scandinavia travel planner

Travelling Without a Passport

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

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

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

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

Travel to: Scandinavia

One-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Stockholm -> Oslo

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

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

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

Two-week Scandinavia itinerary

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

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

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

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

Three-week Scandinavia itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Can’t-miss sights and experiences in Scandinavia

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

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

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

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

Getting around Scandinavia 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ashley Nitransky

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

Related Articles

• Food & Drink

Your Guide to Amsterdam’s Secret Bars and Speakeasies

One of the most popular cities in Europe, Amsterdam has no...

• North America

Your Guide to Easter Around the World

Easter is a time to celebrate new beginnings. The symbols and...

• Central America

The Best Spring Break Destinations

As long as academics have been a part of our lives,...

Intro to Sustainable Tourism

Get unlimited access to the world's best travel stories. subscribe now., privacy overview.

• 39+ Reykjavik Excursions Day Tours Away from the City
• 21+ Biking, Walking, and Canal Tours in Copenhagen Denmark
• 29+ Walking, Biking, and Boat Tours in Stockholm Sweden
• 29+ Sightseeing Tours in Oslo Norway
• 29 Northern Lights Tours in Iceland, Norway, Finland, and Sweden
• MULTI-DAY TOURS
• GUIDE: Scandinavian Hotels
• Best Hotels in Oslo
• Best Hotels in Stockholm
• Best Time to Visit
• How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia
• Copenhagen to Oslo
• Norway in a Nutshell Oslo to Bergen – the Journey
• Guide: Northern Lights in Norway
• Summer Packing List for Scandinavia
• Affiliate Disclosure
• Privacy Policy
• veronica@explorenordic.com

How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia – 10 Tips for the Perfect Vacation

As a former travel consultant and Scandinavian product design specialist, I’ve created and booked MANY trips throughout the Nordic countries. Before diving into booking local tours and hotels, there are a few questions that you want to ask yourself. In this, “ how to plan a trip to Scandinavia ” guide, I will walk you through the process. I will also help you get a clear picture of what kind of trip you are looking for, making the planning process fun and easy.

Let’s plan a trip to Scandinavia!

10 Tips Planning Your Scandinavian Vacation

1. should you do the scandinavian trip planning yourself or hire a professional.

I have been on both sides of the fence. If you want to save time and have somebody else take care of the arrangements for you, your best bet is to hire a professional to put together the tour for you.

If you need a professional to help plan your Scandinavian vacation, please feel free to leave a comment below, and I will be happy to make suggestions. (There is a tour operator article in the making, so will post that when done).

But, if you enjoy researching your destinations, and want to make sure that you get what you are looking for,  making your own arrangements is the way to go. Making your own arrangements is also, a way to stay 100% in control of your trip. Another benefit is the enjoyment of how your trip evolves, to find new places to visit, and new things to discover.

Putting together the arrangements with accommodation, local tours, transportation, and other events does not have to be hard. Many online resources can be of great assistance, many of them which we share on this site. Being in charge of your own arrangements will give you flexibility, 100% control, and most likely save you money as well.

2. Group Travel vs. Exploring Scandinavia on Your Own

When you travel, do you want to explore on your own or be part of a group? With escorted group tours, you have set departure dates to choose from, with most arrangements booked for you. You have a daily program to follow, with a tour guide and driver taking care of you.

Depending on the tour you join, the group size usually varies from small groups of 12 people up to a full coach of 50+ passengers. If you enjoy traveling with others and having a set schedule for 10 to 14 days, this could be a good option for you. You will not miss the highlights, but you might miss out on some of the unique, more personal experiences. If escorted tours are for you, view Scandinavian group tours here  (coming soon).

If you enjoy exploring on your own , and like the flexibility to your itinerary, a customized trip, with your wants and needs in mind, will work best for you. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have local tours booked, in fact you should. But, instead of a full pre-booked 10-day program, you might book a castle tour in Copenhagen, a 3-hour walking tour in Stockholm, and a half-day fjord hiking tour in Geiringer Norway. The rest of the time, you might want to leave open to explore on your own.

It is still a good idea to plan out a daily itinerary for your trip, it will be flexible, and your interests will get priority. Last minute changes, depending on the day, might make for some unexpected highlights. The thing is you never know when you run into an intriguing street performer or strike up an interesting conversation with a local. Don’t rush, enjoy the moment.

3. Your Travel Budget

Do you have a set budget for your trip? Maybe this is a once in a lifetime experience where the memories are more important than the cost of things? Either way, it is a good idea to decide how much you are willing to spend on your Scandinavian adventure.

When budgeting for your trip, include the following;

• International airfare
• Transportation – local and between the Scandinavian destinations
• Accommodation
• City passes
• Local tours
• Planned events

You might also want to include a daily budget for meals, souvenirs, and other spending.

4. Destinations to Include in Your Scandinavian Trip 

When planning your trip to Scandinavia, there is a lot to see. The duration of your tour, along with your personal interests, decides what destinations to include. To give you some ideas, I provide some destination suggestions depending on different interests.

Natural Scenic Beauty

• Fjord Norway with the Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord – deep fjords and stunning mountains,
• Mons Klint on the east coast of Denmark – chalk white cliffs along the coast,
• Österlen Skåne Sweden – open landscapes and a light that artists crave,
• Stockholm Archipelago – get lost among the islands,
• Lapland northern Scandinavia – snow, silence, and undiscovered winter beauty.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife. In the summer, enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and boating. In the winter, snowmobiling, husky ride, and snowshoeing will allow for exciting activities.

Natural Phenomenon – Northern Lights

Northern Scandinavia, with destinations like Tromso and Kirkenes in Norway, along with Kiruna and Riksgränsen in Sweden, are great places to see the Northern lights . Looking at the Nordic countries, northern Finland and Iceland, are other great places to see this natural phenomenon.

Weather permitting, the Aurora Borealis, dancing greenish bluish light on the dark sky, is a unique experience. For best chance to view the Northern lights visit northern Scandinavia in September to early April.

Suggested read:

• The Complete Guide for the Best Chances to the See the Northern Lights in Norway
• 29 Northern Lights Tours in Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland

Natural Phenomenon – Midnight sun

Enjoy the sun visible pretty much all night long, this can be experienced north of the Arctic circle. Great places to see the Midnight sun in Scandinavia is Narvik Norway, or Kiruna Sweden.

In Scandinavia, you are never far from the water, and water activites are easily accessible. Some fun boating suggestions would be;

• Canal tour in Copenhagen,
• Archipelago tour in Stockholm or Gothenburg,
• Ferry ride between Copenhagen and Oslo,
• Ferry ride between Helsingor Denmark and Helsingborg Sweden,
• Fjord tour in Norway from Balestrand to Bergen,
• Cruise tour of Scandinavia.

Architecture

Scandinavia is filled with history and architecture. Just walking around the cities, you will be surrounded by it.

Here are a few places, with unique architecture, worth a visit in Norway;

• One of the stave churches in Norway,
• The opera house in Oslo ,
• The restaurant Under in Lindesnes.

In Sweden some of the interesting architectural landmarks are;

• Turning torso in Malmo,
• Ice hotel in Jukkasjarvi,
• City hall, the woodland cemetery, and the library in Stockholm.

Some architectural suggestions to visit in Denmark;

• Louisiana Art museum north of Copenhagen,
• The round tower in the capital,
• Moesgaard museum in Arhus.

Viking History

Some suggestions to get a taste of the Viking history:

• Do a guided tour in the footsteps of the Vikings in Roskilde Denmark,
• Discover the Viking history around Stockholm with a guided tour,
• Visit mythical rune stones in Lund, Sweden,
• Visit a Viking ship museum in Oslo.

Scandinavian Design

The capitals offer many designs shops worth visiting, here are a few suggestions;

• Stockholm – Svenskt Tenn, NK Nordiska Kompaniet and Design torget.
• Copenhagen – Georg Jensen, Illums Bolighus and Royal Copenhagen.
• Oslo – Pur Norsk, Glasmagasinet and Norway designs.

If you are interested in crystal, the district “ kingdom of crystal ” in Småland, Sweden, is well worth a visit.

Winter Wonderland Adventures

Lapland, including northern Sweden, Norway, and Finland, offers many fun winter activities.

Reindeer-safari, husky ride, ice fishing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling are just a few of the many fun winter activities that you can experience up north. Add hunting for the northern lights to your list, and you have an experience of a lifetime.

Kirkenes Norway, Kiruna Sweden, and Rovaniemi Finland are great winter destinations.

Denmark and Sweden will not disappoint when it comes to unique, well-kept, castles. There are many gems that you can visit for the day, some you can even spend the night in.

Denmark castle suggestions;

• Kronborg Castle , also known as the Hamlet castle, located in Helsingor,
• Frederiksborg Castle, in Hillerod, is a unique place with amazing gardens,
• Amalienborg Castle, the home of the royal family in Copenhagen,
• If you want to spend a night in one of them – Kokkedal Castle north of Copenhagen is an excellent choice.

Sweden castle suggestions;

• Drottningholm Castle in Stockholm, one of the many royal palaces and a UNESCO listed site,
• Sofiero Castle, former summer residence of the royal family in Helsingborg,
• Kalmar Castle, is off the beaten path, but a unique one,
• At the Kronovall Castle in southern Sweden, you can spend the night and enjoy a delicious meal and a tour of the wine cellar.

If you are interested in cars, Volvo and Saab have made their marks in Sweden. A thrilling experience is ice driving on a lake, but there are more fun things for car lovers;

• Ice driving in Åre northern Sweden,
• Saab car museum in Trollhättan Sweden,
• Volvo museum in Gothenburg,
• Join a car racing event in Denmark.

Thrilling Adventures

Nordic nature offers many exciting adventures. These are just a few tours to get your adrenalin going;

• Winter activities like snowmobiling or husky rides in Lapland,
• Watch the northern lights from a hot air balloon up north in Sweden,
• White water rafting and glacier hiking in Norway,
• Skydiving and ziplining in Denmark.

Mindfulness, Yoga, Massage, and Meditation

In unique Scandinavian environments, you can enjoy exercise, mindfulness, yoga, and meditation. Here are a few relaxing activities to try;

• Take a yoga class in Stockholm,
• Join a yoga and hiking retreat in Molde Norway,
• Enjoy a meditation and spa experience in Copenhagen.

If you have a specific interest, please leave a comment below, and we will be happy to give you some tips and ideas on how to experience that in Scandinavia.

5. Get There… Best Ways to Get to Scandinavia

Depending on where in the world you are visiting from, you have a few different alternatives arriving in Scandinavia.

If  flying, start your trip in one of the capitals by flying into Stockholm Arlanda , Copenhagen Kastrup , or Gardermoen Oslo.

Many airlines can get you there. Scandinavia Airlines, SAS, fly many international routes, they are part of the Star Alliance and collaborate with many airlines around the world.

Flying from the USA or Canada:

• SAS Scandinavian Airlines
• Norwegian (budget)
• United Airlines

Flying from Europe:

• British Airway
• Ryan Air (budget)

Flying from Australia or New Zealand:

• Air Singapore

You can also use a service like Expedia to find airline tickets.

From Europe, you can also arrive in Scandinavia via car, train, bus, or ferry.

6. Best Ways to Travel Between Sweden, Denmark, and Norway

Scandinavia is a great place to get around using public transportation like train, ferry, flight, underground, and buses. Transportation well-connected, frequent, and used by pretty much everybody. Locals often use bus or train commuting to work.

Tip: Most places will require you to have a ticket before getting on the bus, underground or train. Ticket stations are located on the platform or station for purchase.

If you want to explore more remote areas, you might want to consider renting a car.

How do you travel between the Scandinavian countries Sweden, Denmark, and Norway?

Flying between different cities in Scandinavia will quickly take you between locations but, there are other maybe more scenic ways to cross the borders.

Sweden – Denmark

Malmö Sweden and Copenhagen Denmark , connected by the Öresund bridge and tunnel, makes it quick and easy to travel either by train or car between the two countries.

The maybe more scenic way is to take the ferry between Helsingborg Sweden and Helsingor Denmark. A 20-minute ride, where you will get a view of the beautiful Hamlet castle arriving on the Danish side.

Sweden – Norway

With a long land border between Sweden and Norway, you can easily cross by car or train.

Denmark – Norway

Traveling between Copenhagen and Oslo can be done with a scenic overnight ferry ride. If you prefer to be moving during the day, enjoy a train or bus ride along Sweden’s west coast. This is a train-ride, that will take you about 8 – 9 hours depending on the day.

Sweden – Finland

Finland might be on your bucket list and added to your itinerary. Taking the ferry from Stockholm Sweden to Helsinki Finland, is a fun way to travel between the two countries.

Travel the Scandinavian Countries

7. Scandinavian Accommodation

When you decide on where to stay. Think of how many people are in your travel party? Are you traveling with kids? How many people do you want in a room? If you are 4 people, for example, do you want a family room or two double rooms?

Another thing to consider is if you are looking for a specific style of accommodation. Do you want convenience, funky, unique, exclusive, or maybe simple?

In Scandinavia, you have many unique options. You can stay in a treehouse, lighthouse, ice hotel, castle, airplane, the smallest hotel in the world, boat hotel, or a plain and simple hotel room. You can make it as fun and crazy as you want it to be.

As far as the room size, in general, rooms are smaller than hotel rooms in the US, for example. If you want more than two people in a room, look for a family room. Some hotels allow for a rollaway bed or fold out couch, when traveling with kids.

No matter the standard of your accommodation, you want to make sure it is in a good location. Making it easy to explore your surroundings.

Read more about hotel options here:

Scandinavian Hotels – The Ultimate Guide

• Copenhagen hotels near Tivoli

8. Local Tours, Excursions and Time to Explore on Your Own

The key to a great vacation is to keep a balance between booked activities and free time. What you can experience in a guided 3-hour city tour, walking or biking, can save you a ton of time in the long run. City tours are usually done in small groups, or as a private tour for you and your travel party.

You will get to see the city highlights, plus you can ask your local guide for tips and ideas of restaurants, events, and other local things going on in the area when you are there.

Here are some tours we suggest:

• 21 Biking, Walking and Canal Tours in Copenhagen Denmark
• 29 Sightseeing Tours in Oslo
• 29+ of the Best Tours in Stockholm
• Norway Northern Lights Tour Packages in Tromso, Lofoten and Alta

Depending on your interests and destinations, you might want to book some more guided tours ahead of traveling. For example, if you plan on going up north to do winter activities like snowmobiling, husky rides, and reindeer safari, you will need to book that ahead of time. Don’t risk that your wanted tour is sold out.

If you want to do the “ Norway in a nutshell ” Oslo to Bergen, for example, including the famous Flam railway and a fjord tour, make sure to book ahead of time.

The key is to plan out your itinerary with a balance of planned activities and free time to explore.

9. Itinerary Suggestion – Sweden, Denmark and Norway in 13 days / 12 nights

Here is a brief overview, itinerary suggestion, for a pretty standard trip of the 3 Scandinavian capitals, including fjord Norway. Depending on your interest, put your touch on the trip, with preferred local tours and accommodations.

Day 1 – Stockholm, Sweden

If you start your trip arriving in Stockholm, flying from overseas, you will most likely land in the morning. It’s always convenient to have made arrangements for a driver to pick you up when you arrive. Take that first day to adjust and get to know the area. In case of delays, don’t book any guided tours this day.

• Spend the night in Stockholm.

Day 2 – Stockholm, Sweden

Guided city tour in the morning.

Explore on your own in the afternoon.

Day 3 – Stockholm, Sweden

Archipelago day tour, or depending on your interests, maybe a Viking tour, or a day on Djurgarden to explore the many museums.

Day 4 – Stockholm, Sweden to Copenhagen, Denmark

Take the train from Stockholm to Copenhagen.

Explore Copenhagen on your own when you arrive.

• Spend the night in Copenhagen.

Day 5 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Explore the city on your own in the afternoon.

Visit Tivoli in the evening.

Day 6 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Day excursion – do a castle tour, or take the train to Helsingor and visit the Hamlet castle on your own. Depending on your interests, you might want to visit a museum, shop, or just stroll around. Here are some more tips on what to do in Copenhagen .

Day 7 – Copenhagen, Denmark

In the morning, take a canal tour of Copenhagen.

In the late afternoon board the ferry to Oslo.

• Spend the night on the ferry.

Day 8 – Oslo Norway

You will arrive in Oslo in the morning, make sure to get up early to see the beautiful entrance, arriving in Oslo.

Do a guided afternoon city tour.

• Spend the night in Oslo.

Day 9 – Oslo Norway

Explore the city on your own. Oslo has a great city card that gets you into many of the museums.

Day 10 – Fjord Norway

The first part of your Norway in a Nutshell tour – Take the train from Oslo via Myrdal and Flåm, and experience the famous Flåm Railway. Then take the ferry from Flåm to Balestrand. This quaint little town is well worth a visit and a great place to spend the night.

• Spend the night in Balestrand.

Day 11 – Fjord Norway

Do a RIB boat safari in the morning.

The second part of your Norway in a Nutshell tour – Take a ferry ride from Balestrand to Bergen.

• Spend the night in Bergen.

Day 12 – Bergen Norway

If you like hiking, do a guided hiking tour in the morning and explore on your own in the afternoon. You can take the Floibanen funicular to the top of Mount Floyen, for a beautiful view.

Day 13 – Bergen Norway

After many memories are created, it is time to fly back home from Bergen.

10. Now It’s Your Turn, Plan Your trip to Scandinavia!

Each and every trip to the Scandinavian countries will be unique, depending on your interest, destinations, duration, and personal preferences. My hope with this article is to help you figure out what’s the perfect Scandinavian vacation for you and your travel party. Let’s recap some of the things to consider;

• Will you take care of the arrangements, yourself, or hire a tour operator?
• Will you travel with a group, or will you travel independently?
• What’s your budget?
• Depending on your interests, what destinations do you want to visit?
• How will you get there?
• How will you travel within Scandinavia?
• What type of accommodation are you looking for?
• What do you want to experience? What local tours do you want to include in your trip?

These questions will help you plan out your Scandinavian vacation. When that is done, it is time to start booking your trip.

• Start booking your international flight
• Accommodation (book with free cancelation if available)
• Scandinavian transfers (trains can be booked 90 days prior to traveling)
• Get travel insurance

I would love to hear from you. Have you been to Scandinavia, or maybe you are planning on going? What’s your favorite booking tips? Please share in the comment section below,

Just want to let you know;   some of my posts might contain affiliate links.  If you buy something through those links, it will not cost you  a penny more, but I might earn a commission.  That will allow for this site to  keep going.  Thanks!

