which is better to visit norway or sweden

Sweden vs Norway: which Scandinavian country beckons for you?

Jul 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Go north of the Arctic Circle in Norway, or stick to the seaside in Sweden’s Bohuslän? © iStock

With their chic cities, dramatic landscapes and high quality of life, the countries of Scandinavia remain objects of worldwide fascination. Yet if you’re looking to dip your toe into Nordic waters, where do you begin?

To help you make up your mind, we asked two expert writers to expound on two of the region’s best-known countries, Sweden and Norway. Good luck as you consider your options up north.

Select sensational Sweden 

Paula Hotti’s first trip abroad was a family holiday to Stockholm in her early teens. Later, she road-tripped around the country and lived for a year in Sweden’s second city, Gothenburg – only to fall in love with the charms of Sweden’s west coast.

Norway might have its Arctic archipelagos, meandering mountain roads and cascading waterfalls, true. But in Sweden , you can let your soul drift in seaside paradises, on epic hikes or under the magic of the aurora borealis.  

If you venture to Sweden for the first time, start in the capital,  Stockholm . Built on 14 islands, the city’s oldest quarter is Gamla Stan (Old Town), its centerpiece the Royal Palace . While the area dates back to the 13th century, and the majority of its buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries, Gamla Stan isn’t covered with cobwebs: it’s a vibrant neighborhood whose cobbled streets brim with cafes and boutiques that beg to be explored. 

From Stockholm, it’s easy to jump onto a ferry and head to the archipelago that radiates from the capital. In 20 minutes, you’ll glide from trendy city streets to a calmer place, its pace of life set by the ripples of the Baltic Sea.

Although I adore Stockholm, my heart belongs to Bohuslän on the west coast . Bohuslän lies between Gothenburg and the Norwegian border, and its thousands of islands and cute coastal towns like Smögen and Fjällbacka make the area a summer haven – think hiking, biking and eating all fresh seafood you can manage. In winter, a light dusting of snow blankets the coastal cliffs. As the sea freezes, the summer idyll turns into a serene winter wonderland, with lighthouses and red huts dotting the white seascape. This is a place to stare out at the horizon and let your mind rest.

For the adventurous, Swedish Lappland is unbeatable. Among an abundance of hiking treks to choose from, the Kungsleden, or King’s Path, reigns supreme. Running for about 450km (280 miles) from Hemavan to Abisko, the trail is easily divided into shorter stints. The most regal scenery and highest elevations are at the end and the beginning of the trail. Abisko is also reputedly the world’s finest spot to see the aurora borealis – and I believe it, as this is where I witnessed the celestial phenomenon for the first time in my life.

For cities, there’s no real competition between Sweden and Norway. Stockholm exudes unbeatable Scandi-cool vibes, and you cannot even speak of the second cities Gothenburg and Bergen in the same breath. (Unless you love rain, that is: Bergen gets an average of two to three times more rain than Gothenburg per month.)

Designed by the Dutch in 1621, Gothenburg has canals, cuteness and character in spades. The city is also regularly hailed for its sustainability , only adding to its livable allure. In addition to its parks and leafy avenues, you will also find quaint neighborhoods tucked between Rosenlundskanalen (where a few restaurant boats moor) and the slow-flowing Göta River. Perhaps the most appealing is the formerly working-class suburb Haga , an epicenter of fabulous boutiques, restaurants and cafes, all in pastel-colored wooden houses.

Haga may be the best place in the country to enjoy fika , a dedicated time for coffee and cakes. There’s nothing cozier than snuggling up in one of Haga’s coffee shops, such as Café Husaren , which bakes Sweden’s arguably biggest cinnamon buns. 

To sum it up, a sojourn in Sweden soothes your spirits. Life just tastes sweeter here.

Norway: nature in overdrive 

A lover of cold, mountainous places, Lonely Planet author Kerry Walker was immediately smitten with Norway – and has made it her mission to travel the length and breadth of this ravishing country over the past decade.  

My first visit to  Norway threw me in at the Arctic deep end – and I’ve been obsessed with Scandinavia’s most gorgeous country ever since. What snow! What ethereal blues! What crazy witch hat–shaped mountains leaping out of jewel-like seas! Norway’s beauty is off the charts.

On that trip, I used  Bodø as a springboard to explore the neverland of the high north. I crossed the Arctic Circle on foot in the frozen hush of night. I gazed up to the wizard-wand flashes of the northern lights. I heard the howl of huskies as I mushed over pearl-white slopes, feeling as if my sled would take flight any second. I hauled in skrei (Arctic cod) on an old clipper and cooked it over a campfire on a snowy beach. I huddled in a Sami lavvu tent, with reindeer gathered around outside. I bounced on a rigid inflatable boat past the whirlpools and rapids of Saltstraumen , the world’s most powerful maelstrom, as sea eagles screeched overhead. I will carry these memories with me forever. 

Sweden is pretty, no doubt – but it can never match Norway for mind-blowing wilderness, with glaciers, thundering falls and pointy mountains that look like the figment of a child’s imagination. (It’s no wonder Norway inspired Disney’s  Frozen .) This is an elfin fantasy land. A land touched by magic and sprinkled with fairy dust.

In a country that prizes friluftsliv (outdoor living) over all else, culture nods to nature here, too. In  Oslo , you’ll be drawn to Edvard Munch’s paintings of swirling Nordic light and mysterious fjords (see his surreal work at the architecturally striking  Munchmuseet , plus the view that inspired The Scream at  Ekebergparken ). The sea-faring, battle-hungry Vikings left their mark on medieval stave churches, none lovelier than the Unesco World Heritage one in  Urnes on the shores of Lustrafjorden. And up in the Arctic, Alta wows with prehistoric rock art depicting hunter-gatherer life at the  Alta Museum and the aurora-framing  Northern Lights Cathedral .

But what about the food? Surely Sweden wins there? Nope. Norway is riding high on the culinary front, with chefs putting creative riffs on brilliantly fresh ingredients plucked from fjord, forest, field and mountain. The country now has restaurants right up there on the podium with Europe’s best, from two-Michelin-starred  Renaa in Stavanger, where the food sings joyously of the seasons and foraged finds, to the Valentine Warner–hosted Kitchen on the Edge of the World at Holmen on the thrillingly wild Lofoten Islands . And now everyone is raving about Michelin-starred  Under in Lindesnes, a restaurant dropped deep into the sea on Norway’s storm-smashed  south coast .

But more than anything it’s the outdoors that pulls me back. Here, you can give civilization the slip hiking in  Jotunheimen  (“Home of the Giants”), a glacier-topped, mountain-rippled treat of a national park. Here, you can kayak and cruise in wonder across  fjords of turquoise and sapphire blue, gawping up at rainbow-kissed waterfalls nosediving over cliffs and great fang-like mountains. Here, you can go on a summer musk-ox safari in the bleakly beautiful highlands of  Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park and stomp past mainland Europe’s largest ice cap, the Jostedal Glacier, in  Jostedalsbreen National Park . Here, you can strike out from the fjord-side city of  Stavanger to literal rock stars like knife-edge  Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) and  Kjeragbolten , a mad boulder wedged between two heart-stoppingly sheer cliffs.

Wherever you go, there’s something exhilarating about knowing that no matter how many fjords you cruise, helter-skelter roads you drive and insanely steep mountains you climb, Norway has more to keep you coming back for a lifetime.

And you will, I promise you. 

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Norway vs Sweden: Which Scandinavian country should you visit?

Dreaming of fjords and frolicking through forests?

When you want to go everywhere (*raises hand*), picking your next travel destination isn’t easy. Especially when it’s between Norway and Sweden . Both countries are ridiculously beautiful (like take-your-breath-away kinda beautiful) and are home to some of the world’s happiest people; this is even more impressive considering how long and dark Scandinavian winters are.

In an ideal world you’d jump on Intrepid’s Taste of Scandinavia trip to explore Norway, Sweden  and  Denmark. But if annual leave or budget allows for only one country, which will it be? We’ve broken down the top considerations to help you make the call. 

Oslo is smaller and more compact than Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, but it packs a punch. It boasts a happening waterfront, loads of quirky modern buildings, an eclectic collection of museums, and a burgeoning coffee and temporary art scene — including Vigeland Park, the world’s largest sculpture park.  

Norwegians are all about friluftsliv   (outdoor living). The city is built on the end of the Oslo Fjord so you’re never too far from rugged islands, hiking trails, lakes and mountains. In fact, you’ll often see locals carrying their cross-country skis on the metro in winter. You’d probably prefer Oslo if you’re an outdoor lover at heart.

But Oslo is just the start. There’s also Bergen with its rich history (including one of Europe ’s oldest harbours), thriving restaurant scene and incredible views. Not to mention the gorgeous city of Alesund with its vibrant Art Nouveau architecture and quaint waterways set against a backdrop of sea and mountains.

Related: Check out some tips to do Norway on a budget

From the country that gave us ABBA and Spotify, it’s no surprise that its capital oozes cool kid energy. Stockholm is all about culture and cosmopolitan lifestyle, with restaurants, galleries, bars, shops and museums galore. Built on 14 islands (which are part of the vast Stockholm Archipelago), it’s a great city to walk or cycle around; it has even been dubbed the ‘Venice of the North’.

Stockholm has more rustic charm than Oslo, with a mix of sleek modern architecture and well-preserved historic buildings, some dating back to the 13th century. The most famous area is Gamla Stan (old town), an open-air museum where you can get lost in winding laneways, admire the colourful homes of the aristocracy and marvel at one of Europe’s largest palaces, AKA the Royal Palace of Stockholm. Oslo also has an old town, but Gamla Stan has more grandeur.

There’s also Gothenburg with its winding canals, flourishing art scene and lively waterfront. And we can’t forget about Malmo with its multicultural markets, fairytale-like castles and modern seaside promenade.

The term’ natural playground’ is thrown around a lot, but there’s no better way to describe Norway and Sweden. No, really, access to nature is a public right in Scandinavia, meaning you can hike, bike, pitch a tent or forage almost anywhere you want. And it’s just as well, because they’re frequently named among the most beautiful countries in the world.

Norway’s landscapes are as wild and dramatic as it gets. It’s home to some of the world’s most impressive fjords, including the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. Formed over millions of years by glaciers and ice sheets, these deep, narrow waterways give rise to soaring cliffs and provide a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and kayaking.

Norway’s mountainous interior is just as spectacular. Nestled between the peaks you’ll find vast plateaus and valleys where nature thrives. Norway also has 40 national parks and nature reserves, and arctic tundra in the far north.

Related: 15 photos so beautiful they’ll put Norway on your bucket list

Sweden’s landscapes are more enchanting than dramatic. The southeastern regions are primarily flat with rolling hills, forests, farmland and lakes (all 97,000 of them!). The northwest is more rugged with the Scandinavian Mountains stretching from the north to the south, as well as some of the largest untouched wilderness areas in Europe.

Sweden also has over 3,000 kilometres of coastline and one of the world’s largest archipelagos (the Stockholm Archipelago), which comprises over 30,000 islands and islets. There are endless opportunities to explore.

Both countries have a lot to offer. Norway is the place to be if you’re into mountains, glaciers, and fjords. If forests, lakes and islands are more your jam, you may prefer Sweden.

Related: Why consider solo travel in Scandinavia

As neighbouring countries with strong historical ties, there are many similarities between Swedish and Norwegian cuisine. There’s a focus on hearty dishes made with root vegetables, oily fish and meat. They also share a tradition of preserving food using smoking, pickling and fermenting techniques; this was historically a way to ensure families had enough food to survive the harsh winters.

Norwegian cuisine is heavily influenced by the country’s abundant fjords and coastlines, so it’s more fish-focused. Must-try dishes include gravlax (cured salmon), sursild (pickled herring), torrfisk (dried cod) and Norwegian fish gratin. Other famous dishes include farikal (the national dish of mutton and cabbage), sour cream porridge with cured meat or cinnamon, and brunonst (brown cheese) eaten on a slice of bread or with waffles and jam. You could also try smalahove (sheep’s head) if you’re feeling adventurous.

Swedish cuisine includes more pork, beef and game. It’s famous for meatballs (which you’ll know if you’ve ever been to IKEA), which are typically served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam and pickled cucumber.

Fish is also popular, particularly salmon, herring and crayfish. In fact, the Swedes even host summer crayfish parties complete with crayfish-themed table decor and hats. Other fish dishes include surstromming (fermented herring) which is known for its pungent smell, and raksmorgas (Swedish shrimp sandwich).

However, one of the best things about Swedish cuisine — and culture — is fika. Fika translates to “a coffee and cake break”, but it’s so much more than that. Fika can be a mini break from work, a way to catch up with a friend, a networking activity… in other words, it’s a social institution.

Some companies even add a clause in employment contracts to entitle staff to fika. A traditional fika spread comprises seven types of cake, cookies and pastries. Needless to say, Sweden’s patisserie game is strong; some would even argue it gives the French a run for their money.

When to visit

If you’re reading this blog, you’re probably not looking for guaranteed sun. Spoiler alert: you won’t get that in Scandinavia! Norway and Sweden share a similar climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do.

Unless you’re into winter sports, summertime (June to August) or the shoulder months of May and September are when these countries shine. The weather is warm, nature comes alive and there are extended daylight hours to explore. If you head north above the Arctic Circle between May and July, you may even experience a phenomenon known as the midnight sun, when the sun remains visible throughout the night.

Summer in Scandinavia is a big deal. In fact, there’s a whole festival called Midsummer dedicated to it; it takes place on the solstice in June. But Sweden has one up on Norway here. Midsummer in Sweden is a national holiday and the celebrations are big. Locals gather to eat lunch in the garden, dance around maypoles wearing flower crowns, and sing folk songs over a glass (or two) of snaps. (Where do I sign up?)

If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, you’ll be glad to know you can see them in both countries. They can be seen all over Norway and Sweden, but the further north you go (ideally above the Arctic Circle ), the better your chance. September to March is the best time to see this natural wonder when the night skies are very dark.

The verdict

Norway might be the better choice if you’re looking for epic landscapes and outdoor activities. But if you want a mix of city life and outdoor adventures, Sweden could be the way to go.

Keen for a Scandinavian adventure? Check out Intrepid’s range of trips in Sweden and Norway .

Feeling inspired?

Cliona Elliott

Originally from Jersey (the tiny island in the English Channel), Cliona now lives in Melbourne, Australia. When she's not writing about all things travel for Intrepid, you'll find her chasing flavours, getting lost in local markets or waking up at a ridiculous time to watch the sunrise from the top of a mountain.

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Should I Visit Sweden or Norway – A Practical Comparison

So you want to visit Scandinavia but you’re still wondering “should I visit Sweden or Norway”, hmm? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This article will go through the differences between the two countries and help you decide if you should visit Sweden or Norway!

Here we will go through various travel styles and whether Norway or Sweden fits best with each style. Not all these travel styles are applicable to every traveler. So find the topics that are important to you specifically, and assign a “1” to the country that is better for that style, and a “0” to the other country. 

Add up your results when you get to the end of the article and voila, you know if you’ll be visiting Sweden or Norway! Or better yet, both!

Quick Sweden-Norway History Lesson

You love european city architecture, you want to be one with nature, you want to see the northern lights, world heritage sites pique your interest, travel budget is your main concern, you just want to relax, you are all about the food , you want to learn about vikings, immersion in local culture is vital to your travel experience , you are all about the social media photos, you want to get your party on, you just want to see some sports, you just love a good road trip, should i visit sweden or norway – final word.

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which means that should you purchase something or get a quote through them I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps keep the site running with up to date information. I do not represent any of the affiliates I link to. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy the product mentioned in this article.

Scandinavian countries have had numerous alliances over the last 1000 years. All very similar in culture and demographics, it makes sense that these various kingdoms would try to unite. Back in those days your number one worry as a leader was being invaded and losing your land. Unions helped dissuade potential attackers. 

Norway was allied with Denmark until 1814 when it declared independence and formed its own constitution and parliament. Meaning that modern Norway dates back to 1814. Peace didn’t last long, however, as Sweden invaded Norway the next year. 

Rather than accept total Swedish rule, a union was formed where Norway could keep its government but would be ruled by the Swedish monarchy. Life went on like this for 90 years until 1905 when Sweden finally fully recognized Norway as an independent nation with an independent monarch. 

So basically, the two countries have had significant ties over the centuries, leading to very similar societies and cultures. 

Norway vs Sweden – A Travel Comparison

Now let’s get to the comparison between Sweden and Norway! Below we will run through numerous different travel styles and preferences and then determine whether Sweden or Norway is a better fit for you. Here we go!

Neither Sweden or Norway feature the most picturesque cities in Europe. If you’re solely looking for stunning cities, consider maybe Amsterdam , Bruges , or Siena instead. 

But that isn’t to say you won’t find beautiful classical European architecture in Sweden or Norway. Sweden has three main cities and a number of smaller cities. The capital, Stockholm , features the most “European” architecture of any city in either country. Stockholm is a beautiful, vibrant city that should fulfill your need for picturesque streets.

The other main cities in Sweden are Gothenburg and Malmo. Neither city is quite as beautiful as neighboring Copenhagen in Denmark. But they offer a few cute streets and colorful buildings. Other Swedish cities like Lulea and Uppsala have a few nice streets, but aren’t gonna blow you away. 

Across the border, Norwegian cities are more modern, full of buildings with curved glass facades and cantilevering roofs. Oslo has some old European charm, but is mostly dominated by buildings from the last century or so. 

For classic Norwegian architecture your best bet is Bergen. On the coast and surrounded by breathtaking fjords, Bergen is by far the most beautiful city in Norway. Other than that, Norwegian villages have beautiful, historic cabins, but don’t offer much in terms of Instagrammable cityscapes.  

Verdict: Sweden 

Neither Sweden or Norway is best for classic European cities. But if you have to choose, Sweden is the winner here. 

Getting outside and exploring the outdoors is a popular activity for people all across the world. Nothing beats a morning hike to the top of a mountain overlooking distant ranges and stunning lakes. 

When it comes to nature, Norway really sets itself apart from anywhere else in northern Europe. A rugged mountain range spans the entire coast of the country, from Stavanger in the south to the Arctic wonderland in the north. There is nowhere in Norway that is not ridiculously beautiful. 

To get in touch with nature in Norway, all you have to do is step outside the cities for a moment. From the Trolltunga hike in the fjords outside Bergen to the Mannen hike in the Lofoten Islands , Norway is a hikers paradise and arguably the most beautiful country in the world. 

Sweden, on the other hand, has some nice places but is mostly flat. Sweden’s mountains are only in the Arctic, near Abisko. If you’re looking for incredible natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities, there are better options than Sweden. 

Verdict: Norway

Norway is, simply put, one of the most – if not the most – beautiful countries in the world top to bottom. There are endless opportunities to get outside into mountains and fjords. Sweden offers nothing that even remotely compares to Norway, so Norway is the clear winner in this category. 

Both Sweden and Norway are prime locations for catching a glimpse of the northern lights . Each has vast Arctic regions that are often in the aurora oval, the area of geomagnetic activity that allows for the appearance of the aurora borealis. 

When considering which of the two countries have better chances for seeing the northern lights, however, we have to think about the weather. The northern lights are only visible in clear skies. Arctic Scandinavia is notoriously cloudy, so you’ll need a bit of luck. 

The mountainous coast of Norway often leads to cloudier skies than the more inland Sweden. So when we’re talking about the best places to see the northern lights, Sweden offers Arctic landscapes with decent chances of clear skies. In fact, Abisko, Sweden is known for usually having the clearest skies in Arctic Scandinavia. 

If your main goal is to see the northern lights, you’ll want to head to northern Sweden. You can still see them in Norway, but the weather is often not as favorable. If you really want the best chance to see the northern lights, head to northern Iceland though. Iceland tops both Sweden and Norway on the northern lights-o-meter.   

Both Sweden and Norway have their share of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In Norway, you can find everything from ancient petroglyphs to fjords that are so beautiful they earned World Heritage Site status without any specific cultural significance. Norway has a total of 8 World Heritage Sites and they span the length of the country from top to bottom. 

On the other side of the border, Sweden boasts a whopping 15 World Heritage Sites. For a country with a population of barely 10 million people, it sure lacks a punch for UNESCO. Though some of the sites are suspect at best, featuring things like old ironworks factories and copper mines. 

Verdict: Sweden

No matter how you look at it, Sweden has more and a greater variety of World Heritage Sites than Norway. Its sites are a bit more basic and not really comparable to places like Machu Picchu or Petra . But it’s hard to beat the number of World Heritage Sites that Sweden has per capita. 

Affordability is a major factor in just about everybody’s vacation planning. Unfortunately, if you’re going to Scandinavia you’ve chosen one of the most expensive places to visit in the world.

Norway is known for being one of the most expensive countries in the world to live in, consistently ranking in the top 10 among well-known expensive places like Switzerland, Singapore, and the Cayman Islands. Sweden is about 20-30% cheaper overall, but still near the top of the most expensive counties list. 

Visiting these countries, however, is not terribly expensive if you’re from another expensive country like the US, Canada, or Australia. Hotels and restaurants in most Norwegian cities and towns are on par with most run of the mill American cities and far cheaper than places like New York, Vancouver, and Sydney. 

Hotels and restaurants in Swedish cities are similar to Norway, though a bit cheaper overall. Things like groceries, petrol, and a beer at a pub are definitely cheaper in Sweden. As a tourist, you’ll only marginally feel the cost difference between the two countries though. 

A trip to Sweden will cost less overall than a comparable trip to Norway. You won’t feel the difference in cost as much as if you were living in Norway. But it will be noticeable. 

Many travelers are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives to a peaceful vacation where they can take it easy and just relax. If that sounds like you, then unfortunately neither Norway or Sweden are what you’re looking for. There are simply too many things to see and do and the weather is not ideal for a week on the beach. 

Both countries do offer resorts and spa getaways – especially sauna related spas – but neither are particularly known for being a relaxing holiday destination. If relaxation is your main focus you might want to consider somewhere in the Mediterranean like Santorini or Sardinia .

Verdict: draw

Neither Sweden or Norway is known for being a relaxing vacation destination. There are too many things to do and too much outdoor wilderness to get intimate with. You’re better off going somewhere else.

For neighboring countries, there are quite a lot of differences between food in Sweden and Norway. Sweden has more of a cuisine than Norway, though you’ll still be hard pressed to find a Swedish restaurant anywhere in the world that isn’t the cafeteria at IKEA. 

Sweden is known primarily for Swedish meatballs, a pasta dish in creamy brown sauce. But the Swedes have a ton of other culinary creations. They also make a damn good reindeer steak when you’re up in the north of the country where reindeer roam free. 

On the other hand, Norwegian food is almost entirely fish and seafood based. That’s sort of a no-brainer given how much coastline Norway has. Norway has more traditional fishing villages than you can shake a stick at. And the Norwegians make some pretty damn good fish, especially up in the Lofoten Islands . 

While Norway does have amazing seafood, Sweden has more variety and more culinary delicacies to taste. You’ll be happy eating in either country though, so long as you’re a fan of fish.  

Scandinavia is the land of the Vikings. The Vikings are known worldwide for their brutal imperialism and incredibly strong and powerful armies. They were quite simply beasts who could overpower any other human civilization at the time.

