best country to visit in northern europe

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17 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Northern Europe may be known as a place of Vikings and snow – and to some extent, that’s not incorrect. The Viking Age definitely did help to shape the culture of Scandinavia, and yes; there is a lot of snow, too. But it’s much more refined, and much more beautiful, than you could imagine.

From the storied, colorful old towns of some of the region’s richest trading cities to museums stressing the importance of the ancient Vikings, history comes to life in Northern Europe. Then there are far-flung islands where the sun never sets in summer, magnificent fjords and lakes as far as the eye can see. One thing is for sure; Northern Europe is modest about its majesty.

The third-largest city in all of Sweden , Malmo is something of a crossroads. With mainland Europe a quick ferry-crossing away, there are over 150 different nationalities in Malmo. Think a creative, international mix of Italian cafes, markets straight out of the Middle East, and fashionable bars.

Away from the modern-day melange of Malmo is Gamla Staden – or the Old Town – which comes complete with handsome Dutch Renaissance buildings. Malmo’s famous waterfront area was designed by architect Vastra Hamnen and is home to sky-piercing buildings that loom over Oresund Bridge for a fascinating mix of old and new that Malmo has become known for.

16. Reykjavik

The compact Icelandic capital of Reykjavik is the ideal coastal city to base yourself for an adventure in this snowy, glacier-strewn land. Learn about the culture of this intriguing country – namely, Vikings – from the many museums on offer, like the National and Saga Museum.

One of the more famous sights in town is the stunning Hallgrimskirkja Church, a soaring modern marvel of a religious building; there’s a rotating glass dome from which you can catch views out across the sea. It may seem quaint in the day, but at night, things hot up, with plenty of clubs and busy bars around its central district.

Bergen sits on the southwest coast of Norway , encased in mountains and flanked by fjords. In fact, the most famous fjord in Norway, Sognefjord (also its deepest and longest), is situated nearby. The charm of the city lies in Old Bergan, with its whimsical, wooden-built houses all painted in bright block colors; take a walk along the waterfront wharf area and end up at the port with its busy fish market.

The Fløibanen funicular in Bergen takes you up to the top of Fløyen Mountain for scenic views of the surrounding nature, in which hiking is not only a possibility, it’s a national pastime come summer.

14. Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland is a region in the east of Finland where, true to its name, you will find almost countless lakes; around 40 lakes per 100 square kilometers. The largest of these is Lake Saimaa, which is not only Finland’s biggest lake, but also the fourth-largest natural lake in the whole of Europe. Studding Saimaa like little jewels are its 5,484 islands.

After spending time in an oak-burning sauna, a cooling dip in a lake is the best thing to do. The water of the lake is beautifully clean and reflects the sky for even more charm. Take a steamboat or canoe around the waters, spotting quaint mökki (summer cottages).

13. Gotland

Just off the southeastern coast of Sweden is its largest island, Gotland . Also the largest island in the Baltic Sea, it’s a stunningly scenic and serene spot, where very few people actually live. The capital, Visby, is a historic center surrounded by well-preserved old city walls, that tells of the island’s Viking and medieval history.

There’s actually a fun festival held every year where Gotlanders don their best medieval garb and take a step back in time with music and merriment. Nature-wise, the island is asking to be explored. You could even just take a drive along the coast for dramatic sea views, little-visited hamlets tucked away, carpets of flowers in summer, and sandy beaches.

12. Jotunheimen National Park

Part of the Scandinavian Mountain range, Jotunheimen (“Home of the Giants”) is a collection of mountains in Norway that boasts 29 of the country’s tallest peaks. Around a third of the mountains are contained within the Jotunheimen National Park. The area is a very popular spot for anybody looking for adventures on mountainsides – namely hikers and climbers.

In winter, the slopes are covered in pure-white powder, while in the summer, Jotunheimen is all about grassy valleys and gleaming rivers – and skiing, thanks to the summer ski center. There are many mountain lodges where you can stay the night along the 300 kilometers of marked paths.

11. Faroe Islands

Set in the North Atlantic Ocean around 200 miles from the coast of Scotland , the Faroe Islands (part of the Kingdom of Denmark) are made up of 18 craggy, volcanic islets and islands. Its capital of Torshavn, located on the island of Streymoy, is where around 40% of the population of this self-governing territory live.

Many of the islands are connected by tunnels, bridges, causeways, and ferry crossings. It’s a popular spot for bird watchers especially, who enjoy observing the many species of seabird that live there, such as puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots. The iconic grass-roofed buildings of the Faroes are a sight that must be seen.

10. Blue Lagoon

The hot spring that is Blue Lagoon is an extremely popular spot. Set on the Reykjanes Peninsula, not all that far from the Icelandic capital, the turquoise waters almost seem to glow like a gem amid the black volcanic rocks surrounding it.

The Blue Lagoon boasts 39°C water temperatures all year round, as well as healing properties (due to high silica and salt content of the volcanic water). Not naturally formed, it was first established in the 1970s as part of the cooling system for the local geothermal power plant; people started bathing here in the ‘80s, and it has since attracted people the world over.

9. Copenhagen

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is situated on the coastal islands Zeeland and Amager. The city is strewn with historical sights and beautiful buildings, such as in the district of Frederiksstaden, where you’ll find ornate Rococo-style architecture dating back to the 18th century.

This area is also home to the Amalienborg Palace, the seat of the Danish royal family, as well as the impressive Frederik’s Kirke – fittingly known as the Marble Church. The iconic Nyhavn area is home to 17th-century buildings, canals, and plenty of drinking and dining options – as well as attractive heritage lodgings.

Tivoli Gardens , a 19th-century amusement park, is where you’ll find Rutschebanen – one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world!

8. Helsinki

Set on the south coast of Finland, Helsinki is the smart Finnish capital, and home to some stunning architecture. From the main railway station – with its unique National Romantic style and the imposing, stripped-back Parliament House – to the incredible Temppeliaukion Church – a bold 1960s church set directly in excavated rock – there’s an intriguing cross-section of modern styles in this city.

You can head over to the National Museum to learn all about Finnish history, or – from spring to autumn – check out Market Square, a hive of activity with food stalls, souvenirs, and street-side cafes where you can simply watch life in the capital unfold.

7. Svalbard

Far, far north from the Norwegian mainland is the island archipelago of Svalbard. Set well into the Arctic Circle, this far-flung destination is the place to come to witness the phenomenon that is Midnight Sun; during the summer, the sun doesn’t set here, never properly falling below the horizon for 24 hours.

Unfortunately, the opposite is also true of winter, when the sun never rises! Not part of Norway until 1925, today, visiting Svalbard is relatively easy, thanks to a surprising number of lodgings. This makes it easy to spot everything from polar bears and Arctic foxes to the magical Northern Lights.

6. Gullfoss

In southwest Iceland lies the startling natural wonder that is Gullfoss. Meaning “Golden Falls” in Icelandic, this waterfall is anything but ordinary. The Hvítá River, originating at the Langjökull glacier, runs its course through a canyon and then suddenly turns at a sharp angle to plunge 32 meters down its two stages before continuing.

The sheer power of nature here is easy to see; visit in summer for the full effect, when 140 cubic meters tumble down the falls every second. With more to see in the local area – like the hot springs of Geysir or the active geyser of Strokkur – as well as a few hotels nearby, staying at Gullfoss to explore further is a good idea.

5. Stockholm

Stockholm is a city of islands. Set on a Baltic Sea archipelago of 14 islands linked by a series of 50 bridges, the Swedish capital is a must-visit destination in the country. There’s Gamla Stan – or Old Town – a network of cobblestone lanes and pastel-colored houses, home to the 13th century Storkyrkan Cathedral.

Elsewhere in Stockholm , you can find the grand Royal Palace (completed in 1760), the Romanesque Revival style Stockholm City Hall. You can learn about the Nobel Prize at the Nobel Museum, and see an intact 17th-century sailship at the Vasa Museum. The open-air museum Skansen is an excellent way to glimpse Swedish life before modern-day luxuries.

See also: Where to Stay in Stockholm

4. Lofoten Islands

An archipelago extending from the northeast coast of Norway, Lofoten provides some truly dramatic natural backdrops for your travel adventures. One of the most famous things about Lofoten, besides its beautifully scenic setting, is its climate: it’s known for being strangely warm for its latitude.

Back to the nature now; keen rock climbers and mountaineers should make a beeline for Moskenesøya, while cyclists can enjoy a well-marked and particularly stunning cycle path from southerly Å, which goes on past Fiskebøl in the north. Otherwise, Lofoten is a warren of charming fishing villages with breathtaking natural surroundings, like Nusfjord on Flakstadøya.

Except for the North Pole, there’s nowhere more northerly that’s as famous as this place. Lapland is a place for big kids and little kids alike; call him what you like – Father Christmas, Santa Claus, Saint Nicholas – this is his “traditional” home. Head to Rovaniemi to see if you can find his workshop.