Written by  Veronica

Born and raised in Sweden, now living in the US, Veronica has a passion for Scandinavian travel. As a former product design specialist with a Scandinavian tour operator, she has extensive knowledge of tour planning and the Scandinavian countries.

17 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia – 10 Tips for the Perfect Vacation ”

As a parent, one of the most stressful things to do for me is planning trips. We have to put into consideration each and every member of the family and interest is really important when it comes to trips. I so much love how you’ve listed and explained the facts to consider, it’s very important to know if you can plan it yourself, or hire someone to do it.

If you decide to hire somebody to plan your trip or do it yourself, depends on what you are looking for. There’s really not a right or wrong answer. What you do want to take in to considoration is your travel party, in your case your family, and your interests. Have a good balance of planned activities and free time to explore. Also, consider to break up into smaller groups for a couple of hours if you want to do different things. Scandinavia is very family friendly and there are plenty of fun activities for the whole family.

These are some very good tips to know to travel to the Scandinavian places and I really like it too because I haven’t ever thought that this is really neccessary. I like the way this works and I think maybe after the pandemic, it would make a whole lot of sense for me to go down to maybe Norway.

Norway is a beautiful place. I will be happy to help you out with destination ideas and suggestions of things to do while there. Just let me know 🙂

Thank you for your comprehensive article on planning a trip to Scandinavia.  I am well traveled but I have yet to see the Northern Lights.  I have always chosen to instate the help of a professional planner when traveling.  I feel it translates to a certain confidence when I am actually on my trip.  Trip insurance enhances that confidence for me.  The peace of mind is worth every penny.  Thanks again for the great article.

The Northern Lights are amazingly beautiful, and it is absolutely worth the trip to go see them. Scandinavia, Iceland or somewhere else, the Northern Lights are a beautiful natural phenomenon. Always weather permitting though so you will have to give yourself some time when you do go hunt for it. To use a travel professional to help you with your trip, like you say, can give that extra confidence. It’s great to have that contact person if there are ever any issues that come up. Thanks for your feedback, and if you ever decide to go hunt for the Northern Lights, get in touch and I will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Nice comprehensive list of things to do in Scandinavia! Although we’ve been to Norway, we’ve never done a fjord cruise and that is something that we’re quite interested in. But we wouldn’t want to go on a large cruise ship. Are there any smaller vessels that do multi-day cruises of the fjords? More like the size of a river cruise or one of those smaller expedition type ships?

Exploring the fjords from the water is an amazing experience. Norway offers everything from RIB boat tours, to larger ships with Hurtigruten going up the coast of western Norway, and everything in between. The Sognefjord in a Nutshell tour , will take you from Oslo to Bergen on a combined train and fjord cruise tour. On a tour like this, you will discover small gems like the town of Balestrand. From here you can discover more of the fjords on a RIB boat, a small boat that will get you close to the wildlife and deeper into the fjords. Hurtigruten offers different expedition cruises along the coast of Norway, where they also cruise many of the fjords. Perfect if you want to maximize your trip and have a little bit more time to explore.

Hi Veronica, My husband and I are from Australia and are in the early stages of planning a trip to the UK, Iceland and Scandinavia during August/September/October in 2023, including hopefully seeing the Northern Lights and tick off a bucket list item. I have found this webpage a great starting point, thank you very much, and still have plenty more reading and research to do obviously.

We want to plan our itinerary and trip, but should we go through a tour company to organise the Northern Lights part, and which country would give us the best chance to see them please?

Any other advice would be greatly appreciated too. Thank you in advance.

I suggest that you read this article https://explorenordic.com/best-northern-lights-tours-in-iceland-norway-finland-and-sweden/ it has a ton of information about the Northern Lights. Tour suggestions if you want to book it yourself as well. If you have any question, let me know I will be happy to help, Veronica

Hi there, I need urgent help for planning a 3-week trip in Denmark/Norway/Sweden. We’re traveling by car and because of other issues the vacation-planning has slid down into the “lowest priority” category. I am feeling the stress (it’s my doing, of course!) and need help to salvage this! We are four people, I’m the mom. Let me know if it’s possible for you to help me snap this into focus. I have a vague idea where we want to go and what we want to do. Thanks in advance!

V good and in-depth information. Covered almost all points/ aspects with tips . Thank you so much

Glad you liked it! If you have anything else you would like me to add please let me know.

Very detailed and informative. Thanks for sharing your insight. Had few questions : we are vegetarian ( Not even seafood) are there enough options for vegetarians? Secondly, we prefer airbnb so that dinner wis can Donot our choice. Are there options or good airbnb in Norway. And Denmark. Lastly , can we stay at one place in Norway and cover everything or need to move around along with our luggage Thanks in advance

Hi Raj, Scandinavia offer a verity of Vegetarian food. There is also a sustainable thinking and a lot of restaurants use local organic produce. There are plenty of Airbnb options in the larger cities like Oslo and Copenhagen. When you get out of the bigger cities I would suggest that you stay at a bed and breakfast or hotel if Airbnb is not available. When it comes to cover things in Norway, if you share with me the things you would like to see and explore I will be happy to give you some more information. How much time do you have? If you want to explore some of the fjords and have some what limited time, I would suggest that you do Norway in a Nutshell from Oslo to Bergen. You can read more about that here https://explorenordic.com/norway-in-a-nutshell-tour-oslo-bergen/ . I do suggest getting out of Oslo to explore more of the countryside that’s where you fill find amazing nature and stunning scenery. Will be happy to help if you have more questions,

We are planning a trip to Scandinavia August 2023. I’m afraid I waited too long to get tours I really wanted but I have family in Norway who have a hytte for us to stay in. One thing I am curious about is the visa process. Are there any resources you can recommend

Hi Kristina,

Where are you from? Norway is part of the Schengen Agreement. The Visa rules depends on where you are from. Here are some helpful links about Visa to Norway, hope that helps.

https://www.norway.no/en/usa/services-info/visitors-visa-res-permit/visitors-visa/ https://www.udi.no/en/word-definitions/persons-who-do-not-need-a-visa-to-visit-norway-/

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Monthly Scandinavian Newsletter!

Sign-up free.

21 Biking, Walking, and Canal Tours in Copenhagen

• Scandinavian Hotels – The Ultimate Guide
• 4 Luxury Hotels in Reykjavik Iceland
• Best Hotels in Stockholm Sweden
• Best Hotels in Oslo Norway
• Small Group Tours Scandinavia | 5 Amazing Countries in 16 Days
• Walking Tours in Helsinki | Explore the Finnish Capital

Recent Posts

• Stockholm By Bike | A Symphony of Scenic Splendor and Biking Bliss
• Exploring Viking Sites in Iceland: A Journey into Norse History and Heritage
• What Is the Currency in Finland? 
• What Is the Currency in Iceland? Icelandic Krona Guide
• Swedish Culture and Traditions to Know Before Traveling the Country

29 Northern Light Tours in the Nordics

Privacy Overview

©RolfSt/Getty Images

Scandinavia

Endless day, perpetual night. Rocking festivals, majestic aurora borealis. With effortlessly chic cities and remote forests, Scandinavia attracts style-gurus and wilderness-hikers alike.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kungliga Slottet

A massive structure with more than 600 rooms on 11 levels, Kungliga Slottet (the Royal Palace) dominates the north end of Gamla Stan. The official…

Vikingskipshuset

Aker Brygge & Bygdøy

Around 1100 years ago, Vikings dragged up two longships from the shoreline and used them as the centrepiece for grand ceremonial burials, most likely for…

Fotografiska

Since opening its doors in 2010, Fotografiska has become one of the world’s leading photography museums and one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions…

Djurgården & Skeppsholmen

Often called 'Sweden in miniature', Skansen is an unmissable Stockholm highlight. Expect to spend a full day wandering this hilltop open-air museum, with…

Kungsholmen

The imposing Stadshuset (City Hall) defines the Stockholm skyline, with its blocky silhouette and waterside perch. It looks stern and weighty from afar,…

Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna, the ‘fortress of Finland’, straddles a cluster of car-free islands connected by bridges. This Unesco World Heritage site was originally built…

Kronborg Slot

Best known as the Elsinore Castle of Shakespeare's Hamlet, this Unesco World Heritage Site is a vast Renaissance masterpiece topped by baroque green…

Frederiksborg Slot

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

Latest stories from Scandinavia

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Train Travel

Jan 5, 2024 • 10 min read

Our slow travel series explores how you can take more mindful journeys by train, boat, bus or bike – with tips on how to reach your no-fly destination, and…

Oct 13, 2022 • 2 min read

Oct 28, 2020 • 2 min read

Sep 23, 2020 • 5 min read

Jun 27, 2020 • 2 min read

Jan 26, 2020 • 2 min read

Nov 20, 2019 • 1 min read

Oct 16, 2019 • 2 min read

Dec 28, 2017 • 4 min read

Mar 22, 2017 • 7 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Scandinavia

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Scandinavia with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Scandinavia and beyond

• Middle East
• North America
• Travel Resources
• Work with me

10 Day Scandinavia Itinerary: The Perfect Trip in 2024

Scandinavia is notorious for being expensive, which is why ensuring you plan well is so important. my curated scandinavia itinerary will make sure you get the most out of the scandic region and have the best time on your trip to scandinavia.

3 fascinating countries – Norway, Sweden and Denmark, countless beautiful destinations, numerous exciting activities, and unlimited things to do – this is how a trip to Scandinavia can be described.

But then, how to decide how many days are enough for Scandinavia? Is it possible to explore Denmark, Sweden, and Norway while sticking to a strict trip plan?

Planning a trip to Scandinavia can be overwhelming, and with all the logistics, it may become hard to choose which places to visit and which ones to skip.

So, to help you make the most of your vacation, here is my ultimate 10-day Scandinavia itinerary.

10 days may not be enough to go off the beaten path, but it is enough to explore popular tourist attractions and get a solid overview of the region!

The Perfect Scandinavia Itinerary: 10 days

Days 1-2: Start in Copenhagen, Denmark

I tell anyone taking a trip through Scandinavia that they should start in Copenhagen. The capital of Denmark is well connected to the rest of Europe and several North American airports.

You will also find good train connectivity with neighbouring European countries, including Germany.

You may not have the first half of the day to explore the city, but you can plan some activities for the late afternoon and evening.

Consider guided tours of either Christiansborg Palace or Rosenborg Castle. It will be enough to keep you engaged for a couple of hours.

If you arrive late, then you can simply walk around Copenhagen’s city centre and opt for one of the food and drinks tours in Copenhagen that suits your taste buds.

On your second day in Copenhagen, you can combine Nyhavn District with Tivoli Gardens. The 17th-century waterfront district is known for its iconic colourful buildings and will be a memorable addition to your Scandinavia trip.

This is an entertainment area where you will find a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants. Spend a couple of hours exploring, clicking photos, and trying out different dishes.

Then head off to Tivoli Gardens as this oldest amusement park and pleasure garden in the country is a must for your Scandinavia itinerary.

I also recommended buying the Tivoli Gardens + Unlimited Rides Combo Pass to skip the ticket lines.

Day 3: Fly to Stavanger, Norway

A lot of itineraries I see go to Stockholm right after Coepnhagen. If you want to do it this way, you can jump to days 8 and 9 of this itinerary.

However, I suggest you take a late-night flight out of Copenhagen and reach Stavanger on the second day of your Scandinavia travel itinerary. This will give you a fresh start for exploring the city and hiking one of the famous sites in Norway.

There are several hiking trails around Stavanger, but the most popular and doable of all is the Pulpit Rock hike (Preikestolen). You will find public transport to take you to the start of the trail, and from then, the hike can be done by anyone with average fitness.

To reach the viewing plateau and soak in the breathtaking view of Lysefjord, you will need to cover 8 kilometres of distance.

So, plan your day accordingly. Carry enough water and snacks. Wear hiking boots as the steps are steep. You can even consider booking a guide to hike with a small group to the famous lookout! It will be easier to do this hike with a local guide.

If you want to spend only part of the day on a hike when travelling in Scandinavia, then book this RIB Sightseeing Cruise to Lysefjord.

It will take only 2 hours and you will still be able to witness the stunning beauty of Lysefjord.

Day 4-5: Exploring Bergen & Floyen

Fly out to Bergen early on Day 4, as it is an important step in your Scandinavian itinerary. The best part is that it’s really easy to get to Bergen from Stavanger.

You will find a flight, a ferry, and an express bus to choose from, and all three options will take roughly the same time.

Although you’ll only have one day in Bergen, you can still do a quick tour of Bergenhus Fortress and then walk around Bryggen, where traditional wooden buildings stand tall along the water.

This series of Hanseatic heritage commercial buildings is one of my favorite stops on this itinerary

You will also find several restaurants and bars in Bryggen where you can have a relaxing dinner.

Then, on Day 5, you can head up to the Mountain of Fløyen for a day in the heart of nature.

Take the Fløibanen funicular to reach the top of Mount Fløyen, or you can hike to the top if you’re in really good shape!

Either way, it is recommended to start your day early as it starts getting crowded later in the day.

Buy your tickets to Fløibanen in advance to skip the lines.

If you go Hiking at Mount Fløyen, there are multiple trails to choose from. It would be easier to join a group where a professional guide will take you to the top of Mt Fløyen.

Days 6-7: The Capital of Norway, Oslo.

Spending 2 days in Oslo will give you just enough time to see the best this city has to offer. Oslo, the capital city of Norway, is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Scandinavia!

On the first day in Oslo, plan to visit Akershus Fortress, the City Hall, the Royal Palace, and the incredible Oslo Cathedral.

Also, be sure to make time to relax near Karl Johans Gate. This is the main neighbourhood in Oslo, where you will find numerous cafes, restaurants, bars, and pubs.

I made sure that this Scandinavian itinerary gives you plenty of time to pamper the foodie in you.

Then, in the late afternoon you can tour Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art and Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park.

At the end of the sculpture park, you will also find Tjuvholmen Beach, which is perfect for catching stunning sunsets.

While there are many restaurants in Oslo where you can pamper your taste buds, I would actually encourage you to  book Fjords Evening Buffet Cruise.

This will give you a chance to appreciate this beautiful harbour city from the water.

On Day 2 in Oslo, you can spend most of the time exploring the peninsula of Bygdøy . This area is known to be the best recreational site in Oslo where some of the top museums in Oslo are located.

You can cover The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, Kon-Tiki Museum, Fram Museum, and Norwegian Maritime Museum.

Definitely personalize your itinerary to see what you are super passionate about!

Many Scandinavian travel plans insist on including the Viking Museum in this area. However, it will be closed to the public until 2026.

Finally, if you’re hoping to catch another sense, Paradisbukta Beach or Vigeland Park are great options.

Days 8-9: Stay in Stockholm, Sweden

Take an overnight train from Oslo to Stockholm, and you will reach the capital of Sweden in around 6 hours.

For those interested in Scandinavia by train itinerary, a train journey from Oslo to Stockholm will be an easier as well as pocket-friendly option.

As the train station is in the heart of the city, it will save you from the hassle of booking a taxi.

This gives you a full 48 hours to explore Stockholm when and you can select from a variety of different activities that suit your pace.

Check this Red Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Boat pass for easier and cheaper transportation.

You can start your Stockholm trip with Stockholm City Hall and then take a leisurely walk to Gamla Stan. This popular neighbourhood is everything a traveller could hope for. You can stop by the Parliament House and then proceed to soak in the bustling energy of Gamla Stan.

You’ll also find some beautiful buildings around here. The Royal Palace, Noble Prize Museum, Riddarholmen Church, and the awe-inspiring Science Fiction Bookstore are part of this neighbourhood.

At this point, I assume you’ll be exhausted from a full week of travel, so this part of my 10-day Scandinavia itinerary gives you a chance to slow down in Stockholm and relax a little.

On your second day in Stockholm, you can cover the remaining tourist attractions.

For example, ABBA The Museum is an interactive exhibition that I think looks very interesting. Do this in the morning, then tour the Vasa Museum in the late afternoon, followed by an evening on Norrmalm Island around the City Center.

Consider buying a Vasa Museum Entrance Ticket in advance to skip the lines. Check the events and rides at Gröna Lund in the evening before calling it a day.

Day 10: Time to Bid Adieu

You will find plenty of flights out of Stockholm as this city is well-connected with the rest of the world. No need to plan any activities on this day, but if you do have some free time on your hands, you can wander around Stockholm.

Be a part of the local canvas and say goodbye to this beautiful Scandinavian city.

Best Time to Visit Scandinavia

Scandinavian countries can be a year-round destination depending on your interests.

May to September is the best time to visit Scandinavian countries as these months guarantee warm weather and longer days.

But, you can also check what each season has to offer and then decide which is the best time to travel to Scandinavian countries for you.

Do you love northern lights and snowy adventures?

Winter is for you! December to February are the winter months when you can enjoy activities like cross-country skiing and ice fishing. You will also find Christmas markets and decorations adding to the beauty of Scandinavia.

Do you like hiking, and exploring outdoors minus touristy crowds? Then your 10 day Scandinavia itinerary is perfect for spring weather.

The months of spring in Scandinavia are from March to May. the crisp air and greenery will ensure you will see the spectacular side of these countries. But keep in mind that air may feel chilly and rainfall is common. So, be prepared for unexpected weather.

Are you a fan of sunbathing and swimming on the beach?

Then, plan your 10-day Scandinavia itinerary from June to August.

These summer months are the busiest time to spend 10 days in Scandinavia, since the weather is sunny and the days are longer.

How many days do you need for Scandinavia?

You will need about 10 Days in Scandinavia to explore the best of these countries.

It will give you enough time to enjoy the rides at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, hike to the top of Pulpit Rock and witness the raw beauty of Lysefjord in Stavanger, take the Fløibanen funicular in Berger, see the best of Oslo, and witness the sites in Gamla Stan.

You can also try for 2 weeks in Scandinavia to add more cities to a more slow-paced itinerary.

Closing Thoughts

No matter how much time you spend, you’ll likely leave wishing you had more. They’re just so beautiful!

But if you want to make the most of your time, this 10-day Scandinavia Itinerary is a great start for first-timers!

Also, keep in mind that if you visit in winter, there’s always the chance for Northern Lights, so definitely include that one or two evenings!

If you were expecting this itinerary to include Iceland and Finland, I’m sorry to inform you that those are technically ‘Nordic’ countries!

But I can still help! Check out my 6-Day itinerary for Iceland or the most popular Finnish Food to add these places to your itinerary!

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

PIN FOR LATER!

