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Scandinavia has the kind of magic and beauty that can quite literally take your breath away. We’re talking vibrant cities with rich histories, imposing glaciers that are hundreds or thousands of years old, rushing waterfalls that plunge into pools, untamed mountainsides that frame deep bodies of water, and other wonders.
It’s not just confined to one country, either. Scandinavia is a part of northern Europe that commonly refers to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Finland and Iceland are also sometimes included, and for this piece, we’re considering them to be part of the region. These countries don’t all share the same treasures, but they all certainly have their gems.
With so many marvels and unforgettable experiences, it’s hard to choose a definite “top 10” for places to visit in Scandinavia. These destinations are just some of the region’s highlights.
1. Copenhagen
What was once a Viking village in the 10th century is now the vibrant Danish capital. From world-class museums and incredible cuisine to magnificent architecture, lovely streets, and more, Copenhagen is brimming with things to do. See the Amalienborg Palace, residence of Denmark's royal family. Take a picture by the iconic “Little Mermaid,” a sculpture that pays homage to the character created by Hans Christian Andersen. Sip coffee in the postcard-pretty Nyhavn canal district, tour the nearby Frederiksborg Castle, and embrace both modernity and history in this unique metropolis.
2. Stockholm
Scattered across 14 islands, Sweden's capital never fails to enchant. Stadsholmen is many folks' favourite island, largely thanks to Gamla Stan, an antique neighbourhood of narrow cobbled lanes and timber-framed medieval buildings. There are lots of enticing gift stores, bars, and eateries. You can also travel to the island of Djurgården to see the Vasa Museum, which displays an ornately-decorated wooden warship salvaged from the bottom of Stockholm's harbour in 1961, 333 years after it capsized and sank on its maiden voyage.
3. Oslo
Say hello to Norway’s buzzing up-and-coming capital, Oslo. Among its many highlights, it’s home to the Royal Palace and excellent museums, including the Fram Museum. There, visitors can dive into the story of Norwegian polar exploration. There's also plenty to catch the eye in Oslo's leafy Vigeland Park—a spot that travellers on our Highlights of Norway tour get to see. It’s sprinkled with the eclectic statues and sculptures of celebrated Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland.
4. Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
Reykjanes Peninsula is known for its lava fields, rugged landscapes, and hot springs. It’s also home to the famous Blue Lagoon, once named one of National Geographic’s 25 wonders of the world. It’s a wonderfully warm, mineral-rich pool of geothermal seawater sitting right in the middle of a huge 800-year-old lava field. But it’s not just a place to soak; the facilities built around it make for a truly spa-like experience. (And pro tip: There’s nothing like a luxurious soak in the lagoon right after a long flight to Iceland.)
5. The Northern Lights in Finland
The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, is nature’s most incredible light show. Generally, the further north you go, the more often those colourful, flickering lights paint the night sky. They are visible about 200 nights a year in the northern part of Finland, and it can be seen from a wide range of places from igloos to luxury suites or even boat cruises. It’s truly a dazzling sight to behold, and one you can seek out on The Northern Lights of Finland tour.
6. The Majestic Fjord Region in Norway
Visit the fjord region of Western Norway to see narrow fjords cut into tall mountains. Picture long, deep strips of sea framed by rugged cliffs and steep slopes. Waterfalls cascade magnificently down mountainsides, and soaring peaks reach high into the sky. Keep your eyes peeled for the seals, eagles, and whales who make their homes here, and enjoy incredible food made from local produce.
7. Norway’s Waterfalls
Norway is home to extraordinary waterfalls, and whilst they’re located in many parts of the country, the spectacular Geirangerfjord area is a great place to witness three famous falls: the Bridal Veil, the Seven Sisters, and the Suitor. If you want to see them at their most thunderous, aim for springtime when the snow is melting. Hiking trails and viewpoints can offer a glimpse of the area, but a boat cruise is one of the best ways to view the falls. Immersed in nature, gaze up at the mighty waterfalls and marvel at the homesteads built on the mountainsides.
8. Flam Railway
Norway’s Flåm Railway brings you anything but a typical train ride. It’s one of the world’s steepest and most beautiful train routes, ascending almost 3,000 feet over the course of 20 kilometers, and weaving through tunnels and breathtaking scenery. It’s a goldmine for jaw-dropping vistas (think: thunderous waterfalls, snow-tickled mountains, and plunging fjords and valleys). Hop on the legendary railway in Flåm, a quaint village, and end at the Mydral station, where you can connect to other trains or take a return trip back to Flåm.
9. Fjords, Waterfalls and Glaciers
We’ve covered fjords and waterfalls in Norway, but these wonders—along with monstrous glaciers—can be found throughout Scandinavia. Iceland’s Langjökull Glacier is a massive icy-blue marvel with the world’s largest man-made ice tunnel. On Sweden’s west coast, you can appreciate the beauty of the country’s one real fjord, Gullmarsfjorden. The imposing Gulfoss Waterfall in Iceland can make anyone feel small, and even Denmark has some falls of its own.
10. Bergen
Whilst capital cities and natural scenes can make for incredible experiences, gems can also be found in the region’s other communities. One such place is Bergen. Nestled on Norway’s southwest coast, Bergen is Norway’s second-largest city but with a charming, easy-going atmosphere. The port city, which was established by Vikings in 1070 AD, is a gateway to the fjords. But that’s not all. It’s also home to Bryggen, a historic harbour neighbourhood that’s a listed UNESCO site.
Explore Scandinavia with Collette’s Guided Tours
From Copenhagen’s charm to Iceland’s glaciers, Scandinavia is an enchanting destination for experienced explorers and casual adventurers alike. That’s why we have several guided tours to the region, each designed for both spectacular sights and lesser-known treasures.
Experience the Highlights of Norway, hunt the aurora borealis with The Northern Lights of Finland tour, or explore the land of fire and ice with one of our Iceland tours.
Or, if you want to see even more of the region, see our Spectacular Scandinavia tour, which brings you some of the highlights you just read about. Contact us to reserve what could very well be the trip of a lifetime.