Otherwise, Lapland – straddling the northern reaches of both Sweden and Finland – is the home of another traditional resident, the Sami people. Also known as Sápmi, Lapland is home to the original Ice Hotel, skiing opportunities, and chances to glimpse the Northern Lights. Head further north to discover the reindeer-herding Sami people themselves.

2. Vatnajokull National Park

Vatnajokull National Park is the result of merging two extant Icelandic national parks, Jökulsárgljúfur and Skaftafell, with the giant ice cap that is Vatnajokull itself. As such, there are some incredible natural sights to see here. One of the most spectacular has to be Dettifoss; this waterfall is said to be Europe’s most powerful. Witnessing the water of the wide Jökulsá á Fjöllum falling an impressive 44 meters from one of the many hiking trails is awe-inspiring.

Elsewhere, there’s the caldera of Askja, where you’ll find the turquoise geothermal lake of Víti. Simply driving the ring road of this national park is an excellent way to watch nature unfold.

1. Fjords of Norway

Norway is famous for its glacier-formed, U-shaped valleys that everybody knows and loves as fjords. Sognefjord may be its longest and deepest – cutting over 1,300 meters below sea level – as well as the country’s most famous – but it’s the sheer amount of fjords that make the Norwegian coast what it is.

There’s possibly the world’s strongest tidal current at Saltstraumen. Sørfjorden is a particularly dramatic sub-fjord of Hardangerfjorden. The mountain backdrop at Tafjorden is amazing. There have even been fjordal coral reefs found at depths of 50-100 meters. Whether you’re looking down on fjords, or on the waters looking up at the majesty of these valleys, any visit to the Norwegian Fjords will be truly stunning.

Map of Places to Visit in Northern Europe

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The Absolute Best Places to Travel in Northern Europe

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

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

Scavenger Hunts in Northern Europe

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

The Best Places to Travel in Northern Europe

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

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

1. Drive The Ring Road of Iceland

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

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

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

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

2. Explore The Top Trio of Norway

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Basque in The Quaintness of Tallinn, Estonia

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

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

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

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

4. Sauna Hop in Finnish Lapland

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

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

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

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

5. Take the Ferry to St. Petersburg, Russia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Explore the Complicated History of Riga, Latvia

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

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

8. Experience Pure Peace In The Faroe Islands

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

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

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

9. Cruise the Canals of Stockholm, Sweden

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

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

10. Medieval Castles and Beasts in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

11. Take A Pilgrimage in Lithuania

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

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

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

12. Connect With Your Inner Viking in Denmark

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

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

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

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

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

13. Explore The Shipyards of Belfast, Northern Ireland

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

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

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

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

14. Pay Homage To The Beatles In Liverpool, England

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Photograph The Iconic Bridges Of Hamburg, Germany

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

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

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

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

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

Closing Thoughts

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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Countries To Visit In Northern Europe

Best Time: March - July Read More

Budget: Very Expensive

Here are the top 7 countries in Northern Europe

1 out of 7 Countries To Visit in Northern Europe

Danish pastry is synonymous to the country of Denmark. Other major attractions being fairy tales, football matches and the statue of the bronze mermaid sitting on a rock that looks over the city. With a long and interesting historical background, Denmark is rich in culture and heritage. Now, it is one of the most modern and developed nations in Europe and holds in store for you the best itineraries for travel lovers.

2 out of 7 Countries To Visit in Northern Europe

One of the most popular countries in the world, England is located in Europe. It is also the dream destination for a lot of people for its beauty and grandeur. With a great history behind it, it has a rich heritage and culture. The English countryside is one of the most peaceful places in the country. The most famous historical sites include the old castles on the countryside, Roman sites and the royal palaces. Each city in the country has its own charm.

3 out of 7 Countries To Visit in Northern Europe

Amongst the most coveted travel destinations, Iceland is one of the most surreal and magnificent countries in the world. Located close to the Arctic Circle, it offers amazingly dramatic and breath-taking landscapes and exotic natural phenomena. Summer is the best time to visit, owing to the mild temperatures and a plethora of available activities from hiking fjords to playing golf at midnight. However, no time is a bad time to visit this spectacular snow-covered country.

4 out of 7 Countries To Visit in Northern Europe

Located in the northwestern Europe, the island of Ireland is famous for its ancient rocks and great legends. Apart from the natural beauty of the beaches, lakes, mountains and limestone deserts, the country is also known for its numerous festivals. It is also known as the Emerald Isle as it is rich is poetry, prose, painting as well as tourist literature. With proper warmth and hospitality, Ireland is very popular among the tourists.

5. Scotland

5 out of 7 Countries To Visit in Northern Europe

Scotland, a part of the UK, is located in northwestern Europe and is one of the most important countries in the continent. When one thinks of Scotland, the chequered kilts and bagpipes come to mind. However, there is a lot more to the country. From the lush green highlands to the coastal blue waters, from fine Scotch whiskies and brilliant food, you can experience all. Scotland also has a long history, and its magnificent castles can vouch for that.

6 out of 7 Countries To Visit in Northern Europe

Known for its breath-taking landscapes, exotic dishes and notoriously eccentric culture, Sweden is indeed amongst the most diverse countries on the planet. Offering a 360-degree experience that includes both a thriving city life and an exotic ride through the countryside, the country is a delight for both mountain lovers and beach junkies. With a rich history, astounding architecture and the most incredible sights, Sweden is a traveller's paradise.

7 out of 7 Countries To Visit in Northern Europe

With so much to offer, Wales gives its tourists a well-rounded experience with beautiful coasts, magnificent mountains and rolling, green fields. ThereÕs never a boring moment in the country. One can go scuba diving, bird watching, indulge in water sports and take a tour of the remarkable "Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty" or enjoy some wonderful meat dishes and drink exquisite whisky by a roaring fire in of the delightful pubs in Cardiff or Swansea.

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Top 15 BEST Places to Visit in Northern Europe

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Northern Europe has always been known as the land of old tales, snow, Vikings, but let’s not limit the region to only these few things. The northern part of Europe has more to offer than what it is known for, and of course, its beauty.

The countries located in Northern Europe are famous for their old colorful towns , rich trading cities, museums reflecting the Viking age stories, and a lot of history for anyone interested. That’s not all. There are far-flung places to visit in Northern Europe where summers are never dark, huge lakes, and magnificent fjords make your visit all the more beautiful.

For nature lovers, the region is decorated with appealing islands, magnificent fjords, sound lakes , and mind-blowing sunsets for giving your unforgettable memories. For those who want to travel to Northern Europe , it offers everything majestic in its modesty.

Are you also planning to visit these amazingly beautiful places in your Northern Europe travel? To help you filter the choices, here are the top places to visit in Northern Europe that you must explore.

Table of Contents

Roskilde, Denmark

Denmark ranks high among the world’s happiest countries for a reason, and the reason is so much beauty and preservation of all of it at best. With a population of merely 50000 people, Roskilde is among the essential cities of Denmark and one of the beautiful places in northern Europe.

The city served as the capital of Denmark for several generations. The town goes back to the Viking Age and, as indicated by medieval sources, was the site of a majestic royal residence and a Basilica worked by Harald Bluetooth, the amazing author of Denmark. Connected to the house of prayer is Roskilde Palace.

Roskilde is additionally celebrated for its Viking Ship Museum, which houses the remaining parts of five well-safeguarded Viking ships, which were uncovered from the Roskilde Fjords encompassing the city.

Roskilde Cathedral is also another popular attraction in the town, which is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site . Some other famous sightseeing places are Roskilde are 18th-century Ledreborg Palace, Roskilde Havn & Fjord, St. Laurence Tower, and Centre for Historical-Archaeological Research and Communication, also known as “Land of Legends.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Roskilde, Denmark

Turku, Finland

Turku is a small Swedish city located on the southwestern side of Finland . The city is situated on the banks of River Aura and is popular as the trading center. No doubt, the city was completely disturbed in 1827 due to fire, when it was serving as the capital of Sweden during the Russian rule.

It is Finland ‘s fifth biggest city and biggest winter port and contains significant maritime shipyards. Ranked among the best of the places to visit in Northern Europe, Finland has everything that your holiday destination should have from art galleries , cool cafes , natural beauty, and amazing people.

Ventures incorporate sugar refining and the creation of steel, gadgets, blunder, flour, stoneware, and materials. The place is also famous for special institutes for higher education, museums, Swedish Theatre, Greek Orthodox churches, libraries, and art galleries.

Where to stay:   Best hotels in Turku, Finland

Kiruna, Sweden

Kiruna is the heart of Swedish Lapland and the home to northern lights, the largest underground ore mine of iron, and a famous hotel, ICEHOTEL. Kiruna is a land of wilderness and known among the best places to visit in Europe in winters where the silence and wild rules. The mountains and forests around provide an excellent environment for adventure winter activities such as snowmobiling to skiing .