The Vikings historically came from Norway, Sweden and Denmark. All three countries have impressive Viking history, with many ruins of wooden Viking ships being found in each. All three countries have impressive Viking museums too. 

But while each country has great Viking history, the sheer amount of coastline in Norway lends itself to slightly richer Viking history. Excavations have discovered many ruins along the Norwegian coast, including the largest viking long-house ever discovered (on the Lofoten Islands). Oslo and other Norwegian cities and towns also have superb viking museums and historical sites. 

Verdict: Norway 

While Sweden has impressive Viking history and culture, Norway takes this category. With thousands of mile of fjord-rich coastline dotted with Viking settlements, Norway is where you want to be to get in touch with the Vikings. 

It’s important to immerse yourself in the local culture when you’re traveling the world. While Sweden and Norway aren’t particularly known for having rich cultural traditions or values, there is more than meets the eye in these Nordic countries.

Both countries are heavily collective societies, as opposed to individualistic societies (like the United States). Great importance is placed on the well-being of all in the community. This is why the Nordic countries are known for having some of the largest social safety nets in the world. It’s not just that everyone is Uber-liberal. It’s just part of their culture and values. 

More historically speaking, Norway is known for Norse Mythology, Viking history, and having an infatuation with trolls. Many children are still named after Norse gods and trolls are scattered around fairy tales and other Norwegian literature.

Lastly, the far north of Norway is the historical home of the nomadic Sami people. The Sami are indigenous to the Arctic regions of Norway and essentially developed separately from the rest of Norway. They have their own unique language, traditions, and customs. 

We won’t go into a full breakdown of Sami culture here. But to get in touch with it, consider visiting Kautokeino , where Sami culture still lives strong. You can even ride a reindeer sleigh! 

Both modern cultures are similar, but Norway’s traditional myths, gods, and Sami culture make it the clear winner in this category.

With social media becoming more of a dominant force in people’s lives every day, it’s no surprise that taking amazing photos is extremely important to many travelers. Not just to look back and remember, but, you know, to show off to your friends and family online that you’re having more fun than them. 

So if that’s your goal then you will want to head straight to Norway. While Sweden has some Instagrammable spots, like Abisko in the Arctic and some cute streets in Stockholm, Norway is simply one of the most beautiful countries in the world, if not the most beautiful. 

Amazing photo ops are everywhere in Norway. From the fjords of the south to the Lofoten Islands in the north, Norway is one jaw-dropping photo after another. 

The photo here is at the Trolltunga, one of the most famous hikes in Norway. But this will just get you started. Literally anywhere on the western Fjords will make your friends jealous. And the Lofoten Islands will make them downright angry that you’re there and they’re not. 

If you’re visiting Lofoten, be sure to check out the most Instagrammable places in the Lofoten Islands .

That should have been pretty obvious after reading this section!  

If you’ve come to Scandinavia to get your party on, you’ll be a bit happier in Sweden. While Oslo has its share of nightclubs and bars, Norway is more known for skiing and hiking than getting blitzed. 

Sweden has more of a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in the capital of Stockholm. There are plenty of cocktail bars, craft beer bars, and wild nightclubs in Stockholm and other Swedish cities that you’ll be satisfied for the night. Though if you’re really looking to party in Scandinavia, you should head to Copenhagen instead. 

Verdict: Denmark… OK fine – Sweden 

Neither Norway or Sweden are particular party destinations, but you’ll probably have a better chance at a wild night out in Sweden. But if you’re just looking to party, you should probably head to Copenhagen or Amsterdam.

For such small countries, both Sweden and Norway have produced some world-class athletes over the last century. Neither country has really invented their own sport, but sport plays a vital role these days in both cultures.  

Norway barely has 5 million people but consistently wins dozens of medals in the Winter Olympics. They’re freakishly good at skiing, especially the biathlon. While they didn’t make the 2022 World Cup, the (arguably) best striker on the planet – Manchester City’s Erling Haaland – is from Norway. Top 5 tennis player Casper Ruud also hails from Norway.

Sweden doesn’t have as many mountains for skiing, so the Swedes took up ice hockey. Sweden is consistently one of the best hockey playing nations in the world. Even with a small population they regularly compete with Canada, Russia, and the US. Football legend Zlatan Ibrahimović and tennis legend Björn Borg also come from Sweden. 

Verdict: tie 

If you’re looking to see some live sports, skiing in Norway or hockey in Sweden can be an option. Though keep in mind that all the best Swedish hockey players play in the NHL, so you won’t see them unless it’s a national team game. The Swedish and Norwegian football leagues are also not great. So we will call it a tie in this category. 

Road tripping across Scandinavia can be an epic adventure. If you were to drive from Malmo, Sweden in the south to Alta, Norway in the north it would literally take you 24 hours and you’d cover over 2000 km. Norway and Sweden are both long, thin countries that have endless roads with tiny villages scattered around.

In terms of ease of driving, Sweden definitely offers a more relaxed driving experience, as it’s mostly flat, mostly straight driving. But isn’t a road trip about views and stops? 

Norway offers some of the most stunning scenery you can see out the window of a car, especially if you’re up in Lofoten or driving along the coast of Hardangerfjord. There are so many incredible road trips in Norway that we can’t even begin to go through them all in this article. Norwegian roads are in excellent condition and even if you’re driving during winter never fear: snow plows will be out before you even see white on the road. 

The only thing about road tripping in Norway is that if you’re trying to stay along the coast, your trip will involve ferries. A lot of them if you’re trying to take the scenic route from Stavanger to Trondheim. Take your sweet time when driving through Norway. There is too much to enjoy!

Find your car for your epic Scandinavian road trip by using Rentalcars.com . You can use the search bar below to find a great deal!

Driving through Sweden can be beautiful and painless, but nothing beats a road trip along the coastal fjords of Norway. 

The total count for each category comes to 8 for Sweden and 7 for Norway. But really, this means nothing. Your individual score is all that matters, as very few people would care about all these things on the same trip. 

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure and cultural heritage, Norway is better for you. If you want to stay in cities and eat and drink your face off, you’ll probably enjoy Sweden more. 

If you’re solely looking to see the northern lights, both countries will do. Though you’ll probably have better weather in Sweden, even if there is considerably less Arctic land mass. 

Sweden and Norway are both amazing travel destinations. So why not visit both on an adventurous Scandinavian road trip!

Chris Heckmann

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Norway vs Sweden: Which Should You Visit (or Move To)?

Scandinavia is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for a quick city break or considering a permanent move, both Sweden and Norway offer a unique set of experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. 

But how do you choose between these two stunning destinations? Both countries are steeped in rich history, boast gorgeous landscapes, and offer endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. 

In this article, I’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of visiting or even moving to Sweden vs Norway, so you can make an informed decision about which is the best choice for you. 

From bustling cities to breathtaking fjords, from culinary delights to outdoor activities, I’ll cover everything you need to know to help you make your decision with confidence.

Table of Contents

Norway vs Sweden: Geography and Population

Norway and Sweden are two long countries, each with its own unique charm and breathtaking landscapes. With a population of just over 5 million, Norway is a little smaller than Sweden, which has a population of over 10 million, but both offer an abundance of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Driving from the south to the north of either country can take anywhere from 21 to 38 hours, depending on the route, so it’s important to keep this in mind when planning your trip. This also means that both countries have a lot to offer, with substantial geographic variety and a diverse range of regions to explore.

From Norway’s wild west coast to Sweden’s long eastern coastline facing the Gulf of Bothnia, each country has its own distinct coastal charm. Norway’s frost and fjords provide a stunning backdrop for your next adventure, while life in Sweden is great if you love to explore the great outdoors.

So, rather than just visiting “Norway” or “Sweden,” think about exploring specific regions within each country. This way, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the unique beauty and culture of each location. 

Whether you’re a nature lover or a culture enthusiast, both Norway and Sweden offer an experience you’ll never forget.

Related: 11 Most Beautiful Norwegian Islands For You To Explore

The capital cities of Norway and Sweden

Both Norway and Sweden are home to some of the biggest cities in Scandinavia, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a global city with a Scandinavian twist. Here, you can explore the gorgeous old town, Gamla stan, and visit world-class museums like the Vasa museum and ABBA museum. With its 14 islands, Stockholm, which is easily one of the best places to live in Sweden , is never far from the water and is the perfect place to experience the natural beauty of Scandinavia.

On the other hand, Oslo, the rapidly growing capital of Norway, is another must-see city. With its easy access to the forests and islands of the Oslofjord and the fascinating sculpture parks, Oslo is a city that shouldn’t be overlooked. 

It’s got a lively waterfront, contemporary architecture, and a vibrant restaurant and bar scene, making Oslo the perfect destination for those looking for a more relaxed city vibe.

Both Stockholm and Oslo are fantastic cities to visit, but I have to say that if you’re looking for sheer city beauty, Stockholm takes the prize. Known as one of the most attractive cities in Europe, Stockholm is perfect for a visit in both summer and winter, with an Insta-worthy view on almost every street corner. 

You may also be interested in: Stockholm vs Copenhagen: Which Is Better to Visit?

What to see in Sweden and Norway

Norway and Sweden both offer an array of breathtaking experiences that will leave you in awe. While Norway is famous for its dramatic landscapes, Sweden is known for its lush greenery and cultural attractions.

In Norway, you can witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the fjords, glaciers, and mountains. Some of the must-visit places include the Lofoten Islands, Tromso, and the Sognefjord area. 

The Lofoten Islands are a great place to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, while Tromso is known as the “capital of the Arctic.” Sognefjord is a fjord area that is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. 

Other popular tourist attractions include the Viking Ships Museum in Oslo, Bygdoy Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf in Bergen, and the Atlantic Ocean Road.

While Norway may be all about jaw dropping nature, Sweden, on the other hand, will let you immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the country. The Vasa Museum in Stockholm is the country’s most popular museum, displaying the best-preserved 17th-century ship in the world. 

The old town of Stockholm, known as Gamla Stan, is a must-visit destination that offers a glimpse into the medieval history of the city. The Drottingholm Palace is another historic landmark located just a short distance from Stockholm. 

Additionally, the country is home to innovative designers who are focused on sustainability, and you can sample some delicious local food, like the smorgasbord, and seafood. As I’ll go through below, the food scene in Stockholm is second to none.

And if you’re looking for a unique experience outside of the capital, make sure to visit the Liseberg Theme Park in Gothenburg and Lund Cathedral. The country is also home to the Oresund Bridge in Malmo, which connects Sweden and Denmark and offers a chance for a day trip.

Norway doesn’t get to have all the natural fun though, as Sweden is known for its beautiful landscapes, with over 90,000 lakes and a thriving forest that’s teeming with wildlife. You’ll be able to explore the lush greenery and check out waterfalls and lakes that look like they belong in a fairy tale. 

On the other hand, Norway is really one of the best destinations in the world for those looking for an adventure. With its challenging terrains, like those you’ll find surrounding fjordside towns like Undredal Norway is a great place for hikers and those looking for a new experience.

You can visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Geirangerfjord and witness amazing waterfalls. Norway is also a great place for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, and you might even be able to see whales in some areas. 

While it can get a little colder in Norway, it’s worth noting that the country is known for being one of the happiest places in the world, with the longest road tunnel in the world and a cheerful population.

Ultimately, both Norway and Sweden offer unique experiences that cater to different interests. Whether you’re looking for a cultural escape or an outdoor adventure, these countries have it all and are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Costs in Norway vs Sweden

Clearly, Norway and Sweden are two countries with a lot of similarities, but the cost of living can vary greatly between them. While Norway may offer more opportunities for career advancement, the cost of food and restaurants can be up to 35% higher than in Sweden. 

Similarly, rent in Norway can also be a staggering 32% higher than Sweden on average, let alone how much houses cost in Norway to buy.

Perhaps unsurprisingly based on this, Sweden has a slight edge in purchasing power, making it a more budget-friendly option for tourists. From cabin stays to outdoor activities, there are many ways to save money while exploring the beautiful country. 

In comparison, Norway may have the edge when it comes to natural beauty, wildlife tours, and extreme sports, but be prepared to spend more money on your adventure.

Don’t get the impression that Sweden is cheap – it definitely isn’t, especially when compared with other European destinations. But it is slightly cheaper than Norway overall.

No matter whether you choose to visit Norway or Sweden, just make sure to do your research and budget accordingly. 

Food in Sweden and Norway

Forget the stereotypes of Scandinavian cuisine being limited to pickled herrings, salmon, and meatballs – Nordic cuisine is a treasure trove of diverse and rich flavors waiting to be discovered. 

And when it comes to Sweden, the centerpiece of its gastronomic offerings is the famous smorgasbord. Translated as “bread and butter table”, it features a spread of delicious homemade food that ranges from beef, meatballs, and smoked fish.

On the other hand, Norway’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its abundant seafood, with its extensive coastlines and fjords providing an abundance of salmon, mackerel, cod, and of course, the famous Norwegian herring. 

While both countries have delicious food, my not-so-inner foodie loves the added variety that Sweden has to offer. 

Related: Blueberry Season in Norway: The Ultimate Guide (2022)

Bar and restaurant scene in Norway vs Sweden

While Copenhagen may be better known internationally as the capital of Nordic cuisine, the other Scandinavian countries aren’t far behind. 

For instance, in Stockholm, you’ll find a thriving bar and restaurant scene, especially on the last Friday of the month when the entire country is paid. From Gastrologik to Meatballs for the People (just in case you want Swedish meatballs that are both stylish and delicious!), you’ll never run out of options. 

Don’t miss the street food scene in Stockholm either, for a quick smak (basically a snack) while you sip on your drink while taking in breathtaking views across the city’s 14 islands. 

Of course, some of the best things to do in Oslo include some of its amazing restaurants. Check out Arakataka for a great glass of red wine on a chilly night or go for something with more of a modern Scandi twist at Kontrast.

One thing to keep in mind is that you won’t be able to dance the entire night away in either Norway or Sweden. In particular, you can find bars open until 5am in Sweden’s largest cities and until 3 am in Norway on a weekend night. That might be more than enough for you – it certainly is for me these days! – but it’s at least good to be aware of this.

Great outdoors of Sweden vs Norway

Here’s the main reason both countries are on anyone’s list of places to visit: the breathtaking landscapes of Norway and Sweden. 

Start with the UNESCO-recognized west Norwegian fjords, where you can witness the magnificent merging of nature and culture. If you have the time (and the budget), consider taking a cruise along the stunning coastline and explore the charming fishing villages and towns. 

And don’t miss the Lofoten islands in Northern Norway, famous for their dramatic scenery and stunning photography opportunities.

For the more adventurous visitors to Norway, challenge yourself with extreme sports like paragliding, glacier skiing, white-river rafting, and ice-climbing. Climb to the top of the Preikestolen cliff, rising 604 meters above the Lysefjorden, or to Trolltunga rock for a panoramic view of the region. 

For those who prefer a gentler pace, go for a hike in the mountains and take in the beauty of Gaustatoppen, considered one of the most beautiful in Norway.

Sweden isn’t to be outdone when it comes to nature and hiking. With almost 100,000 lakes, Sweden is a paradise for outdoor sports and relaxation. 

Enjoy a cozy cabin life by a lake, or take a long-distance hike on the Kungsleden, also known as the King’s Path. Stretching over 400 km through diverse Arctic landscapes, from alpine terrain to low-lying mountain birch forests, this summer hike is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

You should also leave some time to discover the fantastic stretches of coastline in Sweden, including the archipelagos around Stockholm and Gothenburg. 

With excellent infrastructure for both short trips and multi-day tours, both Norway and Sweden have something to offer for everyone, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to immerse yourself in nature. 

Is Norway or Sweden a better place to live?

Are you considering a long-term move to Scandinavia? Choosing between Sweden or Norway can definitely be a tough decision, especially both countries have quite a few similarities. 

Starting with the money, both Sweden and Norway have some of the highest average salaries in the world. Norwegians tend to earn a little more, with an average of around $51,500 a year, while Swedes earn around $50,500. 

However, it’s important to note that both countries also have a high cost of living, including very high taxes. At the same time, you get a lot for what you pay, including free healthcare, education (including university) and more.

In fact, when it comes to health, both countries rank in the top 20 for life expectancy. Norway comes in at 14th place, with an average life expectancy of 82.3 years, while Sweden takes the 11th spot with an average of 82.7 years.

One of the main draws to these Scandinavian countries is their incredible quality of life. Both Norway and Sweden are known for their excellent work-life balance, cultural happiness, and sense of community. 

While you’ll find that both Norwegian and Swedish people speak English at an incredibly high level, it can be a good idea to brush up on your language skills if you decide to live in either country. 

If you live in Stockholm or Oslo, you won’t necessarily need to learn Swedish or Norwegian for daily life, but this may become more of a necessity in smaller towns – and it’s also a great thing to do if you plan to stay there for some time!

Find out more: 34 Beautiful Swedish Words and Sayings (You Need to Learn)

On the bright side, the reasons for moving to Sweden or Norway are all excellent given the many perks, such as excellent healthcare coverage, fantastic education opportunities, and a strong commitment to environmental protection. In fact, Norway is the world’s leading country for environmental friendliness and Sweden ranks near the top as well.

Both countries are also low on crime and welcoming to new residents, so you won’t have to worry about fitting in. And when it comes to exploring the great outdoors, both Norway and Sweden offer the freedom to roam, with the Right of Public Access. 

What this means is that, in Sweden, you can camp and walk anywhere you like, while in Norway you can walk around freely, with restrictions on camping and one-day stays.

While there are a few differences between the two countries, both also share many similarities, such as their folklore of trolls and magical creatures. 

So, whether you choose Sweden or Norway, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of nature and the Scandinavian way of life.

Is Norway better than Sweden?

Making the choice between Norway vs Sweden, whether it’s for a visit or a longer stay, is a tricky decision to make given that both have a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, culture, and cuisine.

First, let’s take a look at Sweden. This country boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for tourists who want to soak up the local culture. Whether you prefer a more low-key experience, like taking a leisurely walk through the forest, or a more fast-paced adventure, like visiting museums and shopping districts, Sweden has something for everyone. 

And let’s not forget about the food! With delicious fish-based meals, buffet-style foods, and refreshing drinks, your taste buds will be in heaven.

Now, let’s turn our attention to Norway. This country is known for its breathtaking scenery, particularly the unforgettable fjords. 

In fact, in Norway, you’ll find a more dramatic selection of experiences and scenery, but keep in mind that it may take more time and money to fully explore all that this country has to offer. 

Despite the challenge of traveling to all the best attractions, Norway is home to friendly locals and a delicious selection of food and drinks that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ultimately, the choice between Sweden and Norway depends on what you’re looking for in a holiday. If you’re searching for a quick city break with plenty of things to do in a short amount of time, Sweden is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime adventure with stunning natural landscapes, Norway is the destination for you. 

Regardless of your choice, both countries are sure to leave a lasting impression and provide unforgettable memories.

Sweden vs Norway, which one should you visit?

So you’re thinking of a trip to Scandinavia, but don’t know where to go. Sweden and Norway are both popular countries with plenty to appeal to visitors – stunning scenery, beautiful coastlines, islands galore, great skiing, pretty villages and some vibrant cities too.

So how do you decide which country to visit? We’ve done a handy comparison to help you decide – Norway vs Sweden: which one should you visit? Read our guide to find out.

Size and population 

So first things first, which is bigger: Sweden or Norway? And which has the larger population?

Well, Sweden is the winner here, both in terms of size and population. At 450,000 square kilometres, it’s almost a third larger than its long, thin neighbour which covers 324,000 square kilometres.

And as for population, Sweden has almost twice as many inhabitants as Norway, with a population of just over 10 million, compared to Norway’s 5.5 million.

Obviously Swedes speak Swedish, and Norwegians speak Norwegian, but how similar are they, and do Swedes understand Norwegian and vice versa?

Well, both the Norwegian and Swedish languages originate from Old Norse and are closely connected, with similar grammar, structures and vocabulary.

However, they do sound obviously different with their own distinctive pronunciations.

But the truth is that they are quite similar, and native Swedes are able to understand and speak a certain amount of Norwegian and vice versa.

In the north of both countries, Sami is spoken by the indigenous people that live in Lapland. 

Some 25,000–30,000 native Sami speak the language across the north of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia, though they will all speak their national language too – and probably some English as well.

The good thing for visitors is that English is widely spoken in both Norway and Sweden, and you should find no problem being understood in both countries.

Almost 90 percent of Swedes and Norwegians speak some English and many of those are fluent. 

So, while both Swedes and Norwegians will appreciate you making the effort to learn a few phrases of their language, you should have no problem getting by in English.

Things to see and do: Sweden vs Norway

Both Sweden and Norway have an amazing variety of things to see and do, not least adventure sports, mountain villages, lively cities, unspoilt archipelagos and, of course, the famous fjords.

Scenery: Sweden vs Norway

Norway probably wins out for spectacular scenery, with its majestic and unique coastline indented with steep cliffs and deep blue fjords .

But visiting the fjords can be expensive and involve a lot of planning (check our our advice on how best to visit the fjords ), so Sweden’s lakeland and archipelagos , with their pretty waterfront villages and laidback lifestyle, can be a good alternative for a relaxing, chilled-out holiday. 

If you’re visiting from a more densely populated country (like the UK, for example), then both Norway and Sweden both offer a slower pace and plenty of wild spaces to really get away from it all.

Cities: Norway vs Sweden

Both Oslo and Stockholm are fascinating cities to visit. Stockholm is the more picturesque city of the two, built on 14 islands and with a well-preserved old town and some world-class museums.

Oslo shouldn’t be ignored though – it has a lively waterfront with some great contemporary architecture and a vibrant restaurant and bar scene.

For sheer beauty, however, we think Stockholm wins the prize – it’s one of the most attractive cities in Europe, both in summer and winter, with an Insta-worthy view on almost every street corner.

Both countries have other cities that are well worth visiting too. Sweden’s second city, Gothenburg is a lively place and jumping-off point for visiting the beautiful islands of the Gothenburg archipelago .

And Norway’s second city, Bergen is known as the capital of the fjords and is a great place for hiking in the mountains , kayak trips and exploring the breathtaking fjords .

Malmö in southern Sweden is Swedens’ third largest city, though it’s much closer to Copenhagen than the Swedish capital.

Host city of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, it’s an interesting, lively place, with plenty of museums, galleries, shops and nightlife to entertain. 

Norway’s northernmost city, Tromsø is something of an year-round adventure centre, with loads of summer and winter activities including whale-watching tours , dog-sledding trips , kayaking and reindeer sleigh rides . 

It also makes a great base for exploring the remote Lofoten islands .

Outdoor sports: Sweden vs Norway

Both countries have loads to offer adrenaline junkies, from para-gliding to glacier skiing and white-river rafting to ice-climbing.

Norway is probably better for real extreme sports, simply because of its high mountains and dramatic scenery – check out some ideas here – though Sweden is better for lakeside camping and gentle paddling downriver in a kayak .

Hiking: Norway vs Sweden

Norway and Sweden both have some great hikes, so take your pick! Norway is good for steep hikes up high-drama peaks, where you can get your winning Insta pose – the trek up to Pulpit Rock is the classic example of this.

