like to rest up after your air journey.

Different ways you can experience Scandinavia

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Scandinavia below.

Guided Small Groups

Independent cruise, independent train, scandinavian triangle, tour ideas for norway, sweden and denmark.

Visiting Norway, Sweden and Denmark in the same trip is a great idea. Why? Because these countries – which together make up the Scandinavia region – share a similar cultural heritage and are well-connected via modern motorways, railways and waterways.

As such, we highly recommend the Scandinavian Triangle , a route that incorporates the capitals of Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

Travel between Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen via train, plane and ferry. Or you might prefer to do a road trip around the region. Spend your days enjoying walking tours, savouring delicious meals in Scandinavian restaurants, or cycling along the pedestrianised streets and bike lanes.

Opt for a Scandinavia tour and you’ll discover a land brimming with gorgeous scenery. From the idyllic islands of the Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden, to the majestic fjords and snow-capped mountains near Bergen, Norway.

As a Northern European tour operator, Nordic Visitor specialises in organising trips to this beautiful corner of the world. We have many more ideas and travel tips to help you explore Scandinavia your way!

• First time in the Nordics? See our 7 amazing Scandinavia tours for first-time visitors

Here’s one of our suggestions for a package tour to Sweden, Norway and Denmark:

Day 1 - Arrive in Stockholm, Sweden Fly into Stockholm Arlanda Airport and head to your hotel in the city centre. Spend some time walking through Gamla Stan (the Old Town). Enjoy a fika (a Swedish coffee break) with a nice pastry at one of the local cafés in this medieval neighbourhood.

Day 2 - The highlights of Stockholm Spend a full day in the Swedish capital, discovering the city’s attractions and districts. You could join a sightseeing tour to see the best of Stockholm in a day, taking you to must-see spots like the City Hall, Royal Palace and trendy Södermalm quarter.

Or, a ferry ride will whisk you off to the island of Djurgården, home to the Nordic Museum and Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum. Meanwhile, a day trip to the Stockholm Archipelago means you could swim in the Baltic Sea and hike through forests.

Day 3 - Fly to Copenhagen, Denmark Head to Stockholm Airport after breakfast and board a plane to Copenhagen. Once in Denmark’s capital, take a walk down the city’s popular Strøget street for a bite to eat, or go check out the fun and games at the world-famous Tivoli Gardens amusement park.

Day 4 - Discover Copenhagen Soak up the charms of Copenhagen today, either on your own or as part of a guided tour. You might want to visit Rosenborg Castle, the Botanical Garden and Torvehallerne food market.

We also recommend hopping on a boat tour to see Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Danish Opera House and the colourful Christianshavn Canal from the water.

Day 5 - Overnight cruise to Oslo, Norway Ahead of your journey to Oslo, spend the day enjoying more of Copenhagen. Why not make like the bicycle-happy Danes and rent a bike?

You could check out the exquisite Amalienborg Palace, as well as the colourful Nyhavn harbour. If you’re a fan of Hans Christian Andersen, don’t miss the Little Mermaid statue, depicting the famous mythical character. Later, head to the port for your cruise to Oslo.

• Find out why these capitals are some of the  best Scandinavian cities to visit

Day 6 - Explore Norway’s capital city After your ship arrives early in the morning, the whole day is yours to roam Oslo. Take a walk to the bustling Aker Brygge waterfront area and visit the Akershus Fortress. Or, head to the Bygdøy peninsula to explore historic museums.

If you love art, make sure to take a walk through the delightful Vigeland Sculpture Park. Don’t miss a visit to Oslo City Hall if you want to see where the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony is held.

Day 7 - Scenic train journey to Flåm This morning, go to Oslo Central Station to begin your Norway in a Nutshell® experience – one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Look out the window to see picturesque landscapes and quaint villages like Gol and Geilo.

Change at Myrdal to board the Flåm Railway for one of the top highlights of the entire trip: a 900-metre (half-mile) descent to the picturesque village of Flåm, where you’ll stay for the night.

Day 8 - Norwegian fjord cruise Prepare to witness breathtaking Norwegian scenery today, as you hop on a cruise that takes you through the fjords. You’ll be able to admire the glittering waters, cascading falls and forested mountains of Sognefjord, passing through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Afterwards, it’s an exciting coach and train ride to Bergen.

Day 9 - Discover Bergen Known as the gateway to the fjords , Bergen is Norway’s charming second city with plenty of its own attractions to uncover. You can visit the medieval houses of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bryggen, and take the funicular up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views over the city and fjords.

There are also plenty of museums, shops and restaurants to check out on your last full day in Scandinavia

Day 10 - Depart from Bergen, Norway Fly back home from Bergen-Flesland Airport, having enjoyed 10 days in beautiful Scandinavia.

• Not sure when to go to Scandinavia, or what you want to see? Read our ultimate guide to the best times and places to visit

What other ideas are there for package tours to Sweden, Norway and Denmark?