A SUPERB Bangkok Itinerary 4 days! (2024)

10 day Europe Itinerary : 8 PERFECT 10 Day Europe Trips for the BEST vacay! (2024)

7 FAB Options for a 12 Day Spain Itinerary – Top Places to Visit (2024)

10 Best 2 Days in Switzerland Train Itinerary Ideas (2024)

Road Trip to Normandy Itinerary for 3 Days : Beaches, Cliffs, and More (2024)

Dubai 4 Days Itinerary (2024) – The Best things to do in Dubai in 4 Days

What to do in Monaco for a Day (2024) – The Perfect One Day Monaco Itinerary

The Best Barcelona Itinerary 5 Days (2024) – What to See and Do in Barcelona

Fab France and Switzerland Itinerary 10 days (2024) – The Best 2 weeks!

A Miami 2 days Itinerary for a fabulous Weekend Getaway (2024)

Detailed 3 Months Europe Itinerary + Costs (2024) : The Best of Europe in 3 Months

European Summer Destinations (2024) : 20 Prettiest Sunny Places in Europe

Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. These do not cost you extra to use, but will help provide Continent Hop with a small commission if/when you purchase through them, to recover some of the costs of running this website and providing free content to help you plan your travel. I appreciate your support!

Add comment Cancel reply

• Work with us
• Favorite travel blogs
• netherlands
• switzerland
• family travel
• food and wine
• trip planning resources
• accommodation guides
• travel gear guides
• itineraries
• packing guides
• travel gifts
• health and safety

europe , family travel , itineraries

Scandinavia itinerary – an eco friendly trip for city, nature and culture buffs.

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Is Scandinavia on your travel wish list and you don’t know where to start?

I thought I would share our 11 day Scandinavia itinerary taking in three countries, four cities, and the fjords of western Norway to help with your trip planning.

Picture this…

Over a week and a half you visit Norway , Sweden and Denmark . You explore four fascinating cities and experience some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders.

You discover pretty harbors, modern architecture, unique Nordic culture and the waterfalls and soaring peaks of the fjord country.

Traveling mainly by train and boat, you are surprised at how relaxing it is to travel without a car, with the added benefit of choosing an environmentally friendly mode of travel.

Along the way you enjoy the delicious seafood and baked goods for which Scandinavia is famous.

Sounds amazing right?

Let’s get planning!

Click to download this itinerary as a PDF document

What's in this article

Scandinavia itinerary overview

Scandinavia trip details, tips for not blowing the budget in scandinavia, family travel tips for your trip to scandinavia, so, when are you booking your trip to scandinavia.

Bergen  (2 nights) – Flåm (1 night) – Oslo  (2 nights) – Gothenburg  (2 nights) – Copenhagen (3 nights)

This Scandinavian countries itinerary is suitable for all types of independent travelers; from families and couples to solo travelers and was straightforward to organize. Example – All of the booking sites have versions in English so it is hard to get into a muddle.

Responsible travel choices

We are trying to be a lot more thoughtful about how we travel so the program was built with responsible travel choices in mind.

The itinerary uses trains and ferries to get around. This mode of traveling is not only much more eco friendly but also incredibly scenic with a few added bonuses such as wifi and a children’s play area thrown in for good measure.

In Scandinavia, the countries and many of the hotel chains are committed to sustainable travel choices. When researching our Swedish stop in Gothenburg I was thrilled to learn that 86% of the hotel rooms in Gothenburg are environmentally certified. So this part of our planning was made very easy for us.

Getting to and from Scandinavia

Norwegian Air flies into Bergen  and Copenhagen direct from London and many major cities in Europe. We have flown with Norwegian many times now and like the efficient Nordic service, leather seats and flight schedules. It was difficult for us to find flights at the times we wanted with premium airlines.

Norwegian is a low-cost carrier competing with EasyJet and WizzAir so do not expect luxury. Apart from the efficient service, the difference to those airlines is that Norwegian fly out of higher quality airports and terminals so the experience is more pleasant.

If traveling from the US,  another Norwegian low-cost airline Norse offers flights from several major cities. 

We are not budget travelers, but on this trip were careful keep an eye on our spending as Scandinavia is notoriously expensive. I have added some tips on doing the same towards the end of this post.

Day 1 – Explore Bergen, Norway

Bergen is known as the gateway to the fjords but you must spend a few days exploring this seaside city and uncover its many treasures.

Today visit Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the surrounding area, check out the colorful fish market and wander around pretty Bryggen harbor.

Good to know:  Bergen airport transfer information

READ: more about beautiful Bergen

Recommended hotel in Bergen

Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Bergen – stylish, great value and just steps from Bryggen harbor – check prices and availability

Day 2 – Bergen and fjord cruise

Time to take to the water and join the half day Mostraumen fjord cruise along the beautiful Osterfjord. The cruise takes you past tiny hamlets and through narrow waterways where mountains rise majestically overhead.

The cruise leaves from the pier outside the fish market at 10:00am, 14:00pm each day.  You can buy tickets from the Bergen Tourist Information Office nearby.

Good to know:  the cruise is suitable for families and those with a disability. Strollers and wheelchairs are allowed onboard

Use the other half day to explore one of Bergen’s museums and galleries. My pick – the newly opened Norwegian Fisheries Museum.

Recommended dining in Bergen

We devoured all the fish dishes at  Bryggeloftet & Stuene  in Bryggen

Day 3 – Bergen to Flåm by ferry

The Søgnefjord is known as the King of the Fjords because it is the longest and deepest. From April 1st to October 31st you can take the 5½ hour journey to Flåm along the Søgnefjord from Bergen to Flåm on the ferry express boat. Take this slightly slower option if you like to relax and watch the scenery go by in comfort.

Departing at 08:00am from Bryggen in Bergen, the ferry stops at several towns along the route and slows down for those all-important photo opportunities on deck.

We lost count of the waterfalls we saw along the way and I would rate the journey as one of the highlights of our trip. Many passengers spent the entire journey on deck breathing in the pure fjord air.

Book tickets for the journey on line at Norled

The alternative route is to take the train from Bergen to Voss and then continue by bus to either Gudvangen or Myrdal to transfer to Flåm by boat or the Flåm railway.

Good to know:  there is a large luggage storage area, free wifi, clean bathrooms and a basic cafe with hot dogs and muffins on board the ferry

READ: 7 different ways to see the fjords in Norway

Flåm and a fjord safari

The ferry arrives into Flåm at just after 13:00pm. This gives you plenty of time to check in to your hotel and wander around tiny Flåm for an hour or so. If you are feeling energetic there are several walks in the area for all levels of fitness. Pick up this information at the Flåm Tourist Information Office or your hotel.

Or you could take a Fjord Safari.  We took this option and loved flying along the Aurlandsfjord and the Nærøyfjord in a little speed boat, listening to our guide’s tales of the area and looking out for local wildlife.

This unforgettable experience puts you right on the water with the mountain peaks soaring overhead. You can also choose, as we did, to combine the fjord safari with a stop at Undredal to taste the local award-winning cheese.

Good to know: Safety and comfort are priorities on the tour. You are kitted out in warm waterproof suits, hats, gloves and life jackets. in Spring and Summer the fjord safari is suitable for families with small children. Our 3-year-old twins had a great time looking out for ice monsters and seals.

Recommended hotels in Flåm

Flåmsbrygga Hotel – cosy chalet style hotel with good sized family rooms – check prices and availability

Fretheim Hotel   – restored heritage hotel with views across the fjord – check prices and availability

Day 4 – Flåm railway | Flåm to Oslo by train

Today you take to the rails and begin the journey east to Oslo.

If you’re organized you could also add in a trip to the Stegastein Viewpoint prior to your train departure from Flåm. The panoramic views from the lookout give another perspective of this incredible landscape.

Take the bus to Stegastein at 10:00am which gets you back to Flåm in plenty of time for the 13.13pm departure to Myrdal on the Flåm railway.

One of the world’s classic rail journeys , the Flåm railway takes you from the Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal mountain station, 867 metres above sea level. Along the way, the scenery is dramatic and awe-inspiring. Waterfalls cascade down cliffs and tumble down to the fjord. It’s an experience not to be missed. Book Flåm railway tickets

TIP: make sure you get out and walk the full length of the platform at the Kjosfossen waterfall stop. Otherwise, you might miss the fjord sirens singing through the waterfall

At Myrdal Station transfer to the train to Oslo for the 5 hour cross country journey across Norway. The scenery changes dramatically as you descend from the mountains and icy lakes, still covered in snow in Spring, to the meadows of central Norway. Though not as dramatic as the Flåm railway, the landscape is mesmerizing and the time passes quickly.

Check timetables and book your train tickets online at Vy – Norway’s train network provider

Good to know:  there is a soft play area on board the train for families – this is pure genius! We did not see our kids for hours and they had fun making friends with little Norwegians. The food service on the train is limited so take some snacks. The bakery at Flåm is a good place to grab a sandwich.

Day 5 – Oslo museums and culture

Time to take in some Norwegian culture and explore Oslo . Head to the Bygdøy Peninsula, where most of the city’s museums are found, on the number 30 bus from outside the train station or museum ferry from Pier 3 outside City Hall.

You could take a full day to explore the museums on Bygdøy but you must not miss the Norwegian Folk Museum and the Viking Ship Museum  when it re-opens in 2026 after refurbishment.

Spend the late afternoon relaxing by the fjord at Oslo’s beautiful Opera House.

TIP: the Oslo Pass city card includes free entry to the museums and public transport in the city – read my post about Oslo and the Oslo Pass for more information

Recommended hotels in Oslo

Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo – central location, great service and stylish decor. Has family rooms – check prices and availability

Comfort Hotel Grand Central – right next to the station, modern decor, perfect for couples –  check prices and availability

Day 6 – Explore Oslo | Train from Oslo to Gothenburg

It might surprise you that Oslo is great city for exploring the outdoors. Today visit Vigeland Sculpture park in Frogner Park. Just a short ride from the city center or Aker Brygge wharf, you can spend a couple of hours wandering the park and admiring over 200 sculptures by artist Gustav Vigeland.

Enjoy lunch by the harbor and then take a ferry to one of the islands in the Oslo fjord. Disembark and take a stroll around one of the islands. You can even join the locals and go swimming in summer. Read more in our Oslo guide

The ferry drops you back at Akers Brygge, Oslo’s harbourside where you can enjoy the cafes and shops before you go to the train station for your onward journey to Gothenburg.

READ: Adventures in Oslo – museums, island hopping and art with the Oslo Pass

Next stop, Sweden! Take the train to Gothenburg from Oslo S (Oslo Central Station). The journey takes 3½ hours and before you know it you are in another country. Don’t forget your passport! Book your onward journey to Gothenburg with Vy – check timetables and book tickets online .

Day 7 – Discover Gothenburg – Swedish city by the sea

Gothenburg is a compact city, easy to explore on foot, bike or using the efficient tram system. But I suggest you get your bearings by taking a paddan boat tour through the city’s canal system and out into the working harbor.

On a sunny day, you must take a trip out to the archipelago and visit some of the islands by ferry. Many of the islands are car-free and perfect for exploring on foot. More about tripping the archipelago in my Gothenburg guide .

Have you visited a Scandinavian amusement park? You should. Liseberg in Gothenburg is Scandinavia’s biggest amusement park with over 40 rides and attractions. We were impressed by the retro and modern rides, short lines and reasonable ticket prices.

TIP: entry to Liseberg is included in the Göteborg city card

Recommended hotels in Gothenburg

Gothia Towers – popular modern hotel with large family rooms opposite Liseberg and with easy links to the main station – check prices and availability

Hotel Pigalle – smart boutique hotel in a heritage building close to the station, best for couples – check prices and availability

Day 8 – Gothenburg | Train from Gothenburg to Copenhagen

Stroll around Gothenburg’s Haga district and enjoy the ambiance of the cobbled streets and cute-as-a-button boutiques and cafes. If cinnamon buns are your thing you must stop at Cafe Husaren to check out the biggest buns (though perhaps not the tastiest) you have ever seen.

READ: Get Your Swede on – 48 hours in Gothenburg

Cross the canal and head on over to the indoor fish market Feskekòrka and enjoy checking out the catch of the day. Continue along the canal until you reach the Botanic Gardens where you can relax on the grass or wander through the themed gardens.

TIP: grab a picnic to eat in the gardens from the wonderful providores at the  Saluhallen indoor food market

Onward to Denmark! Leaving from Centralstation the journey to Copenhagen takes just over 3 hours. The highlight of the journey is feeling like you are flying over water on the 8 kilometer long Øresund cable stayed bridge. Book your rail tickets online at SJ – Swedish Rail .

Recommended dining in Gothenburg

Restaurang Gabriel  inside Gothenburg’s famous fish market Feskekòrka is the place to go for the tastiest seafood in town

Want to take a side trip to Stockholm? Click here

Day 9 – Copenhagen highlights

Wonderful Copenhagen is a relaxed and friendly city that is easy to explore on foot. But you really should hire a bike and do a tour of the city on Denmark’s favorite mode of transport. We did it and you can cover all the major sites easily in a day, stopping to take in the views and atmosphere of the beautiful Danish capital.

READ: Copenhagen by bike – touring Denmark’s capital on two wheels

But if biking is not your thing, start at the Little Mermaid and stroll along the waterfront to Amalienborg Palace to see the changing of the guard.

Next, visit Copenhagen’s pretty harbor Nyhavn and catch a boat tour around the city’s canals before crossing the pedestrian bridge to Papirøen and the Copenhagen Street Food market.

After lunch take a walk through bohemian Christiania, a unique Copenhagen neighborhood surrounding a pretty lake.

Recommended hotels in Copenhagen

Babette Guldsmeden – friendly, eco-conscious boutique hotel close to Rosenborg Castle – check prices and availability

Copenhagen Admiral Hotel – perfect location on the harbor just steps from Nyhavn – check prices and availability

Day 10 – Copenhagen | Rosenborg Castle | Nørrebro

On your second day in Copenhagen take a visit to Rosenborg Castle , one of the prettiest castles in the world in my humble opinion. Set in the glorious Kongens Have or King’s Gardens the castle was the summer house of the Danish Royal Family and is home to the Danish Crown Jewels .

READ: more about Copenhagen in How to fall in love with Copenhagen

In the afternoon visit one of Copenhagen’s interesting neighborhoods Nørrebro. Wander through Assistens Cemetery, the final resting place of Hans Christian Andersen until you reach Jægersborggade. This funky street is home to cafés and boutiques and is a great way to soak up the city’s laid-back vibe.

TIP: stop for a delicious ice cream at Istid and watch it appear through a haze of smoke! The ice cream is made using liquid nitrogen

Recommended dining in Copenhagen

Torvehallen  – this centrally located food market (near Nørreport station) has more eating options than you can imagine

Manfreds – laid-back dining with a focus on vegetables in Nørrebro

Mielcke & Hurtigkarl – a splurge and one of my all time dining highlights – sophisticated menu in a stunning dining room

READ: more about Nordic cuisine in Discovering New Nordic cuisine in Copenhagen

Day 11 – Copenhagen | Tivoli Gardens

No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a visit to Tivoli Gardens . So much more than an amusement park, Tivoli has been entertaining the people of Copenhagen since 1843 and has a charming retro feel.

Here you can enjoy fairground rides, walking through the gardens bursting with floral displays or enjoying the scheduled entertainment. The highlight of the daily program at Tivoli is the spectacular Illuminations, a sound and light show on the Tivoli Lake.

Tivoli has something for everyone but we especially loved the sweet Flying Trunk ride that takes you on a magical journey through 32 fairytale scenes.

TIP: start at Tivoli Gardens and walk all the way down Strøtget to the 17th Rundetaarn tower

End your Scandinavian trip on a high with a stroll down Strøtget, Copenhagen’s famous pedestrian shopping street.

Throughout your trip you have no doubt admired the sophisticated yet cozy Scandinavian style. You will definitely find an appropriate souvenir to bring home with you.

As promised here are our tips for ensuring you don’t go over budget on your trip to Scandinavia.

When to visit, accommodation and food

Scandinavia is no different to any major tourist destination in that visiting during the shoulder season during late Spring and early autumn gives you the best chance of good weather and reasonable prices.

Norway in particular sees particularly high rates over the peak summer months in the fjord regions.

The highest accommodation costs we had was in Flåm where there are only two hotels. For this reason, I would avoid staying in Flåm if you are on a strict budget.

We were impressed with the way Scandinavian hotels have responded to the cost issue. Some offer a buffet breakfast and dinner service included in the room rate or as a small additional charge.

Shopping at the local markets and street food outlets (of which there are many) means you avoid restaurant service charges and uplifts. The standard of food is excellent across Scandinavia so you will eat well regardless.

Alcohol is very expensive in comparison with southern European countries so you can save some pennies here by going on a mini detox.

Transport and attractions

The city cards we used during our trip were great value – especially in Oslo. They include public transport and free or discounted entry into the main attractions of the cities we visited. You can buy city cards for 24, 48, or 72 hours. If you plan your time effectively you can save significantly this way.

Prebook trains well in advance and you will get the best deals. In Norway, there are a limited number of heavily reduced minipris fares, that are non-changeable and non-refundable available to book online.

Cost is probably one of your major inhibitors of a family trip to Scandinavia. Am I right?

Well, we were surprised to learn that most travel and attractions are free for children under 4 years old with significant discounts for children 16 years and under. Even the fjord safari was free for our 3-year-old twins so I didn’t really mind when one fell asleep in the middle of it.

If you can overcome the cost issue then Scandinavia is wonderful for travelling with children. Public transport is a breeze with easy to enter vehicles and often special designated areas for prams and buggies.

The inter city trains in Norway have specially dedicated family carriages that have a children’s soft play area and tv that runs cartoons. They are understandably very popular so it pays to book early and secure your seats.

The only problem with the train system across Scandinavia was a poor food service. On one leg we resorted to emptying our change into a vending machine and our choice of salted licorice was not a good one!

Accommodation in Scandinavia

We were pleasantly surprised with the accommodation options we found across Scandinavia. Some hotels have drop down bunk beds and play areas for small children. The buffet dining options at dinner are a great option for families looking for convenience after a long day sightseeing or traveling.

Scandinavian Food

Scandinavian cuisine features lots of fish. Our children love fish but some don’t. In this case, you can always turn to kid-friendly favorites like hot dogs, pasta and burgers which you can find everywhere.

We always head to the markets on our travels as they are great places to pick up delicious and interesting local food. I have mentioned these throughout the above itinerary.

Hotel breakfast and dinner buffets are great places to stock up on healthier options like fruit, yoghurt and vegetables. We were very surprised at the quality and variety of dishes on offer. There was always plenty of salad to offset the quite remarkable dessert sections.