The famous adventure activities like Dog sledding, ice fishing, and photography courses can be done on guided tours locally. Some of the popular destinations in and around Kiruna are LKAB’s Visitor Centre, Kiruna Kyrka, Samegarden Museum, and Kiruna Stadshuset. Don’t miss out on Swedish cuisines in various eateries within the city to confirm your choice of traveling to one of the best places to go in Northern Europe.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Kiruna, Sweden

Reykjavik, Iceland

The minimized Icelandic capital of Reykjavik is simply the perfect beachfront city to base for an undertaking in this frigid, icy mass strewn land. One of the more renowned sights around the local area is the staggering Hallgrimskirkja Church, taking off the current wonder of a strict structure.

There’s a pivoting glass arch from which you can get sees out over the ocean. It might appear to be curious in the day, however around evening time, things sweltering up, with a lot of clubs and occupied bars around its focal region. Planning North? Iceland ‘s Reykjavik is definitely among the best places to go in Northern Europe.

While you explore the town, go down the shopping area Bankastræti, relax at Blue Lagoon waters, which is located very close to the capital city, and, if lucky, watch the whales in their natural habitat by booking one of the ocean tours.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Reykjavik, Iceland

Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuania ‘s capital city has been discreetly beguiling travelers for a considerable length of time, attracting guests with the biggest florid Old Town in eastern Europe, at that point wowing them with an odd tastefulness, a mind-boggling history and a social scene that is particularly Lithuanian.

There’s a large group of motivations to visit this idiosyncratic, imaginative, and minimal city include the Old Town, Jewish history, the Hill of Three Crosses, Gediminas Hill, Amber Museum, and much more.

The capital of Lithuania is a great weekend destination with beautiful towns, cool bars, and a lot of epic views, history, coffee shops, and excellent Graffiti street art . Follow the church paths and include some of these mentioned churches in your trail: St. Anne’s and Bernardine Church, St. Mikalojaus Church, Vilnius Cathedral, and of course Saints Peter and Paul’s Church.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Vilnius, Lithuania

Glasgow, Scotland, The UK

Scotland is located on the famous River Clyde. It has been working for decades to emerge as one of the fascinating metropolises of Britain. The beautiful city is a combination of earthiness and sophistication, which is quite rare to find.

Decorated with various mansions and buildings in Victorian legacy, some other places to must visit in Glasgow include Industrial heritage on the banks of Clyde River, galleries and museums, and the stunning nightlife for a wild experience. Stamp your passport with the best of Scottish and one of the highly popular places to visit in Europe at Glasgow.

Kelvingrove and the Hunterian Museum is a must to visit for experiencing natural history, historical vehicles, archaeological corpus, and much more. Music lovers can plan the trip around the time of the Celtic Connections Music festival and also explore Theatre Royal, and Royal Scottish Orchestra.

Another famous attraction for anyone coming to Glasgow is the history of the Arts & Crafts Movement, started by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, who was the founder of the Glasgow School of Art. All the museums and buildings in Glasgow feature his work.

Best Tours for this attraction: Explore the Clydeside Distillery a Single Malt Scotch Whisky Distillery in the heart of Glasgow.

via Wikimedia Commons | Andrew Maranta andrewmaranta

West Iceland

Geologically near Reykjavík, yet far, far away in assumption, West Iceland (known as Vesturland) is a stunning microcosm of what Iceland brings to the table and surely among the best places to go in Northern Europe.

However, numerous travelers have missed the reminder, and you’re probably going to have remote pieces of this brilliant locale to yourself. The long arm of Snafellsnes Peninsula is a most loved for its icy mass, Langjokull, and the territory around its national park is tops for birding, whale watching, magma field climbs and pony riding.

Inland past Reykholt, you’ll experience magma cylinders and remote good country icy masses, incorporating gigantic Langjokull with its surprising ice cavern. With so much diversity, interesting historical places, and beautiful waterfalls , glaciers, mountains , and lava fields, you can stay here for as long as you want and never feel bored.

Lofoten Island, Norway

An archipelago stretching out from the upper east bank of Norway , Lofoten gives some genuinely sensational characteristic backgrounds for your movement experiences. A most well-known aspect concerning Lofoten, other than its wonderfully beautiful setting, is its atmosphere: it’s known for being unusually warm for its scope.

Back to nature presently, sharp rock climbers and mountain dwellers should rush toward Moskenesoya, while cyclists can appreciate a well-checked and especially shocking cycleway from southerly Å, which goes on past Fiskebol in the north.

Sometimes Lofoten is a warren of beguiling angling towns with a stunning characteristic environment. Vestvågøy, Moskenesøy, Flakstadøy, and Austvågøy are four main islands with numerous smaller islands and make the entire landscape look like a small mountain range.

Despite being located in Arctic Circle, Lofoten experiences warm summers and mild winters, with temperature not as extreme as other northern countries. You can add it to the best places to travel in Northern Europe in winter .

You can also check out some of the other towns in Norway!

Best Tours for this attraction: Experience the amazing view of the spectacular Northern Lights In Lofoten Island on this private guided tour

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is a city of islands. Set on a Baltic Sea archipelago of 14 islands connected by a progression of 50 extensions, the Swedish capital is an unquestionable requirement visit goal in the nation. There’s Gamla Stan – or Old Town – a system of cobblestone paths and pastel-hued houses, home to the thirteenth century Storkyrkan Cathedral.

Somewhere else, you can locate the amazing Royal Palace , the Romanesque Revival style Stockholm City Hall. You can find out about the Nobel Prize at the Nobel Museum , and see a flawless 17th-century sail ship at the Vasa Museum. Explore one of the best places to visit in Northern Europe and take home the Swedish holiday experience at its best.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Stockholm, Sweden

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is currently a happy European capital with an appeal to the entirety of its own. It’s vivacious yet serene, ludicrously photogenic, and overflowing with magnificent sights – antiquated places of worship, medieval streetscapes, and respectable traders’ homes.

Toss in magnificent nourishment and lively present-day culture, and it’s no big surprise Tallinn in Estonia appears in peril of being wanted to death, particularly after a couple of voyage ships dock. In any case, it’s one of those favored spots that appear to adapt to all the considerations.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Tallinn, Estonia

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin in Ireland is a proper combination of hedonism and heritage in the form of a small capital. The place is surely not going to disappoint you if you are one of the history lovers. The city comes with a historical museum that helps in learning about the Viking past that is almost washed away from the city.

Merely taking a walk in the city would help you experience the sophistication, sociability, and compelling soul the Dubliners carry. Apart from multiculturalism, diversity, and shores inspired by the Irish, the castles , the lavishing eateries and traditional pubs are also fascinating.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Dublin, Ireland

Wales, The UK

Are you fond of hills? If yes, Wales is surely going to hit your heart. A must visit place in the list, Wales is a tiny exciting city that is popular for its classic mountain ranges, river valleys, cliffs for surfing , islands, wildlife sanctuaries, and much more.

The tropical beaches , sandcastles, historical places, dolmens, standing stones, stone circles, and much more is sure to give your family a memorable time. The castles in Wales help you experience the royal outlook the city once carried.

Major sightseeing areas of Wales include Snowdonia National Park that is located in Snowdonia, which is very popular for its wilderness and majestic peaks, hike in Brecon Beacons National Park, Caernarfon Castle and the Isle of Anglesey. The natural beauty of Wales makes it one of the top places to visit in Northern Europe.

St. Petersburg, Russia

Popular for the City of Tsars, St. Petersburg in Russia, is filled with the imperial outlook of Russia and sheer grandeur with a revolutionary spirit. Visiting St. Petersburg would allow you to visit other nearby places like Moscow and Venice for a romantic tour.

The city is the treasured with ancient culture and art in every place you pay a visit. Some of the exciting things you can enjoy here include Opera, classical concerts, musical festivals, Egyptian mummies, Erarta Museum, summer White Nights, gardens and parks, and much more that provide you with a delightful and dazzling experience.

While touring this romantic city, add some top places to go in Northern Europe, including The Hermitage ( Winter Palace), The Mariinsky Theatre, St. Isaac’s Cathedral & Colonnade, Church of Saviour on Spilled Blood, Nevsky Prospekt, etc.

Where to stay: Best hotels in St. Petersburg, Russia

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark , is arranged on the waterfront islands Zeeland and Amager. The city is strewn with chronicled sights and lovely structures, for example, in the area of Frederiksted, where you’ll discover resplendent Rococo-style engineering going back to the eighteenth century.

This zone is additionally home to the Amalienborg Palace , the seat of the Danish imperial family, just as the amazing Frederik’s Kirke – fittingly known as the Marble Church. The famous Nyhavn region is home to 17th-century structures, waterways, and a lot of drinking and eating choices – just as appealing legacy lodgings.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Copenhagen , Denmark

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gregarious, relaxed Gothenburg is the archetypal second city: understatedly hip and out of the blue energetic. Neoclassical engineering lines its cable car shook avenues, local people sun themselves next to waterways, and there’s constantly a fascinating social or get-together going on. Sightseeing is widely carried out walking here.

The canals of the 17th century in Kungsparken or King’s Park is one of the most visited beauties of the city. Along with all these, some other exciting places to visit here are aquariums, museums related to the sea, ships, Linne districts, Haga, Vasastan, etc. Your visit to Gothenburg would not be complete without the visit to Skansen Kronan, Southern Archipelago, the biggest amusement park in Northern Europe- Liseberg.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Gothenburg, Sweden

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Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Buckle up as we explore the best places to visit in Northern Europe.