Sweden, meanwhile, has some amazing long-distance hikes, such as the Kingsleden , that wend their way through national parks, dramatic scenery and long stretches of wilderness. Check out our guides for more on hiking in Sweden and Norway .

The northern lights: Sweden or Norway?

Well, both Sweden and Norway have large parts of their landmass above the Arctic Circle, so both are pretty good places to view the amazing spectacle of the northern lights from late October to early March.

What you need for northern lights viewing is dark, clear skies, so Norway is good in terms of having wide swathes of uninhabited land with no light pollution.

Sweden meanwhile has a good infrastructure to get you to the wilderness and is probably a bit cheaper if you want to go on a guided tour.

Both countries run great guided tours to help you see the northern lights at their best, such as this one from Malören in Sweden and this one from Tromso in Norway .

For more on the best way to see the Northern lights, check out our comprehensive guides to watching them in Sweden and Norway .

Sweden vs Norway for skiing – which is best?

The short answer is both have fantastic skiing. Both countries have hosted the Winter Olympics – most recently Lillehammer in Norway in 1994 – both have some great ski resorts and both have miles and miles of pistes for cross-country and downhill skiing.

For more on skiing in Norway click here and for all the lowdown on skiing in Sweden click here and here .

Sweden vs Norway: activities

Which country is better for activities? Well, both countries offer a great range of winter and summer activities and tours. 

So we’ve complied a table detailing what you can do in which country.

Sweden vs Norway: culture and traditions

Both counties have their own particular culture and traditions, but there are also several that they share.

Christmas, of course, is celebrated in both countries, with Swedes enjoying their julbord feasts and Norwegians eating ribbe (pork ribs) and lutefisk on Christmas Eve.

Both also share a strong Viking heritage. Sweden has plenty of Viking remains to see , while Norway is home to some beautifully preserved Viking longhouses .

Fika is a strong Swedish tradition of taking a break for a coffee and cinnamon with friends or alone. The practice is also common in Norway, though they don’t have a specific term for it.

Midsummer is celebrated in both countries , though it’s a bigger deal in Sweden, with dancing and drinking spreading over two days.

Norway’s National day is on May 17th and celebrates the country’s declaration of independence in 1817. It’s a public holiday with parades and partying taking place around the country.

Sweden’s National Day is on June 6th, and celebrates the date when Gustav Vasa was elected king in 1523, though it has only been a public holiday since 2005.

The main celebrations take place at Skansen , with the royal family attending for a day of parades, speeches, music and flag waving.

What about the prices?

Hotels, food, sightseeing… pretty much anything you’re likely to buy as a tourist will be cheaper in Sweden than in Norway.

And train travel in Norway is among the most expensive in Europe – second only to the UK – while fares in Sweden are more reasonable.

So while Norway trumps Sweden for certain things like natural beauty, wildlife tours and extreme sports , it can be an expensive place to explore properly.

Hey, even Norwegians have been known to hop over the border into Sweden for cut price booze and consumer goods!

In practice this means that, over the course of two-week vacation, visiting Norway could cost you hundreds of dollars more than an equivalent stay in Sweden.

That’s not to say that you shouldn’t visit Norway – it’s just that you should expect the prices to be higher.

You can compare the costs of everyday things like meals and transport in our guides to the cost of living in Norway and Sweden .

Which is safer: Sweden or Norway?

We’ve looked at the Norway vs Sweden crime rates, and the good news is both countries are pretty safe to travel around, with low crime rates and efficient, trustworthy police forces.

Norway comes out with lower crime rates overall, with a murder rate less than a third of its neighbour – ‘just’ 38 murders in the whole country in 2023 , compared to 116 in Sweden in 2022 (the latest figures available).

However, when you consider that Sweden’s population is almost double that of Norway, the difference doesn’t seem so marked.

So, despite all those Scandinavian crime dramas making it look like gory murders are around every corner, it’s actually a very safe place to live. 

Is it better to live in Sweden or Norway?

And if you’re thinking of a long-term move to Scandinavia, it’s a big decision to make – where to live: Sweden or Norway?

So, we’ve checked out the pros and cons of living in Sweden vs Norway for you.

First of all, how much will you earn? What is the average salary in Sweden vs Norway?

The good news is that Norway and Sweden both have among the highest average salaries in the world.

Norwegians earn more at the equivalent of around $62,000 a year, while annual salaries in Sweden are the equivalent of around $46,000.  However, Norway has a higher cost of living.

To find out more about what things cost, check out our guides on the cost of living in Sweden and Norway .

As for life expectancy, both countries rank in the world top 20 for long life.

Norway comes in at 14th with an average life expectancy of 82.3 years, while Sweden just pips it at 11th, with Swedes living an average of 82.7 years.

Is Sweden or Norway richer?

This is a tricky one because it depends how you measure it. In terms of GDP, Sweden is richer because its GDP in 2023 was the equivalent of $US577 billion as opposed to Norway’s, which was $US435 billion.

However, if you factor in the population, Sweden’s GDP was $US55,200 per capita, while Norway’s was $US99,000 per capita – making Norway richer per head of population.

So, is Sweden better than Norway?

Now we’ve given you all the facts and figures it’s up to you to decide!

Both countries have good points and bad points, but as far as we’re concerned they’re both pretty amazing places to visit, and whichever you chose we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.

So, our advice is to visit both!

See also: The best time to visit Sweden The best time to visit Norway 21 things you should know before visiting Norway

Street food and northern lights tour

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Norway v Sweden: Two Scandinavian Countries Compared

Norway and Sweden are both popular Scandinavian countries for tourists, but which one should visit? We take a look at what you can expect in both countries.

Scandinavia remains popular among tourists from all over the world. Whether it's to check out the alleged happiness of the region, see the northern lights, or immerse oneself in Scandinavian design, the region has a lot of pulling power.

But many people visiting the region are coming as part of a bigger tour, and perhaps only have a few days to use. So, where should you prioritise?

There are a lot of similarities, for example the prevalence of the English language and the tendency to prefer card and mobile payments over cash. There's also significant shared history, including a 91-year period when Sweden's monarch ruled Norway .

Yet despite both being Scandinavian countries , Norway and Sweden offer something quite different to tourists. In this article, I'm going to outline some of the main differences and what you can expect from both countries.

The geography

Both Norway and Sweden surprise many people by their sheer size. In particular, both are long countries, with a border along much of that length .

To drive from Kristiansand in Southern Norway to Kirkenes in the far northeast would take an estimated 38 hours of non-stop driving sticking to Norwegian roads. The most direct route via Sweden and Finland would still take at least 27 hours.

Driving from the south of the Sweden to the northern border with Norway takes 21-23 hours, depending on the route.

Read more : Fun Facts About Sweden

This means seeing more than one region of either country can get expensive and time-consuming. But it also means there is substantial geographic variety in both countries.

Both countries have a “sunny” south and an Arctic north. Both have coastlines although Norway’s west coast is wilder and generally wetter than Sweden's long eastern coastline facing the Gulf of Bothnia.

So, rather than visiting “Norway” or “Sweden”, perhaps you should think along the lines of visiting “the south of Sweden” or “the west coast of Norway”.

Norway is one of the world’s best outdoor destinations, but there’s plenty on offer in Sweden for nature lovers too.

The fjords and mountains of Norway

UNESCO has recognised the west Norwegian fjords for both their natural and cultural value, while the vast Scandinavian mountains offer hiking and skiing trails that criss-cross much of the country.

While the UNESCO-listed area of the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord gets most of the attention, there are fjords all along the coastline of western Norway.

The lakes and forests of Sweden

Sweden’s natural attractions are more based around its lakes and forests. Said to number almost 100,000, the lakes in Sweden are a wonderful place to enjoy outdoor sports or simply relax.

Cabin life is popular in both countries. While Norwegian cabins tend to be on the coastline or in the mountains, Swedish cabins are often by a lake.

Coastline and islands

Both countries are known for their fantastic stretches of coastline, featuring plenty of picturesque fishing villages and towns. The Norwegian coastline is popular to discover on the 12-day roundtrip Hurtigruten cruise from Bergen to Kirkenes.

Sweden’s coastline is also long, especially the eastern coast . The two biggest cities Stockholm and Gothenburg have fantastic archipelagos to experience, while the Lofoten islands of Norway are renowned for their dramatic scenery.

Hiking in both Norway and Sweden

Hiking in Norway is a well-known activity for both locals and tourists, with an excellent infrastructure for short trips or multi-day tours. But Sweden is a great hiking destination too.

Sweden's best known long-distance hike is the Kungsleden , the King’s Path. More than 400km long, this summer hike passes through diverse Arctic landscape, including alpine terrain, low-lying mountain birch forest, mountain heaths and mountain villages.

The capital cities

Many of the biggest Scandinavian cities are located in Norway and Sweden. Sweden's capital city Stockholm is a truly global city yet retains plenty of Scandinavian charm.

The Vasa museum, ABBA museum and charming old town Gamla stan are among the highlights in a city built on islands so you're never far from the water.

Meanwhile in Norway, Oslo is a rapidly growing city but still feels relatively small. The sculpture parks are a real highlight, along with the easy access to nature in the forests and islands of the Oslofjord .

Many people visiting Europe for a short period of time spend a day in Oslo and a day in Stockholm, but such a brief itinerary gives visitors a very blinkered view of Scandinavia.

With the nature of Oslo and the vast Stockholm archipelago, both capitals have fantastic nature on their doorstep that are perfect to explore by spending just an extra day or two in either city.

The other cities

Norway's coastal cities are full of history and character, from the old towns of Trondheim and Stavanger to the fascinating art nouveau story of Ålesund .

Because of its close ties to the Hanseatic League, the second biggest city Bergen has a UNESCO World Heritage site at its very centre, and a stave church in its suburbs.

While some of Sweden's cities suffer from bad press in the global media, most downtown areas and tourist attractions are perfectly safe. In particular, the city of Gothenburg and its sprawling archipelago is a real highlight.

Both Norway and Sweden have vast areas above the Arctic circle. Norway's Arctic area is bigger and more coastal, whereas Sweden's inland Arctic region can get considerably colder.

Both areas are popular for northern lights travel . In fact, many tour guides cross the borders looking for the best spots on any particular night.

In Sweden, Abisko National Park has great natural conditions for aurora spotting. For those staying in Arctic Norway, Tromsø and Alta are popular spots.

Partly it's for the locations, but also because both cities offer other things to do should the aurora not come out to play. That's especially true of Tromsø, which has some great museums and restaurants and a panoramic view from the top of the cable car.

Read more : How to see the northern lights in Tromsø

The cost of visiting

Generally speaking, Norway is more expensive to visit than Sweden for tourists. But Sweden will still seem expensive to visitors from most countries, so both countries will require some serious budgeting.

Accommodation and food will be the biggest costs for most travellers. Cabin stays in both countries can reduce cost as not only is cabin rental competitive with hotels, self-catering will save big on food.

Visiting Norway and Sweden on a budget is possible by taking advantage of deals on long-distance trains and making the most of outdoor activities such as hiking, among other things.

About David Nikel

Originally from the UK, David now lives in Trondheim and was the original founder of Life in Norway back in 2011. He now works as a professional writer on all things Scandinavia.

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Nordic Perspective

Traveling to Sweden vs. Norway Compared (Data-Based)

For those looking for a Scandinavian adventure, both Sweden and Norway will be excellent choices that will leave you with many great memories. Both enjoy safe travel, beautiful nature, friendly people, uniquely Scandinavian towns and cities, and interesting historical sites. But what if only one of the countries could fit in your itinerary, and you had to pick one?

Here Are the Main Reasons Sweden Score Higher Than Norway:

• Sweden vs. Norway - Final Score:

Sweden is easier to reach than Norway, being closer to the continent and part of the EU

The capital of sweden: stockholm, norway is generally seen as more beautiful, the capital of norway: oslo.

There are of course differences—small as they may be—and after having scoured the internet for relevant data points to compare the two Nordic countries in a scientific manner, we see  the Swedes ultimately score higher than the Norwegians when you compare a comprehensive list of reliable travel & tourism data points .

So what does this mean– is Sweden better than Norway?  This of course depends on your own personal preferences and circumstances. It should be said that Norway is generally seen as the more beautiful country to visit and for many it will be the better choice. But if we compare available, significant, and relevant travel data,  Sweden looks like the better destination than Norway for most travelers.

Sweden is easier to reach than Norway; closer to the continent and part of the EU Sweden is a more popular and in-demand destination; more visitors and longer stays Sweden has a slightly higher reputation globally; mostly due to higher cultural impact Sweden wins the battle of the capitals; Stockholm beats Oslo in most areas Sweden is significantly cheaper than Norway; cost of food, drinks and accommodation

Sweden vs. Norway: A Comprehensive Travel Data Comparison

Sweden vs. norway – final score:.

The cumulative score is calculated based on a collection of data points signaling level of visitor accessibility, popularity, satisfaction, demand, and cost of travel.

🤔 Curious to how this score is calculated? Keep scrolling to look at exactly how we arrived at these ratings, one by one.

Visitor Accessibility

For this category, we’re trying to establish how convenient it is to travel to the country, and how easy it is to get around within when you’re visiting.

If you’re visiting as part of a bigger trip, we’ll look at distance in travel time from different European cities, and we’ll also try to gauge how the country’s infrastructure holds up compared to other countries in order to figure out if it’s easy to get around in.

Visitor Accessibility Score – Sweden vs. Norway

🇸🇪 Sweden wins this round  Sweden is more easily accessible by car, bus, train and air compared to Norway, and scores higher in infrastructure.

Visitor Popularity, Demand, Total Area, and Global Reputation

Looking at how popular Sweden is for visitors, how long they stay, and how the country’s reputation ranks globally, we can get a good sense of how people in general rate Sweden.

I’ve also chosen to include total area to get a sense of how much there is to explore in the country as a whole.

Visitor Popularity, Demand, Total Area, and Global Reputation Score – Sweden vs. Norway

🇸🇪 Sweden wins this round Sweden is more popular, in higher demand, larger, and enjoys a slightly higher global reputation than Norway.

Quality of Life Index – Global Dataset

To get a sense of how Sweden ranks as a destination for expats and visitors, we’ve looked at a massive global index that ranks countries based on factors relating to quality of life.

Quality of Life Index Score – Sweden vs. Norway

🇸🇪 Sweden and 🇳🇴 Norway tie this round Looking at massive global data sets indicating quality of life for expats and tourists, Sweden places just in front of Norway (48th vs 49th) with basically the exact same average score.

Quality of Life Surveys

We can definitely learn a lot from looking at the big data in the previous section, but I also wanted to include how actual visitors of the country rate Sweden in different areas related to quality of life, which can give a good idea of how it is to visit the country. A great way to find out how good a country is for travelers is to ask the people who have actually visited the country.

I looked at three independent surveys which asked expats and visitors what their experience in Sweden was:

Quality of Life Surveys Score – Sweden vs. Norway

🇳🇴 Norway wins this round  Looking at two smaller user surveys on quality of life, Norway (10th & 20th) scores significantly higher than Sweden (13th & 29th)

Reported Cost of Food, Drinks and Shopping

We’ve touched on the cost of travel in Sweden already, but I wanted to give an idea of actual costs travelers may be interested in, as reported by visitors (and confirmed by myself).

Reported Cost of Food, Drinks and Shopping Score

🇸🇪 Sweden wins this round  When we compare travel costs such as food, drinks, and shopping, Sweden offers a significantly cheaper vacation.

Attractions & Travel Community

Other important factors for travelers to consider before deciding on their travel plans are how many attractions there are, how excited other travelers seem to be about the country, how attractive the country’s natural assets are, and what the country’s main attraction categories are:

Attractions & Travel Community Score

🇳🇴 Norway wins this round Although Sweden looks to have more attractions, the travel community seems a lot more excited about the Norwegian ones. Norway also places way higher than Sweden when it comes to level of attractiveness of natural assets (i.e. parks, beaches, mountains, wildlife, etc.), resulting in a clear Norwegian win in this round.

Capital City Rating

Finally, you get a pretty good sense of a country by looking at its capital city and how it stacks up against other capital cities, specifically when it comes to factors that are relevant for travelers.

Capital City Rating – Sweden vs. Norway

🇸🇪 Sweden wins this round  Stockholm beats Oslo in almost every area relevant to the attractiveness, quality, and value of a capital city visit.

Data sources: 1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  7 ,  8 ,  9 ,  10 ,  11 ,  12 ,  13 ,  14 ,  15 ,  16 ,  17 , 18

And the winner is: Sweden 🇸🇪

While both countries are great travel destinations, Sweden ultimately scores higher as it is more popular, more in-demand, offers a similar quality of life, has earned a higher global reputation, and is a significantly cheaper country to visit – making it the better travel destination for most people (depending on your budget and preferences of course).

Why Sweden is Better Than Norway – According to the Data

Looking at publicly available, neutral data points to see what separates the two Nordic countries, we see that Sweden ultimately scores slightly higher than Norway.  In the end, the countries score very similarly for most of the indicators included in this comparison. But, there are a few areas where Sweden stands out as a slight winner for most of us:

Sweden is a more popular and in-demand destination, with more visitors and longer stays

Sweden has a slightly higher reputation in the global community due to higher cultural impact, sweden is cheaper than norway, sweden has more world heritage sites than norway, stockholm ultimately beats oslo in the battle of the capital cities.

•  Biggest city in Scandinavia
•  The city’s subway is called “world’s largest art gallery”
•  The city is called the “World’s Smallest Big City” and the “Venice of the North”
•  Birthplace of Greta Thunberg, Avicii, Alfred Nobel, Spotify, ABBA, the Skarsgård family, Minecraft, Björn Borg, August Strindberg, Zara Larsson, Greta Garbo

How about if money doesn’t matter – Is Norway better than Sweden?

If you are in to natural experiences in epic landscapes, there are few places that will top Norway. The country offers a wealth of fjords and beautiful mountainscapes that you can explore by foot, car or ship, and that will take your breath away more than once.

Norway also scored slightly higher than Sweden in certain quality of life surveys, but it does come with much higher living and food costs, and it is not as convenient to see the major attractions as they are generally a bit more remote than the Swedish sights.

To sum it up;  if money and time don’t matter to you, Norway offers more natural beauty and might be the better destination.

Norway enjoys a slightly higher quality of life than Sweden

Norway is less crowded, but of course… norway is a lot more expensive.

Sweden vs. Norway – Summary

Sweden scores slightly higher overall in travel data points — due to being more accessible, considerably cheaper, and with a higher-scoring capital — so if you can only travel to one of the countries, Sweden would be my recommendation .

However, both countries are well worth a visit in the end, and both score very high on a global scale. If you can fit both of them into your travel itinerary and budget, you’ll get two uniquely Scandinavian travel experiences in close proximity to each other, with different types of offerings and attractions.

https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Tourism_statistics

https://www.worlddata.info/europe/sweden/tourism.php

https://www.worlddata.info/europe/norway/tourism.php

https://www.indexmundi.com/factbook/compare/sweden.norway

https://www.worlddata.info/quality-of-life.php?expats=1#tab

https://www.mylifeelsewhere.com/cost-of-living/sweden/norway

https://www.internations.org/expat-insider/2019/the-nordic-countries-39838

https://www.numbeo.com/quality-of-life/rankings_current.jsp

https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/2963875/_PDF/RepTrak/2018_Country_RepTrak_180621.pdf

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/sweden

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/norway

https://maps.google.com/

https://www.roughguides.com/gallery/most-beautiful-country-in-the-world/

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By Karl Andersson

As a native Swede with a Finnish mother, Karl identifies as both Nordic and Scandinavian. He left Sweden at 19 to explore the world, and stayed abroad for almost 8 years—during which he backpacked, worked every job there was, earned a degree from UC Berkeley, and met the future mother of his children. He ultimately returned to his native Malmö with his love, where they now have 3 Swedish-American boys eager to explore the world.

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Norway vs Sweden: The key differences between life in Norway and Sweden

Today, we’re going to be covering the differences and similarities between Norway and Sweden. Here, you’ll learn what you can expect when you visit each of these countries, as well as what you might need to consider when migrating. Norway vs Sweden? You decide…

Choosing which stunning Scandinavian location to explore isn’t easy.

Though many of the regions throughout Scandinavia have similarities, like shared traditions and languages which may look and sound alike , each country is unique. The experience you get when you visit Sweden is a world apart from the one available in Norway.

In an ideal world, you’d be able to take your time adventuring through each part of Scandinavia at leisure. You could start in Sweden and work your way through to Iceland and beyond.

However, if you’re limited in your visitation options, or you’re looking for somewhere to settle, you need to make a more concrete choice.

If you’re considering visiting or living in either Norway or Sweden, this guide was created for you. Let’s dive in…

Norway vs Sweden: An initial overview

Whether you pick Norway or Sweden as your must-see destination, you can expect a wonderfully Scandinavian experience. Both countries share similar cultures, with magical traditions to explore, and breath-taking sights to enjoy.

Sweden is around 174,000 square miles in size, and it’s not a particularly cluttered or crowded place, with a population of just over 10 million. Sweden is a great place to visit if you’re looking to explore life in the great outdoors, and it also has a deep and varied culture.

It’s easy to get around thanks to public transport, and the locals are warm and welcoming too.

Norway is a little smaller than Sweden, at 148,729 square miles , Although the country is also far less populated, with only a little over 5 million residents. Much of Norway is covered in frost and fjords, making it less habitable, but incredibly beautiful.

The region is home to various world records, and it’s one of the best regions in the world for dramatic views.

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, both Sweden and Norway have a lot to offer, though each will give you a vastly different view.

Norway or Sweden: What to expect from Sweden

Sweden, located on the Scandinavian Peninsula , is an eye-catching environment popular among expats for its wonderful quality of life. If you’re considering whether to visit Sweden or Norway, Sweden can promise a much simpler tourist experience, thanks to fewer fjords.

In Sweden, you can travel easily between must-see destinations like traditional villages and the beautiful Abisko National Park.

You can also learn about Sweden’s history with the Vikings at destinations like Sigtuna Viking Town or check out some of the local museums for a deep dive into the heritage of the locals.

Everything in Sweden is universally accessible thanks to a wonderful public transportation system. Sweden even makes it easier to visit other parts of Scandinavia, with roads leading between both Denmark and Sweden.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Swedish experience , it’s a good idea to start in Stockholm, where you’ll find tons of delicious Swedish food, as well as stunning sights, attractions and boutiques where you can spend your money.

Sweden is also home to locations like Malmo — a beautiful city capable of attracting tourists from all over the world with modern and historical architecture. You can even take a trip to Gothenburg and check out the bohemian Haga district .

Sweden vs Norway: What can you do in Sweden?

When it comes to choosing between Sweden or Norway, it’s worth checking out some of the wonderful things you can do in each region. Sweden is a lot greener than Norway, with tons of forests and beautiful landscapes to explore.

You’ll discover some wonderful wildlife here, alongside waterfalls and lakes which make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy world.

There are more than 90,000 lakes in Sweden , but the region is about more than just flowing water. This environment is also home to popular brands like IKEA and Volvo, and tons of forward-thinking designers with their eye on a sustainable future.

While you’re in Sweden, it’s definitely worth checking out some of the local food, like the incredible smorgasbord , and local seafood.