The fun stuff

Lastly, you should definitely make time for a stop at the famous amusement parks Liseberg in Gothenburg and Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. With rides and activities for children of all ages at reasonable prices, these parks help mix up the activities on your trip. And who can resist a rollercoaster?

This itinerary doesn’t cover Finland or Iceland but if you want to add them onto to your trip, take a look at these useful resources:

▪️ Lonely Planet’s Scandinavia guidebook was a great help in planning our trip (use code UNTOLD10 for 10% off)

▪️ How much does it really cost to visit Iceland ?

Disclaimer –  Untold Morsels assists our readers with carefully chosen product and services recommendations that help make travel easier and more fun. If you click through and make a purchase on many of these items we may earn a commission. All opinions are our own – please read our  disclosure  page for more information.

The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy

8-Day Itinerary for Travel in Scandinavia

Bo Zaunders / Contributor / Getty Images

This 8-Day Scandinavia itinerary follows this outline:

Day 1: Arrival and half a day in Copenhagen Day 2: Copenhagen Day 3: Oslo Day 4: Oslo to Bergen Day 5: Bergen to Alesund Day 6: Alesund Day 7: Stockholm Day 8: Stockholm

When planning a trip to Europe, many people visit famous countries like Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Italy, France, and Spain. And they leave out Scandinavia. That would be a shame. Ask anyone who has been to these beautiful Nordic countries and they will respond with glowing descriptions. 

The best time to visit Scandinavia is late spring or early summer, so schedule your arrival toward the end of May. Here's an itinerary that will show you why so many people love Scandinavia.

Day 1: Copenhagen (half-day)

TripSavvy / Donghee Eim

When you arrive in Copenhagen, try to stay in the Hotel Nebo, which is centrally located and just a stone's throw away from Copenhagen Central Station and the Tivoli Gardens .

Take a stroll on the famous Strøget  shopping street, starting from Copenhagen's City Hall and walking past the Kongens Nytrov until you reach the Nyhavn area. It is a beautiful walk that lets you experience the pulse of the city at a leisurely pace.

There are tons of coffee shops, bars, and small shops along this stretch, all of which are worth going to. End your walk at the beautiful Nyhavn waterfront area, which has a magical aura, with open-air restaurants lined on one side and boats docked in the harbor on the other side.

This is just the start of what you will experience over the next seven magical days in Scandinavia.

Day 2: Copenhagen (Copenhagen in a Nutshell Tour)

On the second day, leave your hotel early in the morning and embark on a long walking tour. The best way to see Copenhagen is to walk and explore it yourself, rather than take the tourist buses.

You can make the entire walking loop suggested on the official visitors' map of Copenhagen. Get one of these to the airport from the NSB train ticket office when you arrive, or get one at the tourist center in the city center, opposite the Tivoli Gardens.

It is a six-hour walk or more, depending on how many stops you make, and it starts and stops at the Town Hall. The sites you might want to stop and see along the way include Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Library, the Christian’s Church, Christiania, the Danish Resistance Museum, Amalienborg Palace, the Little Mermaid , the Copenhagen Citadel, Rosenberg Castle, and the Round Tower. 

Walking through the heart of Copenhagen lets you experience every bit of the history, the lifestyle, and the vibrant nature of the city. All through this walk, you’ll come across interesting bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. Take the time to go to some of these places to get an insider's feel of the city. Ankara Restaurant is particularly good for this.

The entire walk is really a Copenhagen in a Nutshell tour for people who want to capture the essence of Copenhagen.

Day 3: Oslo

The next morning, have breakfast and head to the airport for a flight to Oslo.

In Oslo , stay in a centrally located hotel such as Hotel Perminalen. Give yourself eight hours to see the city and mark the places you want to see on a map.

Freshen up and head first to the Viking Museum via the ferry. Then take a bus from a stop near the museum and head to Vigeland Park to see the hundreds of life-size sculptures by famous Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland.

From there, you might like to walk around and experience the best-known places in Oslo. Some of these are the Slottet (Oslo's palace), Stortinget (the supreme legislature of Norway), and Oslo's City Hall. All of these are located along the Karl Johans gate, Oslo's main street, which was named after King Charles III John, who was also King of Sweden.

There are many restaurants along Karl Johan street. After spending some time there, perhaps walk to the harbor area, which will be buzzing with busy outdoor restaurants and people strolling around.

After spending time in the harbor area, see the Opera House around sunset, which provides a magnificent view of the northern sky that will remain etched in your memory.

End the day with a delicious dinner at the excellent Jaipur Indian Restaurant on Karl Johans gate.

Day 4: Oslo to Bergen (Norway in a Nutshell Tour)

Experiencing the essence of Norway’s natural beauty begins on Day 4.

Check out of Hotel Perminalen in the morning and head to Oslo's Central Station to take the train heading to Myrdal. At Myrdal, change trains for Flam and then take the ferry ride to Gudvangen. From Gudvangen, take a bus to Voss, then the train back to Bergen.

You'll reach beautiful Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, in the evening. There is so much to see and do here  that you may want to spend more than the one night and a half day we are allotting here. 

If you arrive in Bergen on May 17, there will be celebrations all over town because May 17 is  Norwegian National Day  and there are celebrations everywhere in Norway that day.

Later that night, we highly recommend taking a cable car ride up Mount Fløyen, where you will see magnificent views of Bergen.

Day 5: Bergen to Alesund

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

You may be tempted to fly to Alesun, which is about 250 miles north of Bergen on Norway's temperate west coast. But a bus trip will reverse that feeling. Right out of your bus window, you will see the most amazingly scenic views, vistas that you can only see in movies. 

The meandering bus trip cuts through many fjords along the way, with picture-postcard scenery during nearly 10 hours. It may be the most scenic bus journey you will ever have. Once in Alesund, make time for a walk in the city to see its renowned art nouveau architecture.

Day 6: Geirangerfjord

If Day 5 was memorable, then Day 6 trip to Geirangerfjord will be spectacular.

Take the round-trip bus tour from Alesund to Geiranger via Hellesylt. From Hellesylt, take a ferry ride to the famous Geirangerfjord, which is one of  Norway's UNESCO World Heritage sites . The experience is simply exhilarating. Along the sides of the fjords, you'll see farms, many small houses, and a number of waterfalls, including the famous Seven Sisters. At the end of the ferry trip, you'll land in the town of Geiranger.

Hike up to the Norway Fjord Museum, which is about 20 minutes by foot. The view of the Geirangerfjord along the hike cannot be described in words. If you’re a true nature buff, this will be the place of your dreams.

Try to spend the next couple of hours in the area to soak up the views of the place. Later that evening, take the bus to Alesund.

When you reach Alesund, you might want to hike up to Fjellstua in order to get a 360-degree view of the small town. The 15-minute hike up to Fjellstua is splendid, with constantly changing scenery, and absolutely worth the hike.

Day 7: Stockholm

With the three nature-themed days of the trip coming to an end, take a flight early in the morning to Stockholm .

Upon arriving in Stockholm, check into your hotel and get ready for a walk around this lovely city. Start at Stockholm's City Hall and take a walk along the Stromgatan through the Nybroplan (or "New Bridge Square") area. Stroll along Strandvagen, absorbing the sights of the city.

There are a lot of people strolling around this area along the harbor and just enjoying the pretty harbor views. If you are doing this on a Friday evening, make your way to the Stureplan area, which happens to be one of the better happy-hour spots in Stockholm.

You'll also want to walk along the Kungsträdgården and see the many people relaxing in the garden.

Later that evening, take a train to the Södermalm district. When you arrive, head for the Skyview to get a great view of the city from above.

The Södermalm area has an  active nightlife . In the evening, the place is buzzing with activity, thanks to the countless outdoor restaurants. Make sure you go to the bar near Och Himlen Därtill Restaurant for an amazing view of the city.

Day 8: Stockholm

Start Day 8 with a morning of sightseeing, going first to the Vasa Museum. This museum is one of the must-see places in Stockholm. The sheer size of the 17th-century ship there (which was recovered intact) and the amount of information discovered about the people who built the ship is astonishing.

You'll want to spend several hours there before going on a boat ride to the Royal Palace, which has lovely museums about Swedish history.

Later that evening, head to your final destination: Gamla Stan (Old Town). This area is a romantic area of Stockholm, dominated by narrow alleyways and cobbled streets. Take a stroll along the streets of Old Town and just drink in the architecture and atmosphere. Spend the evening in Gamla Stan, where you'll find great places for lunch or dinner.

Final Impressions 

This entire trip is, for many, like a fairy tale that couldn't have been scripted better. The breathtaking views of the fjords, the scenic journey along Norway’s west coast, and the beautiful cities of Bergen, Alesund, Copenhagen, and Stockholm will fill you with memories that will last a lifetime.

8 Scandinavian Cruises for Any Time Frame

October in Scandinavia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

How to Travel from Stockholm to Oslo by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Scandinavian Itinerary: Where to Visit and for How Long

14 Best Attractions and Things to Do in Scandinavia

How to Travel from Copenhagen to Oslo by Train, Bus, Car, Plane, and Ferry

December in Scandinavia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Best Day Trips From Oslo

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Scandinavia

A Guide to Airports in Scandinavia

The Ultimate Itinerary for a European-Inspired Solo Trip Around the US

The Best Staycation in Every State

The Top Stops Along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Faroe Islands: Planning Your Trip

Where to Go Shopping in Oslo, Norway

The complete guide to traveling Scandinavia

Scandinavia

Scandinavia Trip Costs  | Transportation | Food and alcohol | Accommodation | Water | City passes | When to visit | My Top Travel Tips | Denmark | Sweden | Norway | Top 10 Things to do

With its picturesque forests, a thousand lakes, northern lights, Viking heritage, and the dream of countries filled with tall, blonde, singing people, IKEA, and immaculate fashion, Scandinavia is the perfect destination to combine breathtaking nature with art, architecture, food, and history.

Scandinavia typically refers to the three countries Norway, Sweden, and Denmark and even though the Scandinavian countries share a history, have similar culture and languages they differ enough not to skip any of the three countries on your travels in northern Europe.

As Copenhagen holds the busiest and most well-connected airport in Scandinavia, Denmark is a good starting point. However, all three countries are connected by land (or in some cases bridges or tunnels) making it easy to travel between and within the countries by train or car.

 SCANDINAVIA TRIP COSTS

There is no way to sugarcoat this. Scandinavia is expensive, Norway especially, being the second most expensive country in the world. If you plan wisely, your costs can be reduced significantly.

TRANSPORTATION

Travelling by car or train gives you more flexibility, but it is time-consuming due to the vast countries, so if you are short on time, I highly recommend flying.

Renting a car is no budget option but gives you flexibility and the ability to reach places that can be hard to reach with air travel or train. The distances in Norway and Sweden long so remember that you not only have to pay for the car rental, but you will also use a lot of fuel and it doesn’t come cheap!

If you want to save money on travel costs you are most likely to do so with a combination of flights and trains. The costs of travelling by train or plane can be very similar for long distances, but if you are flexible, the prices for the train tickets can be as low as 20 Euro instead of 100 Euro.

If you travel by train, make sure you are flexible on the time of the day you want to travel as well as the day you want to travel, buy an interrail pass (note that the interrail passes are usually just available during the summers), take the night train and save both time and money. There is no need to buy your train or plane tickets far in advance, the prices go up and down depending on availability.

There is also the option of buses for long distances, they are usually the cheapest option, but you will need a lot more time than if travelling by train or plane.

Except for the capitals most of the cities are walkable and in the capitals, especially Copenhagen, why not rent a bicycle and move on two wheels like the Scandinavians? You´ll get both an authentic, sustainable, and cheap experience!

If you prefer public transportation make sure to buy 24-hour passes or multiple days passes instead of single rides as they tend to be pricey.

FOOD AND ALCOHOL

The restaurants keep a high standard – and high prices. Lunch will usually set you back 9-15 euros while you are unlikely to find the main course for dinner for less than 22-28 euros. Due to a high tax on alcohol, your party nights in Norway and Sweden might be limited. Expect to pay 7-10 euros for a beer and 15-23 euros for a cocktail in a bar. If you buy the alcohol in the specially designated shops for alcohol the prices will be lower, but still high.

In Denmark however the prices on alcohol are lower and more similar to those of the southern European countries, but depending on where you go it might still be pricey. The cheapest bars in Denmark are called Bodegas, small places, nothing fancy, usually with pool tables or boardgames, where a beer usually is around 2 euros, any cheaper than that and you´ll have to make your own.

To cut your costs, buy your groceries in the local supermarkets or markets and your costs for food will be remarkably lower than if you eat in restaurants. There is a lot of money to save here.

ACCOMMODATION

If you are travelling in Norway and Sweden in the summertime and/or are well equipped it is good to know that you are allowed to sleep under the stars or put up your tent anywhere, as long as it is not on private property. In Sweden and Norway, there are also so-called wind protectors, small wooden shelters on strategic places in nature for everyone to use for camping. Camping and using wind protectors are for free, which is amazing, but respect nature and don´t leave any trace, except maybe your footprints. Remember that in the summer the temperatures can differ between 15-30 degrees Celsius or 59-86 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures in the winter are cold to freezing, so be prepared!

So if you don´t want to sleep in a tent or in the grass? Scandinavians are very friendly and there is always the option of couch surfing or renting cabins, but if it isn´t for you hostels are usually cheaper than both Airbnb and hotels. The hostels are of a good standard and normally with cooking facilities.

Sustainability is big in Scandinavia and you can refill your water bottle anywhere for free. The tap water is not only free and drinkable but also delicious! So make sure to bring your own water bottle and save both money and the environment.

CITY PASSES

All major cities in Scandinavia offer city pass that gives you discounts on everything from transportation to museums to food and even shopping!

WHEN TO VISIT

There is no right or wrong time to visit Scandinavia unless you are planning on only visiting the cities, in which case they will be more vibrant between April-September. If you choose to visit Scandinavia in the summer you will witness the lush green nature, you will see the waterfalls and the rivers in their full glory, you will swim and sunbathe, hike and ride a bicycle and of course, see the midnight sun! If you choose to visit in the winter you will experience fairytale-like winters, aurora lights, glistening frozen lakes, and cozy winter markets. If you plan to visit Stockholm in winter make sure you read my Stockholm in winter guide . Out of all the Scandinavian capitals Copenhagen will be the mildest to visit during winter as it’s the southernmost capital out of the three. Copenhagen in winter is actually not that cold and some winter you might not even get any snow.

Remember that the weather and temperatures are unpredictable and you need to be prepared for it. There is no guarantee that the winters are freezing and the summers are hot or vice versa.

MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS

• Even if Scandinavia can be done on a budget, you need to account for that it is not as cheap as South East Asia or Eastern Europe. Be prepared that things will cost and that cheap travel will take time.
• Try to take the night train when possible, the trains are of a high standard and is well worth saving a night’s accommodation and travel time.
• Bring your own water bottle for free refills everywhere.
• Both Sweden and Norway are big countries and require time, it can be done in a shorter time, but to get the most out of your Scandinavian trip I would recommend at least 3-4 weeks.
• Be aware that the weather and temperatures can change quickly and pack accordingly.
• Talk to people, even if they might seem shy and maybe won´t approach you, Scandinavians are super friendly and willing to go out of their way and beyond to show you their countries and all of what they have to offer.

Danes are often referred to as the happiest people on earth and it is easy to see why, with the Danish philosophy of “Hygge” – a word that can´t be translated, but described as way of life where you seek happiness in the simple and cozy things.

Copenhagen might be the coziest and liveliest of the three northern capitals, filled with great bars and nightclubs making the Copenhagen nightlife fantastic. You also find cozy and cool restaurants as well as plenty of outdoor activities.

But Denmark is so much more than just Copenhagen. You have the central region with Aarhus, Herning, and Viborg, with the white sand dunes of the North Sea as well as charming bays and inlets on the east coast. Here you will also find Legoland and dozens of art museums.

In northern Denmark you will find some of the countries most prominent architecture, thriving food scene and not to forget it is home to some of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in Scandinavia.

Sweden with its ever-changing landscapes from the flat south to the mountainous north is filled with beautiful islands and beaches, spellcasting forests, medieval cities and castles, incredible art, and world-famous fashion.

Entering Sweden from Copenhagen is easily done by train to Malmö, where a one-way ticket costs 10 euros. Malmö being the third biggest city in Sweden, although fairly small and walkable, is a mix of an old fisherman´s village and an industrial manufacturing hub. It is charming and has a big cultural diversity. You will hear dozens of different languages, smell the spices of the Middle East, enjoy swimming, and having a look at Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s tallest building. Around Malmö, you have the coziest little beach towns with soft white sand and where time moves as if everyone is on vacation all year round.

From Malmö to the very north of Sweden the possibilities are endless, you can choose to go on the west coast of Sweden up to Gothenburg, stop for amazing seafood and continue your way up north or enter Norway. Or you can choose to go on the east coast, visit the capital, Stockholm, with its archipelago, forests, nightlife, shopping, and then continue your way to the incredible north. Of course, in between Malmö, Gothenburg, and Stockholm, there are amazing places to explore but you will really notice a difference in culture and nature if you travel further north instead. While the south of Sweden offers beaches and city life, the north is all about nature and it is nature you don´t want to miss out on!

While all three countries are like exotic fairytales, Norway is a category on its own. People sound happy even when they are arguing and most of their time they spend outdoors, summer as well as in the winter. And Norway is mostly famous for exactly this, its nature, its Fjords, its mountains, its forests, its coastline, its marine life. There is probably not one part of Norway that isn´t breathtaking. This doesn´t mean that Norway is only for the outdoorsy type, even if, if there is one place that could convert even the most big-city-life-traveler, it is Norway. It is the second most expensive country in the world, but it is well worth a visit and can be done on a budget with a bit of planning. Even if Norway is all about nature you shouldn´t miss out on exploring the capital, Oslo, which gives you a feeling of being in a village rather than a capital. It is very tourist-friendly, filled with restaurants, unique cafés, shops, and interesting museums as well as proximity to nature, you can even go surfing in Norway!

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO

1.the northern lights, sweden and norway.

The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is on most people’s bucket list, and for a reason, it is stunning, and you will never experience anything like it. It is also not easily accessible. Your highest chance of witnessing this natural phenomenon is during wintertime, north of the arctic circle, in Sweden and Norway , the more north you go, the better the chance you will have.

2. The Royal Palace Drottningholm, Sweden

On the list of World Heritage Sites protected by UNESCO is the Royal Palace of Drottningholm in Stockholm, Sweden. The Palace has been compared to the one of Versailles and is the residence of the Swedish King and Queen. The southern wing of the Palace is reserved for the royal family only, but visitors are allowed in the rest of the Palace all year around.