There are so many more places to see in this part of Northern Europe. For example, you could delve deeper into the Nordic region, which is made up of Finland , Iceland , Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

One popular option is to begin your Nordic tour in the capital of Finland, Helsinki. Here in this exciting city, spend your time uncovering attractions like Senate Square, Uspenski Cathedral, and the Old Market Hall. Don’t miss the chance to visit local restaurants for a taste of Finnish cuisine.

Then step aboard a cruise that whisks you to Stockholm. You’ll cross the Baltic Sea overnight to begin your exploration of the Scandinavian Triangle the following day. Some Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland tours also incorporate Tallinn, the capital of Estonia which is just a short ferry ride from Helsinki.

Another alternative is to explore more of rural Scandinavia. Discover natural gems like the breathtaking Norwegian fjords and mountains. You could travel even further up the west coast towards the Lofoten Islands on a Havila or Hurtigruten cruise , for an exciting journey towards the Arctic Circle.

Like the sound of an odyssey to the far north of Europe? Then we recommend visiting Lapland – a remote region covering parts of Sweden, Finland and Norway. Come in winter for the chance to see the northern lights, soak up snowy landscapes, and meet Santa Claus.

Or hop on a plane and visit Iceland as part of your Nordic experience!

Good to know : Most of our itineraries aren't set in stone, and there are many possibilities for customised routes. We can modify your tour if you'd prefer to arrive in a different city, spend more free time in one destination than another, or add other towns to your trip.

Just ask your Nordic Visitor travel agent for advice.

Interested in guided tours of Scandinavia?

To see the region from a local’s point of view and make some new friends along the way, a guided small group tour to Denmark, Norway and Sweden is a great option! These packages run from May to August, which is the summer season in Scandinavia.

A small group tour offers an enriching experience, allowing you to get the most out of your trip thanks to the expertise of a local guide. What’s more, as well as your tour director, you’ll be travelling alongside 16 people at most, so the trip is still personal for you.

• Want the company of an expert guide and like-minded travellers? Here are 7 brilliant reasons to go on a European group tour

Prefer a self-guided tour of Denmark, Sweden and Norway?

If you would like to discover Scandinavia on your own but prefer not to drive, then an independent tour is the perfect choice. Public transportation in Scandinavia is fast, reliable and punctual, so getting around by train and ferry is a great alternative to driving.

By opting for a train and cruise tour of Scandinavia, you’ll benefit from having your itinerary arrangements made for you but with the freedom to spend your days however you please. Nordic Visitor will book all your accommodation and travel tickets between destinations, and you can add on activities too.

Plus, booking an independent Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland tour means you’ll still be able to enjoy the usual Nordic Visitor benefits. These include access to our 24/7 helpline, a detailed personal itinerary, helpful travel guide and daily breakfast.

• Travelling on your own? Find out why Scandinavia is perfect for solo travellers

How about a self-drive tour of Denmark, Sweden and Norway?

You could explore Scandinavia on a self-drive tour , giving you the freedom to stop at lookout points and attractions whenever you want. Get ready for a real adventure, with incredible scenery outside your window to make the journey as unforgettable as the destinations you visit.

The best part? You won’t have to worry about where you’re going or sleeping, because your Nordic Visitor travel consultant has already sorted those local arrangements for you. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline should you need to call us at any point.

You could opt for a circular route between Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo, flying in and out of the Swedish capital, for example. This way, you would soak up the verdant countryside, rural villages, and grand castles and manor houses in this corner of Scandinavia.

All of Nordic Visitor’s Scandinavia self-drive tour packages can be tailored by our local experts with extra nights at select locations or modified driving routes. If you have any particular attractions in mind or more travel info, just contact us to ask.

Scroll down to learn more about Nordic Visitor’s services.

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Like raw nature? Discover Iceland ’s jaw-dropping landscapes
• Want more road trip ideas? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Love winter scenery? Make for snowy Lapland
• Keen to go off the beaten track? Explore wild Greenland  and Svalbard

Our services

Whether you travel by train, cruise ship or car in your Nordic Visitor package, you can expect personal service from your own designated travel consultant and a tailor-made itinerary with quality travel documents. Our self-drive clients also receive a hand-marked map outlining the route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, we have long-standing professional relationships with trusted local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff for their high standards of service.

Book with Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Scandinavian travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

We’re here to help, so get in touch with our friendly team to book your package or add extra nights and activities to an existing booking.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

10 cool facts about denmark, 7 brilliant reasons to go on a european group tour, the ultimate scandinavia guide: the best times & places to visit, 7 amazing scandinavia tour ideas for first-time visitors.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

More From Forbes

Denmark’s best vacation spot, as voted for by danes.

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The small town and fishing port Gudhjem is a highlights of Denmark's Bornholm Island.

Scandinavians don’t always need to board charter flights to enjoy a summer beach vacation. In fact, they don’t even need a car. Known as the sunshine island, Bornholm invites visitors to experience its beautiful beaches and rustic villages for an authentic Scandinavian summer vacation.

Accessible by ferry or fast catamaran from Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, this Baltic Sea island boasts an efficient network of cycle lanes and buses, making it possible to traverse its scenic routes without a vehicle.

Although off-the-radar to many international tourists, Bornholm is known among Scandinavians as one of the best places to visit in Denmark .