We’ve handpicked ten top-notch destinations guaranteed to leave you spellbound.

Get ready to discover hidden gems, awe-inspiring landscapes, and vibrant cultures – all in this exciting guide!

Explore the Majestic Fjords: A Top Travel Destination in Nordic Norway

Norway, often dubbed the Land of the Midnight Sun, is an enticing blend of natural splendor and urban elegance. Majestic fjords, the breathtaking Northern Lights, and cosmopolitan cities like Oslo make Norway an unmissable stop on your Northern European tour. Be sure to dig into some traditional Norwegian cuisine for a taste of the region’s culture.

Pro travel tip: To witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, plan your trip between late September and late March.

Sweden’s Charms: Beautiful Places to Visit in the Heart of Scandinavia

Sweden is next on our list. This Scandinavian nation offers a blend of charming urban landscapes and wild, untamed nature. Stockholm, the picturesque capital, Gothenburg’s lively arts scene, and the frosty adventures awaiting in the Swedish Lapland are must-visits.

Pro travel tip: Canoeing and hiking are popular ways to explore the Swedish wilderness, so pack accordingly!

Discover Finland: A Unique Nordic Experience Among the Best Places to Go

Finland, the land of thousands of lakes and forests, offers a unique travel experience. Helsinki’s vibrant city life, the peaceful serenity of Lake Saimaa, and the magic of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi make Finland a unique stop on our Northern Europe expedition. Of course, no trip to Finland is complete without indulging in the quintessential Finnish sauna experience.

Pro travel tip: If you visit in winter, consider embarking on a thrilling husky safari!

Danish Delights: Explore Copenhagen and Beyond in Beautiful Denmark

Denmark, a country that consistently ranks among the happiest in the world, brims with Scandinavian charm. The vibrant life of Copenhagen, the remote beauty of The Faroe Islands, and the Danish concept of “hygge” (comfort and coziness) make Denmark a can’t-miss destination. Don’t forget to explore Denmark’s influence on design and its innovative gastronomy scene.

Pro travel tip: Don’t miss the chance to enjoy smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich.

Icelandic Wonders: Top Visitor Attractions in the Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland, aptly named the Land of Fire and Ice, is a country of stark contrasts. Here, hot springs and geysers exist side by side with glaciers and ice fields. Reykjavik’s cultural scene, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and soothing geothermal baths offer a unique mix of experiences.

Pro travel tip: Pack your swimsuit and prepare to dip into the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s famous geothermal spa.

Medieval Charm in Estonia: A Must-Visit Country in Northern Europe

Estonia, a small Baltic nation, combines rich history with cutting-edge digital innovation. The medieval architecture of Tallinn, the intellectual hub of Tartu, and the beach town of Parnu are worth a visit. Additionally, experiencing Estonia’s robust digital society is like stepping into the future.

Pro travel tip: Estonia has one of the highest numbers of start-ups per capita, making it a great place to network for those in the tech industry.

Latvia’s Hidden Gems: Explore Top Spots in this Baltic Beauty

Latvia, another Baltic gem, boasts a rich history and diverse architecture. Highlights include the vibrant city of Riga, the verdant Gauja National Park, and the seaside retreat of Jurmala. Latvia’s fascinating history is woven into every street, building, and landmark, creating a cultural tapestry that’s truly compelling.

Pro travel tip: Try the national dish, “grey peas with bacon”, a hearty and flavorful meal.

8. Lithuania

Lithuanian treasures: cultural tours and scenic places to visit.

Lithuania, the southernmost Baltic state, is a cultural melting pot. Its capital, Vilnius, the historical Trakai Castle, and the sand-dune beaches of the Curonian Spit paint a picture of the country’s rich history and diverse influences. Dive deep into Lithuanian customs and traditions to experience its unique charm.

Pro travel tip: Don’t leave without trying cepelinai, a national dish of potato dumplings filled with meat.

9. Scotland

Scottish escapes: experience the best of historic and natural scotland.

Scotland, with its breathtaking Highlands, historical castles, and world-renowned whisky, offers a distinct Northern European experience. The enchanting city of Edinburgh, the mysterious Loch Ness, and the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye are just a few of the highlights. Experience Scotland’s traditions, sample their culinary delights, and sip on their famous whisky.

Pro travel tip: For a true Scottish experience, try haggis, the national dish.

10. Ireland

Irish adventures: beautiful destinations and memorable trips in the emerald isle.

Lastly, we visit Ireland, the Emerald Isle known for its lush landscapes and rich folklore. Explore Dublin’s rich history, marvel at the towering Cliffs of Moher, and drive the scenic Ring of Kerry. Immerse yourself in Irish music and folklore to understand why the Irish are known for their storytelling.

Pro travel tip: Make sure to enjoy a pint of Guinness at a local pub for the authentic Irish experience.

We’ve now reached the end of our whirlwind tour of the top ten unmissable destinations in Northern Europe. Each place has its own unique charm, offering a blend of history, culture, nature, and innovation.

Northern Europe is more than just a collection of countries – it’s a mosaic of experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else. We hope you’re inspired to pack your bags and explore these remarkable destinations!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit northern europe.

The ideal time to visit Northern Europe largely depends on the activities you prefer. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather and long days, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. However, winter (December-February) is ideal for witnessing the Northern Lights and engaging in winter sports.

Do I need a visa to travel to Northern Europe?

The visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the specific countries you plan to visit. For most tourists, the Schengen Visa covers travel within the majority of Northern European countries. However, always check the specific visa requirements for your home country.

What languages are spoken in Northern Europe?

While each country in Northern Europe has its own official language, English is widely spoken in most areas, especially in major cities and tourist hubs.

What is the currency in Northern Europe?

Most Northern European countries use the Euro, except for countries like Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, which have their own currencies (Norwegian Krone, Swedish Krona, Danish Krone, and British Pound, respectively).

What should I pack for a trip to Northern Europe?

Packing for a trip to Northern Europe depends on the season and activities you plan on doing. Layers are always recommended, as weather can change quickly. Rainproof gear, comfortable walking shoes, and warmer clothing for cooler nights are advisable. If visiting in winter, pack for cold weather and snow.

If you’re planning to expand your itinerary, don’t miss out on our guide to the most visited cities in Europe , offering an inside look at the continent’s most popular urban destinations.

• 20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland for Couples
• Best Places To Visit In Italy In March: Our Top 10 Picks
• Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Greece For Couples
• Best Places to Visit in Croatia: Our Top 10 Picks
• Best Places to Visit in Belgium: Top 10 Destinations

About Ronaldo Stewart

Wantigo was born out of a deep passion for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. With a keen sense of adventure and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, I’ve traveled far and wide, immersing myself in the beauty and wonder of the world.

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The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

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It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.

United Kingdom

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With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.

Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.

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Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.

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Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.

Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .

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An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play. 

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With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history . 

The Netherlands

Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.

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If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.

Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .

Switzerland

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As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .

This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.

Faroe Islands

It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.

Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .

Czech Republic

If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.

If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .

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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

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12 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

It was an exciting read!! Nordic countries are bucket list destinations.

My husband and I are planning a visit to Switzerland around Christmas ( our third visit to the country for we want to experience the Christmas cheer there). Any specific recommendations?

Also, we’d have about 10 days to spare for another country ( late Dec to Early Jan), which country would you recommend given it is not a very ideal time to visit the neighbouring countries? France and Austria are already covered.

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!

love to go. need in fo about how to book travel

Great to hear you’re interested! To book your travel, you can look into tour operators that offer various packages to the Nordic countries. Visit their websites, choose an itinerary that suits you, and follow the booking instructions. Or, you can plan your trip on your own by following itineraries available online, like the one on my blog.

Dear sir/ madam. I enjoy travelling, but I´ve never been alone: always been accompanied, on a tour, mainly. That´s the reason why I write you to ask you: Is there any Tour package for 3 weeks that I can take and doing the same journey? Visiting nordics countries is my dream come true, ever! looking forward for your invaluable comment Warm greetings, Gloria Santiago, Chile

Hey Gloria, I’m sorry for the delayed response; we’ve had some issues with the blog comments over the past year. It might be late and not of any use to you now, but I still wanted to provide some information. It could be helpful to other readers who have similar questions. Many tour operators, such as Trafalgar, Globus, and Insight Vacations, offer various tour packages to the Nordic countries, ranging from 10 days to one month. These tours cover destinations like Norway, Sweden, and Denmark and are perfect for experiencing the region without the hassle of planning. I recommend checking their websites for detailed itineraries and to find a package that suits your needs.

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

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

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

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17 Best Cities To Visit In Northern Europe 2024

Snow and Vikings are common characteristics of northern Europe, at least partly. Indeed, the Viking Age significantly influenced Scandinavian civilization, and snowfall is also expected there. However, it’s far more exquisite and sophisticated than you imagined. Best Cities To Visit In Northern Europe, where history comes to life, from the colorful, legendary old towns of some of the wealthiest trading centers in the region to museums highlighting the significance of the ancient Vikings. Then there are distant islands with endless summertime sun, breathtaking fjords, and seemingly endless lakes. There’s no denying that northern europe destinations is humble in its grandeur.

Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

Fjords of norway.

Norway is well-known for its U-shaped valleys carved by glaciers, widely recognized and adored as fjords. The Norwegian coast is defined by its vast network of fjords, not just the longest and most famous one, Sognefjord, which is over 1,300 meters below sea level.

Saltstraumen may have the most significant tidal current on Earth. One of Hardangerfjorden’s more striking sub-fjords is Sørfjorden. Tafjorden’s mountainous backdrop is breathtaking. Any trip to the Norwegian Fjords will be incredibly breathtaking, whether you’re looking up at the beauty of these valleys from the waters below or down on the fjords themselves.

Malmo, the third-biggest city in Sweden, is situated at a crossroads. Located just a short boat ride from mainland Europe, Malmo is home to more than 150 ethnicities. Imagine an inventive, global mash-up of trendy bars, Middle Eastern-style markets, and Italian cafes.

Gamla Staden, also known as the Old Town, is located apart from Malmo’s contemporary eclecticism and features elegant Dutch Renaissance architecture. Architect Vastra Hamnen created the city’s well-known waterfront district, characterized by towering structures that tower over the Oresund Bridge and provide a unique blend of modern and historic architecture for which Malmo is renowned.

Reykjavik, the small capital of Iceland, is the perfect seaside city to launch an adventure in this land of snow and glaciers. Visit some of the many museums available, such as the National and Saga Museum, to learn about the fascinating culture of this country, particularly that of the Vikings.

The magnificent Hallgrimskirkja Church, a towering modern architectural wonder with a revolving glass dome that offers views of the sea, is one of the more well-known sights in the area. While it may appear charming during the day, its core neighborhood comes alive at night with many clubs and lively bars.

Situated on Norway’s southwest coast, Bergen is surrounded by fjords and mountains. Indeed, Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, is the country’s most well-known, and it’s located close by. Old Bergan is the city’s most charming region, with its wacky wooden cottages painted in vibrant block hues. Wander down the waterfront wharf area to reach the harbor and its bustling fish market.

A funicular in Bergen called the Fløibanen whisks you to the summit of Fløyen Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the summer, hiking is not just an option but a national hobby.

Finnish Lakeland

As the name suggests, Finnish Lakeland is an area in the east of the country with an abundance of lakes—roughly 40 lakes per 100 square kilometers. The greatest of these is Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland and the fourth-largest natural lake in Europe overall.

The greatest thing to do is take a chilly lake swim after spending time in an oak-burning sauna. The lake’s crystal-clear water adds even more appeal as it mirrors the sky. Cruise the river in a steamer or canoe and discover charming mökki (summer houses).

Gotland, the largest island in Sweden, is located right off the country’s southeast coast. It is hardly the only island oversized in the Baltic Sea, but it’s also an excellent and tranquil place with hardly many residents. The well-preserved old city walls narrate the island’s medieval and Viking past encircle the capital, Visby.

Every year, there’s an entertaining event where Gotlanders dress up in their finest medieval attire and enjoy a musical journey through the ages. You may even drive along the coast to see sandy beaches, little-known hamlets tucked away, magnificent sea views, and summertime flower carpets.

Jotunheimen National Park

Jotunheimen, or “Home of the Giants,” is a group of mountains in Norway that is a part of the Scandinavian Mountain range and is home to 29 of the highest peaks in the nation. The Jotunheimen National Park contains around one-third of the mountains. Hikers and climbers seeking experiences on the slopes are popular in this area.

While Jotunheimen’s summertime offerings include shimmering rivers, verdant valleys, and skiing (due to the summer ski center), the winter months see the slopes in snowy white.

Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands, a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, are a group of eighteen rugged, volcanic islets and islands in the North Atlantic Ocean around 200 miles off the coast of Scotland. About 40% of the people living in this self-governing territory reside in its capital city, Torshavn, on the island of Streymoy.

Causeways, bridges, tunnels, and ferry crossings link several islands. Bird watchers, in particular, love visiting this location because they see the variety of seabird species that call it home, including guillemots, fulmars, kittiwakes, and puffins. The Faroese dwellings, with their characteristic grass roofs, are a sight to behold.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon hot spring is a very well-liked location. Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, not too far from the capital of Iceland, the blue waters appear to shimmer like a precious stone amidst the surrounding black volcanic cliffs.

Year-round 39°C water temperatures and therapeutic qualities (because of the volcanic water’s high silica and salt content) are features of the Blue Lagoon. Not naturally occurring, it was first constructed in the 1970s as a cooling system for the nearby geothermal power station. People began taking baths here in the 1980s, and since then, it has drawn visitors worldwide.

Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, is located on the coastal islands of Amager and Zeeland. The city is packed with historical sites and stunning architecture. One such area is Frederiksstaden, which has elaborate Rococo-style structures that date back to the 18th century.

The Danish royal family’s residence, Amalienborg Palace, and the magnificent Frederik’s Kirke, popularly called the Marble Church, are located in this region. The well-known Nyhavn neighborhood has 17th-century architecture, canals, a wide variety of places to eat and drink, and lovely historic hotels.

One of the world’s oldest wooden roller coasters, Rutschebanen, is at Tivoli Gardens, a 19th-century amusement park!

Helsinki, Finland’s intellectual capital and site of some of the country’s most beautiful buildings, is located on the country’s south coast. This city boasts an exciting mix of modern designs, from the central train station with its distinctive National Romantic architecture to the majestic, understated Parliament House to the impressive Temppeliaukion chapel, a daring 1960s chapel set directly in excavated rock.

For an in-depth look at Finnish history, visit the National Museum. Alternatively, from spring to fall, visit Market Square, which is bustling with food vendors, gift shops, and sidewalk cafes where you can people-watch and take in the sights of the capital.

Svalbard is an archipelago of islands located far north of the Norwegian mainland. The Midnight Sun phenomena are seen in this remote location, well within the Arctic Circle. In the summer, the sun never fully sets, never setting for a whole day.

Regretfully, winter also exhibits the reverse phenomenon—the sun never rises! Not officially a part of Norway until 1925, Svalbard is surprisingly accessible with plenty of hotel options. This simplifies spotting everything from the enchanted Northern Lights to polar bears and Arctic foxes.

Gullfoss is a stunning natural wonder located in southwest Iceland. This waterfall, which in Icelandic means “Golden Falls,” is anything but typical. Originating in the Langjökull glacier, the Hvítá River flows through a canyon before dramatically turning and plunging 32 meters down its two stages to continue its journey.

It is simple to witness the utter might of nature here; go during the summer to experience the full impact, as 140 cubic meters of water cascade down the falls per second. Staying at Gullfoss to continue your exploration is a wise decision because other attractions are nearby, such as the active geyser of Strokkur, the hot springs of Geysir, and a few hotels.

Stockholm is an island city. The Swedish capital, situated atop a chain of 14 Baltic Sea islands connected by fifty bridges, is a must-see location in the nation. The Storkyrkan Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century, is located in Gamla Stan, also known as Old Town, a maze of pastel-colored homes and cobblestone alleyways.

The magnificent Royal Palace was finished in 1760, and Stockholm City Hall, designed in the Romanesque Revival style, is located in other parts of Stockholm. The Nobel Museum has information about the Nobel Prize, while the Vasa Museum has an entire 17th-century sailship. The outdoor museum Skansen offers a great look at Swedish living before modern conveniences.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten is an archipelago that stretches from Norway’s northeast coast and offers some incredibly striking natural scenery for your trip experiences. Apart from its breathtaking scenery, one of the most well-known features of Lofoten is its hot climate for its latitude.

Now let’s get back to nature: enthusiastic mountaineers and rock climbers should head straight for Moskenesøya, while bikers may enjoy a lovely and well-marked cycle road from southerly Å that continues via Fiskebøl in the north. Apart from that, Lofoten is a maze of little fishing communities with stunning natural settings, such as Flakstadøya’s Nusfjord.

There is nowhere further north that is as well-known as this area, save from the North Pole. Call him Father Christmas, Santa Claus, or Saint Nicholas, but Lapland is a place for big and small children to play; this is his “traditional” home. See if you can locate his workshop in Rovaniemi.

The Sami people are another group of traditional residents living in Lapland, located in the northernmost regions of Sweden and Finland. Lapland, also called Sápmi, is the location of the first Ice Hotel, ski resorts, and opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Explore further north to meet the Sami people who live there and herd reindeer.

Vatnajokull National Park

Vatnajokull National Park is the product of the union of Jökulsárgljúfur and Skaftafell, two existing national parks in Iceland, with the massive ice cap known as Vatnajokull itself. As a result, this area offers some fantastic natural views. Undoubtedly, one of the most remarkable is Dettifoss, Europe’s supposedly most potent waterfall. It is breathtaking to see the water of the expansive Jökulsá á Fjöllum plummet 44 meters from one of the numerous hiking routes.