3. The Fjords of Norway

There is no other word than stunning, to describe the Fjords of Norway. The Fjords are formations of ocean water between cliffs caused by the glacier and Norway has thousands of them, making Norway the “Fjord capital of the world”. Once in Norway they are fairly easy to reach and should definitely not be missed! Make it a few days adventure up the coast of Norway to see the most breathtaking ones or just a quick daytrip from Oslo. Neither will disappoint.

4. The little mermaid, Denmark

Copenhagen is like nothing else, the streets of Nyhavn look like they are taken from a fairytale with the canals, boats and tiny colored houses. Speaking of fairytales, you will find one of the biggest Nordic icons in Copenhagen – the sculpture of the little mermaid , based on a story about a little mermaid written by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.

5. Christiania, Denmark

Following the canals between street musicians, the smell of Danish sausage, and never-ending bicycles you will eventually reach Freetown Christiania . In this self-proclaimed free state in the middle of Copenhagen, Denmark, no one owns their homes, the people police themselves, and all decisions are made by consensus. It has a mix of homes, cafes, art galleries, and workshops, many covered with colorful murals or accented by sculptures and if Copenhagen is like nothing else, Christiania is even more so.

6. Bergen, Norway

Filled with cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, surrounded by mountains, fjords, and sea you can mix quirky shopping, lazy days at the seaside with hikes up the two most famous mountain viewpoints, Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken. You will enter the wilderness of the forest and do a few days hike or for the shorter and easier route, begin your hike right in the city center and hike your way to the viewpoints. Don´t worry if you´re lazy, you can go on the funicular train “Fløyen” and still enjoy the same views.

7. Lapland, Sweden

It will not get more exotic than this. You have dog sleds, reindeers, waterfalls, tipi tents, rivers, lakes, midnight sun, mountains and the northernmost indigenous people in the world, the Sami . Sami speak multiple traditional languages and try to secure their culture and heritage even today, which is clearly noticeable when visiting Lapland. And if this isn´t enough if you are visiting Lapland in winter you also have a great chance of seeing the Northern lights. If you feel like splurging it is also in Lapland that you find the world-famous Iglootel , a hotel completely made out of ice and snow.

8. Scandinavian food

In Scandinavia, you will find weird food, fermented, pickled, dried, salted, and even rotten, some of it is not for the weak and even the smell might get your stomach to turn, but for the brave, it is considered delicacies and is even exported to high-end restaurants all over the world.

If you want to play it safer, modern Nordic cuisine is one of the main reasons Scandinavia attracts tourists in the last ten years. Maybe it all began when Noma in Denmark was named the best restaurant in the world. However, since then the scene has only been growing and growing and Scandinavia is at the top of every foodie’s bucket list. Last but not least, DO NOT miss out on the seafood!

9. Briksdal Glacieer, Norway

The mighty Briksdal Glacier is part of the Jostedal Glacier national park. From an astonishing height of 1200 meters or 3 937 feet, you will see the wild glacier drop into the narrow lake surrounded by lush vegetation and smooth rocks – it will take your breath away.

10. Stockholm

Stockholm is the largest city in Scandinavia, but don´t be fooled thinking you will end up in a hectic place. It is made up of 14 islands and situated in the Stockholm archipelago. The archipelago itself is the largest one in Scandinavia, with 30 000 islands, where you will find the urban Swedes swimming and sunbathing in the summer. Stockholm is extremely pretty, filled with beautiful architecture, parks, and museums. Amongst the museums you will find the Vasa Museum, the Vasa ship capsized and sank in Stockholm in 1628. Vasa is the world’s best-preserved 17th-century ship and the most visited museum in Scandinavia.  Don’t miss the picturesc old town or, gamla stan, with it’s narrow streats and cute little shops and cafes.

Ready to travel to Scandinavia? Let us know if there is something ells you’d like to know in the comments below

Related posts.

Your epic Guide to Surfing Norway

Scandinavia , Surfing

Surfing might not be the first thing that strikes you when thinking about Norway but let me tell you – it should! Norway surf has world-class waves, friendly people, zero crowds and surf culture unlike most places you´ve ever visited. All this and more make Norway...

Backpacking Norway

orway, Norway, oh how beautiful art thou? The scenery of Norway instantly draws my thoughts to Lord of the Rings and the rolling green hills and jagged mountain peaks of New Zealand.? With its spellbinding fjords, dozens of wonderful national parks, northern lights...

Norway fjords

There are few things as spectacular and breathtaking as the beautiful fjords of Norway. Travel through Western Norway bring you to places you thought only exists in fairytales. As you cruise between deep blue waters, towering mountain peaks, and majestic waterfalls it...

Your Insider’s Guide to the Copenhagen Nightlife

Ever dreamt of dancing with tall, beautiful Scandinavians? Drinking beer with the ancestors of the Vikings? Having cocktails in trendy, upcoming, edgy bars? Well, Copenhagen is your place. The Danish capital is the New York of Europe and offers you a nightlife scene...

Like it? Pin it ?

Planning a Trip? Get Your Essential Travel Gear Now

Book your accommodation, travel insurance and flights below, looking for inspiration of other activities in bali.

Best of Nordic Countries in 3 Weeks – Scandinavia Itinerary

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

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

Itinerary for Scandinavian Countries: An Introduction

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

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

Why am I telling you this?

Because…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scandinavia Itinerary: Summer in Scandinavia

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s time to plan your Scandinavia travel !

Scandinavia Itinerary 21 Days: An Overview

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

♥ Denmark ♥ Sweden ♥ Finland ♥ Norway

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

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

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

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

Scandinavia Trip Itinerary: Things to Know Before You Go

Best time to visit scandinavia.

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

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

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

How much does a Trip to Scandinavia cost?

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

There are ways to cut your costs in Scandinavia –

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

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

Getting to and from Scandinavia

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

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

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

We use and recommend Skyscanner for the best flight deals.

Getting Around Scandinavia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Detailed Scandinavia Itinerary: Explore Nordic Countries in 3 weeks

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

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

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

First Destination: Denmark

Days to spend: 6 days.

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

How to Get to Denmark

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Denmark

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

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

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

Related Read: 10 Days in Denmark Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Copenhagen

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

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

Where to dine in Copenhagen on day 1?

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

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

Read our detailed guide to the best hotels in Copenhagen .

Day 2 – Explore Copenhagen

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

The attractions you’ll be visiting today include:

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

Where to dine and drink in Copenhagen on day 2?

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Explore Copenhagen

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

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

Recommended dining in Copenhagen for day 3:

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

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

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

Or you can explore:

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

Food recommendations in Copenhagen for the 3rd day:

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

Read our detailed 3 days in Copenhagen itinerary

Day 5: Day Trip to Dragør from Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

Read our complete guide to Dragør, Denmark

Day 6 – Day Trip to Helsingor from Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Second Destination: Sweden

Days to spend: 3 days.

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

How to Get to Sweden

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Sweden

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

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

Here are the hotel recommendations for popular cities in Sweden:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We stayed at a lovely holiday cottage in Löderups Strandbad.

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Explore Ystad

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

I instantly fell in love with its beauty.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Third Destination: Finland

Days to spend: 5 days.

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

How to Get to Finland

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

Where to Stay in Finland

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

Here are our recommendations for Hotels in Finnish cities:

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

Day 10 – Fly from Copenhagen to Helsinki | Explore Helsinki

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

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

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

Where to dine and drink in Helsinki on day 1?

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

Day 11 – Explore Helsinki

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

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

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

Where to eat in Helsinki on day 2?

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

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

Day 12 – Day Trip to Porvoo from Helsinki

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 13 – Fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi | Explore Rovaniemi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to eat in Rovaniemi on day 1?

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

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

Day 14 – Explore Rovaniemi

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

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

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

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

Fourth Destination: Norway

Days to spend: 7 days.

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

How to Get to Norway

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

Where to Stay in Norway

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

Here are the hotel recommendations for major Norwegian cities:

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

Day 15 – Fly from Rovaniemi to Oslo | Explore Oslo

Your Norway itinerary starts in the capital city of Oslo.

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

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

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

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

Where to eat in Oslo on day 1?

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

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

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

Day 16 – Explore Oslo, Norway

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

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

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

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

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

Try Statholdergaarden if you want to splurge on food.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read all about the scenic train journey from Oslo to Bergen

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

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

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

Where to dine in Bergen?

• Coffee and snacks at Lovetann Kaffebar
• Dinner at Trekroneren

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

Day 18 – Explore Bergen

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

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

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

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

Dining suggestions for 2nd day in Bergen:

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

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

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

Day 19 – Drive to Hardangerfjord from Bergen | Explore Hardanger

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

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

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

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

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

Day 20 – Drive to Flam | Explore Flam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 21 – Road Trip from Flam to Oslo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 22 – Fly Back Home

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

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

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

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

Suggested Scandinavia Itineraries

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

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

Scandinavia Itinerary 15 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark | Explore Copenhagen

Day 2: Explore Copenhagen

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

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

Day 5: Hike Pulpit Rock

Day 6: Fly from Stavanger to Bergen | Explore Bergen

Day 7: Hike Trolltunga

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

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

Day 10: Explore Oslo

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

Day 12: Explore Stockholm

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

Day 14: Explore Helsinki

Day 15: Fly Back Home

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

Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki, Finland | Explore Helsinki

Day 2: Explore Helsinki

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

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

Day 5: Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Fly from Stockholm to Copenhagen | Explore Copenhagen

Day 7: Explore Copenhagen

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

Day 9: Explore Oslo

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

Day 11: Explore Bergen

Day 12: Explore Flåm and the Norwegian Fjords

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

Day 14: Fly Back Home

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

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

Day 3: Drive to Gothenburg, Sweden | Explore Gothenburg

Day 4: Drive from Gothenburg to Stockholm | Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Drive from Stockholm to Oslo

Day 7: Explore Oslo

Day 8: Drive from Oslo to Bergen

Day 9: Explore Bergen

Day 10: Explore Flam and Norwegian Fjords

Day 11: Drive from Bergen to Stavanger | Explore Stavanger

Day 12: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 10 Days

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

Day 4: Explore Stockholm

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

Day 6: Fly from Oslo to Bergen | Explore Bergen

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

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

Day 9: Explore Helsinki

Day 10: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Stockholm, Sweden | Explore Stockholm

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

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

Day 4: Explore Oslo

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

Day 6: Explore Stockholm

Day 7: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Trip Itinerary: FAQs

What are the Scandinavian countries?

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

How many days do you need to visit Scandinavia?

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

What are the best months to travel in Scandinavia?

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

Is it expensive in Scandinavia?

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

Which Scandinavian country to visit first?

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

Which country is better in Scandinavia?

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

Is it easy to travel between Scandinavian countries?

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

What’s Scandinavia known for?

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

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

Recommended Reading:

• Renting a Car in Europe
• Schengen Visa for Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe
• Cheap and Free Things to do in Copenhagen
• 3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary
• 13+ Incredible Day Trips from Copenhagen
• Best Hotels in Copenhagen for Families
• Dragør in Denmark
• Best Places to Visit in Denmark
• Cool Danish Words
• Trip to Finnish Lapland in Summer
• Best Things to do in Helsinki
• A First-Timer’s Guide to Visiting Helsinki
• Porvoo in Finland
• Where to Stay in Rovaniemi
• Best Places to Visit in Norway with Kids
• Oslo with Kids
• Where to Stay in Oslo
• Undredal in Norway
• The Train from Oslo to Bergen
• A Road Trip from Bergen to Oslo
• 7 Days in Norway Itinerary
• 2 Weeks in Norway Itinerary
• Beautiful Norwegian Words
• Cool Swedish Words

Save the Itinerary for Nordic Countries to Pinterest

Sharing is nice 🙂 If you have liked our post please share it with your friends and family and feel free to  subscribe  to our mailing list or you can also follow our stories on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest , and  Twitter .

Anjali Chawla

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

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

Hey Fernando!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Travels!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

© 2024 Travel Melodies. All Rights Reserved.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Get our Rail Planner app

Plan your trip, get extra discounts, and show your Pass as you go.

Our favorite spring routes

Celebrate spring with these 7 off-the-beaten-path train routes

All about seat reservations

Everything you need to know about booking your seats

Alternatives to Busy Routes

Travel between popular European cities without seat reservations

Through our Chatbot in the bottom right corner.

Ask the Community

Browse questions from fellow Eurail travellers, or ask your own!

• Plan your trip
• Suggested Itineraries

1 week in Scandinavia itinerary

• Order overview
• Reservations overview
• My Trips & Travelers
• {{translatedTraveler}} {{#promotional}} {{currencySign}} {{standardPrice}} {{/promotional}} {{quantity}}x {{currencySign}} {{finalPrice}}
• Child {{childPasses}}x FREE
• {{translatedPassType}}
• {{translatedValidityPeriodDescription}}
• {{translatedClass}}
• Remove Pass(es)
• {{variant.localizedTravelPackDescription}} {{quantity}}x Free
• {{variant.localizedPassUpgradeDescription}} {{quantity}}x {{currency}} {{price}}
• Your order will arrive by {{expectedDeliveryDate}} 1 x {{currency}} {{price}}

Your cart is empty

Scandinavia is vast and sparsely populated. There is a lot of ground to cover between the region’s major cities. If you only have 1 week in Scandinavia, it will make sense to limit yourself to the major centers in Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Any additional time, and you could easily head further north, or hop on a ferry from Sweden to Finland.

Itinerary highlights 

Cities to be visited on this trip:.

Click here or on the map to view this route on our Trip Planner

Days 1 - 2: Copenhagen, Denmark

Reignite your inner child with a visit to Tivoli Gardens - a 19th-century amusement park and garden.

Tour the Rosenborg Castle , a stunning example of Christian IV’s famous architecture.

Walk the canals in Nyhavn for views of iconic Danish architecture.

Day 3: Gothenburg, Sweden

Adrenaline addict? Head to the theme park of Liseberg , where you’ll find rollercoasters, rides and a beautifully landscaped garden.

Science fans should pay a visit to Universeum , which offers seven floors of interactive exhibitions.

Walk Gothenburg's most historic district, Haga , and soak up the charm of the cobbled streets and 19th-century houses.

Days 4 - 5: Oslo, Norway

Take a walk around Frogner Park . It’s famous for the Vigeland Sculpture Park - an open-air museum of works by Gustav Vigeland.

Get insight into the fascinating history of the Vikings at the Viking Ship Museum .

Visit the waterside fortress of Akershus to learn about the history of the military in Norway.

Days 6 - 7: Stockholm, Sweden

Learn about the history of shipping in Sweden and Scandinavia at the fascinating Vasa Museum .

Walk the stunning Gamla stan , or old town of Stockholm.

Tour the well-preserved royal residence of Drottningholm Palace and its impressive gardens.

ABBA fan? Head to the ABBA museum to explore a vast collection of memorabilia and interactive exhibitions.

Is a 1 week itinerary for me?

1 week in Scandinavia is barely enough to scrape the surface of this vast and beautiful region of Europe. If you only have seven days in Scandinavia you can still get a good idea of everything that it has to offer. Any additional time could easily be spent further north, or across the border in Finland. However you choose to send your time in the region, pick up a Eurail Scandinavia Pass to make train passage easy.

Change of currency

You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Plan your trip with  our itineraries

Not sure? Go to Route Recommender or see available destinations

• Scandinavia-itineraries

Scandinavia in 14 days for independent travellers

Suggested itinerary: scandinavia in 14 days for independent travellers.

Day 1: Arrival to Copenhagen: the Nyhavn

Arrive to the Copenhagen airport. In the description of the route we will point you out the best way to go from the airport to you hotel. On this first night, we recommend you to go for a walk around the quaint Nyhaven and then go to have dinner to the latin neighbourhood. Night in Copenhagen (in the Smart Route, you will find our recommended hotels and where to book the at the best price).

Day 2: The Mermaid, the historical center and Vesterbro

Start the day visiting the biggest landmark in the city, The Little Mermaid. Then, take a walk and go have lunch to the market of Torvahallerne. On the afternoon, take a walk around the historical center and at night, go over the historical amusement park Tivoli and have dinner in the trendy borough of Vesterbro.

Day 3: Norrebro, Christiania and trip to Oslo

Start the day as the Danish do, with a good brunch. In the Smart Route we will point you out the best places in the city to do so. Having filled your stomach and after a walk around Norrebro, go visit the free city of Christiania, one of the few hippy villages lasting in Europe. In the afternoon, go to the port to take the ferry to Oslo (flight option).

Day 4: From Oslo to Bergen by train

This day, make the journey from Oslo to Bergen, recognised as one of the most beautiful trips by train in the world. Once in Bergen, walk over its famous Bryggen of colourful houses. In the Smart Route we will tell you where to have dinner without ending broke in Bergen. Night in Bergen.

Day 5: Bergen

Take the funicular up to the Floyen Mount to enjoy the best views of the city and the bay. In the Smart Route we will show you the best places to eat in the Fish Market this day. In the afternoon, walk over the most beautiful zones in Bergen. Night in Bergen.

Day 6: From Bergen to Flam passing through Gudvangen

In the route of this day we point you out how to go from Bergen to Flam by rented car or in public transport. This day, we recommend you to do one of the most memorable activities in this trip, kayak in the Naeroyfjord, one of the narrowest ones in the world. Night in Flam.

Day 7: The train from Flam to Myrdal

This day you do the journey by train that goes from Flam to Myrdal. In your way you will enjoy the landscapes, full of mountains, rivers and unforgettable cascades. To come back, we recommend you to rent a mountain bike and make a picnic in the middle of the nature. Finish your day with the sunset from the Stegastein Viewpoint. Night in Flam.

Day 8: From Flam to Hellesylt: the Briksdal glacier

This day, we will show you how to do the journey between Flam and Hellesylt, going through some of the world’s most spectacular fjords. Divert from your way to see the Briksdal glacier, which is part of Europe’s biggest glacier, the Jostedal. Night in Hellesylt.

Day 9: Geiranger

Start the day in a ferry going through the world’s most famous fjord, the Geiranger, considered Human Heritage. In the afternoon, we will point you out how to enjoy of the best views of the fjord either by car or by feet. Night in Geiranger.

Day 10: From Geiranger to Alesund through the Troll Ladder

This day, you will go through some of the world’s most spectacular roads. The Eagle Road offers great views of the Geiranger fjord, and the epic Troll Ladder shows the best face of the mountains and cascades. Arrive to the Art Noveau city of Alesund, walk over its old town and take a plane to Oslo. Night in Oslo.