You’ll also want to take some time learning about the history of the region with visits to locations like the Vasa Museum . This museum hosts the best-preserved 17 th century ship in the world.

Beyond the city centers, you’ll find a unique range of experiences, like Gamla Stan (old town), and Drottingholm Palace, just a short distance from Stockholm.

There’s also the Liseberg Theme Park for families, and the Lund Cathedral if you’re looking for a glimpse of some wonderful architecture. 

You’ll love every moment spent exploring Sweden. However, if you do feel like a change of pace, you can always hop on the Oresund bridge in Malmo and make your way over to Denmark for a quick daytrip too.

Norway or Sweden: What to expect from Norway

Sweden and Norway are vastly different in terms of scenery and experience. While Sweden is brimming with magical forests and lakes, Norway is packed full of sensationally beautiful fjords and icy locations.

While both countries are brimming with history and Viking heritage, Norway feels more like another planet with sights you won’t find anywhere else .

When you’re deciding whether to visit Norway or Sweden, make sure you think about your outdoor options. Norway is a great destination for hikers and those in search of a challenge.

You can visit UNESCO World Heritage sites , like Geirangerfjord, and check out some amazing waterfalls, or you can check out locations like Priekstolen and Pulpit rock.

Norway is a great location for budding photographers and checking out wildlife you may not see elsewhere in the world. You can even see whales if you visit the right location at the right time.

It’s worth noting, however, that it can be a little colder in Norway , so make sure you wrap up warm.

You can learn a lot about Norway and enjoy its scenery while watching movies. For example, Tenet, Ex Machina and Dune feature fantastice Norwegian fjord landscapes. If these movies are not available in your region, use a reliable VPN to  unblock content on Netflix .

Aside from stunning landscapes, Norway is also home to the world’s longest road tunnel in the world, and it’s packed full of extremely happy people. Consistently, Norway is ranked among other Scandinavian destinations for being one of the happiest places in the world.

Should I visit Norway or Sweden? What to do in Norway

So, is Sweden better than Norway for things to do? Not necessarily.

Sweden definitely makes it easier to get around from one sight to the next with its public transportation system, but you should still have plenty to do if you visit Norway.

Start by checking out the amazing capital city of Oslo , where you’ll find some forward-thinking architecture and even heated roads to tackle the snow.

Oslo combines the natural and urban elements of Norway into a unique experience travellers love. You can also take the opportunity when you’re here to visit places like the Munch museum, or Viking Ship museum.

For outdoor fans, there are tons of opportunities to go hiking along the fjords, with trails for people at every experience level. Head over to Bergen as the gateway to the fjords and grab a guided tour to check out the scenery.

Outside of Bergen, there are plenty of other spots to soak up some natural beauty, like the Lofoten islands, where you can board a ship and interact with the locals.

Alternatively, why not take a trip to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, where you’ll see more than 650 sculptures created by the amazing Gustav Vigeland.

You can head to the largest city in Northern Norway (Tromso) or take some time out at the casual small town of Flam. There’s something here to suit almost every type of tourist and plenty of places to stay , so Norway is great for entire families to visit.

Sweden vs Norway: Which is better to visit?

For a trip into the heart of Scandinavia, both Sweden and Norway have a lot to offer.

On the one hand, you’ve got Sweden, where you can dine on delicious fish-based meals, buffet-style foods, and sip delicious drinks. Sweden is a little warmer than Norway , especially if you visit at the right time of year, and it’s easier to see more of the country in one go.

If you like the idea of splitting your days between nature walks among forests, museums, and shopping districts, then Sweden is a wonderful place for you. You can embrace the culture like one of the locals or get the full tourist experience with things like guided tours.

In Norway, you can expect a more dramatic selection of scenery and experiences. Norway is best known for its unforgettable fjords , and it’s also a wonderful place to check out natural phenomenon like the Northern Lights .

Norway has plenty of delicious food and drinks to explore, just like Sweden, as well as happy people who will welcome you into the area. You can check out cities like Oslo or break away from the rest of the world on a walk around some of the most beautiful natural environments in the world.

While the scenery is far more impressive in Norway for most people, you’re going to need more time and money to get around all the best attractions, as it’s not as easy to explore this unique landscape.

How is Sweden different from Norway for expats?

If you’re trying to decide whether to live in Sweden or Norway, you’ve got a much tougher decision to make. The first thing you should know is life in both of these countries can be wonderful. Scandinavian countries are known for their amazing quality of life.

Regions like Norway and Sweden are both ranked high on the list of cultural happiness, thanks to excellent work-life balance, wonderful employment opportunities, and a general sense of community.

The Nordic countries can be difficult to get used to at first, but once you settle in, you’re sure to fall in love with the experience.

Both Norway and Sweden require you to learn a new language if you decide to move there and learning Norwegian can be a little tougher than learning Swedish for some.

Both locations can also make it quite difficult to find a job, as employers in Norway and Sweden can hire from anywhere in the Nordic region to get the best talent.

On the plus side, if you do live in Norway or Sweden, you’ll benefit from things like excellent healthcare coverage, fantastic schooling opportunities for your children, and a wonderful environmental protection strategy.

Norway is the first in the world for environmental friendliness , and Sweden ranks close to the top too.

Both regions are low on crime, and both can be quite welcoming to new community members, so you shouldn’t worry too much about not fitting in.

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Should you live in Sweden or Norway?

When you’re deciding whether to live in Norway or Sweden, it’s worth noting both countries give you an excellent opportunity to absorb the best experiences in nature.

In Sweden, everyone gets the Right of Public Access, which means you can camp and walk anywhere you like, as long as you treat nature with the right respect.

Norway has the same kind of right, where you can walk around freely, as long as you protect nature, and don’t leave any trash wherever you go. Norway is a bit more restrictive with things like camping — as you can only stay for one day wherever you go.

In both countries, it feels extremely liberating to have the freedom to go wherever you choose.

Norway does have a few more limitations for locals , including restrictions on where you can build farms or use the land for architecture. This could be down to the fact Norway has limited liveable spaces due to all the fjords.

Norway is usually considered to have a bit of a “little brother” complex when it comes to Sweden. There’s a lot of competition between the two countries, because Sweden is more populated than Norway.

However, the two locations do share a lot of similarities. For example, you can find stories about trolls and other magical creatures in Norway and Sweden.

Sweden is also a little kinder to some of the wildlife, as they don’t support things like whale hunting. While you can still sometimes go whale hunting in Norway, although it’s becoming more of a taboo topic. Additionally, Sweden is a little more restrictive with alcohol.

In Sweden, you can find low-percentage alcohol in the supermarkets of up to 3.5%, Norway sells alcohol in the supermarkets up to 4.75%, and everything else needs to come from a specialist retailer. Both countries follow a similar approach to distributing alcohol, like most Nordic countries.

Is Norway more expensive than Sweden?

If you’re choosing whether to live in Norway or Sweden, you’ll need to consider the costs associated with both locations. Norway and Sweden have a lot of similarities, but Norway can be a lot more expensive when it comes to food and restaurant prices.

Eating at a restaurant in Norway will cost around 35% than it does in Sweden. Buying groceries is up to 34% more expensive.

The price of meals throughout both countries will vary depending on where you choose to eat. There are a lot of high-quality restaurants in Sweden where you’ll expect to pay a lot more. In terms of general living costs, the amount you spend will often depend on where you choose to live.

When you move to Sweden , the most expensive places to live will often be the regions tourists visit most often, like Stockholm. The same applies in Norway, with Oslo often measuring up as more expensive than places like Bergen.

Sweden has about 10% higher purchasing power than Norway, even though you can earn more with a career in Norway.

Rent is much more expensive in Norway than Sweden, up to 32% higher in fact. This is why a lot of people who work in Norway will actually live outside of the country and commute every day.

Of course, the exact price you’ll expect to pay for life in Norway or Sweden will depend heavily on a lot of different factors. Make sure you do your research before you plan your transition.

It’s also worth thinking about other expenses you may need to consider, such as the price of transportation if you’re going to be using public transport or owning your own car.

Choosing between Sweden vs Norway

Both Sweden and Norway are among the top places in the world to visit and live. If you just want to visit the best destination in Scandinavia, we’d recommend planning to go to all of the regions whenever you can.

Usually, you can move between Scandinavian regions quite easily when you’re there, so you can split up your days however you choose.

If you’re planning on going to just one destination, then we’d recommend checking out Norway if you’re interested in dramatic sights and incredible experiences. The fjords are definitely worth adding to your bucket list of sights to see, and there are great opportunities to view the Northern Lights too.

If you’re searching for wonderful outdoor adventures in green spaces, as well as plenty of opportunities to learn about the history of a destination, and experience local fare, then Sweden is a good choice.

Sweden is a happy and comfortable place, ideal for people who want to get outdoors, but not expose themselves to too many challenges at once.

If you’re looking to live in a new Scandinavian region, then it might be tougher to make your decision. As mentioned, Norway is a lot more expensive than Sweden in a lot of ways, but it also has higher salaries, and wonderful sights to see.

Sweden is less expensive, but it can be a little more densely populated than Norway.

Sweden vs Norway? You decide!

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 — Choosing between Denmark and Norway — Sweden vs Demark, how to decide — Iceland and Greenland, how they differ

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

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Norway vs. Sweden: Which Should You Visit?

Posted by Nick D. | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

If you’re planning a trip to Scandinavia, you’ve heard all the rumors: it gets cold in winter, it never gets dark in the summer and everything is expensive.

So when is the best time to visit Scandinavia?

Well, whenever you get the chance. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages.

Go in in the winter and you’ll probably freeze and catch a cold, but on the bright side, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Go in the summer and you might be overwhelmed by all the tourists, but you’ve got 24 hours of daylight to see the sights, instead of 12.

Two of the most popular destinations in Scandinavia are Norway and Sweden. They’re both beautiful and similar in many ways and that’s probably why it’s so hard to choose.

Whether you’re looking to settle down for a few months or planning a quick city break, Norway and Sweden are both great choices and if you have the opportunity to visit them both, that’s even better!

Keep reading to see which country I think is the final winner!

Northern lights from the Lofoten Islands in Norway

Tourist Attractions

From its stunning fjords to its spectacular mountains and glaciers, experiencing Norway is all about amazing scenery. Some of the top tourist attractions are…

• Lofoten Islands, one of the best places to see the Northern Lights
• Tromso, the largest city in Northern Norway, also known as the “capital of the Arctics”
• Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)
• Viking Ships Museum, Oslo
• Bygdoy Peninsula
• Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, Bergen
• Vigeland Sculpture Park , home to 650 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland
• Atlantic Ocean Road
• Akershus Fortress, Oslo
• The Sognefjord Area

With its rich history and varied landscapes, the Sweden will not let you down when it comes to amazing experiences:

• Vasa Museum, Sweden’s most popular museum
• Gamla Stan (Old Town)
• Drottningholm Palace, located 11 km west of Stockholm city center
• Stockholm City Hall, one of Sweden’s most famous buildings
• Visby, Gotland
• Liseberg Theme Park , Gothenburg
• Lund Cathedral
• Sarek National Park
• Ales Stenar
• Oresund Bridge, Malmo

I feel like it wouldn’t be fair to pick a winner when it comes to tourist attraction because both countries offer an amazing experience.

While Norway focuses more on amazing landscapes and nature, Sweden offers a lot of cultural and medieval attractions that you won’t find anywhere else. I loved both, so it’s up to you to decide which is closer to your style.

Norway vs Sweden Tourist Attractions Winner: Tie

Old town of Gamla Stan in Stockholm, Sweden

Ease of Tourism

Being a tourist in a new country means that unless you’re planning on renting a car, you’re limited to public transport.

As much as I love Norway’s amazing landscapes, most of the attractions are in the middle of nature or in the Northern part of the country.

Some attractions like  the northern lights in Tromso or the Lofoten Islands are impossible to reach by public transport and you will need to rent a car or even catch a plane.

For example, there are 960 km from Oslo to Lofoten Islands, so if you don’t want to spend your whole trip on the road I recommend a flight to a closer destination, like Bodo, and then taking the ferry to the islands.

Sweden’s most attractions are easily reachable by public transport and don’t require extra efforts like catching a plane or renting a car and because of this, I consider Sweden the winner of this category.

Norway vs Sweden Ease of Transportation Winner: Sweden

Hiking in the Lofoten Islands in Norway

Nature and Hiking

When I was talking about ease of tourism, I excluded Norway because most of the attractions were in the middle of the mountains or surrounded by fjords. So it’s safe to assume that when it comes to nature and hiking, Norway could easily be on the top of the list.

One of the most popular attractions in Norway is the Preikestolen cliff, which rises 604 meters above the Lysefjorden.

There’s also the Trolltunga rock, Gaustatoppen, the highest mountain in the Telemark county and considered one of the most beautiful in Norway.

That doesn’t mean that Sweden does not offer amazing hiking and landscapes.

They’ve got the King’s Trail (Kungsleden) which is considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world .

Stretching more than 400 km through dark forests, it usually takes a whole month to walk the entire trail, but if you have a solid backpack and enormous dedication to hike it, you’ll find plenty of like-minded travelers along the way.

Norway vs Sweden Nature and Hiking Winner: Norway

Djurgårdsbron, Stockholm, Sweden

When it comes to nightlife, the winner between Norway and Sweden is Denmark.

But joking aside, if you’re into partying, neither Sweden nor Norway is going to be great for you. They both have pretty early ‘last calls’ when it comes to bars and nightclubs.

While in Norway the bars usually close at 3 a.m on a weekend night, in Sweden’s largest cities you can find bars open until 5 a.m.

Both countries are very strict when it comes to buying alcohol and the prices are very high. Because of this, most people prefer to gather their friends at home and organize house parties instead of going out.

Norway vs Sweden Nightlife Winner: Sweden

Fresh bread at a bakery in Stockholm

When thinking of Scandinavian cuisine, many people think of pickled herrings, salmon, and meatballs at Ikea. However, Nordic cuisine is quite rich and diverse with distinct differences between countries and even regions.

You can’t talk about Swedish cuisine without mentioning the smorgasbord. Literally translated as “bread and butter table”, the word traditionally describes a table spread of home-cooked food such as beef, meatballs, and smoked fish.

Compared to Sweden, the cuisine in Norway is more heavily based on fish. Its coastlines and many fjords produce vast quantities of varieties such as salmon, mackerel, and cod, and of course, the Norwegian herring.

I loved the food in both countries, and since I’m no expert, they tasted pretty similar. But, I felt like there was more variety in Sweden.

Norway vs Sweden Food Winner: Sweden

Oslo Opera House

And the Norway vs Sweden Travel Winner is…

Although it’s difficult to choose since everyone values different things on their holiday, I feel like Sweden is a more touristy destination.

Norway is stunning with amazingly beautiful scenery, but you will need a lot of time, money and flexibility to be able to visit all the great attractions. If you’re looking for a quick city break with lots of things to do in a short time, Sweden is the place to go.

I hope my Norway vs. Sweden comparison gives you a bit of insight into what both countries provide. Good thing is, they are so close together you can easily visit them both if you plan smartly!

Ready to go?

Explore unique stays on Airbnb – like a windmill , a treehouse , an igloo , or your own private castle – and check out the top hotels on Booking.com to plan your trip to Sweden. Then, browse more food, culture, and outdoors experiences on Airbnb to round out your Swedish itinerary!

If you want to visit both countries, check out these multi-day Scandinavia tours with Intrepid to finish your travel planning in one click 🙂

Nick is a programmer turned backpacker who loves to travel and explore both famous and off-the-beaten-path destinations. He is sharing his tips and experiences as the founder of Global Backpackers .

This article is part of the EU Smackdown series. Read the rest below:

England vs. Scotland

Italy vs. France

France vs. Spain

Spain vs. Portugal

Then, check out the complete Country Comparison series for more showdowns from around the world.

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Norway vs Sweden: The Overview

Which one is better for nature lovers, which one is more expensive, capital & other cities compared, sweden vs norway: where to go for outdoor sports, which is safer: sweden or norway, norway vs sweden for the northern lights - which is better, entertainment & cuisine: who takes the win, sweden vs norway: which is better to visit, should you live in norway or sweden, norway or sweden for expats: what's the difference, visa & entry requirements for norway & sweden, the verdict: norway vs sweden - which is better, written by: fikayomi abisola, 1. is sweden better than norway, 2. what is the difference between swedish and norwegian, 3. is norway richer than sweden, 4. is sweden cheaper than norway.

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Norway Vs Sweden: Which One Are You Choosing For Your Next Trip?

Subhasree nag.

Dec 28, 2023

Travel Guides

Well, it must have been your plan to visit Scandinavia for a long time. But have a confusion between Norway vs Sweden? Don’t worry, we are here to help you make a sound decision and will go through the differences these two places hold.

Here, in this article, we will travel through the different parts of Norway and Sweden, and depending upon your preference and what you want to experience, you will decide which is the destination for you. Not every traveler prefers the same thing. So go through the article and decide what you want to witness, and depending on that, choose your next destination.

After everything, tally your points and see which side is heavy. Decide where you want to go, Norway or Sweden. Or are you choosing both places?

Norway vs Sweden: Comparing Your Travels

Let’s start comparing Norway Vs Sweden. In this article, we are going to pass through various styles and preferences of travel and styles and then determine which is the best fit for you. 

Love European Architecture?

If you are looking for picturesque landscapes, then neither Norway nor Sweden is your destination. Then you have to consider traveling to Siena, Amsterdam , or Bruges instead.

But saying that there is no classic European architecture here would be wrong. The capital of Sweden, that is Stolkholm, features European architecture. This is a beautiful place that is going to fulfill our demands of walking through the picturesque streets.

There are other cities in Sweden, like Malmo and Gothenburg. But not all of it is as beautiful as Denmark and Copenhagen. But they have a few colorful buildings and streets. There are some other cities in Sweden like Uppsala and Lulea, which again have some nice streets, but those will not blow your mind away.

The Norwegian cities are a lot more modern across the border. They are filled with buildings that have cantilevered roofs and curved glass facades. Oslo has got that old European charm, but the last century’s buildings dominate it mostly.

The best place to enjoy some classic Norwegian architecture is Bergen. It is by the coast and is surrounded by amazing fjords. It is a lot prettier than Norway if we compare. Apart from that, Norwegian villages are beautiful and have historic cabins, but they are a lot different than those Instagrammable cityscapes.

Verdict: Sweden 

Love To Be On Nature’s Lap?

Exploring nature and getting outside is something people enjoy doing throughout the world. Nothing is better than going on a morning hike to the mountaintop and overlooking the distant ranges and some stunning lakes.

When we are talking about nature, Norway really has its way from the other parts of northern Europe. The mountain range surrounds the entire coast, starting from Stavanger to the Arctic wonderland. The entire country is beautiful, and there is nothing here that you will not like.

If you want to get in touch with Norway’s nature, you have to get out of the city for the time being. Norway is a hiker’s paradise, starting from the Trolltunga Hike to the Mannen hike, this country will mesmerize you with every step you take forward.

However, when compared to Norway, Sweden has some places that are nice, but it is mostly flat. The mountains in Sweden are just in the Arctic, near Abisko. If you want to take a trip and visit the natural landscapes and some outdoor recreation opportunities, then Sweden is not the perfect location for it.

Verdict: Norway

Going There For The Northern Lights?

Both Norway and Sweden are amazing locations for getting a glimpse of the magical northern lights. Both places have vast Arctic regions, which are often in the aurora oval, meaning the area where the geomagnetic activities happen, allowing the aurora borealis to appear.

When comparing which country offers a better sighting of the northern lights, you have to consider the weather as well. You get to see the northern lights only when the sky is clear. Arctic Scandinavia is mostly cloudy, so it is upto your luck.

The mountain coasts in Norway mostly have a cloudy sky than any of the islands in Sweden. So if you’re comparing these two places for northern lights, Sweden offers a better Arctic landscape with a clear sky.

Verdict: Sweden

Concerned About The Budget?

Money could not be an important factor for you, but for most people, it is an important factor for vacation planning. But, unfortunately, if you have planned a trip to Scandinavia , you have planned a very expensive place to visit.

Norway is known to be one of the most expensive countries to live in. When compared, Sweden is 20-30% cheaper, but it is also an expensive country. Visiting one of these countries is not going to be terribly expensive if you come from some other expensive place like Canada, the US, or Australia. 

Restaurants and hotels in Sweden are a lot similar to Norway and a bit cheaper as well, when compared. Things like beer in pubs, groceries, and petrol are cheaper in Sweden. However, the cost margin is not much compared to Norway.

Interested In Their Cuisine?

Even though Sweden and Norway are neighboring countries, there are a lot of differences in their food. Sweden offers a lot more cuisine than Norway. Sweden is popular for their meatballs, and their creamy pasta. And they have various culinary creations. They even have a reindeer steak in the northern part of the country.

But on the other side, food in Norway is completely seafood and fish based. This is because of Norway’s coastline. There are a lot of traditional fishing villages in Norway. And they prepare scrumptious fish as well.

Well, to conclude, Norway is a better choice if you are looking for some epic landscapes as well as outdoor activities. But if you have plans to mix city life with outdoor adventures, Sweden is the correct choice for you. 

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Subhasree is a content writer who is passionate about traveling, writing, and reading books. In her leisure time, she is seen listening to music and watching web series. Writing along with music and dance are ways in which she expresses herself.

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• Norway , Sweden

Norway vs. Sweden

Table of Contents

Choosing between Norway or Sweden calls for some pretty hard decisions.

However, there’s an easy way to compare the two. For starters, Norway has over 1,700 fjords while Sweden has over 100,000 lakes.

Exploring fjords can be done in several ways. But the two most common are paddling along the deep blue waters or hiking to a mountaintop and getting a breathtaking view.

Because Sweden is so full of lakes and archipelagos, it’s safe to say kayaking is life in the country. A gentle paddle along Sweden’s lakes and lakeside camping are some of the best activities you can do.

Cabin life is pretty common in both Norway and Sweden too. But in terms of number, Sweden offers more waterfront choices, lakes, and archipelagos for a truly laid-back experience.

For outdoor junkies, Norway takes all. Glacier skiing, ice climbing, white water rafting, you name it.

All that said, there’s still more to learn about what Norway and Sweden have to offer. By the end of this guide, making a choice between the two should be easy.

Norway capitalizes on breathtaking and spectacularly beautiful scenery. The country’s fjords have become somewhat of an icon in the digital world.

Look to social media channels like Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook. Spotting photos of fjords under the tag “scenery” or “beautiful” is a common find.

However, fjords have seemed to overshadow the rest of Norway’s nature, beauty, and sights. Although a lot might talk about visiting Norway for its fjords, there are plenty of reasons to go aside from that.

Take Norway’s hiking opportunities as an example. Norway has more than a dozen hiking trails. Some are easy and beginner friendly, while others are truly for those seeking an adrenaline thrill.

A good example? Trolltunga.

Imagine being 700 meters (2300 ft) above a lake standing at a cliff’s edge with a space no wider than a queen-sized bed. The name “Trolltunga” also translates to “the troll’s tongue.” For any adrenaline junkie, Trolltunga is only one of the many outdoor experiences in Norway.