There is also the turquoise geothermal lake of Víti, located in the caldera of Askja. Driving around this national park’s ring road is a great way to observe wildlife.

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30 unique experiences you can only have in Northern Europe

There’s a region in the world where you can cruise through fjords flanked by sky-high cliffs, visit the most spectacular Christmas markets, and chase the northern lights in the snow-covered countryside. That’s Northern Europe for you—and yes, it’s just as magical as it sounds.

by Jamie Gallerani

January 9, 2023

There’s a region in the world where you can cruise through fjords flanked by sky-high cliffs, visit the most spectacular Christmas markets, and chase the northern lights in the snow-covered countryside. That spot is Northern Europe—and yes, it’s just as magical as it sounds.

Wondering about the best places to visit in Northern Europe on our Europe tours ? Read on to see some of the most unique, unforgettable, photo-worthy experiences to have while visiting Northern Europe on tour, straight from our community of staffers and travelers. But first, here are a few helpful things to know before you decide where and when to go.

What are the countries in Northern Europe, you ask? Here’s the list!

• The United Kingdom (which includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)

The best time to visit Northern Europe

It all depends on what you hope to see on a trip to Europe . The summer months bring more sunshine to Northern European countries like Iceland, Norway, and beyond (hello, midnight sun). Want to pencil in a winter trip instead? The winter months offer up snow flurries, Christmas market magic, and opportunities to spot the northern lights dancing across the sky. Read on to see some of the most unique experiences you can have in the northern countries of Europe—no matter when you go.

1. Feel like a royal at Frederiksborg Castle in Denmark

If you’re lucky enough to cross our Scandinavia: The Capitals & the Fjords tour off your bucket list, then you can’t miss visiting the most famous castle in the country on our Frederiksborg Castle & Elsinore excursion. Picture this: The castle is situated on three islands, is surrounded by sprawling gardens and Slotssøen lake, and is home to the Museum of National History. Talk about good credentials. This royal residence makes Denmark one of the most intriguing Northern European countries to visit.

More unique experiences to have in Denmark:

2. Get festive at the Tivoli Gardens. These historic gardens play host to Copenhagen’s most famous Christmas market, where live reindeer and over 2 million fairy lights add to the festive feel. While there are so many things to do in the Tivoli Gardens on a tour of Copenhagen , there’s even more winter magic to be found throughout the rest of the the city. “You can step into a cafe on almost every corner for hot coffee and pastries, meals are hearty, and across the city, windows are lit by dozens of candles every night,” said staffer Alaina. “The city truly sparkles in the winter.”

3. Walk through the Nyhavn district. Here, colorful row homes along the wharf will wow you. It’s a famous, historic spot, making it one of the best places to visit in Northern Europe. See more must-have experiences in our Travel Guide to Copenhagen →

4. Ride the Flåm Railway to the fjords in Norway

There’s a lot to love about Scandinavian countries, and taking a trip to Norway is one way to find it all. It’s here that the world’s steepest and narrowest fjords weave their way through a dramatic landscape of sheer cliffs, immense glaciers, and tumbling waterfalls—and getting to the fjords via the Flåm Railway is just as spectacular as being there. There are countless amazing places in Northern Europe, and this one is worthy of a top spot on your bucket list.

“The Bergen fjords are amazing, and riding the Flåm Railway is just an absolutely breathtaking experience!” said staffer Shannon. “I went during March so the landscape changed quite a bit during the short journey. When we started at the bottom in Flåm, it looked like spring, but as we made our way up the mountain to Myrdal, it was winter. Definitely one of the most memorable travel experiences I’ve ever had. This should be on everyone’s bucket list and we offer it on both our Highlights of Scandinavia: Sweden, Norway & Denmark tour and our Scandinavia: The Capitals & the Fjords tour .”

More unique experiences to have in Norway:

5. Visit the city of Tromsø during free time. “Tromsø had the most scenic views I’d ever seen in my life,” said staffer Meaghan. “We saw the northern lights every night we were there and it was so magical. We also got to go to the northernmost brewery in the world (Macks Ølbryggeri) and that was an unforgettable experience.” Staffer Shannon agreed. “Tromsø is a super cool little city,” she said. “I can now say I’ve been to the Arctic Circle because Tromsø sits at a latitude above the beginning of the Arctic Circle.” Check out more free time tips in our Norway Travel Guide →

6. Visit the colorful, UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf in Bergen. “Bergen is, by far, one of the most beautiful, serene places I have ever been,” said traveler Cheryl after our Highlights of Northern Europe: Amsterdam to Stockholm tour . “Describing this place would be a disservice, it was so spectacular.”

7. Sing some ABBA in Stockholm, Sweden

With all of its green spaces, art-filled metro stations, a cozy coffee culture, and one of the oldest monarchies in the world, Sweden is a top-tier place to explore in Northern Europe. Plus, if you’re a music lover, you’re in for a treat when you set off on our Sweden tours —the pop sensation ABBA hails from Sweden, and visiting the capital city is your chance to have a bit of musical fun at the ABBA Museum.

“When I was in Stockholm, Sweden, one of the most memorable experiences was going to ABBA: The Museum!” said staffer Emily. “It was in a beautiful location, was enjoyable yet informative, and the group loved being able to do the karaoke sing-along with the holograms. Learning local history is so important when traveling, but so is having some laughs and enjoying yourselves, and this was a great opportunity to have fun.”

More unique experiences to have in Sweden:

8. Snap a picture in the Stockholm Tunnelbana. The city’s 100 subway stations, or Tunnelbana, are decked out with dramatic murals created by more than 150 artists, making the transit system one of our favorite hidden gems in Stockholm .

9. Sit down to socialize during fika. This traditional coffee break is one of the most authentic cultural experiences to have while exploring Sweden . Pour yourself a cup of joe, grab a cinnamon bun, and enjoy some good conversation with your fellow travelers to truly get into the fika spirit.

10. Visit the happiest place in the world: Finland

Seeing the world is always a euphoric experience, and that’s never more true than when you’re exploring Finland on tour . That’s because this Northern European country clinched the number one spot on the World Happiness Report in 2022 (for the fifth year in a row, we might add). Visit to soak in extra joy while you admire all the incredible Finnish scenery.

“Scandinavia was visually stunning, with some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Europe: pristine waters, towering mountains, and green everywhere you look,” said traveler Barbara after returning from our Scandinavia: The Capitals & the Fjords tour . “In addition to the physical beauty and temperate conditions, the Scandinavians were very friendly and almost everyone spoke perfect English.”

More unique experiences to have in Finland:

11. Enter Temppeliaukio Church. This Lutheran site is carved into a rocky hillside in Helsinki, and makes for an interesting photo-op, indeed.

12. Learn about Sámi culture. This indigenous tribe hails from Lapland in Scandinavia. The Sámi historically worked as reindeer herders, and still have a very strong connection to nature.

13. Have a pastel moment in Tallinn, Estonia

Northern European countries are known to have breathtaking architecture—what’s not to like about spire-studded castles and Gothic cathedrals? See just how pretty an old building can be while strolling through the Old Town in Tallinn, Estonia, on tour . This historic section dates back to the 13th century, and is filled with pastel-hued buildings in mint green, pale pink, and sky blue. Plus, it’s surrounded by medieval walls that will, ahem, floor you.

“Tallinn is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe,” said staffer Shannon. “The Old Town is just stunning. It’s right on the coast, has beautiful cathedrals, and the walls are just incredible. If you love architecture you should definitely visit.”

More unique experiences to have in Estonia:

14. Visit Toompea Castle in the winter. “A few years ago I found myself in Tallinn, Estonia, in the dead of winter, and it was truly breathtaking,” said staffer Stephanie. “Winter is the off-season there, so it was almost eerily empty. That being said, the lack of crowds enabled so much charm. Walking around a snow-covered castle without another tourist in sight felt like going back in time.” See all 8 places to visit in winter that will make it your favorite travel season  →

15. Raise a glass of Vana Tallinn. “It’s a specialized liquor you can find throughout the city,” said staffer Shannon.

16. See wooden houses by the water in Jūrmala, Latvia

Thinking of long, sandy beaches may bring places like Italy to mind, but don’t count our Latvia tours out. This is one of the best Northern European countries to visit if you want to head to the shore—some of its top cities sit right on the Gulf of Riga, after all.

One of those Northern European cities is UNESCO-listed Jūrmala, which you can visit on an added excursion on our Poland & the Baltics Adventure: Warsaw to Tallinn tour . Check out the 19th-century wooden houses, which have hosted the likes of Ivan Goncharov and other literary giants, artists, and musicians. Then, skip on over to the beach to see why so many 19th-century greats spent their summer holidays here, and grab some authentic Latvian food at Kūriņš.