Day 11: Oslo: from the Opera House to the Frogner Park and trip to Stockholm

In the Smart Route we will show you how to do a route by bike or public transport from the Opera House to the Sculpture Park of Vigeland, going through the most iconic buildings in the city and the Royal Palace. In the afternoon, we will point you out the best way to get to the airport so you can take your flight  to Stockholm.

Day 12: The Old Town, the city and Vasatan

Walk around the Old Town seeing among other beautiful buildings, the Royal Palace. Go over the city, where most of the locals go to work and then, go to take a coffee in the residential neighbourhood of Vasatan. In the Smart Route you will find recommendations to go out for dinner as a local.

Day 13: The Archipelago

There is nothing more typical among the locals than spending the summer weekends going to one of the islands in the Archipelago by boat. In the Smart Route you will find the way to do it by public transportation and an itinerary through two of the most interesting islands: Grinda and Vaxholms.

Day 14: The museum island and Ostermalm

In the morning, go over the museum island and at noon, walk through the fancy borough of Ostermalm. In the afternoon, go to the airport to take the flight back home.

How long is your trip?

This destination is not available yet, do you want to receive an email when it's active, other trips in europe:.

Recommended itineraries in Amsterdam

Recommended itineraries in Eindhoven

Recommended itineraries in Italy

Recommended itineraries in Rome

Recommended itineraries in Venice

Recommended itineraries in Tuscany

Recommended itineraries in Spain

Recommended itineraries in Barcelona

Recommended itineraries in Andalusia

Recommended itineraries in Granada

Recommended itineraries in Madrid

Recommended itineraries in San Sebastian & Bilbao

Recommended itineraries in Santiago de Compostela

Recommended itineraries in Seville

Noemí went to Norway

The Outdoor Lovers' Guide To Beautiful Places

• Work With Katiesaway
• Destinations

Europe , Featured , Norway , Sweden · April 14, 2024

• 10 Day Scandinavia Itinerary – The Perfect Norway, Sweden and Denmark Trip

Spending 10 days in Scandinavia is a trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list.  Whether you are looking for beautiful nature, charming cities, or fascinating history you will find it somewhere in this itinerary. While 10 days is not enough to see everything, especially in three countries as diverse as Sweden , Norway and Denmark, it is definitely enough to get a taste of the north. This 10 Day Scandinavia Itinerary will take you from Copenhagen in Denmark, to Stockholm and Gothenburg in Sweden, and finally Oslo in Norway, with several more nature inspired trips along the way!

With that said, let’s get started! In this itinerary for a 10-day trip to Scandinavia I will outline exactly what you should do each day, where you should travel, and the unique experiences you should try out to really get a feeling for the Nordic countries.

If you haven’t come across my blog before, I have lived in Sweden (in Gothenburg ) for almost 4 years now and have taken multiple trips to all the cities and places on this itinerary. So, rather than it being one trip I have done, it is based on all the trips I have taken so to give you the best possible 10 days in Scandinavia. I hope that this ‘locals’ knowledge will give you more of an insight into each city and help you travel more authentically. I have based this itinerary on all of my favourite things to do in each place and how I would plan it for myself if I were to do a 10 day Scandinavia trip for the first time!

Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I make sure to only ever promote products and brands I have used and like, and that all links are to trusted websites.

Days 1 – 2: Copenhagen

Days 3 – 5: stockholm, sweden, day 6 – 7: gothenburg, day 8: west sweden, day 9 – 10: oslo, 10 day scandinavia itinerary – oslo, gothenburg, stockholm and copenhagen, 10 day scandinavia itinerary.

Here you will find a rough outline for a 10-day Scandinavia itinerary! This trip visits 4 big cities in 3 different countries over a week and a half. I have outlined the best things to do in each city and a few possible day trips you can take if you want to get out of the city and see a bit more of each country! As I said, this Scandinavia itinerary is very city based. If you want to mix it up a little and include more Nordic Nature experiences then I can recommend reading through these posts to find some inspiration!

• West Sweden Road Trip
• Southern Norway Road Trip – Oslo to Bergen
• Places to Visit During Summer in Sweden

This 10-day Scandinavia Itinerary begins in Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark. A city on the water, Copenhagen is renowned for its beautiful old harbour Nyhavn , and the harbourside walk which takes you past the opera house and the statue of Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid . If you want a good viewpoint, don’t miss the spiral tower of Vor Frelsers Kirke . If you want to see the city from the canals, make sure to take the canal cruise which passes the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn, and the royal palaces.

Where to stay: The Square, Copenhagen

I have stayed in a few different hotels and Airbnbs in Copenhagen over the last few years and definitely had the best experience staying at The Square . This hotel is right in the center of the city, only a short walk from the central station and all the sights so it’s perfect if you just have a few days to explore and it’s your first time in Copenhagen.

Getting around Copenhagen

Copenhagen is quite a big city, and while it is definitely walkable, it can always be good to have a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket for when you want to travel larger distances. This bus stops at over 30 places, meaning you can quickly go form stop to stop and make sure you don’t miss anything! Alternatively, there is the Copenhagen city card which gives you a bus ticket and access to over 40 attractions (museums, galleries etc.).

If you are up for a little self-navigation, Copenhagen does also have a good public transport network that you just need to buy tickets for.

What to do in Copenhagen

Tivoli gardens.

Somewhere you shouldn’t miss is Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen’s iconic amusement park. People travel from all over Scandinavia to spend the weekend here, enjoying the rides and the atmosphere. My favourite time to visit Tivoli is during December when the park is decorated for Christmas and they have a beautiful Christmas Market. In the summer, there are a lot of different events on – and of course it is a theme park so there are a lot of rides to try! I can recommend The Demon if you just want to try one rollercoaster – it was a lot of fun!

If you are not one for rides, you can purchase a park entry ticket . This allows you to walk around the park, and you can still buy individual ride or game tickets while you are there! If you want to spend the whole day here, I recommend getting the unlimited rides pass which gives you park access and you can use the rides all day. With this ticket, you can go in and out of the park if you want to mix it in with sight-seeing.

Something to note is that the queue times in Tivoli can be quite long so if you want to experience some of the rides then plan to spend a bit of time in the area. The rides can also be quite expensive (419dkk for a day pass and 50 – 90 dkk per individual ride).

A Day Trip to Møns Klint and Forest Tower

As this is your only time in Denmark on this Scandinavia trip, I fully understand if you want to get out of the city and see a bit more of rural Denmark! One great day trip you can take is to Møns Klint , one of Denmark’s most beautiful coastlines. The stark white limestone and chalk cliffs here are so beautiful, towering over the crystal blue waters. This is definitely a once-in-a-life time experience you shouldn’t miss!

We had the best day trip here, seeing something a little different and getting a taste of “the real Denmark” rather than just seeing Copenhagen.

A Day Trip to Sweden

If you want to see even more of Scandinavia, you can take a day trip over the Öresund bridge to Malmö and Lund , two cities in the south of Sweden. They are only 40 minutes away from central Copenhagen which makes city hopping a really fun and unique experience. Malmö is the third largest city in Sweden, with a beautiful seaside, old town and lots of cosy cafes. Lund is a smaller university town, renowned for its town centre filled with old buildings and Lund cathedral.

You can either take a tour between the two cities which includes a visit to Kronborg Castle in Helsingør, otherwise known as Hamlet’s castle, a guided tour around Lund and a trip to Malmö. This is great if you want to see a few different places on one day and make the most of your trip

Otherwise you can take the train to Malmö from Copenhagen . This is the cheaper option and perhaps better if you only want to visit Malmö, not any of the other stops on the tour.

While in Malmö I recommend just spending the day walking around, trying different cafes, visiting the castle and walking along the coastline. We have spent a lot of time in Malmö over the last few years visiting friends who live there and I think what makes the city great isn’t necessarily the things that there are to see and do but the overall vibe of the city. One of my favourite things to do is head down to the Kallbadhuset for a swim (even in the winter), followed by brunch at MJ’s, a walk around Malmöhus Slott and Slottsträdgården and then fika at Lilla Kafferosteriet. For more details you can read my one day Malmö itinerary!

If you want to experience more of Southern Sweden and have a car, there are a lot of great day trips you can take from Malmö out into the countryside! Österlen is one of my absolute favourite places in Sweden and its only a few hours drive from Malmö along the south coast. Here you will find lots of farm shops and beautiful countryside cafes (Olof Victors is amazing!), as well as the stone circle Ale Stenar and the most beautiful beaches in Stenhuvuds Nature Reserve.

Alternatively, there are a lot of different castles, cafes and forests to explore within a much shorter distance (some also accessible by public transport). Make sure to read this post for a full list of Day Trips from Malmö !

Time for a change of scene – we are heading to Stockholm , the capital of Sweden on day 2 of this Scandinavia itinerary! In this section I have outlined a few things to see and do in Stockholm and some day trips you can make. If you want more details, with restaurant recommendations etc. then make sure to read my guide to one day in Stockholm or 3 days in Stockholm .

Where to stay: Downtown Camper

When it comes to hotels in Stockholm, my personal favourite is Downtown Camper by Scandic. It is located very centrally – just a few minutes walk to the central station, Gamla Stan, and Drottningsgatan – and from the rooms there are amazing views over the cities. Below in the picture you can see the cosy single room perfect for a solo traveller! The best thing about Downtown Camper is The Nest, the spa and bar on the top floor with views out over the whole of Stockholm. Every day, they hold different activities in the bar area including yoga classes and a knkitting circle! This is the most fun and lively hotel, but also luxury feeling. You can book it here !

A Budget Option: Generator Stockholm

Generator Stockholm is my favourite budget place to stay when I visit the city. I have stayed here 5+ times over the years and always recommend it to others! It is a hostel, meaning that it is a much more budget friendly option. However, it is not dissimilar to a hotel – with private rooms, private bathrooms available. It is super fresh and has a really nice common area in the lobby where they often hold events like trivia! It is definitely family and solo traveller friendly which is another reason I like to recommend it! Book it here !

See more: Find all your Stockholm accomodation options here

How to get from Copenhagen to Stockholm

The trip from Copenhagen to Stockholm covers quite a long distance, and as such the best way to take the trip is by train. The train journey is so beautiful as it travels through the Swedish countryside. The trip takes 5 to 6 hours but luckily is direct! There are a few different companies that run trains for this trip so you can find the best option here!

Things to See and Do in Stockholm

Stockholm is a city with so much to see and do, three days will never give it justice! However, there are definitely some things you shouldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first visit to the city. For a more detailed itinerary you can read my Stockholm One Day or Three Day Itinerary !

While you are in Stockholm make sure to wander down to Gamla Stan! This is the old part of Stockholm – An island made up of narrow streets, all lined with colourful stone houses dating back to the 17 th and 18 th centuries. In Gamla Stan you will find Stortorget, the main square where you will likely recognise the iconic view four colourful houses in a row. If you fancy a fika (a classic Swedish coffee pause) head to the old café Grillska huset – a locals’ favourite. Another spot you shouldn’t miss is Västerlånggatan; a long and narrow street lined with boutique shops and little cafes. To either side, there are alleyways running up and down the hill, often with cosy little shops hidden away inside.

No matter how many times I have been to Stockholm, Gamla Stan is still the first place I visit. I will never get tired of the picturesque alleyways and colourful buildings. I personally think that the best time to visit is in the morning (before 10 when most shops open) as here you will see the streets almost empty. If you visit later in the day, Stortorget and all of the bigger roads are often crammed with people – especially during the summer or around Christmas! My favourite street is Trädgårdsgatan which is just off of Stortorget. In the autumn, theres a beautiful tree in the middle of the alley which just lights up the orange walls.

There are loads of great museums to visit in Stockholm. If you are an ABBA fan, you can’t miss the ABBA museum ! It is so much fun, with interactive displays, photo opportunities, replicas of different props, recording studios and lots of interesting facts you probably didn’t know about the band! The museum is very interactive so expect to find yourself in a recording booth singing along to the songs, or dancing alongside holograms on the big stage. I have been to the ABBA museum 3 times in total and never get sick of it – especially with the alternating exhibitions that take place in the foyer. Mamma Mia the film, ABBAs tour costumes, and Eurovision have been the three that I have been lucky enough to visit!

If you want something a bit more historic, you have to visit the Vasa Museum ! The Vasa is the world’s only well-preserved 17 th century wooden boat – one which sunk in Stockholm harbour immediately after it first set sail in 1628. This is one of the best museums I have ever been to and would go back in the blink of an eye. It is amazing how intact the boat still is, and a great opportunity to learn about “Sveriges Stormakstid” (The Swedish Empire), an extremely interesting era of Swedish history that you don’t hear much about otherwise.

There is also Skansen, the open-air museum/ zoo with lots of classic Swedish wooden houses to explore! You could spend hours here wandering around the different plots. I remember walking around thinking that a visit to Skansen is very much like a trip around Sweden – with the classic farmhouse you see in Skåne , to the Sami village from Abisko , and wooden village of places like Eksjö.

If you are in to art then you won’t want to miss the Photography museum – or the Nobel Prize Museum for something a bit more unique.

If you are interested in visiting several museums or attractions during your visit, it could be worth getting the Stockholm city card which includes lots of different tours, museums, and even adventures out into the archipelago!

As I said before, there are so many different things to see and do in Stockholm! So make sure to read this guide with all my recommendations!

Getting around Stockholm

Stockholm is also a very walkable city however it is also a big city and you will likely want to use the public transport system at some point! There are buses and an underground that you can take all around the city. Tickets can be bought in advance , or you can just tap your card on entry to the station. The same goes for trams and buses – you can either download the app and buy a ticket or you can tap your card when the guard comes through the tram. I recommend buying a ticket in advance though if you can – you only need to purchase the ticket just before hopping onto the bus, tram or metro and it just keeps you safe from getting a fine. They can be quite harsh with public transport fines in Sweden so it is good to be on the safe side.

A Day Trip into the Stockholm Archipelago

One of the best day trips you can take in Stockholm is a trip out into the archipelago! There are a few different ways you can do this depending on how you want to spend the day!

Firstly, you can take a guided tour on a sight-seeing boat . This is only a 2.5 hour tour which is perfect if you just want to take a quick trip out to see the archipelago, spending the rest of the day in the city. The tour doesn’t stop at any of the islands, but it is a great way to see the archipelago from the water! I have done this trip in both the summer and winter and think both experiences were amazing. Not only do you get to see a different side of Stockholm but you get to learn about the different islands that make up the city. The tour guide was also great, talking us through everything we saw along the route.

Secondly, you can take a kayaking tour around the archipelago . This is a much more active way to see the archipelago, paddling through the islands and stopping at a few different places throughout the day. This tour includes all the equipment, drinks and snacks so is the perfect day trip! The East Coast of Sweden is so special, with over 14,000 tree covered islands, its a really unique experience to kayak here.

Thirdly, you can take a sailing trip . This is my personal favourite way to see the archipelago – there is nothing like exploring the water on a small boat, stopping at different islands and beautiful swimming spots throughout the day. This trip is a more expensive way to see the archipelago but is definitely a once in a lifetime experience!

Lastly, you can also visit the islands in the archipelago using ferries. One of the more popular islands to visit is Vaxholm where you will find the historic Vaxholm Kastell, Bogesund Castle, lots of nice restaurants and swimming spots. You can find information about booking tickets and planning your trip here !

Today we will be travelling from Stockholm to Gothenburg , the second largest city in Sweden. Located on the west coast, it is renowned for its slower lifestyle, cosy cafes and beautiful archipelago ! The few days spent in West Sweden is a highlight of this trip, with little fishing villages and beautiful islands to explore. I am a little bit biased when it comes to the West Coast, having lived here for almost 4 years now and spending my weekends exploring the towns along the way, I think it is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Sweden. What makes it so unique is all the fishing villages – places like Smögen or Fiskebäckskil that have houses so tightly woven it feels almost like a film set when you are walking through them. Unfortunately, there is no way you can visit everything that makes the West Coast great in just a few days so I would actually recommend either spending a few more days here, or considering a future trip back to see it all! I have loads of guides on my site to help you plan! Otherwise you can get my West Sweden Map with over 300 locations plotted out along the coast!

Where to stay: Clarion Hotel Post

The Clarion Hotel Post is quite a big hotel in Gothenburg’s old postal building. It’s a beautiful hotel located really centrally. The newly built glass tower with a rooftop pool has an amazing view over the city, and the lobby bar is one of the best places for a drink! You can read about our stay or book it here !

Where to stay: Linnéplatsens Hotell & Vandrarhem

If you want something slightly more affordable then I definitely recommend Linnéplatsens Hotell & Vandrarhem! This is a hostel with shared bathrooms, but the rooms are super fresh, and it is located very centrally, just by Linnéplatsen and Slottskogen, Gothenburg’s big park. This hotel is a bit further away from the central station but there are many trams and buses that travel this 10-minute journey, so it is still very easy to get back and forth. Find out more here!

How to Get From Stockholm to Gothenburg

The best way to travel from Stockholm to Gothenburg is by train. There are several different companies that run trains between the two cities (SJ, MTRX, FlixTrain) and it is one of the most popular routes in Sweden to travel! It’s comparing them to get the best price as the services are quite similar. You can that do here !

Things to See and Do in Gothenburg

Gothenburg is a much slower paced city than the others you will visit on this trip. What makes it such a special place is not all the sights, but the atmosphere, all the cosy cafes, the old houses and the nice parks.

If you want all my tips, you can find them on either my guide to spending one day in Gothenburg or my 2 – 4 day itinerary !

Make sure to visit the district of Haga, an older part of the city renowned for its cosy cafes and nice shops. It is here in Café Husaren where you will find the giant cinnamon buns Gothenburg is famous for. For a good view, walk up to Skansen Kronan, the old fortress on the hill behind Haga. If you want something a little more adventurous, visit Liseberg amusement park. I 100% recommend this if you are visiting Gothenburg in the autumn or in around Christmas time ).

When it comes to food, make sure to wander through the food market Saluhall, or take the free ferry over to Lindholmen Street Food Market if you are visiting on a Saturday. Make sure to also stop by the courtyard on Magasinsgatan where you will find local coffee roastery Da Matteo, and several food trucks set up outside. This is somewhere locals flock on a sunny day as it is protected from the wind in all directions.

For something a bit different you can also take a tour along the canal with Paddan , the canal boat, or take a city tour on the Amphibious land and water bus .  

Getting around Gothenburg

Gothenburg is a small city and very much walkable, however, you may find you will want to use public transport if you are heading out on a day trip. This is great in Gothenburg – There are trams, buses, and ferries which will take you anywhere you want to go. The best way to buy a ticket is to download the Västtrafik app where you can purchase either a single ticket (90 minutes) or a day ticket. Depending how often you will be travelling the single ticket can work out better as when you buy 4 you get a 20% discount on your 5 th .