Adrenaline rush aside, Norway is also home to a ton of forests and national parks. In fact, you could say that Norway’s landscape, apart from fjords and coastlines, is full of green.

Want to see everything Norway has to offer? Take a scenic ferry ride or better yet, hop on a train and you’ll see nearly everything the country has to offer. This is also perfect if you’re short on time and want to maximize your sightseeing adventure.

The only downside is you won’t be able to spend a lot of time in each place.

If there’s one conclusion to draw from all that you’ve read, it’s this: Norway is worth visiting. Not just once, but several times. Why? Because it’s highly likely you’ll be able to see everything all in one visit.

Exploring the country’s fjords alone takes up a lot of time. But overall, Norway is a beautiful country that offers a mixed bag of nature, mountains, outdoor adventure, and relaxation.

What Makes Norway Unique?

A wealth of bucket list attractions.

Norway’s charm extends far past its fjords and majestic coastlines. Think colorful towns, scenic drives, snowy landscapes, and so much more.

It goes without saying that exploring the region of fjords is a bucket list attraction. Fjords like Geirangerfjord, Lysefjord, and Lofoten Islands are a few of the most spectacular worth visiting.

But there are several bucket list attractions also worth mentioning.

First, the Arctic Circle. The landscape alone is mystifying and mesmerizing. However, that’s not the only reason that makes it bucket list worthy.

Since most of Norway is situated in the Arctic Circle, this also makes it the best place for the Midnight Sun phenomenon. And of course, the Northern Lights as well.

Looking for a daring adventure that combines adrenaline with glaciers, rivers, and fjords? The Lyngen Alps counts as another bucket list attraction in Norway.

The Lyngen Alps is full of scenic gorges, beautiful mountain peaks, and a ton of space for an all-out snow safari. Skiing is a popular activity here, but if you truly want to push your limits, go rock climbing. The highest peak in the Lyngen Alps measures 1,833 meters (6,013.8 ft), so climb if you dare.

Moving past adrenaline-pumping attractions, there are more peaceful and scenic attractions to do as well. One of the most famous in the world, also known as The Troll’s Road, is Trollstigen.

This scenic drive is more like a semi-adventure. Because apart from the grand viewpoints and Stigfossen waterfall, there are also 11 hairpin turns.  If that doesn’t appeal to you, there’s always the Atlantic Road, hailed as the most beautiful drive in the world.

In fact, the Atlantic Road was also voted as the “Norwegian construction of the century.” Once you’ve stretched your legs through Norway’s many scenic drive points, you can shift gears into kayaking mode.

Svalbard is yet again another bucket list attraction, famous for its glacier kayaking. Even better, you can also go on a sled dog expedition for three to four days or explore Svalbard’s landscape on a snowmobile.

To end this list of bucket list attractions in Norway, there’s always room for enjoying the view. The Lofoten Islands and the town of Bergen are fantastic places to escape, enjoy, and soak in waterfront views.

If you don’t mind putting in a little effort, you can also go hiking in Vesterålen. The summit’s peak at Vesterålen has a top-of-the-world experience you won’t want to miss while in Norway.

A Wealth of Daring Adventures and Extreme Outdoor Sports

Hiking is perhaps one of the most popular outdoor activities in all of Norway. But that’s only scratching the surface when it comes to the country’s list of daring adventures.

For the daring ones, hit up Folgefonna National Park for some serious glacier skiing. In addition, you can also do cross-country skiing and snowboarding in Folgefonna as well. Don’t worry, there are plenty of slopes here for beginners and newbies.

For the whole family and friends, Sjoa is the best place in Norway for white water rafting. Beginners and experienced rafters are more than welcome to test the waters in Sjoa. But if you want serious twists and turns, there’s a place that runs through the Aaseng Canyon in Sjoa perfect for that kind of thrill.

Aside from white water rafting in Sjoa, you can opt for canyoning which includes jumping in a cold mountain stream. There’s also zip-lining in Trolltunga that includes a trekking adventure and bike ride. For a boost of adrenaline, you can go paragliding in Voss, giving you views of the majestic Aurlandfjord.

If you’re still looking for more adventure, there’s ice climbing on frozen waterfalls in Lofoten Islands. Even better, Kjerag cliff is one of Norway’s prime base-jumping spots and definitely not for the fainthearted.

Norway Is Full of Relaxing Escapes

When was the last time you were able to truly get away from it all and recharge? With the never-ending list of things to do from answering emails to meeting deadlines, it’s hard to hit pause.

But in Norway, your opportunities to escape from all the stress and hustle are easily found. Starting with a huge list of accommodation options.

Why stay in a hotel when you can spend the night in Arctic domes? In cozy cabins high up in the mountains? Or even better, a sea cabin that sits above the ocean? In fact, glamping accommodations are available year-round.

Aside from Norway’s stellar accommodations, there are various ways to reconnect with nature. Hiking was one way, as mentioned previously. But if that doesn’t fit your outdoor style, you can opt for a scenic bike ride or go canoeing and kayaking along fjords.

Another fascinating option for exploring Norway is via train or boat. But of course, it’s not as simple as a half-day tour. You can go on a 3- or 4-day expedition via train or sightseeing ferry if you’re after a slow, relaxing journey.

The better question to ask is, how do you get to recharge in Norway? Because its landscape is so varied, finding a quiet place to spend in solitude is virtually available at every corner.

But if you’d rather stay close to Mother Nature from day 1, book a mountain cabin. Perched high up in the mountains, these cabins are the best choice if you want to disconnect from the world.

And don’t forget. You can also venture into Norway’s wilderness via its many signposted trails. For a long, easy hike, you can even walk a pilgrim path if you want to spiritually reconnect with yourself. Finally, places like Lyngenfjord and Tromsø and islands along the Helgeland coast are worth visiting too.

It’s One of the Safest and Easiest Countries to Travel In

Did you know Norway is one of the happiest places in the world? Even better, it has incredibly low crime rates so it’s safe to travel around and about. Of course, this isn’t to say you should be completely gullible and unaware of your surroundings.

It pays to stay vigilant no matter which part of the world you’re in. However, you can rest easier in Norway knowing that the country doesn’t have a high risk of crime-related activities.

Another reason why Norway is one of the easiest countries to travel in? No language barrier. Safe to say, almost everyone in Norway speaks English. It’s unlikely that you’ll run into a local that can’t speak English. What’s more, the locals are always happy to help.

Taking the train in Norway to explore different cities and regions is also easy to do. Speaking of exploration, Norwegians also have something called allemannsrett , which also means “freedom to roam.”

Essentially, this means you’re free to explore as much of Norway’s wilderness as you want. So much so that you can camp almost anywhere, including in uncultivated land. Want to pitch a tent on a mountain peak? You’re welcome to do so.

While you’re hiking along Norway’s landscapes, and if any catches your eye, feel free to camp the night. Of course, there are a few restrictions still. For instance, privately owned land isn’t possible.

Over 149,000 square miles (385,000 sq km) of Norway’s total land is unspoiled territory. That means your choices for camping and pitching tents just about anywhere are practically boundless.

Sweden can easily be thought of as a nature lover’s dream. Over 60% of Sweden’s land is made up of forests.

Although Sweden is home to some stunning fjords, it’s not what the country is known for. The Stockholm archipelago, which is made up of over thousands of islands is Sweden’s prized jewel.

Thinking about island-hopping? Think bigger.

The Stockholm Archipelago is home to coves, secret passages, hiking trails, Viking history and so much more.

After all, Sweden isn’t one of the most visited countries in the EU for nothing. Something that may pique your interest is the country’s broad sauna opportunities. You’ll find a sauna just about anywhere in Sweden.

Hotels and swimming halls are a given. But did you know there are saunas perched in the middle of the forest? There are even several situated on the edge of the sea.

But that’s not all Sweden has to offer.

One of the most popular attractions and what you’ve most likely heard about is Stockholm Pride. It’s the largest Pride Festival in all of Scandinavia, with numbers reaching up to 600,000 total.

Speaking of festivals, Sweden is also popular for its Midsummer celebration and music festivals. On that note, music is a way of life in the country. And it’s quite evident seeing as how you have a lot of spots to choose from.

Altogether, Sweden features a gorgeous landscape, stunning islands, and fascinating culture. Interested to learn a few hidden gems of the country? The next section reveals them all.

What Makes Sweden Unique?

Breathtaking natural beauty.

It’s no secret that the Swedes love nature. And similar to Norway, Sweden is home to some of the most marvelous nature sites.

While Sweden can’t compete with Norway in terms of fjords, it dominates with its lakes. And islands. Even national parks. There are over 100,000 lakes in Sweden. This also includes 30,000 islands and 29 national parks.

As a matter of fact, Sweden even has beaches! Some of the most pristine are found in the southern parts, along with the Stockholm Archipelago.

However, all this natural beauty you’re reading about now doesn’t compare to Sweden’s massive forestland. So massive it’s as if shades of green are an endless stretch throughout the country.

If you’re looking for the cream of the crop, start with Sarek National Park. The national park has an encompassing beauty that appeals to everyone and anyone. It’s also the oldest national park in the entirety of Europe.

If you’re looking for more nature to reconnect with, there are several parks you can explore. Some of these include Stora Sjofallet, Abisko, Skuleskogen, Muddus, and Fulifjallet.

Apart from national parks and expansive forests, Sweden is home to the Lapland region. Also known as the last wilderness of Europe, Lapland is a place you absolutely cannot miss. Lastly, don’t miss out on these beautiful lakes while you’re there:

• Lake Vänern
• Lake Vättern
• Lake Mälaren
• Lake Storsjön
• Lake Hjälmaren

Amazing Palaces, Royal Castles, and Beautiful Historical Landmarks

Sweden isn’t just a vast wilderness and natural beauty with rugged terrains.

It also comes with a charming side. Museums, castles, palaces, quaint towns, and even architecture.

You might’ve already heard about Stockholm Palace. Because after all, it’s arguably the most popular historical landmark in Sweden. However, this isn’t to say Stockholm Palace overshadows the rest of Sweden’s historical and cultural beauty.

Take King’s Garden or Kungsträdgården as an example. The garden is famous for its cherry blossoms that appear during spring. It’s even said that King’s Garden is a gift from Japan.

From here, you can choose to spend the rest of your day admiring Sweden’s grand castles. These castles are by no means old or rugged looking. The color, architecture, and crystal clear lake that surrounds it all add to its beautiful aesthetic.

Sweden is home to so many castles it’s hard to name each and every one. But there are a few worth mentioning, such as Läckö Castle.

Another noteworthy palace to visit is Drottningholm Palace. The royal palace has been a constant home for the Swedish Royal Family and is located on the island of Lovon. Getting here is easy, too, and easily accessible via boat.

You’ll also find a lot of boat tours that include a visit to the Drottningholm Palace. If you have extra time, it’s also worth exploring several regions and areas in Sweden. Some of these include:

• Oland Island

Unique Accommodations

If Norway has mountain cabins and rooms that sit above the sea, Sweden has ice hotels. Some accommodations are so quirky it’s worth spending the night at least once. And the Sala Silvermine Underground Hotel is perhaps one of the most unique you’ll ever find.

Because it’s literally an underground hotel that rests 155 meters below ground. Sweden’s famous ice hotel located in Jukkasjärvi is unlike anything else in the world.

Come winter, it’s freezing to stay in a cold room. But the good news is that there are also a ton of heated rooms too, which all come with subzero sleeping bags. You also have a lot of options for heated saunas in case it gets too cold.

But the real prize is being able to spend the night in a cold room. These rooms are kept between 17.6 to 23°F (-5 to -8 °C). Are you daring enough to spend 24 hours in a cold room?

Aside from underground and ice hotels, Sweden is also home to some of the most beautiful places to stay. You can opt for a glass house in the middle of a forest or a floating tent surrounded by pine trees.

There are also cozy forest retreat options, perfect for honeymooners looking for intimate accommodation. If you’re after a wanderlust experience, this would make for the perfect choice too.

Salt and Sill is also yet another unique accommodation, also known as Sweden’s first floating hotel. In fact, some even call it a boatel because all the rooms are situated above the water.

You can also stay at a cabin situated on a mountain pasture and go glamping at the beach or by a lake.

The Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago is Sweden’s biggest attraction and hidden gem at the same time. Missing it is like going to Egypt and missing out on the pyramids.

In a few words, Stockholm Archipelago is a mix of great local cuisine, adventure, islands, and nature. But because it’s so vast, a lot of people don’t know where to start. And so, it depends on your schedule.

If you’re on a tight schedule, Vaxholm, Fjäderholmarna, and Gustavsberg are all excellent options. But if you have more time and are looking for excursions, Grinda, Nåttarö, Möja, and Utö are perfect. Other places to visit in the Stockholm Archipelago include:

What is there to do in the Stockholm Archipelago? A ton.

For active travelers, you can go cycling, hiking, and kayaking. Svartso is known for its beautiful bike trails and is also one of the best places to go swimming. You can also visit many of the historic museums located on several islands. Camping is a popular activity and offers some of the most breathtaking sites.

And of course, don’t miss out on the local cuisine either. Vaxholm is home to a lot of local food options. A must-try is herring. For sweet tooths, Grinda offers the oh-so-famous Grinda bread and a local specialty: cinnamon buns.

Lastly, and for those in the mood to shop, Sandon has plenty of upmarket boutiques. This is only scratching the surface when it comes to the list of things you can do in the Stockholm Archipelago.

But rest assured, you’ll have a fantastic time exploring Sweden’s hidden gem attraction.

Is Norway or Sweden Better?

Both Norway and Sweden offer gorgeous scenery, outdoor adventure, and a ton of places to slow down and relax.

In fact, both are fantastic options for seeing the Northern Lights. And when it comes to accommodations or food, both countries excel without question.

But one of the biggest draws that separate Sweden from Norway is getting around.

Norway is so vast that it takes more time to get from one attraction to the other. Unless you have a specific itinerary in mind like visiting fjords and hiking solely. But if you’re after all of Norway’s beauty, you’ll need a lot of time and money to see them all.

Sweden, in comparison, offers travelers convenient public transportation. This means being able to see plenty of attractions in a short amount of time. But while Sweden is a lot easier to get around to see its many attractions, there’s one more factor to consider.

If you’re a hardcore outdoor enthusiast, Norway is the better choice. All the more if you love hiking and exploring.

For those in need of a relaxing vacation, either Norway or Sweden is an excellent choice. Although, you may be able to save slightly more in Sweden.

Needless to say, both are spectacular destinations worth visiting. Plus, both are some of the safest countries to travel as well.

Sweden vs. Norway Economy

Sweden and Norway are some of the wealthiest countries in the world. This means both countries have great economies. However, the main difference between Norway and Sweden is in terms of GDP and GDP per capita.

Sweden’s GDP is higher than Norway’s, and arguably the country with the highest GDP as of this writing. That said, Norway has a higher GDP per capita, or the amount of money each individual gets.

What this translates to is Sweden has higher economic activity as a country. However, Norway’s higher GDP per capita reflects higher prosperity overall. In other words, the best way to measure GDP per capita is through living standards.

Is Norway Richer Than Sweden?

If you consider the GDP data and oil business of Norway, the country is richer than Sweden. And many will agree that Norway is indeed about 20% more prosperous than Sweden.

There are a few, though, that will say otherwise. Mainly in the industrial capital investment sector. In other words, Sweden’s plan for industrialization and sustainability is said to be much more advanced than Norway’s. As a result, some believe this asset makes Sweden richer.

This may also be a huge factor as to why Sweden’s GDP ranks as one of the highest in the world.

Norway vs. Sweden GDP?

Sweden’s GDP is much higher than Norway’s, with an annual GDP of around 541 billion in 2022. Norway, on the other hand, recorded a GDP of 362.5 billion. Over a 5-year term, Statista also records that the GDP growth rate of Sweden is around 2.7% while Norway’s is 1.7%.

Is Norway More Expensive or Cheaper Than Sweden?

Norway is more expensive to live in than Sweden. According to the site livingcost , Norway’s cost of living is 35% more expensive than Sweden’s. And even the consumer data from the site Numbeo also records Norway as the more expensive country.

To give you some insight, consumer prices in Norway are 28% higher than in Sweden. Groceries are about 30% higher as well in Norway than in Sweden.

Cost of living aside, Norway is also more expensive to visit than Sweden. Although there’s more to see and do in Norway, the travel distance between each place can easily add up to your total budget.

That being said, Sweden is also quite expensive even for tourists. For the most part, food and accommodation will be your biggest expenses if you visit either country. And should you plan on doing a lot of excursions, transport costs in Norway can be fairly substantial.

Do Norway and Sweden Use the Same Currency?

Norway and Sweden have different currencies, as does every Nordic country. The currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Whereas in Sweden, the currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK).

Norway vs. Sweden Tourism

There’s no contest when it comes to tourism for both Norway and Sweden. Both are equally highly visited countries.

In fact, both rank high in regard to sustainable tourism. And the data reveals that both countries saw an annual tourist count of 5 million.

Norway or Sweden for Northern Lights?

Norway and Sweden are some of the best places to see the Northern Lights, along with Iceland and Finland. However, many will say Norway is the best place for seeing the Northern Lights if you want to catch one dancing over fjords and waterfalls.

But generally, any Nordic destination is a great choice. Mainly because Nordic countries like Sweden and Norway lie in the aurora zone.

The best time for seeing the Northern Lights is in November, December, and January. The downside though is that the weather can be brutal during these months. If you decide to visit during this time, this may warrant booking a tour so it’s easier to find the best place to spot one.

Safe to say, you can practically see the Northern Lights even from the city center in either country. And what matters in being able to catch a full glimpse of this spectacle is the time of day.

Typically, any time past 6 pm offers the highest chances possible. In Norway, the best places to see the Northern Lights lie in the northern area. Tromsø is by far the best place to go in Norway, along with the following:

• Lofoten Islands

In Sweden, the best place for seeing the Northern Lights is in Abisko National Park located near Kiruna.

Is There a Border Between Sweden and Norway?

Technically, there is a national border between Sweden and Norway but is not considered a hard border. In other words, Norwegians and free to move from Norway to Sweden and vice versa.

You’ll spot a sign that says “Svergie.” If you follow the trail along this sign, it indicates you’re heading to Sweden. From Sweden to Norway, you’ll also spot the sign “Norge.”  What this means is there are no strict borders that prevent one from visiting either country.

Geographically, Norway and Sweden are part of the Schengen Area. This also means there are no immigration controls when traveling between Norway and Sweden.

Sweden–Norway Border Snowmobile Trail

The Sweden–Norway border runs from Idefjorden located in Bohuslan to Treriksroset. This border spans a total of 1,010 miles (1,630 km). The only reason why it’s sometimes referred to as a snowmobile trail is it turns into a snowy route during winter.

Although the snowmobile trail is generally free to cross, there is one thing worth noting. And it’s that riding a snowmobile for fun is considered illegal in Norway. But in Sweden, it’s legal. This isn’t to say snowmobiling is completely illegal in Norway.

However, if you’re snowmobiling for recreational purposes, there are a few special trails that don’t allow doing so.

Norway–Sweden Border Shopping

Near the Norway–Sweden border is the Charlottenbergs Shopping Center. Because it’s so close to the Norway–Sweden border, a lot of people refer to it as cross-border shopping.

Its complete address is 1 Helga Goerlins Gata, Charlottenberg 673 32 Sweden. According to Google Maps, it’s along Kungsvagen road.

Is Norway and Sweden the Same?

Norway and Sweden are different in a lot of ways. Both are similar when it comes to unique landscapes and outdoor activities. But in terms of differences, there’s a lot to mention.

For starters, Sweden has the most efficient public transport system in the world. That shouldn’t come as a shock since Sweden is famous for its technologically advanced and innovative designs. However, Norway is several notches above Sweden in terms of environmental friendliness.

In fact, Norway’s capital, Oslo, is one of the greenest cities in the world. It’s no question that Norway has been constantly praised for its green spaces. This also includes its forests, parks, landscapes, and more.

Safe to say, Norway is the better choice when it comes to nature. That’s not all. Norway has a massive coastline and is home to a lot of great beaches.

Sweden, on the other hand, constantly ranks high for its culture, history, and fascinating cities and landmarks. After all, Sweden is also one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

These are just some of the differences to note between Sweden and Norway. So, you might also be wondering, are Sweden and Norway in the same league when it comes to natural beauty?

It depends. Because Norway’s fjords, green landscape, and outdoor wilderness are what makes the country so beautiful to visit. While in Sweden, its parks, cities, landmarks, and islands also give tourists a breathtaking scene.

Is Norway and Sweden in the EU?

Sweden is part of the European Union (EU) but Norway isn’t. Rather, is part of the European Economic Area (EEA) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

Is Norway in Sweden?

Norway is not in Sweden. Both are countries located geographically separate from one another. Based on the world map, it’s clear that Norway is not located in Sweden. Although both share a border, this doesn’t mean Norway is located in Sweden and Sweden in Norway.

Is Norway Near Sweden?

Norway is quite near to Sweden so much so that you can drive from one country to the other.

Norway to Sweden Distance

According to Google Maps, the distance between Norway and Sweden is about 473 miles (761.3 km) via car. The most popular route is Route E6 which stretches from Kirkenes, Norway, to Trelleborg, Sweden. It’s the most scenic route where you’ll be able to see a lot of fjords and mountains along the way.

Is Sweden Bigger Than Norway?

Among all the Nordic countries, Norway is the largest followed by Sweden. Norway’s area size amounts to approximately 241,313.8 square miles (625,000 square km). Whereas Sweden’s is 172,587.7 square miles (447,000 square km).

Despite having a larger area size, Norway’s population is less dense, having a total of about 5.5 million. While in Sweden, the total population is around 10.4 million.

Norway vs. Sweden Culture

Just as how Norway is different from Sweden in the scenery, both also have cultural differences. Taking a closer look at each country’s heritage alone already tell you that Norway and Sweden have a different culture.

For instance, did you know Norwegians have a British-Irish heritage? And for the Swedes, it’s typically a Finnish/Russian/Baltic heritage.

An obvious cultural difference between the two is language. Norway has two official languages: Sami and Norwegian. While in Sweden, their language is Swedish or Svenska.

Norwegians are also known to be more nationalistic while Swedes are more open-minded.

Even in a business setting, both are also different from each other. Norwegians are more individualistic and make quicker decisions. Whereas Swedes lean more towards planning and following through on those plans.

Another notable difference is that Norway has a stronger outdoor culture. While Sweden has a stronger indoor culture. Another way of looking at it is Norwegians are more outdoorsy or rugged whereas Swedes are more of homebodies.

A good way to describe this difference is how their Sundays would look like. In Norway, activities lean more towards a hike to the mountains or forest and having a cozy lunch there. This is also known as søndagstur. In Sweden, a typical Sunday is termed as fika, or coffee break.

Do Norway and Sweden Speak the Same Language?

Norway and Sweden speak different languages. The official language in Sweden is Swedish and Norwegian in Norway.

Was Norway Part of Sweden?

Norway used to be a part of Sweden. In fact, all of Scandinavia used to be united under a single crown. This was also known as the Kalmar Union and remained this way for at least a century.

Sweden eventually separated and it wasn’t till about 1814 that Norway became in union with Sweden. This union continued for another 100 years until Norway finally gained independence.