More unique experiences to have in Latvia:

17. Visit Black Magic Bar for Black Balsam. “Riga has a unique liquor called Black Balsam that I highly recommend anyone try when they’re in the city,” said staffer Shannon. “Black Magic Bar has some of the best desserts and Black Balsam, and it used to be an old apothecary so the interior is super unique! Definitely worth the visit.” See why Riga is included on our list of 7 hidden gems of Eastern Europe  →

18. Go on a bog walk in Kemeri National Park. This is one of the Baltic region’s iconic wetland landscapes, and is home to the Great Kemeri Bog. Remember to keep your binoculars close as you stroll through–you just might spot a Wood Sandpiper or a European Golden Plover.

Check out our tours of Northern Europe

19. Have a moment of reflection at the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

A lot of mystery surrounds this pilgrimage site in northern Lithuania, where thousands of wooden and metal crosses have stood on a small hill for over 200 years. It serves as a representation of Catholic devotion, and while the crosses have been destroyed by the Soviets multiple times over the centuries, over 60,000 crosses and rosaries mark the site today. Set off on a trip to Lithuania to see it for yourself.

“The Hill of Crosses was just breathtaking,” said travelers Amanda and Greg while sharing memories of exploring the Baltics on a free tour . “It’s a Lithuanian pilgrimage site, and whether you’re a religious person or not, it’s truly moving. To think that these crosses were destroyed by the Soviets and then quietly replaced by the people who risked their lives each night to show their solidarity is incredible.”

More unique experiences to have in Lithuania:

20. Step inside Trakai Island Castle. The Gothic-style brick castle sits on a tiny island in Lake Galvé, and serves as both a cultural landmark and a scenic weekend escape for residents of Vilnius.

21. Check out the street art in Vilnius. This capital city is home to many a gem, and the sculptures and art-covered buildings are some of them. Trust us when we say you will be wowed by the artwork on our tours of Vilnius .

22. Enjoy lunch in an Icelandic geothermal greenhouse

Iceland is known for having otherworldly landscapes, but did you know that the food is top notch, too? Set off on our Iceland tours to sit down for an included lunch at Fridheimar Farm, where fresh produce is grown in a greenhouse heated by geothermal energy.

Staffer Ellie counts Fridheimar Farm as one of the best places to visit in Northern Europe. “You eat tomato soup from tomatoes grown in a geothermal greenhouse—I’m not sure you can experience that anywhere else in the world,” she said. “We also had tomato ice cream and tomato pie for dessert, which were surprisingly delicious.”

More unique experiences to have in Iceland:

23. Chase the northern lights on a winter trip. “I went to Iceland in January and saw the most beautiful display of northern lights dancing across the sky,” said staffer Bridget. “It really does look like they’re dancing! Our tour guide said it was the best display he’d seen in the last five years—absolutely worth the colder weather.” Find out where to see the northern lights on tour →

24. Stroll along the black sands of Reynisfjara beach . “The waves are massive, and the rock formations in the water and along the beach are one of a kind,” said staffer Priscilla. See 5 more photo-worthy stops on Iceland’s Ring Road  →

25. Drive along the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland

Sprawling green fields make Ireland magical, but the country also boasts dazzling sea views that you can admire on our Ireland: The Wild Atlantic Way tour . This coastal route is over 1,500 miles long, and weaves along the country’s western coast from Derry down to Cork. (Take a peek at all that coastline on a map of Northern Europe!) Check out 5 reasons why you’ll fall in love with Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way  →

While there’s so much that will wow you along the way, the village of Connemara is an undeniable gem in County Galway—and you can visit on our Ireland tours . “Ireland is my favorite place in the world,” said staffer Meaghan. “Galway is a must-see in my opinion. There’s so much to do there! The city is so lively and colorful, and right nearby is Connemara, which you get to via an absolutely stunning nature drive.”

More unique experiences to have in Ireland:

26. Strike up a conversation with a local. “The most memorable part of visiting Ireland (specifically Dublin) was meeting the people,” said staffer Thea. “Don’t get me wrong, the scenery, architecture, food—and that fresh, fresh Guinness—were amazing, but the people were something else. They were hospitable, kind, helpful, friendly... I could go on. I have truly never felt more welcome in a city or a country than Ireland.”

27. Listen to live trad music. One of the best ways to spend free time no matter where you are in Ireland is to pop into a local pub to enjoy a trad music session. That’s when musicians come together to casually play live folk tunes while sharing a drink. If you have your own instrument, you can usually even join in! It’s always good craic, and it captures the warm, welcoming spirit of the Irish.

28. Head Thames-side in the United Kingdom

The UK is quite a stunner, and is home to some of the top Northern Europe tourist attractions. There are lochs and legends to uncover on our Scotland tours and Wales tours . There’s regal splendor to admire on a trip to England . And there’s rebel history to immerse yourself in while exploring Northern Ireland . Long story short: This group of islands off the northwest coast of mainland Europe has a lot to offer.

Everything from the countryside to cosmopolitan cities like London will stun you. Speaking of exploring London ... this bustling metropolis has more than earned its stripes as a bucket list destination. One of the best things to do while you’re there? “Walk along the Thames’ South Bank in London,” said staffer Jim. “There are always street performers, vendors (including Christmas markets), and gorgeous views. I had a local guide who described the views as ‘1000 years of British history’ because you could see Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and the London skyscrapers all in one incredible vista.” Check out our top travel tips for London  →

More unique experiences to have in the UK:

29. Watch an outdoor cèilidh overlooking the North Sea in Scotland. “While at St. Andrews, I was lucky enough to get tickets to go to a cèilidh within the grounds of St. Andrews Castle,” said staffer Jim after his trip to Scotland . “The combination of the live music, the movement of the dancers, and the dramatic landscape was truly spectacular.”

30. Have a cup of tea at the top of the Royal Opera House in London. “A friend recommended this location as a quiet place to grab a snack and enjoy the view,” said staffer Jim. “At the top of the Royal Opera House, there’s a snack bar that’s open most days, with a covered veranda overlooking Covent Garden. Most people don’t venture all the way to the top of the opera house, so it’s a great way to escape the London crowds for a bit. Added bonus: The costume workshops are next to the veranda too, so you can get a view of the costumes for upcoming performances.”

Want to experience the magic of Northern Europe yourself? Check out our tours of Europe →

About the author.

Jamie Gallerani

It was Jamie’s homestay in Germany that made her fall in love with travel (and her studies in Florence that really sealed the deal). When she’s not writing and sharing the magic of seeing the world with others, she’s usually on the lookout for her new favorite memoir, testing out recipes at home, or visiting her family on Cape Cod.

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6 places to see the Northern Lights in Europe

There’s never been a better time to see Aurora Borealis, with more destinations experiencing them than ever and  trip options ranging from self-guided adventures on the Shetland Islands to Icelandic fjord cruises.

The fascination with the   Northern Lights dates as far back as the beginning of civilization, with the dancing waves of coloured light depicted in French cave paintings as old as 30,000 BC. Typically, they’re only seen in the northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere, near the Arctic Circle, on dark, clear autumn and winter nights. The lights are dependent on unpredictable solar flares ejecting charged particles that collide with gases in the atmosphere, so any trip to see the Northern Lights runs the risk of missing out on the spectacle altogether.

However, as these solar flares have become more powerful in recent years due to the solar cycle being close to its peak, auroras have been spotted as far south from the Arctic Circle as the Baltic States, northern parts of the Netherlands and even southeast England. Here’s where in Europe you’re most likely to catch a show of this mesmerising phenomenon.

1. Tromsø, Norway

Located in an active solar area, at the centre of the Northern Light’s oval, Tromsø in Norway is a popular destination for aurora chasers for good reason. The city, which is above the Arctic Circle, has one of the highest probabilities of spotting the lights in the world. From September to mid-April, the chances of seeing the lights are quite high as both light pollution and cloud cover is minimal. The best bet to see the dancing lights here is to join a Northern Lights tour where expert aurora chasers follow the latest reports of solar flares in a bid to spot them — some operators even offer a second tour free if the lights were too shy to show up on the first try.

How to do it : Norwegian Travel offers a variety of Northern Lights experiences, from bus tours and overnight packages in ice domes to rail adventures and cruises. Prices start from 1,000 NOK (£75) per person.

2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

For those chasing dramatic photos of the Northern Lights, this Icelandic glacial lagoon makes for a breathtaking backdrop. Set on the south coast of Iceland with close to no light pollution and towering icebergs dotted around the water, the lagoon has an otherworldly feel to it. While the lights can be spotted from October to March, the best chance of seeing them is in December, when the daylight hours are limited and the night sky darker. Those heading out on an aurora hunt by themselves should try the hello aurora app for precise forecasts and user-reported sightings.

How to do it:   Troll Expedition’s two-day Jökulsárlón tour leaving from Reykjavík runs from October to April. From 89,900 ISK (£529) per person, including transport, accommodation, breakfast and glacier hiking gear.

3. Ilulissat, Greenland

Set in the aptly named Disko Bugt, or Disko Bay, the Ilulissat Icefjord was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Although the elusive light show can be seen here as early as September, it’s recommended to visit closer to the New Year festivities for an even more special experience. In Ilulissat, locals get to celebrate the stroke of midnight twice — once at 8pm for Denmark, of which it’s part of, and again at midnight local time. If you're lucky, you might get to ring in the New Year with Northern Lights dancing above.