If you are staying in Gothenburg, you will only need a zone A ticket. Just in case though, it’s best to check your route on the app where they will suggest the ticket you need.

Alternatively, if you can’t or don’t want to be walking too much, you can take the hop-on-hop off bus around the city. This stops at 8 different places around the city and makes it very easy to get to exactly where you want to go. There is also a hop-on-hop-off boat and bus trip which includes 5 boat stops around the city. This is a super fun way to explore Gothenburg by the waterways and it takes you to some very interesting places.

A Day Trip into The Archipelago

There is nothing I can recommend more when visiting Gothenburg than a day trip out into the archipelago. These islands are so unique and have some a beautiful atmosphere that it really gives an insight into Swedish life, especially in the summer. There are a few different ways to explore the archipelago. You can find more tips and information about all the islands in Gothenburg archipelago guide !

The first is to take a guided tour of the Southern archipelago on a beautiful old-timey boat. This trip leaves from the centre of Gothenburg (Lilla Bommen) so takes a really unique route out to the islands where you get an up-close view of the active harbour and the old Älvsborg Fortress. This tour does not stop on any of the islands though. A good mix if you still wanted to take the boat tour and also visit an island is the trip out to Vinga Lighthouse . This is one of the best day trips we have ever done from Gothenburg and I definitely recommend it! The island is the most westerly in the archipelago and has played quite a big role over the years in protection and sea rescue. If you want to know more, here you can read all about our trip to Vinga Fyr and Island .

The other option is to take the public ferry out to one of the islands. In the Northern archipelago, the most popular island to visit is Hönö . This is a lively island all year round, with beautiful nature reserves, sandy beaches and the town of Hönö Klåva. However, to get here is a little more difficult as you must first take a bus to Lilla Varholmen and then the ferry over to the island. Hönö is best explored by car or bike as the buses here are quite irregular.

The Southern Archipelago

In the southern archipelago, I recommend visiting Styrsö or Vrångö . These are car-free islands where it is possible to explore solely by foot. Styrsö is best if you want to visit somewhere with a summer resort type vibe. There is a nice café, swim spots and pretty houses to wander around. Vrångö is best if you want more nature, with beautiful sandy beaches and nature reserves to explore.

To get to both of these islands you will need to catch the ferry from Saltholmen. To get here you can catch the number 11 from the city. The ticket out to the island is the same zone A ticket you buy to travel elsewhere around Gothenburg.

Today, if the weather is looking good, it’s time to head out of the city and to some smaller villages for the day! West Sweden is renowned for its beautiful little fishing villages such as Smögen or Fiskebäckskil. Most places are accessible by public transport and you can find the routes on the same Västtrafik app . Some tips for destinations are:

• Marstrand – A summer island with an old fortress and walking paths
• Åstol – A very picturesque island close to Gothenburg
• Dyrön – Hire a sauna or walk around the unique nature reserve
• Smögen – A small town with amazing swimming spots and a colourful harbour
• Käringön – A lively island with beautiful beaches and great restaurants
• Orust – A bigger island with lots of small towns and farm shops
• Koster Havet – A marine nature reserve with amazing snorkelling opportunities

Tip: If you want to extend your trip, you could add a week in West Sweden. Read my West Sweden Road Trip Guide for inspiration!

• West Sweden Map

Get 300+ tips on West Sweden

In this map and guide to West Sweden you will find over 300 tips for places to visit in and around the region. These are places I have visited and personally recommend – some hidden gems and a few more well known spots!

Day 9 we are moving onto Oslo for the final stage of this 10-day Scandinavia trip itinerary. Oslo is the capital city of Norway, known for its beautiful architecture, great museums and harbour. In this section I have included the basics, but if you want a more detailed guide, make sure to read my itinerary for 2 Days in Oslo .

Where to stay: Att Revier

This hotel is perfectly located when you only have 2 days in Oslo. It is only a 5-minute walk from the central station, the main street, and the opera house and harbour. The atmosphere is really calm and relaxed, with a lobby but also self-check in. The in-house restaurants are also some of the best in the city! Find out more here.

See more: Find all your Oslo accomodation options here!

How to get from Gothenburg to Oslo

The best way to get from Gothenburg to Oslo is by bus. There are a few companies that run the buses (Vy and occasionally Flixbus) – so you can compare them and find the best option here . The trip takes around 3.5 hours in total. I recommend taking a relatively early bus, so you have as much time in possible as Oslo.

Things to See and Do in Oslo

Start off your time in Oslo with a visit to the Opera house. This architectural wonder sits at the edge of the water, with glass pained walls and a rooftop that you can walk on. From the roof, there is an amazing view over the city! Be careful if you are visiting Oslo in winter as it can get really slippery here! From the opera house, you can head down to the waterfront saunas and enjoy a dip in the sea. This is a must in Oslo! There are both public and private saunas you can hire out, so it is very much budget friendly no matter which type of traveller you are.

Another great thing to do in Oslo is visit one of the many museums. A few favourites of mine were the Munch Museum , dedicated to painter of “The Scream” Edvard Munch, or the Norwegian Folk Museum where they have lots of old houses, a stave church and displays on Norwegian history. This was where one of my favourite Oslo Christmas Markets was when we visited in late November. Lastly, we really loved Akershus Castle and the Norwegian Defence Museum. This was probably the highlight of the trip. I won’t add to many more details here but you can find out everything about Oslo in this 2 day Itinerary !

If you are thinking of going to multiple museums, it can be worth purchasing the Oslo City Card . This gives you access to most museums and also includes public transport!

If you feel like a day trip, you can head out into the Oslo Fjord for some island hopping or on a guided cruise on a sailing boat . I know I have recommended trips out to islands in the archipelagos of so many places on this trip – but it is the proximity to the water and these islands that brings so much to each city!

For more tips make sure to read these guides:

• Visiting Oslo in Winter
• Itinerary for Two Days in Oslo

Getting Around Oslo

Travelling around Oslo is easy with the bus system. You can either buy single tickets or a day ticket and you can find the timetable here. Alternatively, you can take the hop-on-hop-off bus which stops at 11 different places around the city, including many different museums, the royal palace and the opera house.

10 days in Scandinavia – 3 countries, 4 cities, and hopefully too many memories to count. This trip to Sweden , Denmark, and Norway gives a little taste of Scandinavia will hopefully inspire you to come back and explore more of each country. The mix of cities and day trips gives the itinerary a bit of a balance the bustling city life and the beauty of Scandinavian nature. As always, leave any questions in the comments and enjoy your trip!

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

ways you can support Katiesaway

Buy me a coffee

Follow me on Instagram

Purchase my West Sweden Map

west sweden

Recent posts

• The Best One Day Stockholm Itinerary for First Time Visitors
• 15 Places To Visit During Summer in Sweden (2024)
• Mölle and Kullaberg Nature Reserve: A Guide To This Unique Place To Visit

• Privacy Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Disclosure Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Cookie Policy

Copyright © 2024 Katiesaway · Theme by 17th Avenue

Ten Day Scandinavia Itineraries

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1537  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

Icy tundras span into endless horizons, immaculate colors dance across arctic skies, and dramatic fjords depict Earth’s rugged beauty. Meanwhile, benevolent cities from Oslo to Stockholm demonstrate fantastic oases of culture. Plan a 10-day Scandinavian itinerary with Zicasso and uncover up-and-coming destinations ready to divulge intriguing secrets.

Life-Enriching Travel Designed Just for You

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

Zicasso in the News

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,875

Waterfalls tumble through rugged fjords, colorful medieval houses line cobbled alleyways, and a railway line cuts a dramatic line across beautiful mountain wilderness. Welcome to the highlights of Scandinavia with a 10-day European trip across Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. With an ideal balance of history and culture with incredible natural beauty, this handcrafted tour is the perfect first-time trip to the region in packing a variety of highlights into minimal traveling time.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,851

Experience the splendor of Scandinavia for 12 days, from the contemporary and historical charms of capital cities to the picturesque glacial frontiers of Norway’s fjords and the snow-drenched slopes of Alta. Explore the age of the Vikings, trace the origins of Shakespeare’s work, cruise to fairytale fjord towns, and see the Northern Lights on this trip that captures the best of Northern Europe in under two weeks.

Dynamic pricing from  $5,355

Bask in the ambiance of the North Pole with a Christmas in Scandinavia on an exclusive tour of Finland and Norway. Your 10-day Scandinavian excursion celebrates the fascinating winter around the Arctic Circle as it reveals an enchanting untamed landscape and marvelous myths that reflect the captivating countryside. Hunt for the dancing colors of the Northern Lights then call for Santa’s reindeer during a reindeer safari. Warm your hands around traditional mulled wine, visit bustling Christmas markets, search for giant king crabs in a Norwegian fjord, and ride a dogsled across Finnish Lapland for an unparalleled winter adventure in Finland and Norway.

Designed for seniors who enjoy a bit of adventure with historical intrigue, this luxurious 10-day journey of the Nordic countries will have you coming back for more. Marvel at spectacular fjords with panoramic views, stroll through charming towns that date back to the 12th century, and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants during this journey through Scandinavia. Discover the secrets behind Scandinavia on your trip around the three most popular countries: Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Dynamic pricing from  $5,525

Handcrafted to combine nature, culture, a bit of adventure with plenty of family downtime, this 10-day itinerary is a dreamy journey that features Norway’s spring and summer highlights. Norway is the perfect place for a rousing family vacation: fjords and mountains set a beautiful scene, colorful cities immerse its visitors in the local culture, and children’s attractions provide your young ones with space to play. Mysterious castles and reliable railways will help to immerse you in the culture.

Why Travelers Choose Us

Benefits of Using Zicasso

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.56 stars based on 9 reviews.

Reviewed By  Tom R.

Reviewed By  Lori R.

Reviewed By  Jill R.

Reviewed By  Mark F.

Reviewed By  Duke W.

Reviewed By  Jane S.

Travel With Me 24 X 7

Travel itinerary, Travel guide and Destination reviews

Best Scandinavia Itinerary 1 Week (Daywise + Hotels + Things To Do + Tours)

Here’s a detailed Scandinavia itinerary 1 week, covering Denmark, Sweden, Norway itinerary which includes activities, tours, and mid-budget hotel stays:

ALSO READ : Best Scandinavia Itinerary 15 Days + Nordic (Norway Sweden Denmark Finland)

Scandinavia Itinerary 1 Week (Scandinavia Itinerary 7 Days)

Scandinavia is worth visiting for a one-week trip because it offers a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, rich history, and a high standard of living. From exploring the fjords of Norway to immersing yourself in the captivating culture of Copenhagen and Stockholm, Scandinavia promises an unforgettable experience in just one week.

Day 1: Arrival in Copenhagen, Denmark – Scandinavia itinerary 7 days

• Check into a mid-budget hotel in Copenhagen .

• Visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue and stroll in the beautiful Tivoli Gardens.
• Experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere by visiting Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, for shopping and dining.
• 7 Days In Denmark (Best Denmark Itinerary + Hotels + Ultimate Things To Do)

Day 2: Copenhagen, Scandinavia Itinerary 1 week

• Take a guided tour of the historical landmarks, s uch as Christiansborg Palace, Rosenborg Castle, and Amalienborg Palace .

• Explore the alternative district of Christiania, known for its unique lifestyle and vibrant street art.
• Enjoy Danish cuisine at local restaurants or food markets like Torvehallerne .

Day 3: Oslo, Norway

• Travel from Copenhagen to Oslo by train or flight (approx. 8 hours total travel time).
• Check into a mid-budget hotel in Oslo .
• Visit the Viking Ship Museum to see ancient Viking vessels and artifacts.
• Explore the captivating Vigeland Sculpture Park and stroll along the Oslofjord waterfront.
• Discover the history of Norway at the National Museum or the Munch Museum, showcasing works of the famous artist Edvard Munch.

Day 4: Stockholm, Sweden

• Check into a mid-budget hotel in Stockholm.
• Explore Gamla Stan , Stockholm’s charming old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval buildings.
• Visit the Royal Palace and witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
• Take a boat tour to explore the picturesque archipelago surrounding Stockholm.

Day 5: Stockholm

• Explore the modern side of Stockholm by visiting Djurgården Island, home to several museums like the Vasa Museum, ABBA Museum, and Skansen (open-air museum) .
• Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of the Ericsson Globe .
• Indulge in some shopping at trendy areas like Södermalm or Bibliotekstan .
• Experience the vibrant nightlife in the district of Stureplan .

Day 6: Bergen, Norway

• Travel from Stockholm to Bergen by flight (approx. 2 hours).
• Check into a mid-budget hotel in Bergen .
• Stroll around Bryggen, the UNESCO-listed wharf area known for its colorful wooden buildings .
• Bergen Things To Do (Best Of Bergen Norway + Ultimate Itinerary)
• Ride the funicular to Mount Fløyen and enjoy breathtaking views of Bergen.
• Visit the Hanseatic Museum to learn about Bergen’s trading history.

Day 7: Departure

• Depending on your departure time, you may have additional time to explore more of the city or take a fjord cruise .
• Depart from Bergen and head back home or continue your journey to other destinations.

How To Commute Internally – Scandinavia Itinerary Planning

Taking trains in Scandinavia can be a convenient and scenic way to travel between cities. Here’s some information on train tickets and how to navigate the train system for first-time travelers:

• Train Operators:  The leading train operators in Scandinavia are DSB in Denmark, SJ in Sweden, and NSB in Norway. These operators offer regular train services connecting major cities and towns within each country.
• Ticket Types:  Train tickets in Scandinavia come in different types, including single-use tickets, round-trip tickets, and flexible tickets. Single-use tickets are valid for a specific journey, while round-trip tickets cover a return journey between two destinations. Flexible tickets offer more flexibility in terms of travel dates and times.
• Booking Tickets:  Train tickets in Scandinavia can be booked online in advance through the respective train operator’s website or third-party websites offering train ticket bookings. 
• Seat Reservations:  Some trains in Scandinavia require seat reservations, especially for long-distance and high-speed trains. Seat reservations ensure that you have a designated seat for your journey. When booking your train ticket, check if a seat reservation is included or needs to be purchased separately.
• Train Passes:  If you plan to travel extensively by train in Scandinavia, consider purchasing a rail pass. The Interrail Pass and Eurail Pass are popular options that offer flexible travel within multiple countries. These passes allow unlimited train travel within a specified period, providing excellent value for frequent train journeys.
• Boarding the Train:  Arrive at the train station early to locate your platform and boarding area. Trains in Scandinavia are generally punctual, so make sure to be on time. Look for the carriage number on your ticket and board the appropriate train carriage.
• Onboard Facilities:  Trains in Scandinavia typically offer comfortable seating, luggage storage, and onboard amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and food and beverage services. Some trains also provide scenic views, especially when traveling through the countryside or along the coast.
• Commuting Within Cities:  Trains are also a convenient mode of transportation for getting around cities. Each city has a local train or metro system, such as the Copenhagen S-train in Denmark, Stockholm Metro in Sweden, and Oslo Metro in Norway. These systems are efficient and connect various neighborhoods and attractions within the cities.

Children’s activities – Scandinavia itinerary 7 Days

Scandinavia offers a range of activities for children, ensuring that your family will have a memorable and enjoyable time during your 7 days itinerary. Here are some child-friendly activities in the mentioned destinations:

Copenhagen, Denmark:

• Tivoli Gardens:  This amusement park offers a mix of thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, live entertainment, and delicious treats, making it a perfect destination for children of all ages.
• The Blue Planet:  Visit Northern Europe’s largest aquarium and let your children explore the fascinating underwater world. They can witness various marine species and even walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks. 

Stockholm, Sweden:

• Junibacken:  Based on the works of Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, Junibacken is an interactive museum dedicated to children’s literature. It offers storytelling, exhibitions, and play areas where kids can meet beloved characters like Pippi Longstocking.
• Skansen:  This open-air museum and zoo provide a glimpse into Swedish history and culture. Children can explore traditional houses, interact with farm animals, and enjoy performances by folk dancers and musicians.
• Grona Lund:  Stockholm’s amusement park offers a variety of rides suitable for children, including carousels, roller coasters, and water attractions.

Oslo, Norway:

• Viking Ship Museum:  Kids can embark on a historical journey at the Viking Ship Museum, where they can see well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts and learn about the fascinating Norse history. 
• TusenFryd:  Located just outside Oslo, this amusement park features various rides and attractions suitable for different age groups, including roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly areas.
• Norsk Folkemuseum:  Children can explore traditional Norwegian architecture, visit historic buildings, and participate in hands-on activities like baking bread, painting, and dressing up in traditional costumes.

Bergen, Norway:

• Bergen Aquarium:  Take your children to explore the diverse marine life at the Bergen Aquarium, where they can see penguins, seals, and fish and participate in feeding sessions.
• Mount Fløyen:  Ride the funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen, where your children can enjoy panoramic views of Bergen. There’s also a playground, hiking trails, and a Troll Forest for them to explore.
• VilVite Science Center:  Located near Bergen, this interactive science center offers a range of exhibits and activities to engage children in science, technology, and exploration.

MUST-DO Tours – 7 Days Scandinavia Itinerary

Scandinavia is worth visiting for a one-week trip and has some must-do tours – 

• Canal Boat Tour: Explore the picturesque canals of Copenhagen , including the famous Nyhavn, on a relaxing boat tour.
• Christiansborg Palace: Take a guided tour of the opulent Christiansborg Palace, which houses the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Royal Reception Rooms.
• Tivoli Gardens: Experience the magical atmosphere of Tivoli Gardens with its amusement rides, beautiful gardens, and live performances.
• Viking Ship Museum: Discover the fascinating Viking history by visiting the Viking Ship Museum, where you can see remarkably preserved Viking ships and artifacts.
• Oslo Fjord Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise along the Oslo Fjord, enjoying breathtaking views of the city’s coastline and islands.
• Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower: Visit the iconic Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower, offering panoramic views of Oslo and an insight into Norwegian winter sports history.
• Gamla Stan Walking Tour: Join a guided walking tour in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming old town, to explore its narrow streets, historic buildings and visit the Royal Palace.
• Archipelago Boat Tour : Experience the beauty of Stockholm’s archipelago by taking a boat tour, visiting picturesque islands, and enjoying the serene surroundings.
• Vasa Museum : Marvel at the incredibly preserved Vasa warship, which sank in 1628 and was salvaged centuries later. The Vasa Museum provides a unique glimpse into Sweden’s maritime history.