Why Did Sweden and Norway Split?

A lot of tension already existed between the two countries during the Napoleonic wars. However, it was when Norway didn’t have its own foreign service missions did it lead to the country fighting for its freedom.

Without having its own foreign service missions, this made it clear that Norway carried a lesser role in the union.

When Did Sweden and Norway Split?

Sweden and Norway split in 1905. Norway passed a law to establish it as a separate diplomatic service.

Do Norway and Sweden Get Along?

Norwegians and Swedes do get along, contrary to popular belief. It may not always seem the case considering their long history since 1397. Although there were a few feuds that arose during their union, any bitterness is long gone.

And if you ever hear Norwegians and Swedes bickering and bantering, it’s all in good humor and fun.

Are Norway and Sweden Socialist?

Norway and Sweden, along with other Nordic countries embraced socialism for a time. This happened between 1970 and 1990. Many believe though that Norway and Sweden still uphold socialist policies, this isn’t true.

Because as it currently stands, Norway and Sweden are centrist. While socialists are generally leftist in nature, centrists believe there are no left- and right-wing policies. Rather, centrists believe in policies that work best for a given place and time.

Some may still say that centrists are socialists, but at the same time, it’s also what people say about capitalists. However, it’s more accurate to say that in some ways, you can be a socialist. And in some ways, you can also be centrist.

But on a technical level, Norway and Sweden aren’t socialists.

Sweden to Norway

It’s easy to travel from Sweden to Norway and vice versa using several modes of transport. You can take the bus, train, ferry, or even a plane from Sweden to Norway. Traveling via plane will give you the quickest travel time, but taking the train is the most scenic and enjoyable.

Norway to Sweden Travel Time

The travel time from Norway to Sweden depends on the mode of transport you’re using. If you’re traveling via plane, it only takes one hour from Norway to Sweden. If you’re using a rental car, bus, or train, the average travel time is around five hours.

Lastly, if you’re taking the ferry, you’re looking at a total travel time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Norway to Sweden Distance by Flight

The air travel distance from Norway to Sweden is 350 miles or 563 kilometers.

Sweden to Norway by Ferry

There are two ferry lines that service the ferry route from Sweden to Norway: Fjord Line and Color Line. The routes usually depart from Stromstad and arrive in Sandefjord.

It’s worth noting that Fjord Line offers two daily departures, and Color Line offers four daily departures. You can also book online for convenience.

Norway to Sweden by Train

Taking the train from Norway to Sweden is one of the most popular options for tourists. But not solely because it’s affordable. Taking the train also provides a scenic experience, being able to see the landscape of Scandinavia. This includes fjords, mountains, forests, lakes, and more.

On average, the travel time from Norway to Sweden takes about six hours. The usual route is from Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, to Norway’s capital, Oslo. You’ll also find several railway companies that offer the Norway–Sweden service.

There are three types of trains you can take from Norway to Sweden: SJ trains, NSB trains, and Flamsbana trains.

All three offer unique services. For instance, SJ trains are high-speed trains that offer services similar to what you’d find on an express route.

Flamsbana trains offer a scenic rail journey, and NSB trains offer regional and local train route services. NSB trains also come with sleeping compartments for overnight rides.

Norway to Sweden Train Cost

The cost from Norway to Sweden via train is 500 to 700 Norwegian Krone or NOK (USD 50.08 to 70.11 at 0.10 NOK a dollar).

How Far Is Norway From Sweden by Train?

The railway distance from Norway to Sweden is 259.1 miles (417 km). The fastest train travel time takes approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes. This is the case if you’re taking a high-speed train.

Sweden to Norway Train Duration

The fastest travel time from Sweden to Norway takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes. On average, the travel time takes roughly six hours.

Sweden to Norway Bus

Taking the bus from Sweden to Norway is the cheapest among all options, but also the longest. The average travel time is approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes.

The bus departs from the Stockholm terminal and arrives at the Oslo terminal. If you want to take the bus, note that there are 3 bus trips daily. Bus ticket prices range from 336.7 to 431.4 Swedish Krona or SEK (USD 32 to 41 at 0.095 SEK a dollar).

You can buy your tickets directly at the Stockholm terminal or online for convenience.

Norway to Sweden by Car

Norway to Sweden by car is a great option if you want a scenic drive and see beautiful landscapes along the way. The travel time takes between seven to nine hours. However, this also depends on how many stops you make along the way.

According to several travelers who have driven from Norway to Sweden, the journey can even take 12 hours. Of course, this also includes making stops along the way, taking pictures, grabbing some grub, etc.

Many also suggest taking the E6 North route to get the most out of your trip. There are a lot of highways and routes you can take from Norway to Sweden, so it shouldn’t be a hassle to drive at all. Not to mention, Google Maps also provide several routes for you to decide.

Best Way to See Norway and Sweden

Train travel is the best and most scenic way to experience Norway and Sweden. Because Norway and Sweden offer so much to do and see, it’s easy to splash most of your money on tours. This undoubtedly racks up costs, expenses, and your overall budget.

Also, you can save major attractions as organized tours. The Stockholm Archipelago in Sweden for example can be done either at your own pace or through a tour. However, it’s better to consider a tour since the Stockholm Archipelago has so much to see that you might feel clueless as to where to start.

Don’t also miss out on Sweden’s cities and cultural landmarks, like its castles, palaces, and more. These are some of the highlights of visiting Sweden, and one of the best ways to experience the country.

The best way to experience Norway? It depends on what you’re looking for.

Norway has more than enough for adventurists and solitude seekers. So if you’re after adventure, hiking, and mountains, there are tours that offer this kind of itinerary.

For those who are after an escape, there are tons of parks stretched throughout Norway worth seeing. Or, spend a little more for unique accommodations in Norway. This is in fact one of the best ways to see it after all. Think mountain cabins, sea cabins, and arctic domes.

Last but not least, the Arctic Circle is also one of the best ways to see and experience Norway.

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Finland Vs. Sweden Vs. Norway: Nordic Wonderland

Finland, Sweden, and Norway are three beautiful Nordic countries. They all have stunning nature, rich economies, and some of the happiest people on the planet. But is one country better than the others?

Probably not, but let’s compare them and see! In this detailed comparison of Finland, Sweden, and Norway, I’ll try to cover all the important things and help you decide which of these countries is the best fit for you. I’ll talk about the cost of living, culture, language, fabulous nature, and all the other things that make these three Nordic countries so irresistible to travelers!

Norway Has Fjords & Mountains

Norway is known as the land of fjords, mountains, and trolls. The landscape of this country is exceptionally beautiful even without colorful lights dancing in the night sky. But they certainly help enhance it.

Such a diverse landscape invites people to explore it, so Norway is known as the land of hikers and outdoor lovers. It’s also a reason why Scandinavian architecture boasts such large windows – the outdoors are just too pretty to look at.

Sweden Has Forests

Sweden is known as the land of endless forests. And IKEA! The country is 57% forest, so really is anyone surprised that they came up with IKEA? It’s also one of the richest economies in the world, and a lot of people perceive it as a modern utopia.

Swedes love to hike, build their own furniture, and take coffee breaks. They love their coffee breaks so much they have a special word for it – fika. So, if you ever get invited to one of those, don’t miss out!

Finland Has Lakes

Finland is known as the land of the thousand lakes, which is probably the biggest understatement in the world. There are about 188,000 lakes in Finland, so you see why that statement is not exactly appropriate. But so many lakes and so much forest makes for great hiking , that’s for sure!

It’s also one of the coldest countries in the world, so it’s no surprise that Finns are huge coffee drinkers. They’re number one in the world actually, with an average consumption of 10kg per capita. The cold is also the reason why they’re so into saunas – the country has more than 2 million saunas for its 5 million people!

Language/Culture

The Nordic languages all sound the same to outsiders, but there are many differences between them. There are two distinct groups of Nordic languages – North Germanic and Finno-Ugric. The North Germanic category includes Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Icelandic, while the Finno-Ugric category includes only the Finnish language.

In practice, this means that Swedes and Norwegians can understand a little bit of each other’s languages even if they don’t necessarily speak it, but they won’t understand a word of Finnish – that’s how different the language is.

In some companies in Sweden and Norway, the jobs require you to speak just one of the two languages, regardless of the country you’re in. English is also widely spoken throughout Nordic countries, with as many as 90% of the population speaking it in Sweden.

It’s estimated that around 70% and 80% of people speak English in Finland and Norway, respectively. And most of those are fluent speakers, so it’ll be very easy to make friends. On top of that, various dialects are also spoken throughout Sweden, Norway, and Finland, and they’re different from standardized languages.

When it comes to culture, these three countries share more similarities than differences. Sure, there are certain traditions and norms that are unique to each country, but they’re generally more similar to each other than to other European countries.

Norwegians have their brown cheese, Swedes have their fika (coffee break), and Finns have their saunas, which are just some of the things that are staple for each country.

Something that most Nordic people share is a love for the outdoors. Who can blame them – all three countries are so incredibly beautiful that it’s a shame to waste time indoors, even if it’s extremely cold outside.

Most people who live in Sweden, Norway, and Finland are good at winter sports, especially skiing. And that makes sense, considering that all three countries have parts that are covered with snow throughout the year.

And it’s not just skiing that Nordic people like to do in the winter. They’re a crazy bunch – they like to go surfing in the winter because that’s when they get the highest waves. This is especially common in Norway, so in case you’re also crazy and you want to surf in ice-cold water while it’s freezing outside, you will fit in perfectly!

The love Nordic people have for the outdoors results in a very high percentage of environmentally conscious people in all three countries. It’s ingrained in them from the start, and recycling, eco-friendliness, and sustainability are all extremely important in Norway, Sweden, and Finland.

Another thing that is ever-present in all three countries is a great work/personal life balance. One could argue that is the exact reason why people are so happy to live there, and why the living standards are so high in all three countries.

And it’s not just the balance, it’s the entire work culture – there’s just much less stress and rush. It’s common for businesses to close down for the entire month of July because that’s when the weather is the nicest and it’s the best time for a vacation.

Finally, you should get used to boats. Sweden, Norway, and Finland are the top three countries (respectively) by the number of islands they have. Sweden has more than 267,000 islands, and a measly 984 of those are inhabited. Hundreds of islands are without road connections, so a lot of people just use boats to get around. Ferries are also common, especially in Norway.

Cost Of Living  

All three countries have very high living standards so they’re all expensive. It’s expensive to visit them, and unless you’re making serious money, you shouldn’t even consider moving to one of these countries permanently.

I mean you can consider it, but it’s unlikely you’ll actually get citizenship. Norway, Sweden, and Finland all accept a lot of asylum seekers, and they’ve had some trouble with immigrants in the past few years. It was difficult to get a work visa before, and it’s almost impossible now unless you already got a job or are making enough money to sustain yourself.

It’s worth noting that the exact cost of living heavily depends on the city/village you’re living in. Naturally, it costs a lot less money to live in a quaint seaside village than in the capital city, but you’ll have fewer things to do. Consider living in the big cities if you enjoy going out to bars and restaurants, walking around museums, and just being in the center of all action.

On the other hand, if you prefer to live in a more peaceful setting with as few neighbors as possible, you could benefit from staying in a small town or a village. Especially if you love being outdoors, hiking, trekking, mountain biking, and everything else that comes with it.

Also, if you were to move to one of these countries, you would eventually need to get a car, preferably an all-terrain vehicle. They’re very common in Nordic countries because they’re pretty much the only way to get around when the winter comes.

Cost Of Travel 

What about the cost of travel? The Nordic countries are extremely expensive for tourists, but they’re worth every single penny. Norway is the most expensive for travelers with high accommodation prices and tourist experiences. Also, the country’s diverse landscape and rugged coast make it extremely difficult (and expensive) to get around the country.

It’s worth noting that AirBnBs are much more affordable than hotels, so consider staying in one if you’d rather not blow your entire budget on accommodation.

If you’re trying to travel north from Oslo, the cheapest option is to fly there. Trains aren’t that popular in Norway, buses can get you to some places but not to all, and driving is common but very expensive.

Norwegians have tolls for driving inside cities, they have toll roads and bridges, and gas prices are some of the highest in the world. Car rental is also expensive with outrageous fees if you want to pick up the car in one town and leave it in another.

Sweden and Finland are not as expensive as Norway, but they’re still very expensive. Naturally, the exact amount of money you need to visit one of these countries depends on what you want to do.

If you just want to rent an Airbnb in the mountains and spend your time exploring the outdoors, you’ll need a lot less money than if you want to stay in the center of Stockholm or Helsinki and go out every night. It’s generally cheaper to stay in places that are not as frequented by tourists, so small towns and villages.

It’s worth noting that Sweden (Stockholm in particular) has one of the best public transportation systems in Europe. It’s fairly easy to get around the country, and even driving is easier than in Norway.

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Finland, especially for connections between smaller cities. Trains also run between major towns in the south, but the railway network in the northern parts of Finland is pretty much non-existent.

On the other hand, even some of the smaller towns can have extortionate prices if they’re close to popular tourist locations. If you’re considering renting an apartment outside of a big city and then traveling to that big city every day, don’t do it. You’ll spend so much money on transportation costs that you might as well pay for the expensive big city apartment.

It’s also worth noting that the prices depend on the season. The southern parts of all three countries see more tourists in the summer when the weather is warm enough that swimming in the sea is an option. As a result, the prices of accommodation and tourist packages are higher during this period, and even some transportation options see an increase in prices.

The northern parts of all three countries and Lapland in particular get more tourists in the winter. The places above the Arctic Circle are ideal for Northern Lights viewings, and hordes of people flock to Sweden, Finland, and Norway to chase the Aurora. Again, the increased influx of tourists results in higher prices of accommodation and tourist packages.

Exploring the Nordic countries on a budget means visiting in the off-season. Spend the summer in Tromso and see the Midnight Sun instead of the aurora, and head to Helsinki in the winter and learn to love the saunas.

The Nordic countries are generally perceived as cold, but that’s not entirely true. Sure, all three countries have very cold winters, but the exact temperatures and conditions depend a lot on your exact location. All three countries also have different climates in different regions, with the coldest climates in the north and warmest in the south.

Sweden reaches south the furthest – all the way to Denmark – and it’s the warmest out of these three Nordic countries. It also helps that Norway shields it from the Atlantic Ocean and its cold winds. 

Sweden can be divided into three regions with distinct climates. Central and southern Sweden is the first region, with cold but short winters and mild summers similar to those of southern England. The crucial difference is that Sweden gets a lot more hours of daylight, which actually makes those summers much more enjoyable.

Northeast Sweden has much colder winters, but the summers are still surprisingly mild. The far north of the country has the most extreme winters, with sub-zero temperatures in the double digits. Summers in this part of the country are short and the weather changes a lot, but temperatures often reach a comfortable 20 degrees Celsius.

Norway extends furthest to the north out of these three countries, and it’s actually home to the northernmost point in Europe that is accessible by car – the North Cape. The climate in Norway is very similar to the climate in Sweden, but there are a few differences to note. For one, Norway doesn’t extend as far south, so it’s going to have a slightly colder climate even in its southernmost parts.

Also, Norway has a much larger coast than Sweden, and these parts of the country generally enjoy a milder climate than the inland areas. I’m talking about the western coast – the far northern coast of Norway boasts a cold climate with extremely cold winters and barely existent summers.

Finland is the coldest of the three countries, with a predominantly subarctic climate. The southern coast has a mild continental climate with enjoyable summers and temperatures that are between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius in the summer. However, in the north of the country, the night temperature frequently drops below 10 degrees Celsius even during the warmest months.

The Finnish Lapland is particularly cold, with temperatures that often drop below -20 degrees Celsius in the winter. The proximity to Russia is one of the reasons for such a cold climate since the weather in Finland is heavily influenced by cold air masses from Russia. Because of that, the northern and eastern parts of the country that border with Russia are the coldest areas of Finland.

Things To Do/Going Out

When it comes to the prices of meals, drinks, movie tickets, and more, all three of these countries are very expensive when compared to the rest of Europe. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will set you back 80-100 Euros, a glass of beer is anywhere from 6-10 Euros, and a cappuccino is between 3-5 Euros in most cafes.

It’s worth noting that these are the average prices in Oslo, Helsinki, and Stockholm – going out in smaller towns is certainly going to be cheaper. I’m sure you can find cheaper restaurants even in the capital cities, but I can’t speak to the quality of service you’ll get in those locales.

You can save hundreds, if not thousands of Euros a month if you just cook at home instead of eating out, no matter which of these countries we’re talking about. Finland and Sweden have similar prices of groceries, and Norway is about 20% more expensive than both.

Another thing worth mentioning here is that all three countries offer countless ways to entertain yourself that are entirely free of charge. I’m talking about hiking trails, mountain peaks, lakes, and all the other amazing nature waiting to be discovered.

You don’t have to spend a dime – just put on your best hiking boots and find the nearest trailhead. It’s a great way to explore more of the country you’re in, you get to enjoy some magnificent views, and you’re discovering new things as you go.

I haven’t even mentioned the most entertaining thing about all three countries, which would be the Aurora Borealis. It’s pricey to chase the aurora for visitors, but if you’re living in Scandinavia and you own a car, it costs nothing (except for gas) to go and chase the dancing lights on your own.

Millions of people visit these countries each winter just to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, just imagine how awesome it would be to live in a country where you can literally wake up to that sight.

Winter sports are also very popular in all three countries and you really should get some skiing lessons if you decide to move permanently.

Best Country To Visit?

You should visit all three countries if you can – they are all incredibly beautiful in their own way, and each has something special to offer to visitors. But if you can only visit one of them, it really should be Norway.

The fjords, the Northern Lights , and the spectacular mountains are just something you need to see with your eyes. Norway boasts a more diverse and attractive landscape than the other two countries, which is what makes it the perfect destination for people who enjoy spending time outdoors.

If you’re into camping, hiking, swimming, mountain biking, and pretty much anything that takes place outside, you should go to Norway.

Also, Norway has some of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, so it’s easily the top option if that’s the type of trip you are planning. Tromso in particular is widely regarded as a great place to chase the Aurora thanks to its location above the Arctic Circle.

And they have their fair share of stunning architecture, interesting museums, and unique attractions. Visit an old Viking longhouse, spend the night in a hotel built out of ice, and go on a reindeer sleigh ride to see what it feels like to be Santa for an evening!

Best Country To Live In?

Finland is the best country to live in and for one crucial reason – it was rated as the happiest country in the world for four years in a row, which beats living expenses, scenic landscapes, and popular landmarks by a mile. If you’re going to pack your bags and move to a Nordic country where it’s always cold, you might as well live among happy people.

It’s worth noting that all the Nordic countries are in the top ten of the World Happiness Report 2021 . It’s related to the unique balance of work and private life that people have in these countries, which isn’t that present in the rest of Europe.

Great welfare, paid leave, and shorter workdays are just some of the reasons, but they’re obviously impactful enough to make people living in these countries some of the happiest in the world.

Sweden is a close second, and it should be the first choice for families and couples who want to have children. Their education system is amazing, both parents get up to 16 months of parental leave, and they have an excellent healthcare system that’s mostly funded by taxpayers.

Sweden is one of the best countries in the world for women because they take equal pay and gender equality in general seriously.

RELATED POST: OSLO VS STOCKHOLM

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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Scandinavia trip planning: which country should you go to?

If you have been to We12travel before, you may know that nordic destinations are my favorite places to travel. The definition of nordic destinations is of course quite broad, but with ‘nordic’ I mean the outer ends of this planet. In other words, Scandinavia, Canada and Alaska, but also Patagonia and New Zealand, which are not located in the north, but resemble northern destinations in nature. I’m not necessarily interested in the mountains (because you also have those in the Alps and Nepal, for example), but it’s more about the feeling that you get while there. The relaxed atmosphere, the wooden houses, the roughness of the landscape and the mostly cool temperatures. People who recognize it probably know what I mean.   Although the northern countries in Scandinavia may not be at the top of your bucket list, they are all definitely worth a visit. Each destination has its own charm and landscapes. In this article I list the countries of Scandinavia for you. If you are interested in going north, this article will certainly help you make your Scandinavia trip planning much easier and will hopefully tell which is the best Scandinavian country to visit for you!  

Table of Contents | Inhoudsopgave

What are the Scandinavian countries?

Your first time in Scandinavia: what to expect

Travel in Norway

Norway highlights:

Below you’ll find some of the highlights of Norway. Very personal and certainly not complete, but useful if you are interested in a Norway trip:   – Fjord Norway (in particular the Nærøyfjord and Geirangerfjord when there are no cruise ships) – The Hardangervidda plateau – City trip in Bergen (possibly with a visit to the fjords) – The northern islands of Lofoten, Vesterålen and possibly Senja Island – The glaciers of Jostedalsbreen National Park and Folgefonna National Park  

Why Norway?

Stunning nature, delicious food, freedom camping (to a certain extent), whales and Northern Lights. Disappointments in Norway are the North Cape (very busy, I have heard of it because never bothered to go there) and the often rainy weather. I also found the Hardangerfjord less beautiful than expected. In addition, Norway really is the worst when it comes to high prices and is therefore not exactly a destination for budget travelers.  

My Norwegian favorites:

– Salmon. Salmon. Salmon. And again salmon. – The thrillers by author Jo Nesbø – Het Every Man’s Right (with restrictions) – The fjords – The most beautiful glaciers in Europe accessible over land   Want to read more? These are my favorite Norway blogs: – A summer vacation in Åkrafjorden, Norway – Biking in Norway: an amazing ride from fjord to fjell – The most amazing viewpoints in Fjord Norway   Or read all my Norway blogs and articles here .  

Book your Norway trip

Travel in Sweden

Sweden highlights

– Stockholm and Gothenburg – The Sånfjället and Fulufjället National Parks – Reindeer, moose and possibly bears – Arctic Sweden around Jokkmokk and Kvikkjokk – The islands off the coast near Stockholm and Gothenburg  

Why Sweden?

Sweden is super relaxed. It certainly does not have as many tourists as Norway and Iceland. It’s less busy, there’s fewer rules and less densely populated areas. Whereas in Norway you’ll always see a (holiday) cottage on almost every square kilometer, you can really drive for miles in Sweden without encountering anything. In addition, Sweden is easily accessible by car, via the bridge between Copenhagen and Malmö. The places that disappointed me in Sweden were Skåne (too many meadows), Kiruna and the busy spots in Stockholm in recent years.  

My Swedish favorites

– Swedish tv crime series (especially The Killing, Midnight Sun and Arne Dahl) – Swedish thrillers (especially Camilla Läckberg, Lars Kepler, Henning Mankell) – Daim chocolate – Cinnamon buns and fika (coffee with something tasty) – The Every Man’s Right – Drive on the E45 – the road to the north – A winter holiday in Sweden – Hiking the Kungsleden (King’s Trail)   Want to read more? These are my favorite Sweden blogs: – Hiking the Kungsleden Trail: a true Nordic adventure – Hiking and camping in the Swedish wilderness – 5 Really cool outdoor things to do in Småland   Or read all my Sweden articles here .  

Book your Sweden trip

Travel in Finland

Finland highlights

– Finnish Lappland in winter – Huskies, snowmobiling, Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) – Helsinki (and I liked Tampere too, by the way)  

Why Finland?