So much so, that Bornholm was crowned Denmark’s favorite domestic vacation destination in the most recent Danish Travel Awards for the second consecutive year. Votes are compiled by an independent research company from a panel of frequent travelers and industry experts.

Whether it’s cycling along coastal paths, sampling gourmet seafood in a charming village, or relaxing on pristine beaches, Bornholm offers family-friendly attractions a world away from the busy cities of Scandinavia.

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New apple id password reset issue hitting iphone ipad and macbook users, new ios 18 ai security move changes the game for all iphone users, arrival in rønne.

Home to 13,000 residents, Rønne is the largest town on Bornholm and the arrival point for all the ferries. But those traveling without a car needn't restrict their trip to the town.

Upon arriving in Rønne, you can access convenient bus services provided by BAT . Buses connect the harbor to major towns and summer cottage areas, coordinating their schedules with ferry arrivals and departures.

You can board or alight the district buses at almost any point along the main roads; simply signal the driver clearly.

The cobbled streets of Bornholm’s oldest part are well worth a wander.

Before moving on from Rønne, it’s worth spending some time exploring. The town's well-preserved architecture, dating back to the 1800s, lines quaint cobblestone streets, inviting visitors to slow down.

Key sights include the Rønne Theater, one of the oldest in Denmark, and several local museums that delve into the island's maritime and wartime past.

Bornholm’s Historic Sites

For history enthusiasts, the medieval fortress of Hammershus provides insights into Denmark's past. Located on the northern tip of Bornholm, Hammershus is the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe and dates back to the 13th century.

It offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval military architecture and the island's strategic importance through centuries of conflict.

Visitors can explore the extensive ruins, which include massive walls and towers overlooking the Baltic Sea, and a visitor center with exhibits detailing the castle's history and the region's cultural heritage.

Østerlars Round Church is one of four famous round churches on the island. These circular designs were originally intended to serve a dual purpose: religious worship and defense against invaders, reflecting the turbulent times during its construction. Inside, there are ancient frescoes and a centrally placed baptismal font that dates back to the medieval period.

Beaches Of Bornholm

For beach enthusiasts, Bornholm does not disappoint. Dueodde Beach on Bornholm's southern tip is renowned for its exceptionally fine, white sand—once used in hourglasses—and expansive stretches that offer both solitude and accessibility.

The beach begins as a narrow strip by Snogebæk and widens significantly near the southern point. Clear, shallow waters near the shore deepen quickly, making it ideal for swimming.

Extensive dunes provide sheltered spots for privacy, and ramps from main parking areas make it accessible for bikes, buggies, and wheelchairs.

Dueodde, the white sandy beach on the south coast of Bornholm, Denmark.

The nearby lighthouse offers breathtaking views, enhancing Dueodde's status as a year-round destination, celebrated for its scenic beauty.

Farther to the east near the town of Nexø, Balka Beach is another popular choice among visitors to Bornholm. Known for its soft sand and shallow waters, Balka is particularly well-suited for families with small children, but keen swimmers will prefer Dueodde.

Beyond The Beaches

Svaneke, located on Bornholm's east coast, is known for its picturesque harbor that draws many visitors. Its well-preserved town center features quaint streets lined with red-roofed, yellow lime-washed, half-timbered houses.

Outdoor activities include extensive footpaths and cycle tracks, and nearby Joboland amusement park provides family entertainment with its waterpark and petting zoo.

Beyond the allure of sunshine, Svaneke and other quaint towns like Gudhjem are culinary hotspots where travelers can indulge in famed local delicacies such as smoked herring, exquisite ice creams, and locally brewed ales.

Gudhjem, in particular, is celebrated for hosting a prestigious national cooking competition, adding a flavorful layer to the island’s appeal.

The island also harbors a rich artistic identity with a creative spirit found in the various small workshops and galleries. This spirit is especially visible in Nexø, which is home to a renowned ceramics school.

How To Travel To Bornholm

For the most authentic Bornholm experience, join the Scandinavian tradition of traveling by ferry. For ferry fares, timetables, and booking, check the website of operator Bornholmslinjen .

The quickest way is to travel from Southern Sweden’s Ystad, from where several daily catamarans whisk passengers to Bornholm in just over an hour. Trains and buses are available from Copenhagen to Ystad.

A 5.5-hour night ferry operates from Køge, an hour south of Copenhagen, while a daily service also runs from Sassnitz in Germany.

It’s also possible to fly to the small airport on Bornholm, located just to the southeast of Rønne. The small Danish airline DAT operates several daily flights from Copenhagen, with less frequent services available from Aalborg and Billund.

Where To Stay on Bornholm

Although day trips to Bornholm are popular, you’ll get more out of your visit by staying at least a night to enjoy the long, summer evenings.

Bornholm features a variety of accommodation options, including the newly established Eco Beach Camp . This beachside glamping site provides a luxurious experience of waking up to the sound of the waves, with supper and breakfast included in rates.

For a more secluded stay, numerous summer houses are available for weekly rental through agencies such as Dancenter. These rentals generally require guests to bring their own essentials, including bed linen.

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