Bergen, Norway: Scandinavia itinerary 1 week

• Bryggen Walking Tour:  Take a guided walking tour of Bryggen, the UNESCO-listed wharf area in Bergen, and learn about its Hanseatic history.
• Fløibanen Funicular:  Ride the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen and enjoy panoramic views of Bergen and the surrounding fjords.
• Fjord Cruise:  Embark on a fjord cruise from Bergen to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Norwegian fjords, including the famous Sognefjord or Nærøyfjord.

Frequently asked questions Scandinavia Itinerary

• How many days should I allocate for a Scandinavia itinerary?  

It is recommended to give at least 7 to 10 days for a comprehensive Scandinavia itinerary to cover multiple destinations and experience the region’s highlights.

• What are the must-visit destinations in Scandinavia?  

Must-visit destinations in Scandinavia include Copenhagen (Denmark), Stockholm (Sweden), Oslo (Norway), and Bergen (Norway). These cities offer a blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes.

• What is the best time of year to visit Scandinavia? 

The best time to visit Scandinavia is during the summer (June to August) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer, allowing you to explore more. However, each season in Scandinavia has charm, including the winter months for activities like skiing and experiencing the Northern Lights.

• Can we see the Northern Lights during a one-week trip to Scandinavia? 

While it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, it can depend on various factors such as weather conditions and location. The best chances of seeing the Northern Lights are typically during winter in northern regions such as Tromsø (Norway) or Kiruna (Sweden).

• How should I plan my transportation between Scandinavian countries? 

Scandinavia has a well-connected transportation system with options like flights, trains, and ferries. Flights are the quickest way to travel between major cities, while trains provide a scenic and comfortable option. Ferries are also available for travel between destinations such as Copenhagen and Oslo.

• Are there any specific visa requirements for visiting Scandinavia?

 The visa requirements for visiting Scandinavia depend on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union (EU) do not require a visa, while citizens of other countries may need to apply for a Schengen visa. Checking the specific visa requirements based on your nationality is important before traveling.

• What are some popular outdoor activities and adventures in Scandinavia?

 Scandinavia offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking in the stunning national parks, exploring the fjords by boat or kayak, skiing in the winter, and wildlife safaris to spot reindeer, moose, or whales. Additionally, the region is known for its excellent fishing, cycling, and camping opportunities.

• Can you recommend any budget-friendly accommodations in Scandinavia? 

Scandinavia offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. Some mid-budget options include chain hotels, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels. Booking accommodations in advance is advisable to secure the best rates and availability.

• Are there any specific cultural customs or etiquette I should know in Scandinavia? 

In Scandinavia, greeting with a handshake and maintaining personal space is customary. Tipping is not mandatory, as the bill typically includes service charges. It is also common to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Being punctual and respecting the environment are valued cultural traits.

Now you can plan the best of the Scandinavia itinerary 1 week with this Scandinavia itinerary 7 days guide. So enjoy your Norway, Sweden, and Denmark trip with this detailed Denmark, Sweden Norway travel guide and planner.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

Follow more on social media channels at 

Facebook       Twitter      Instagram       Pinterest

All content and photos belong to travelwithme247blog(dot)com and use of content/photos without permission would result in legal action.

DISCLAIMER – The blog’s content is solely my views of a place or a thing. This does not offend any class, religion, ethnicity, or nation. My thoughts can change from time to time. This blog may contain some advertisements or links to commercial products, so this site is not responsible after you click on those advertisements. 

We are the independent owner of this site, and the views expressed in this are our own. All photographs are owned by me.  There can be slight differences in distances, locations, or some details for which I (owner) am not responsible.  This post may contain some affiliate links, which means at no additional cost to you.  I will earn if you will click through affiliates and make a purchase.

Share this:

• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Flipboard (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from Travel With Me 24 X 7

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

Travel Update

• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self Drive i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Independent Tours i
• Scandinavian Triangle i
• Honeymoon & Romance i
• All Types & Themes
• All Scandinavia Tours

Best Sellers

• Special Offers
• Book With Confidence i
• Why book with us i
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Scandinavia at a Glance i
• Useful Information i
• Scandinavia Attractions i
• Scandinavia Blog i
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Your Scandinavian Travel Agency

Imagine exploring breathtaking fjords and vibrant cities on a tour of the Scandinavian countries: Sweden, Norway and Denmark. When you book with Nordic Visitor, a leading Scandinavian travel agency, you’ll have a dedicated local expert to plan your entire trip for you.

Multi-Country Tours

Enjoy a smorgasbord of different cultures and experiences on a combination tour of several Scandinavian countries.

Why choose Scandinavian combo?

• See all the highlights of several countries on an expert-crafted itinerary
• Marvel at the colourful capitals of Sweden, Norway & Denmark
• Travel through the scenic Swedish countryside
• Explore the majestic Norwegian fjords by car, train or boat

Best of Scandinavia Classic

Train & cruise, capitals of scandinavia, highlights of scandinavia, sweden, denmark & norway, choose by season.

Discover Scandinavia at a time of year that suits you.

Summer Tours

Travel to Scandinavia between May and September for more daylight hours and mild weather.

Winter Tours

Experience the charm of Scandinavia in winter by visiting between October and April.

One-Country Tours

Focus on one Scandinavian or Nordic country exclusively with these one-destination tours. Choose from Norway's fjords and mountains, Iceland's otherworldly landscapes, and more!

Get ready for dramatic hilltop views and coasts carved with impressive fjords.

Experience the most sought-out natural sites and incredible activities of this popular Nordic nation.

Travel through Sweden’s idyllic landscape and visit serene lakes and forests.

Discover the stunning beauty and fascinating history of Lapland, a true winter wonderland.

Top Scandinavia Travel Ideas

Explore Scandinavia with our popular travel styles.

Guided Group Tours

Explore with a local guide and up to 16 like-minded travellers.

Scandinavian Triangle

Visit Norway, Sweden and Denmark by land and sea.

Independent Tours

Discover Scandinavia’s beauty by coastal cruise, rail and road.

Discover Scandinavia on the open road.

Different ways to see Scandinavia

Whatever your interest, we have the package for you.

Castles and Royalty

Independent cruise, scandinavian countryside, culture and history, family trips, romance and honeymoon, railway journeys.

Spring Sale

Browse our special offers to save 10% on your 2024 group tour around Scandinavia.

Get in touch with one of our local travel experts

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

Our Scandinavia Tour Reviews

Here’s what some of our lovely customers think about our Scandinavia tours.

Anita Singapore

We were very pleased with the service provided by our travel consultant, Sofia. She was very prompt in replying to... read more

We were very pleased with the service provided by our travel consultant, Sofia. She was very prompt in replying to all our queries. We enjoyed the itinerary where different experiences were offered - various train rides and cruises.The hotels were good, all centrally located and spacious with very good breakfasts provided. Everything is planned for with detailed information, maps and vouchers. All we needed to do was present ourselves at the various venues. We felt assured that there is someone who knows our plans and who we could call upon should we require any assistance. I would definitely recommend Nordic Visitor to anyone who wants to go Scandinavia on a free-and-easy yet have all the hassle of planning taken care of.

Graham and Sylvia Canada

We felt that every aspect of our contact with you was professional and excellent and are very pleased we chose to... read more

We felt that every aspect of our contact with you was professional and excellent and are very pleased we chose to book through you. There were no complications, errors, annoyances. We had a marvelous time in the three beautiful capital cities and loved every moment of our travels in them. We were especially impressed by the friendliness, courtesy and exemplary English spoken.

Your Scandinavian Travel Experts

Your itinerary is made with intimate local knowledge. That’s because your dedicated travel consultant has first-hand experience of all activities and hotels along the way. Our Scandinavia travel experts regularly inspect all services on our tours to ensure nothing but the best for our customers.

Quick Facts

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

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

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor creates unforgettable travel experiences across Northern Europe. Our travel experts have all lived and travelled extensively in Scandinavia, and create your itinerary with their insider knowledge and travel experience. Travel with us, and you’ll take home lasting memories.

Great reviews

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

Flexible tour options

Everyone’s travel wish list is different, so we are happy to update your tour with extra days, optional activities and pretours. This means you’ll have more opportunities to experience all that Scandinavia has to offer.

Hassle-free experience

Depend on us to take away the hassle of travel. You’ll receive a comprehensive itinerary, a dedicated travel consultant and all of your tickets and activities booked. We work with our network of trusted local businesses to make your trip seamless, saving you time and effort.

You are in good hands

One of our travel experts is always on call 24/7 to handle any unforeseen situations during your trip. Unexpected delays or weather? No problem. Nordic Visitor will rework your itinerary, re-book activities and fix your accommodation, all while keeping you informed.

Full financial protection

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

Exploring Scandinavia

Imagine feeling the fresh sea breeze on your face as you take a coastal cruise, or marvelling at the deep valleys of Norway’s fjords - soon you could experience this and even more. Here’s just a taste of what you could get up to…

• Photograph the jaw dropping cliffs and “mouth” of Norway’s Nærøyfjord and Geirangerfjord
• Explore the colourful Norwegian wharf of Bryggen , a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bergen
• Wander around the cultural landmarks and green parks of Norway’s capital, Oslo
• Ride the legendary Flåm Railway , one of Norway’s steepest rail climbs, and see remarkable views
• Roam the historic cobbled streets of Gamla Stan Old Town and learn about Sweden’s rich history
• Cast your eyes on Sweden’s beautiful Stockholm archipelago
• Discover the majestic history of the Christiansborg Palace , the seat of the Danish Parliament
• Release your inner child at Denmark’s Tivoli Gardens , one of the oldest amusement parks in the world
• Visit the capital of cool, Copenhagen , and try tasty local specialties like Smørrebrød

Frequently Asked Questions About Scandinavia

You may have a few questions about your upcoming trip to Scandinavia, so we’ve collected and answered the most important ones for your convenience. Or, if you want to know more about our processes and payment details, check out our FAQ page .

1. What countries make up Scandinavia?

Scandinavia is a region in Northern Europe that is made up of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. The neighbouring countries of Finland and Iceland are technically 'Nordic' rather than 'Scandinavian'. But many people consider them Scandinavian because they share many cultural similarities.

2. Are Finland and Iceland in Scandinavia?

Scandinavia is typically defined as the countries of Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Finland and Iceland are technically ‘Nordic’ countries as they are not part of the Scandinavian peninsula.

However, due to shared celebrations and cultural norms, both Iceland and Finland can loosely be considered Scandinavian in many ways.

3. Why travel to Scandinavia?

Imagine looking out to incredible views of endless fjords, visiting chic ‘Scandi-cool’ cities and enjoying the midnight sun by the many charming canals and harbours. Scandinavia is a brilliant destination for its balance between urban areas and nature reserves, and you benefit from the best of both with the opportunity to go on pretty hiking trails and sightseeing in the city.

It’s a feast for the senses as well, with colourful UNESCO heritage wharfs, cruises along the Baltic sea and literal smörgåsbords of delicious food. A long-time favourite of nature lovers, hikers, city breakers and fans of architecture, Scandinavia has activities and points of interest for everyone.

What's more, the region has been named by top publications as one of the best destinations to visit in Northern Europe this year . 

If we’ve whet your appetite and you’re curious about the attractions here, then read our first-time visitor guide to Scandinavia .

4. Where to visit in Scandinavia?

Scandinavia has so many must-see cities and points of interest that it’s hard to list them all. Here are our favourite cultural hotspots and famous sights:

• Geirangerfjord, Norway
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Pulpit Rock or Preikestolen, Norway
• Bergen, Norway
• Gothenburg, Sweden
• Helsinki, Finland
• Oslo, Norway
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Flåm, Norway
• Tivoli Gardens, Denmark

For more information about exploring the region, read this handy guide on the best times and places to go , or check out the top Scandinavian cities to visit .

5. When is the best time to visit?

Scandinavia is stunning all year round and there’s plenty to see and do during each season. Pinpointing the best time for you depends on your preferences when travelling. For pleasant weather and extended hours of daylight, visit Scandinavia during the summer months.

Visit in the winter or shoulder seasons for a quieter trip with charming, festive sights. If the northern lights are your must-see, then we’d recommend checking out our Norway and Lapland packages.

For more information and travel ideas read our comprehensive guide on when to visit Scandinavia .

6. How to get around Scandinavia?

A popular option to travel around Scandinavia is via railway. Highly rated by locals, the trains are usually clean, comfortable and most importantly, prompt. The railway routes pass by stunning scenery making for an extraordinary “commute” and there are opportunities to stretch your legs on board.

Sailing from destination to destination on a cruise is also a great way to see Scandinavia, as each voyage will give you amazing views of coastal attractions such as the Norwegian fjords. For our cruise and train packages , we arrange all of the timings for you and tickets are booked before you arrive for peace of mind.

Another great way to travel around Scandinavia is by guided mini-bus tour. Unlike larger coach tours, our small group tours have a maximum of 16 people. You get to travel with a local guide who will show you their perspective of Scandinavia, and not just repeat what’s written in the guidebooks.

Scandinavia also has some of the best self-drive road trip routes in the world. You could see the countless islands of the Stockholm archipelago here, as well as seaviews from Hardangerfjord Bridge or vistas from the highest mountain passage in Norway, Sognefjell.

For more ideas on how to explore Scandinavia, check out our range of travel packages .

7. Can I choose the arrival date?

Yes you can choose your ideal arrival dates. We have a wide range of arrival options depending on the package and season. Our tours are all available to book online so once you’ve found your favourite one, you can choose the best dates for you. If you’ve already booked but need to change your dates, get in touch with your travel consultant to rearrange your bookings.

8. When should I book my flights?

We recommend that you book your package and wait for confirmation before you organise your flights as this ensures that your tour is secured and you have all of the correct timing information.

We advise checking flight times and dates beforehand so you can pinpoint your ideal tour dates. Get in touch with your dedicated travel consultant to move your tour dates if your flights change.

9. Can we add extra nights in some locations?

You can add extra nights at the start and end of all tours. For some tours, you can ask your consultant to add extra nights at destinations along the way as well. You can do this online when you book, or if you’ve already booked your package, contact your travel consultant as soon as possible to update your tour.

10. Can I customise a tour from scratch?

By booking one of our packages, you’ll enjoy fantastic accommodation, carefully planned routes and pre-booked activities. As well as this, we can personalise your itinerary with added nights at the start and end of your journey and, depending on the package, extra stops during your trip.

While we may not always build a tour from scratch, we will try our best to include any special sights or attractions you want to go to.

11. What should I pack to wear in Scandinavia?

Scandinavia is a region in Northern Europe, so the weather can be a little temperamental in most seasons. We advise that you prepare for all outcomes by packing the following:

• Warm jumper or fleece
• Thermal layers
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Small day bag or rucksack
• Binoculars  

For more information on what to pack and wear, take a look at our handy Norway packing guide .

About Nordic Visitor

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a travel agency that creates amazing travel experiences for customers across Scandinavia. Our travel consultants are passionate about providing excellent quality service and will be available to help you before, during and after your trip. Every package is created from scratch by our travel experts and is regularly quality tested.

Reasons to choose us include:

• Personalised itinerary: you deserve the trip of a lifetime, so depend on our travel experts to create and organise an amazing trip.
• Quality checked accommodation: all of our accommodation is tried and tested by our local specialists to guarantee an excellent stay.
• 24/7 helpline: for peace of mind, there’s always a travel consultant on the other end of our 24/7 helpline.
• Travel expertise: your journey will be extra special with our team's insider knowledge and Scandinavia experience.

Get social with us

Follow our adventures in the North and share your own with us.

Sign up for our newsletter

We’re here to help, so get in touch with our friendly team to book your package or add extra nights and activities to an existing booking.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Read about Scandinavia

7 scandinavian cities you need to visit, the ultimate scandinavia guide: the best times & places to visit, 7 amazing scandinavia tour ideas for first-time visitors, why scandinavia is perfect for solo travel.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Your guide for a perfect

through Scandinavia

Start planning right away

Choose the approximate length, transportation method and budget of your trip

Make the journey your own.

At ScandinaviaTrip , we believe that travel planning should be simple and hassle-free. Our free, user-friendly tool makes trip planning and booking a breeze, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.

We understand that no two travelers are the same, which is why our tool allows you to customize your itinerary to suit your preferences.

From breathtaking Nordic landscapes to some of the most vibrant and beautiful cities on our planet, from individual roadtrips to train adventures, ScandinaviaTrip offers a variety of options to fit your travel needs.

Create your own itinerary today - including transportation, accomodation and more.

It's fast, easy and free

One tool for everything

Personalize your trip as you wish

Travel News

• Oct 19, 2023

easyJet cuts back in Copenhagen

SJ alerts travellers in January

Tunnelbana celebrates anniversary

New: Download your itinerary as a handy PDF

After creating your personal ScandinaviaTrip, you can now purchase a downloadable PDF with all relevant information - Convenient as a guidebook for your travels!

The download costs only 3,99€ - You can also order a printed version for 9,99€ plus shipping.

Tips for using this website:

Click on "Roadtrip overview" to navigate  to another section or s ee the budget (does not include food/drinks and accomodation yet).

Many items on this page  are clickable and lead you to the respective websites to book a journey or activity.

The amounts of days to spend at one location are just recommendations, shorten or lengthen your roadtrip however you like.

• Scandinavia

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Scandinavia Trip Planner

Explore nearby places.

• Nelsonville
• Amherst Junction
• Stevens Point
• Clintonville

All related maps of Scandinavia

• Map of Scandinavia
• Map of Iola
• Map of Amherst
• Map of Waupaca
• Map of Nelsonville
• Map of Amherst Junction
• Map of Rosholt
• Map of Custer
• Map of Weyauwega
• Map of Almond
• Map of Marion
• Map of Fremont
• Map of Plover
• Map of Tigerton
• Map of Wild Rose
• Map of New London
• Map of Bancroft
• Map of Stevens Point
• Map of Pine River
• Map of Clintonville
• Map of Elderon
• Map of Plainfield
• Map of Wittenberg
• Map of Leopolis
• Map of Embarrass
• Map of Dale
• Map of Tilleda
• Map of Wautoma
• Map of Eland
• Map of Bowler
• Map of Redgranite

Scandinavia throughout the year

• Scandinavia in January
• Scandinavia in February
• Scandinavia in March
• Scandinavia in April
• Scandinavia in May
• Scandinavia in June
• Scandinavia in July
• Scandinavia in August
• Scandinavia in September
• Scandinavia in October
• Scandinavia in November
• Scandinavia in December

Q&A about Scandinavia

Weather in scandinavia, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play