As I said, I would really only recommend Finland as a winter destination. In the summer, for example, Sweden and Norway have much more to offer in terms of natural beauty. However, if you are crazy about forests, lakes and mosquitoes then Finland in the summer is really something for. You can also see bears in the far north, but they are usually attracted with food. Since I am really opposed to that, I would never opt for such an experience myself. Wildlife just has to stay wild and should not be fed. Santa Clause Village near Rovaniemi is also really terribly touristy and you’d better skip it!  

My Finnish favorites

– Sauna’s – Helsinki – Huskies – Jari Litmanen (thinking back of my youth) – Finnish metal music – Sunset near one of the many lakes   Want to read more? Go here to read all my Finland articles.  

Book your Finland trip

Travel in Iceland

Iceland highlights

– The Snæfellsnes peninsula – The interior (only accessible with a 4WD) – Jökülsárlón and Fjallsárlón iceberg lakes – The Golden Circle – Hiking between the hot springs  

Why Iceland?

You cannot compare Iceland to any other country. The quirky but very friendly Icelanders do everything to make you happy. You can see northern lights in the winter, whales all year round and cross the interior highlands with a 4WD in the summer. You can also make super amazing hikes, walk to an abandoned aircraft wreck and visit various volcanoes. The Blue Lagoon is a real tourist trap that is also super expensive. You better visit one of the (free) alternatives to the Blue Lagoon .  

My favorites

– The Westman Islands – Jökülsárlón – Landmannalaugar – A glacier hike on the Sólheimajökul – Puffins – Eating a burger at Hamborgarafabrikkan – The clothing of 66 North and Cintamani   Want to read more? These are my favorite Iceland blogs: – The best places to stay in Reykjavík for any budget – Fjallsárlón or Jökulsárlón: which glacier lagoon should you visit? – What to pack for Iceland in winter: a complete packing list – All you want to know about renting a car in Iceland   Or read all my Iceland articles here .  

Book your Iceland trip

Travel in Denmark

And last but not least there’s Denmark. To be honest, it is my least favorite country in Scandinavia. I have been there on a few occasions on holiday (in a house near Esbjerg) but I cannot remember that I found it very impressive as a nature lover. This does not change the fact that there is plenty to see and do, but a little less for nature lovers than the other Scandinavian countries. Because it has been years since I was on vacation, I don’t have any blogs about it.  

Denmark highlights

– A citytrip Copenhagen – The rocks near Møns Klint – Walking along the endless coast line  

Why Denmark?

I don’t have any children of my own, but I was told that Denmark is a great place to go with your family. There are numerous amusement parks, many holiday homes and everywhere there are good facilities for kids. In addition, it is not too far from the Netherlands. Copenhagen is perfect for a city trip, although it is a relatively expensive city compared to other Scandinavian cities.  

– The Bridge (series and to drive across) – Walking along the windy coast – Legoland  

Book your Denmark trip

Conclusion and disclaimer of Scandinavia trip planning

Hopefully you found this article about which Scandinavian country is the best to visit useful and will it help you make a choice for which country to choose when you first go north. Although I clearly have my favorite destinations, I have tried to stay as objective as possible. However, as a blogger, I see it as my job to also name less pleasant places / things (such as feeding bears and the Blue Lagoon) and to be honest about them when I know a destination less well.   In this article about the best nordic country to visit you will find affiliate links. If you make a reservation or make a purchase through such a link, I may receive a modest commission, without extra costs for you.  

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Thank you for these tips! I’m just planning my winter trip to Finland and this has me so excited 🙂 Lots of sauna and sleddogs!!

Yaaay … have fun!

All these places call to me! I would love to explore (and hike) in Scandinavia. So far we have only been to Iceland, but I am soooo keen to visit the rest, especially Norway and Sweden.

Hope you can make it there one day!

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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.

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Best of scandinavia classic, related posts, 7 scandinavian cities you need to visit.

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7 amazing scandinavia tour ideas for first-time visitors, why scandinavia is perfect for solo travel.

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If it’s come down to you deciding where to visit in Scandinavia, you may be wondering which is better, Norway or Sweden. We love both of these countries, and we don’t think either will disappoint. Whatever you choose, Norway or Sweden are both great destinations, especially if you’re the outdoorsy type…

With its jagged mountain tops and icy glaciers, mystic fjords, and wild coastline, it’s hard to find another place as beautiful as Norway. The scenery in Sweden may not be quite as dramatic but it’s nonetheless amazing. With nearly 70% of the country covered in forests, Sweden is certainly a great place to escape the city.

In this guide, we will take a look at the most important aspects of traveling to these destinations. From the best cities, the incredible nature that’s on offer, and all the outdoor activities, to what your trip will cost, we can help you decide where to go on your next Scandinavian adventure. 

Table of Contents

Norway or Sweden: Getting there

Whether you are planning to travel to Norway by air, land, or sea, you’ll find plenty of options to get there. With direct flights from all over the world, and low-cost connections from all over Europe, it shouldn’t be tricky to find your way into this beautiful Scandinavian country. You will likely land in one of the country’s many well-connected airports, either Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, or Tromsø. However, if flying is not your cup of tea, you can reach Norway by train, bus, or ship. Most overland connections run through Denmark, Sweden, or Finland.

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Although getting to Norway is not too difficult, Sweden is a bit more accessible to the rest of the world. Sweden’s hip capital city, Stockholm, has been a popular weekend destination for visitors from all over Europe for a long time. That means that it’s super easy to get there, especially with the four international airports on offer, serving over 30 million passengers every year. Plus, there are other large international airports in Gothenburg, and in Malmö (a city that is also easily accessible from Copenhagen in Denmark). Flying is the easiest and the cheapest way to reach Sweden, but you can also get there overland by train, ship, bus, or car.

Winner: Sweden.

Norway or Sweden: Cities

Norway is one of the most beautiful countries on the planet when it comes to nature. However, although it is mostly known for its jagged mountains, endless fjords, and the great outdoors, there are also some cool cities waiting for urban explorers.

• Bergen – Nestled between the mountains and fjords, Bergen is Norway’s second largest city. The UNESCO World Heritage site, Bryggen, features rows of colorful wooden houses on a historical harbor. It’s a magical place, especially in the winter.
• Tromsø – With 24 hours of sunshine in the summer and spectacular Northern Lights in the winter, this arctic city is truly incredible. And it’s bustling with life, offering more bars and clubs per capita than anywhere else in the world, apparently!
• Oslo – It may not be the most popular capital of the Scandinavian trio, but Oslo has a lot to offer. With plenty of art galleries, museums, bars, and restaurants, it is an up-and-coming cultural destination.

For us, though, there is no doubt that the Swedish capital is more picturesque than Oslo, and there are other cities in Sweden worth dropping into:

• Stockholm – The buzzing capital, sprawling across fourteen islands. Each area of Stockholm has its own unique character. There is Gamla Stan, the historical center, home to the royal family, and there is Södermalm, an artsy island with plenty of bohemian cafes and stylish shops and restaurants.
• Gothenburg – The vibrant city of Gothenburg is the second largest in the country. With beautiful architecture and a youthful vibe, this is a great city to visit.  
• Malmö – Connected by a long bridge to Copenhagen, this Swedish city is much closer to Denmark’s capital than to its own. It has been influenced by many cultures, so it’s a great place to taste some eclectic food and explore art and history.

Winner: Sweden, mainly because of Stockholm.

Norway or Sweden: Things to do

Both Norway and Sweden have perfect environments for outdoor activities. From hiking and mountain climbing to kayaking and wild swimming, there are loads of adrenaline pursuits on offer in these Scandinavian locations.

Thanks to the northerly locations both countries enjoy great snow conditions throughout the winter. Both have hosted the Winter Olympics and offer some fantastic skiing conditions. Trysil is the largest ski area in Norway with over 75km of slopes. Sweden’s best ski resort is Åre , with 91km of pistes.

But if you’re not the outdoorsy type, there are also plenty of other things to do in Sweden. Enjoy the amazing café culture, known as fika , and try the famous meatballs in Stockholm, or visit one of the amazing museums like Skansen, Vasa, or the Ikea Museum for design enthusiasts.

In Norway, you could check out Oslo’s amazing dining scene. It’s one of the homes of New Nordic cooking. Alternatively, pay a visit to the National Museum of Art, Architecture, and Design for intriguing exhibits. Norway is also the best place in Scandinavia to watch the fantastic Northern Lights. The prime spots include Tromsø, Kirkenes, The Lofoten Islands, North Cape (Nordkapp) and even remote Svalbard.

Winner: It’s a draw.

Norway or Sweden: Nature

Scandinavia is known for its outstanding natural beauty, and Sweden is no different. Almost 70% of the country is covered in forests, more than anywhere else in Europe. From high mountain peaks in the north to spectacular beaches in the south, there is no shortage of natural beauty in this part of the continent.

There are over 100,000 lakes across the country, with the largest one being Lake Vänern , which stretches for over 145km in length. There are also 29 national parks in Sweden, with perhaps the most spectacular ones being Sarek and Abisko National Parks up in Lapland.

When it comes to natural beauty, though, it’s hard to find another place like Norway. From snowcapped, jaggy mountains and icy glaciers to mystic fjords and stunning coastline, this remote Scandinavian country is a nature-lover’s paradise.

There are 47 national parks and over 3,000 protected areas of unspoiled nature. So, it is no wonder that so many people visit Norway for the outdoors. The majority of the parks are covered by mountains, from rolling hills to rocky summits, making it a true hiker’s mecca.

You can hike around the highest peaks in Jotunheimen National Park, with the highest Galdhøpiggen looming over the horizon. You can enjoy the vast wilderness in Hardangervidda National Park, the largest of the lot. Also, don’t miss Rondane National Park, the oldest park, and an important place for the populations of reindeer. Finally, there’s the youngest park, Lofotodden National Park, with stunning views across the iconic Lofoten archipelago.

Winner: Norway.

Norway or Sweden: Hiking

Is it Norway or Sweden when it comes to hiking? Well, both countries offer plenty of amazing walking trails, so you won’t be disappointed with either.

From plenty of challenging and dramatic peaks that reward you with some breathtaking mountain vistas and green valley walks, to coastal routes and forest trails, Norway is a hiker’s paradise. The iconic Pulpit Rock and the picturesque trails in Romsdalseggen ridge are some of the most popular in the country, at least in our humble opinion.

Sweden may not be as dramatic as Norway but also offers plenty of top-notch hiking. From long-distance, multi-day hikes such as the 440km King’s Trail in the northern part of the country to wooded trails around Hovdala by Finjasjön Lake, Sweden is a great place for lacing up the boots.

Winner: Norway – there’s just more wilderness to hike through.

Norway or Sweden: Prices

It is no secret that visiting anywhere in Scandinavia will cost you some big bucks, and Norway and Sweden are no exception. When you compare the two, however, Sweden is significantly cheaper than Norway, but it is still pricy, nonetheless.

Eating and drinking out in Norway is especially expensive when you compare it with the rest of Europe. You should also be prepared to pay a premium for anything from accommodation to transport, so it really isn’t the most budget-friendly destination on offer. But it doesn’t mean that visiting Norway cannot be done on a tighter budget. Choosing campsites, hostels, or cheap guesthouses over luxurious hotels and cabins can save you a lot of cash.

When it comes to Sweden, you’re actually looking at one of the cheapest countries in Scandinavia. That doesn’t mean it’s cheap, but your budget will stretch further than across the border in Norway. Everything from accommodation to food and drinks is more affordable. In fact, prices are more comparable with those in the UK and Germany.

Winner: Sweden

Norway or Sweden: Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife, both countries place big restrictions on alcohol prices and bar opening times. That means that you will need a lot of cash in your pockets to enjoy the best parties in Norway and Sweden, and you will find it hard to find places open beyond 3 am.

If money isn’t an object, then you won’t be disappointed with Oslo’s wild nightlife scene. From bohemian cocktail bars to stylish nightclubs and live-music venues, the Norwegian capital has a lot up its sleeve. The city center is a great area to stay in if you want to enjoy the best of Oslo’s nightlife.

If you choose Sweden over Norway, however, you might have more options to choose from. Both Stockholm and Gothenburg have strong nightlife scenes with plenty of places that stay open a bit longer than those in Norway’s capital.

A long street on Stockholm’s Södermalm, Götgatan, is dotted with a number of the best nightlife venues, ranging from hipster music bars to craft beer halls and cocktail bars. Other good places around there include the trendy SoFo and Medborgarplatsen.

If you’re staying around Malmö, you can also take a 20-minute train across the border to Copenhagen to enjoy some of the best nightlife that Denmark has to offer.

Norway or Sweden: The conclusion

If it’s come down to deciding between Norway and Sweden, the choice isn’t going to be easy. Norway will deliver on those dramatic mountain vistas and undoubted natural beauty. Sweden, on the other hand, is cheaper and easier to get to. It probably has the more immersive cities and more vibrant nightlife.

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Check out the best seasons for the Nordic countries

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When to visit the Nordic countries

This guide gives you the best tips when visiting Scandinavia and the Nordic countries and the best places to see.

There's plenty to discover and explore in the Nordic countries, which are stunning year-round.

Experience unique Nordic nature, beautiful sandy beaches , Norwegian fjords and waterfalls, the Northern Lights , modern cities and much more.

Best time for the Nordic countries

Scandinavia and all Nordic countries have four seasons, where you can participate in many activities, tours, and attractions.  Outdoor activities are part of the Nordic lifestyle, and you find many different kinds of outdoor things in the Nordics.

• Nordic popular outdoor activities
• Scandinavia Travel Guide

Spring is lovely with blooming flowers, and Summer with long sunny days where you can swim and visit one of the many music festivals. Fall is also great for hiking trips, and in Winter, you can visit some of the many ski resorts,  enjoy indoor “hygge” by the fire, and visit the Christmas markets in Copenhagen.

But the best time to visit depends on what you wish to see and do. In summer, the weather is warmer and more pleasant, and daylight lasts more than 16 hours.

Summer in the Nordic countries

Summer,   June, July and August are great times to visit the Nordic countries and the high season in the Nordics. You have long days; in summer, the Sun comes up around 4:00 and sets around 22:30 in most Scandinavia.

In the Arctic region, the sun is above the horizon in the summer months, and you can experience the Midnight Sun  where the sun never goes below the horizon.

For travellers, June, July, and August are the most popular months for visiting Nordic countries. Many tourists choose these months because of the pleasant temperatures and the sunny weather.

If you prefer milder weather and less crowded tourist attractions, May  or September's shoulder seasons present an appealing alternative. You can get lucky to have good weather for several days in those months.

In spring, summer and fall, you can enjoy activities such as:

• City breaks in the main Nordic cities
• Visit the many Nordic castles and palaces  
• Discover the fantastic fjords in Norway
• Visit one of the many Nordic attractions for kids
• Swimming at one of the most beautiful beaches in Denmark

See also: Weather in Scandinavia  

When to visit Denmark

You can visit  Denmark  in any four seasons, but many tourists visit the country in the spring and the summer.

Especially in May, when the days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and there are lots of outdoor activities to do, and all you'll need is a light jacket. If June isn't an option, July, August and September are good alternatives because the weather is still good and not so rainy.

There are lots of outdoor events in Denmark during those months. However, the summer months of July and August are also the time of year in Denmark when you experience the most tourist crowds. The country is also perfect for a  biking holiday  because of the temperatures and the infrastructure. If you want to go to Denmark to avoid the high travel season, May and September can be viable alternatives when to go to Denmark, and the weather is still mild enough for outdoor activities. Before May and after September is the lower travel time of the year in Denmark, and prices of flights to Denmark and local hotels are lower.

• Highlights in Denmark

When to Visit Sweden

Summer runs from June to August, and Spring from March to May.

Travelling to Sweden in June is an excellent idea to experience outdoor events like Midsummer's Eve and other activities. The weather is quite warm,  and you have long hours of daylight. In the northern part of the Nordic region, you find a unique natural phenomenon called the Midnight Sun, and here the sun is not going down under the horizon.

Also, May and July are great alternatives. It can be rainy in May and June, but July is warmer and drier. July and August can also be slightly more expensive than the earlier summer months, so June is still your best bet for when to go to Sweden.

It is highly recommended in late August and September if you're a budget traveller trying to decide when to go to Sweden. The flights to Sweden will be cheaper than during the high season, along with local hotel prices, and during that time, the weather in Sweden is still mild enough for outdoor attractions, although some sights begin to close during September.

Sweden is a great country to visit in the winter if you want to go skiing and discover the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland.   See more:

• Top highlights in Sweden

When to visit Norway

Most travellers go to Norway in Spring and Summer, especially in June, July and August. That's the time of the Midnight Sun, so you'll get very long days in southern Norway or even sunshine around the clock in northern Norway , and there are many things to do and places to go in Norway. June and July are also the time for Norway's highest tourism levels, so while all sights and attractions will be open, you will see some tourist crowds. So when should you go to Norway to avoid the high travel season? May and September are lovely alternatives to go to Norway and get lower rates - and the weather in Norway will still be mild enough for outdoor activities and sightseeing. For travellers, the cheapest month in Norway is October. The summer is over, but the ski season hasn't started yet. October can be cold, and many outdoor attractions have begun to close.

Highlights in Norway

When to visit finland.

May through September offer the mildest weather and the highest travel volume. Especially early summer - May and June are pleasant in Finland . When you pick when to go to Finland, remember that the Finnish summer holidays are in July, which equals higher prices. After that, August and September have more annual rainfall. In June, the weather in Finland will be warm, outdoor activities and events are commonplace, and you can witness the Midnight Sun. At the other end of the spectrum are the winter travellers. Finland, in the winter months, offers many kinds of activities. If you want to see the Northern Lights, aim for December. It's a pricey time of year, but Christmas in Finland, with all the snow and the local events, is a great experience. Don't forget to visit Rovaniemi , the Santa Claus Village in Lapland . As a winter sports enthusiast, when to go to Finland is not an issue. You will find many flexible choices between January and March, Finland's coldest months.   See more

• Highlights in Finland

  When to visit Iceland

The warmest months, June, July, and August, are the best to visit Iceland. 

The Spring has plenty of unpredictable weather, but spring can be a delightful time to visit Iceland. The country begins to bloom literally, and the emergence of the long winter and brighter, longer days puts locals in an upbeat mood.

Summer in Iceland is peak season. Use Reykjavík as the base for explorations or stay in one of many locations around the countryside. Summer is delightful; the sun barely sets, and enjoy the natural phenomenon of the Midnigh t Sun. You'll have the slightest chance of rain during June, and the weather in Iceland stays mild until late August. Come mid-September, though, almost all of the summer activities will be closed until May of the following year. The colder part of the year is also when flight prices to Iceland fall drastically, and suddenly, the local hotels cut their prices by more than half. Budget travellers wondering when to go to Iceland should aim for February or March. They have more daylight than in the earlier winter months. See more:

• Highlights in Iceland

When to visit Greenland

Greenland falls within the Arctic Circle . In winter, in the Polar darkness, the people there don’t see the sun for three months. This necessarily means no light reaches there in the Arctic region in Greenland . No one enjoys as much sunlight during the summer as Greenland. Even though the summer is precisely hot, per se, it’s enough to give you a good tan on your face. Greenland shares its season cycle with the Arctic.

There are two weather cycles in Greenland, and summer and winter are so different that your experience will vary greatly, in combination with the season when you visit Greenland. The travel season is spread over the summer, winter, and spring. Another important thing is to consider the purposes of your visit. Do you go to Greenland to see the Northern Lights and want to try dog-sledging - October-March is the time to go there.

The high season is between May and September because that’s when the winter ice starts to melt, which gives many exciting options like skiing, boating rides, trips to see the glacier, and some extraordinary polar wildlife like whale watching and experiencing the midnight sun . The amazing Midnight Sun can be explored during the Arctic summertime. Being part of a 24-hour Midnight Sun experience here in the most beautiful natural surroundings in the world is unforgettable.

• Highlights in Greenland

Visit the most beautiful natural sites in the Nordic countries

Top Nordic Experiences

The Ultimate Northern Light Guide

Norway Fjords

Midnight Sun in the Nordic Countries

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Geysir & Strokkur

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Popular Outdoor Activities in Sweden

Popular Outdoor Activities in Norway

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Popular Outdoor Activities in Iceland

Outdoor Activities in Greenland

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Nordic travel guide.

Reasons to Visit Norway

12 Reasons to Visit Denmark

Reasons to Visit Sweden

Reasons to Visit Finland

Reasons to Visit Iceland

Reasons to Visit Greenland

Norway travel guide.

Most popular attractions in Norway

Highlights in Fjord Norway

Top attractions in Northern Norway

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Sweden vs Norway Travel, Which One To Choose First?

When it comes to Sweden vs Norway travel, many people wonder how to decide which country to visit first? This is a tough choice as both Sweden and Norway are unique places with tons of things to do, different cultures, scenery, etc. Besides, that one trip will never be enough for Sweden or Norway since there are so many places that you can still visit even after many years of travel. 

Therefore, the best thing to do is first decide what you would like Sweden or Norway to be for you: a trip with friends or family? A romantic holiday? Or just a solo experience? It might also depend on your time limits as Sweden and Norway are not easy countries to reach from all airports.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Few insights on Sweden vs Norway travel
• 2 Brief History on Sweden vs. Norway travel
• 3 Facts to know before deciding about Sweden vs Norway travel
• 4 Sweden or Norway? Which one and why? 
• 5.1.1 Share this:

Sweden vs Norway Travel 

Sweden is the best option if you are looking for an adventure with friends or family. Sweden has many activities like visiting Sweden’s most beautiful island (Gotska Sandon), seeing Smorgasbourg, Sweden’s open market, and taking a boat trip through the Stockholm archipelago. At the same time, you can go hiking in Norway and visit Oslo and Bergen.

Sweden has excellent cities like Stockholm, Malmo, and Gothenburg, while you can find Trondheim, Alesund, and Bergen in Norway. Sweden is also famous for its nightlife, while Norway’s most popular city is the most friendly of all European capitals. Sweden is also a safe country to travel in, while Norway has a good reputation for its security.

Few insights on Sweden vs Norway travel

Sweden and Norway are among the most liberal countries globally, with Sweden being the most liberal of them all. Sweden is also known for its natural beauty, lakes, and forests, which make it a great experience when visiting Sweden. Sweden is also famous for its architecture, like the Stockholm City Hall, Skuretki church, and Kosta Boda glassware. At the same time, Norway has many significant buildings like the Stave churches or Fjaerland’s wooden houses.

Sweden is seen as a safe place to live in since Sweden has one of the world’s highest life expectancies, Sweden is one of the world’s best-performing economies (and Norway too), Sweden has low unemployment rates, and Sweden also tops many other international comparisons like the Human Development Index.

Sweden also has much more cultural influence than Norway regarding music, movies, etc, which makes Sweden a great place to travel in. I know it is getting difficult to decide about the Sweden vs Norway travel, but read along to and you will have clearer opinion! 

When it comes to Sweden vs Norway travel, Sweden is also much cheaper than Norway. Sweden’s currency could buy you twice the Norwegian money, which means trips are much more affordable to Sweden. Sweden has much more places to visit than Norway, Sweden has eight times more people living in, and Sweden is just slightly bigger than Norway, with Sweden being 173 023 km2 while Norway is 323 426 km2.

Sweden is also more stable than Norway since Sweden is a member of the European Union (and Norway isn’t), and Sweden has one of the world’s strongest currencies (and Norway doesn’t). By now have you figured about your preferences on Sweden vs Norway travel? If not, no worries! We have more to share, so follow through. 

Brief History on Sweden vs. Norway travel

Both are great countries with tons of things to do, different cultures, scenery, etc. Sweden is cheaper than Norway, and Sweden has much more places to visit Sweden. Sweden also has a much better infrastructure than Norway, with Sweden being much more developed than Norway.

Sweden is one of the biggest countries in Europe with a population of 9 million people. Sweden has long been known for its beauty and natural resources, but it’s also becoming more popular for its social benefits. 

Sweden joined the European Union in 1995, but it’s not part of the eurozone currency area (it uses its currency, Sweden crowns). Sweden has free trade, low inflation, and an abundance of jobs. On average, Sweden pays 30 percent more for its goods than other European countries.

Sweden does not have a minimum wage, but it does require employers to provide extensive benefits for its workers, such as heavily subsidized health care and pensions. Sweden’s economic system is based on private business ownership, with competition laws restricting monopolies and oligopolies (dominating control by a small, select few companies).

Sweden has one of the best educational systems globally, which values education highly. Sweden also loves research and information sharing between universities, companies, and other parts of Sweden vs Norway Travel.

Facts to know before deciding about Sweden vs Norway travel

• Sweden is the home of Abba, Ikea, Saab, and Volvos.
• Sweden has long been known for its beauty and natural resources, but it’s also becoming more popular for its social benefits.
• Sweden ranks among the best countries in which to live in the world.
• Sweden ranks highly in all three of the most recognized economic freedom indexes—the Global Competitiveness Report, the Index of Economic Freedom, and The Economic Freedom of the World.
• Sweden’s central bank, Sweden’s Riksbanken (also known as “The Central Bank”), is owned by the Swedish government and plays a pivotal role in Sweden’s monetary policy by setting Sweden’s interest rates.
• Sweden is known for its extensive welfare state and redistributive economy, which together are generally seen as Sweden’s greatest strength. Sweden ranks high in economic competitiveness and scores well on the HDI, ranking above many other countries that use a market economy.
• Sweden also has shallow levels of corruption and legal protection compared to other countries.”

Sweden or Norway? Which one and why? 

Sweden and Norway are the two most beautiful countries in Scandinavia. They both offer unique landscapes, bountiful wildlife, and great outdoor activities like trekking, skiing, and more. With Sweden having all the natural beauty of its neighbors, does that mean that Norway is automatically second place? Not at all! Though Sweden might have the country where Sweden might be better for Sweden but on the other hand Norway is better for Norway!

Norway and Sweden both have their styles. Sweden has one of the highest living standards globally with its thriving economy while giving its citizens great benefits like paid parental leave (time off work after having a baby), free healthcare, and social welfare. Sweden also has the most efficient public transport system in the world, with trains departing on schedule to the minute across Sweden’s extensive rail network.

Sweden is famous for its design and technology, so Sweden has Norway beat there too! Sweden’s fashion designs are world-renowned, and Sweden’s retail stores are Sweden’s shopping streets which houses Sweden’s luxurious Swedish brands.

Sweden might have a lot to offer, but Norway has more to offer! Oslo, the capital of Norway, is Sweden’s opposite in many ways. While Sweden is renowned for its technological advances and Sweden’s design innovations, Oslo has been named as one of the greenest cities in the world!

Norway has Sweden beat when it comes to the discussion of environment friendliness, with Sweden’s national parks covering one-third of Sweden’s land area. This means that if you’re looking for Sweden from the point of nature, Sweden isn’t necessarily the best. Sweden is a country of nature and technology, but Oslo has been praised for its green spaces and public parks.

Sweden looks great above the ground, but Sweden doesn’t like to show few things. Sweden has the most ghost towns in Europe. Sweden is also known as a country with more people leaving it than entering it!

On the other hand, Norway has a lower population density than Sweden. This means that nature is all around you in Norway. Even areas of Norway where the only people present for hundreds of kilometers live there and Norway’s beautiful wildlife such as whales and reindeer.

Sweden and Norway differ for different reasons, but Sweden is the better choice for tech and Norway is the better choice for nature. Visit both on your next trip to Scandinavia so you can experience Sweden vs Norway Travel!

This is a fictional travel article on Sweden vs Norway travel; which Sweden vs Norway travel would you choose on your next trip to Scandinavia? Sweden or Norway? Sweden is also eco friendly but doesn’t necessarily have to beat when it comes to nature. Sweden and Norway both have their own styles.

Are Sweden and Norway in the same league when it comes to beauty? That is what you might be wondering. So let’s dive into Sweden vs Norway travel; which one to choose first when it comes to beauty of the country?

According to this list, Sweden was ranked by Lonely Planet as the 7th best country in the world for travelers, while Norway has been at number 12th. Sweden and Norway also share a long history, which has made for some interesting outcomes and influences on the culture and architecture in both countries.

Sweden is known as one of the world’s best countries to visit, but what makes Sweden so unique that it sits beside the UK and France? Sweden is home to some of best cities. Sweden has a rich culture and history, with fascinating landmarks that continue to inspire travelers worldwide. Sweden also has many famous attractions, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site Drottningholm Palace.

Theatre in Stockholm, which has been delighting visitors since 1766. Sweden is such a fascinating Scandinavian country, and it’s no wonder why Sweden tops the list as one of the most beautiful countries in the world!

Norway is also another tremendous European country that stands out on its own. You might know Norway for its incredible scenery and mountains, but did you know that Norway has more coastline than any other country in the world?

This means that Norway is also home to some of the best beaches. It’s also Sweden that is perfect for water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and more!

Norway has a culture all its own, with unique traditions such as Lillehammer’s famous Yule Goat, which is Sweden in the town of Sweden every year Sweden around Christmas. Every country has its rules for Sweden’s culture, but what makes it unique is that locals Sweden kept alive throughout the years of Sweden’s history!

Norway brings many new experiences. If you are up for some new experiences, then Sweden and Norway should be on the top of your list!

Now that we know about Sweden and Norway, have you figured which one should you choose first? Well, it’s really up to personal preference! You can either start with Norway or Sweden but both countries is a must visit. If you want to see Norway’s most beautiful sights, then Norway should be your itinerary during next trip!

Airlines and Airports

In Sweden, it is possible to fly from Sweden to cities in Norway and vice versa.

Are you planning to visit Switzerland? Do you wanna know about the cheapest flights then you wanna take ? Then click here!

Norway’s capital city Oslo (OSL), is served by four international airports: OSL Airport (in the town itself), Torp (also known as Sandefjord), and Gardermoen (which is not in Oslo but serves both Oslo and the peninsula of Romerike).

Sweden has eight international airports:

• Stockholm Arlanda Airport,
• Goteborg Landvetter Airport,
• Malmo Stirrup Airport,
• Umea Airport, Visby Airport,
• Sweden West Airport Viejo,
• Sweden East Airport Ronneby
• Sweden South Airport Halmstad.
• All these airports are operated by the state-owned company Swedavia.

There are only a few direct flights between Sweden and Norway. The main route is from Stockholm to Oslo in the southbound direction and from Oslo to Stockholm in the northbound order. The flight time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Sweden has a significant number of airports compared to Sweden’s population. Still, Sweden’s main international airport is Arlanda Airport (ARN) near Stockholm, which offers many direct flights all over Europe and beyond. Sweden is only about three times bigger than Norway.

Sweden has one of the oldest monarchies globally, although Sweden’s Royal family has no real power today. Though Norway has just over 9 million people, Sweden is not nearly as densely populated as Norway. Sweden’s highest point is Kebnekaise, 2111 meters (6904 ft) above sea level. Sweden’s highest point is Kebnekaise, reaching 2111 m above sea level.

Sweden, however, has an estimated 100,000 lakes. Sweden has a strong economy about the same size as the Norwegian economy. Sweden’s GDP is about $489 billion, while Norway’s GDP is almost twice as big at $844.5 billion.

Sweden has approximately 26 million people living in Sweden today. Sweden also received immigration from the Baltics, Poland and Sweden, and the former Yugoslavia, which increased Sweden’s population. Sweden is a constitutional monarchy with a democracy largely uninfluenced by the royal family.

Sweden has one of the longest-running monarchies in Europe, with Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf having ascended to the throne in 1973. Sweden has one of the longest-running monarchies in the world. Sweden is a constitutional monarchy with a democracy largely uninfluenced by the Royal family.

Sweden’s population is concentrated in Sweden’s many large cities. Sweden has one of the best standards of living globally, which has been maintained by Sweden’s social welfare services and Sweden’s highly developed economy.

Every year, Sweden also receives immigration from other European countries, North America, and Australia.

Sweden’s government is a unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf having little to no real power today. Sweden does have several political parties that are active in Sweden’s politics, but Sweden has a multi-party system where Sweden’s ruling party only has a minority in Sweden’s parliament.

Do you love mountains? If so, then click here to know about the most beautiful mountains of the world .

Sweden is ranked No. 1 for gender equality by the World Economic Forum, while Norway ranks far behind Sweden at No. 20. Sweden has an excellent education system with free universal health care for all Swedes and virtually free university tuition today.

The best reason to travel to Sweden before Norway is that Sweden has more tourist attractions. Sweden offers more for tourists to see and things to do than Norway. Sweden offers many famous sites like the Vasa Museum, Skansen Open-Air Museum, Royal Palace Drottningholm (which also hosts the Swedish crown jewels), etc. Some of the areas that Sweden offers are not in Norway.

On the other hand, Norway has few tourist attractions to offer, although its primary attraction is the Nordkapp (North Cape). Most of Sweden’s tourist attractions are located in the southern part of Sweden, like cities like Malmo and Helsingborg, while there are very few tourist attractions in Norway’s south.

Sweden offers more for tourists to see and things to do than Norway. Sweden also caters to English, German and French speakers, while Norway only caters to Norwegian and Russian speakers in the northern part in small towns that are not touristic.

Another reason why Sweden is a better choice is because it has an efficient transportation system for tourists. Sweden has an excellent transportation system for tourists and locals alike; Sweden’s rail lines and airports can connect you to your destination anywhere in Sweden. Sweden has a tourist information center: the Sweden Tourist Centre that provides maps, brochures, and advice on things to do and see.

By now I hope that you have got an idea of the many differences in opinions regarding Sweden vs Norway travel. It isn’t easy to decide which ones are better than the others. But depending on what you want to experience from your trip might make it easier for you to decide which one to choose first.

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Norway vs. Sweden: Which Is Cheaper to Visit? – A Budget Guide

Are you wondering if it’s cheaper to go to Sweden or Norway? If so, let’s delve into the world of travel and finances together. Norway and Sweden are both beautiful countries that offer a range of activities, sights, and experiences that should entice any traveler. However, it’s always good to be financially prepared when traveling.

• 1 The Economy of Norway and Sweden
• 2 Getting There and Getting Around
• 3 Activities and Attractions
• 4 Conclusion

The Economy of Norway and Sweden

Norway has one of the highest standards of living in the world, largely due to its oil and gas reserves. However, this also means that prices in Norway are quite high. In the summer months, it’s not uncommon for prices to double. Keep in mind that the average hotel room in Oslo can range from 1,400 to 1,800 NOK (Norwegian Krone), or roughly $150 to $200 USD. If you’re looking to dine out in Norway, you might want to budget around 200 NOK ($22 USD) for a basic meal.

Sweden , on the other hand, has a highly developed economy with a focus on technology and industry. While the cost of living is still relatively high, it’s generally more affordable than Norway. You can find a hotel room in Stockholm for around 1,200 to 1,500 SEK (Swedish Krona), or roughly $130 to $160 USD. Meals at budget-friendly restaurants will cost around 100 to 150 SEK ($11 to $16 USD).

Getting There and Getting Around

If you’re flying to either country, you might find that flights to Norway are slightly more expensive than to Sweden. For example, a roundtrip flight from New York City to Oslo in July costs around $900 USD, while a flight to Stockholm from the same origin costs around $700 USD. These costs can vary depending on the time of year and where you’re flying from.

In addition to flights, you might also consider taking the train in Norway or Sweden. Norway has a scenic rail system called the Norway in a Nutshell that can take you through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. Train tickets and travel packages range in price depending on the route you take.

Activities and Attractions

Norway offers world class hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The fjords are one of Norway’s most popular attractions and they won’t disappoint. For example, Norway’s famous Trolltunga hike offers a stunning view of a glacier-formed lake. Museum buffs might enjoy the Viking Ship Museum or the Munch Museum .

Sweden , on the other hand, offers a blend of natural beauty and urban attractions. You might want to explore the Gamla Stan , or Old Town, in Stockholm to experience some of the city’s rich history. The Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland offers breathtaking views of the northern lights, while the Vasa Museum displays a centuries-old warship.

While both Norway and Sweden offer a range of activities and attractions that can appeal to any traveler, Norway might be the more expensive option. However, you can still enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Norway by planning ahead and scouting out affordable options. Ultimately, whether you choose Norway or Sweden for your trip will depend on what you want to see and do.

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The Expatrist

Living in Norway vs Sweden: Which Is Better?

Among Scandinavian countries, Norway and Sweden are both popular with expats and tourists. But among them, which is the best country to relocate to? These two places boast stunning scenery, beautiful coastlines, islands galore, excellent skiing, pretty villages, and some scenic cities. However, to choose which is best for you, you must also look at their key differences. 

Due to the excellent work-life balance, employment opportunities, and a strong sense of community, Norway, and Sweden rank highly on the list of most happiest nations in the world. However, Norway is smaller and more suited for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Sweden embraces creativity and has outstanding social welfare.

Whichever you choose between the two, there is no doubt that you will enjoy living there. But, for you to be able to decide which country will suit the lifestyle you want to have, you need to know what they are like and how different they are from each other. This article will definitely help you with that! 

Living in Norway vs Sweden

Norway is a narrow country located in the Scandinavian Peninsula in northern Europe, which it shares with Finland and Sweden.

The Norwegian coastline is known for its fjords, which are sea inlets between steep cliff faces. As with the country’s mountains, the country’s fjords were carved out by glaciers.

Moreover, you can also find several mountains in Norway . Some peaks are so steep that no one has ever attempted to climb them. Apart from the Scandinavian Peninsula, Norway also owns the Svalbard island chain and three Antarctic islands.

On the other hand, Sweden is one of the countries sharing the Scandinavian region with Norway. Since they are in the same location, they are pretty similar. However, there are still notable differences.

A large number of lakes dot the landscape, and half of the country is covered with lush, large forests. Further, Sweden’s tradition of public access to its lakes and islands extends to over 24,000 islands.

During the summer months, Sweden’s Arctic north has been referred to as “the land of the midnight sun during the summer months.” It gained that nickname because the sun doesn’t set here during this season.

Even Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, has only four hours of summer nights, and the sky doesn’t darken beyond twilight. However, winter lasts until May, with long nights and short days.

But if you want to live in one of these countries, you need more than knowing their location and how they look.

It would help if you also considered other factors, such as quality of life, cost of living, weather, available job opportunities, and many more.

Also read our article about living as an American in Sweden, so you know what to expect when moving here.

Quality of life

According to the Better Life Index , Norway and Sweden perform well in many aspects of well-being. The performance of both countries in terms of jobs, work-life balance, education, health, environmental quality, social connections, civic engagement, safety, and life satisfaction is superior to the average.

In any country, finding a job and living a more comfortable life requires good education and skills. Among adults aged 25-64 in Norway, 82% have completed higher education, while in Sweden, 84% have (2% higher than in Norway). Both countries have percentages higher than the OECD average of 79%. 

According to the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), the average Norwegian student achieved 497 points in reading, literacy, math, and science, while the average Swedish student got 503.

Both scores are also higher than the OECD average of 488. However, Sweden scored six more points than Sweden.

In terms of health, both Norway and Sweden have a life expectancy at birth of 83 years- two years higher than the OECD average of 81.

Women live longer than men, with an average life expectancy of 85 years. PM2.5 levels in the atmosphere are 6.7 micrograms per cubic meter, below the OECD average of 14 micrograms per cubic meter for tiny air pollutants.

Furthermore, 98% of Norwegians are satisfied with the quality of their water. Meanwhile, in Sweden, there is only 97%. Still, both are higher than the OECD average of 84%.

Norway has a strong sense of community and high levels of civic participation. The country has 96% of people who believe they know someone they can turn to in times of need, higher than the OECD average of 91%.

On the other hand, Sweden has a slightly lower number of people who believe the same (only 94%)

The voter turnout at recent elections was 78% in Norway and 87% in Sweden. Both are significantly higher than the OECD average of 69%. 

On a scale of 0-10, Swedes and Norwegians rated their general satisfaction with life as 7.3. This score is more than the OECD average of 6.7.

What Is It Like To Live in Sweden As An American?

Norway and Sweden are much warmer and milder than other countries at the same latitude, such as Alaska, Greenland, and Siberia, because of the temperate waters of the Gulf Stream. Many of the coldest areas are inland or far to the north during the winter.

Regional weather differences in Sweden

There are three climate zones in Sweden; central and southern Sweden, northeast and northwest, and far north.

During the winter months in central and southern Sweden, temperatures are relatively cool, but there is much more daylight and sunshine than in southern England.

The winters are severe as you travel north in the northeast, while the summers can be quite warm.

The winters in the far north are also harsh, with snow covering elevated areas all year long, and the summers are short and unpredictable. Due to Sweden’s high latitude, much of the country has very long summer days and very long winter nights.

Regional weather differences in Norway

Since Norway stretches from 57° north to 78° north, its climate varies widely. Northern, southern, inland, and coastal climates differ greatly.

Winters on the coast are mild and wet (but with snow in the mountains), while those on the inland are cold and snowy, with hot and generally dry summers, especially west of the country. During summer, the temperature usually hovers around 20 degrees.

No matter what the weather is like, the Vikings don’t seem scared by it. It doesn’t matter if it’s raining or windy; Norwegians will dress accordingly. On the other hand, when it’s stormy, it’s time to rediscover the great indoors and experience some “innekos” – indoor coziness.

With beautiful beaches, boating, and kayaking, southern Norway is considered a summer island paradise. There are hot summers in the Oslo region and the valleys of Eastern Norway, but the winters here are much colder, and there is a lot of snow.

The weather in Norvegian Fjords is constantly changing. The weather may change in a matter of hours, so don’t be surprised if you get rain, sun, wind, and even snow on the same day. Moreover, it can happen no matter what time of year it’s! 

Fruit trees are in bloom in spring. As autumn approaches, the leaves change color, and the mountainside turns orange and yellow. Seaside areas experience a lot of precipitation due to the coastal climate.

Northern Norway is a great place to visit at any time of year. The northern lights are visible during winter. Then, when the sun is north of the polar circle, it stays up all night – a phenomenon known as the midnight sun.

Cost of living

Norwegian living expenses (€1,910) are 35% higher than Swedish living costs (€1,411). According to the list of the most expensive countries in the world, Norway ranked 11th compared to Sweden, which is in 27th place.

Here is an overview of the different costs in Norway vs Sweden according to Livingcost.org : 

The Cost of Living for a Family In Sweden

Visas and residence permits

A non-EU citizen needs a visa to enter either Norway or Sweden. Moreover, they have student, working, and partnership visas available. You may check here to see your options for Norway and here for Sweden.

After staying in each country for a required period, you can apply for a residence permit to formalize and legalize your stay there. This means that you will become a citizen of the country of your liking. 

Before entering Sweden or Norway, foreign nationals – including U.S. citizens – must obtain a residence permit if they plan to stay more than 90 days.

You may submit this application in person or by mail to the Embassy in Washington or any Swedish Consulate in the United States, except for the Consulate General in New York and the consulates within its consular district (Boston, Jamestown and Philadelphia).

To apply for a Swedish Resident Permit, here are the things that you must submit:

• Two copies of the Residence Permit form (# 165011 ) or two copies of the Application for Child under 18 (# 167011) , completed, signed, and dated.
• Passport pages that verify your identity and passport validity that have been notarized. If you have any other permits, include copies in your passport as well.
• Bank statement
• Return ticket
• Appendix D: Family Details Appendix for Applicants (form # 239011 )
• Emergency medical care
• Emergency hospital treatment
• Medical repatriation

There must be a minimum coverage of €30,000, and the policy must be valid throughout the trip. If your insurance company cannot provide such a letter, you must find an international insurance company that can.

An insurance card isn’t sufficient proof of coverage. You must have proof of the items listed above.

• The application fee must be paid in the form of a money order or certified bank check payable to the Embassy of Sweden OR to the Swedish Consulate to which you’re applying.
• Depending on the reason for the visit, additional documents may be required. More information can be obtained from the Embassy.

On the other hand, if you opt for a Norway Residence Permit , here are the things you will need:

• Passport. Your original passport should be accompanied by a copy of the personal information page and any used pages (with entry stamps or visas).
• Cover letter. You will receive this on your email after completing the online application, and you can simply print it and attach it to your application.
• Passport-size pictures. Pictures should be recent and have a white background.
• Proof of accommodation. Make sure you have somewhere to live in Norway once you move there by submitting a rental agreement or other evidence.
• Form of Offer of Employment
• Proof of your income meeting the requirements
• Academic credentials
• A copy of your previous employment record
• Admission letter
• Proof that you have the financial means to support yourself in Norway and pay your tuition
• Family relationship proof
• Your family member earns or has enough money to support you financially
• You must provide proof that your family member has not received social benefits in the last 12 months

Both Norway and Sweden offer excellent job opportunities. However, in both places, you might struggle to find a job without speaking the local language.

That said, the top in-demand jobs in Norway include nurses, pharmacists, HVAC and railway engineers, IT, chefs, and biotechnologists.

Meanwhile, in Sweden, the top job opportunities are in healthcare, carpentry, system development, teaching, engineering, sales and purchasing, marketing, finance and administration, HRM, and masonry.

Which Jobs Are in Demand in Sweden in 2023?

There is no statutory minimum wage in any Nordic country.

In Denmark and Sweden, minimum wages are determined solely by collective agreements, while in Finland, Iceland, and Norway , extensions are also used to cover all workers.

Age, skill, and seniority are often considered in minimum wage agreements, while enterprise-level negotiations determine higher wages.

In Norway, the medical profession pays the best . Norwegian doctors and surgeons earn an average of 592,000 to 2,730,000 NOK annually. Read more about salaries in Norway.

Similarly, healthcare professionals are also the highest paid in Sweden, and they can earn up to 2 million SEK per year.

What Is A Good Salary in Sweden?

Although Norway’s and Sweden’s healthcare systems are designed to ensure equal access, they are by no means free. Taxation heavily subsidizes the country’s universal healthcare system.

The high taxes in Norway and Sweden have allowed the country to run a comprehensive welfare system that covers sickness, unemployment, social security, and pension benefits, often allowing even low-income or impoverished citizens to participate in healthcare. 

Aside from public healthcare, there are also private insurances that you can avail of in each country. You may use these to supplement the public healthcare system.

14 Reasons Why You Should Not Move To Sweden

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