How to do it:   Greenland Travel offers a four-night New Year’s Eve package for those wishing to experience polar activity like a local. From €2,550 (£2,205) per person, including flights, transfers, accommodation, breakfast, welcome dinner and New Year’s Eve dinner.

4. Shetland, Scotland

As the solar cycle — an approximately 11-year period of solar activity — is now on its way to reach solar maximum between 2024 and 2025, sightings of Northern Lights have become more common across the whole of Scotland and even in the North of England. However, the Shetland Islands still offer the best chance of seeing the aurora as the most northern part of the UK. Spotting the ‘mirrie dancers’, as they’re known locally, on the remote islands requires a little more patience and determination, as the brighter displays happen just a few times a year between October and March. However, the remote location and lack of light pollution make it all the more worth it when they eventually light up the night sky. To track the UK’s solar activity, visit Aurora Watch .

How to do it:   Lean into the wild nature of Shetland at Brekka Lodge’s self-catered coastal accommodation. From £375 per week.

5. Faroe Islands, Denmark

Typically a summer destination, venturing to the Faroe Islands in the harsh winter months means better rates and availability at hotels, and, of course, a higher chance of seeing the elusive Aurora Borealis. Like many places where the lights are visible, weather conditions and daylight will determine whether or not they appear. The best islands for chasing the lights are Suðuroy and Sandoy, from November to February, and the week before a new moon offers the darkest nights.

How to do it:   Regent offers a five-day winter fly-drive trips that take in several islands, natural wonders and cultural and historical attractions. From £1,080 per person, including flights, accommodation, car hire and some meals.

6. Rovaniemi, Lapland

Rovaniemi, Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The astral light show is visible roughly 150 nights a year, primarily in autumn (September to October), but there’s a good chance of visibility until March. Lapland is famed for being a winter wonderland with plenty of activities that cater to all ages, making it well-suited for family adventures. For those not wishing to take a guided tour, the Arctic Garden behind the Arktikum Museum is a great viewing point, only a 10-minute walk from the town centre. The Aurora Alert Real Time app is available to avoid waiting outside in the cold for hours.

How to do it:   Wild About Lapland offers a reindeer safari aurora chase. From €138 (£120) per person, including a sleigh ride, guide, hotel pick-ups, and hot drinks and snacks.

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The Best Places to Go in Europe in 2024

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

In considering the best places to go in Europe in 2024, we asked our expert contributors to nominate the destinations that are on the up—either because of a flock of hotel openings, perhaps, murmurings of Michelin arrivals, shiny new museums, or a concerted conservation effort taking root. Across the continent, we heard about a first-time sports events in Italy ; astonishing nature and new glampsites in Scandinavia ; and an unexpected surf scene in France with heightening buzz. There are also classic Greek escapes, which are easier to reach than ever before, and Hungarian cities evolving wholesale in time for major anniversaries.

What follows is an edit of Europe's countries, regions, cities, and neighborhoods that are worthy of your time and attention in 2024—all thoughtfully selected by our editors at Condé Nast Traveller UK and Spain . It's just a fraction of what Europe has on deck in the year ahead, but it's, we feel, the best place to start. Happy travels.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Places to Go in Europe

Antwerp, belgium.

Go for: intriguing new architecture and a clutch of sharp hotel openings

Enjoy the cocktails at August in Antwerp; then head next door for dinner at the new Untitled, which offers rustic dishes from a renowned team.

August, and sister property Hotel Julien, showcase the effortless cool that characterizes Belgium's most underrated city.

So often overlooked in favor of its Dutch neighbor Amsterdam —or mistakenly written off as being as staid as Brussels— Antwerp is easily Belgium's most underrated city. In fact, the diamond capital of the world is somewhat of an undiscovered gem, with plenty of cool and culture for a weekend romp. There’s an impressive concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants to rival major European capitals. Perhaps best known is two-star The Jane , which was ranked number 39 in this year's World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2024. If the exquisite 14-course tasting menu htere is out of budget, the restaurant’s sleek new bar, Untitled , which opened earlier this year, offers rustic dishes at a more accessible price point, all lovingly plated before your eyes by chef Joeri Timmermans. After dinner, roll yourself next door to bag a bed at August (a former Augustinian convent turned supremely serene sanctuary), or for a sleepover in the heart of town, sister property Hotel Julien is a design-led favorite. Once you’ve eaten your way through the city’s culinary offerings, walk it all off Zuidpark, an ambitious development set for completion by spring 2024. Pinned to be one of Antwerp’s leafiest havens, the seven-hectare park will have 30,000 plants and several smart water features—all part of the city’s continual effort to be greener. — Gina Jackson

Asturias, Spain

Go for: eco-focused tourism that doesn't scrimp on luxury

Sink into Asturias's mountainous landscapes at Ecoboutique's Solo Palacio, in the Picos de Europa mountain range, where smart interiors beg travelers to stay a while.

In this lesser-trammeled slice of Spain, rural hotels provide a place to rest your head between days spent hiking and visiting Michelin star restaurants. Talk about balance.

While the pandemic generated a new type of traveler—increasingly nature-loving and environmentally conscious—Asturias did not have to reinvent itself to attract them. The tagline “Asturias, natural paradise,” created almost 40 years ago, represents everything we look for in a getaway. Perhaps that is why this autonomous community is the most dynamic destination in northern Spain; it welcomed more than 2.4 million visitors last year, with more international travelers than ever. The climate also helps: heatwaves are barely noticeable. This is the year to discover its natural spaces, many of them UNESCO Biosphere Reserves , via rejuvenated routes such as the Camino Primitivo, a calmer branch of the popular Camino de Santiago , through some of the country’s least-known regions. Spain’s first rural hotel, La Rectoral de Taramundi , opened here, and other noteworthy addresses include PuebloAstur Eco-Resort in the Picos de Europa mountain range, Ecoboutique’s Solo Palacio and Las Caldas Villa Termal . Alternatively, book into new arrivals Palacio de Figueras from the Vestige Collection or CoolRooms’ Palacio de Luces . The food scene also makes Asturias unmissable. Its “landscape cuisine” rivals that of the Basque Country . There are 11 Michelin stars peppered around the region as well as an emerging culinary movement in the Caudal and Nalón valleys, while chefs such as Natalia Menéndez (Casa Chuchu), Diego García (El Pintu), Paula Lamas and Jairo Rodríguez (Roble), and Xune Andrade (Mont) are on the rise. Regional capital Oviedo is aiming to be the country's Gastronomic Capital for 2024, bringing together more than 200 chefs at the Euro-Toques conference in April. — Clara Laguna

Biarritz, France

Go for: a sweet surf scene in a lesser-known stretch of the Basque Country

Sun-soaked Biarritz has built on its Belle Époque heritage with hotels like Villa Magnan (unsurprisingly, you may fine local interior designers sitting beside you at its restaurant).

Breathe in the salty air atop the roof terrace at Regina Biarritz, a new opening from the Parisian-born Experimental Group—and added proof that the surf town is having a comeback.

Just over the border from San Sebastián , the French resort town of Biarritz is prepped to step out of the shade of its Michelin-star-studded Spanish Basque counterpart and welcome a new generation of sophisticate. These travelers are booking into its artfully resuscitated Belle Époque hotels, including Experimental’s brand new Regina Biarritz , Unbound’s Hôtel du Palais , and enigmatic indie Villa Magnan (book a table at De Puta Madre and dine with local interior designers and filmmakers). The late 20th century was not kind to this beautiful town on France’s southwestern coast , its dwindling fortunes and faded grandeur standing in stark contrast to its late-19th-century and early-20th-century heyday, when Emperor Napoleon III had his summer palace here, and his Spanish wife Eugénie promoted Biarritz as a health resort. Happily, in-the-know Spanish and French urbanites have rediscovered this delight, lapping up a hip surf scene (Biarritz is one of Europe’s oldest surf destinations, thanks to a bunch of Americans who visited in the 1950s) and fueling a youthful Basque culinary scene, from the thrilling Les Halles covered market to neo-bistro Epoq and Michelin-starred favorites such as L’Impertinent . — Anna Hart

Bodø, Norway

Go for: stargazing, spectacular nature, and can't-miss cultural events

The aurora borealis are one of the biggest draws for those visiting Bodø in winter, but cultural events in 2024 will means days equally full of colorful entertainment.

Bodø’s position on the pristine shores of northern Norway affords it endless days in the glow of the midnight summer sun and shocks of fluorescent light come winter, when the aurora borealis erupt onto the night sky. This small Arctic fishing town is a European Capital of Culture for 2024, which will result in the area’s largest-ever arts program, including about 1,000 events and an influx of people interested in creativity in all its forms. The region’s unique Sámi heritage is championed here, while striking modern expansion is seen in buildings such as the world-class, harbor-fronting Stormen Concert Hall , which can hold 900 people and will form a crucial centerpoint for the celebrations.

Beyond its cultural accolades, Bodø is also the gateway to the ethereal Lofoten Islands . The dramatic landscape of fjords and jagged peaks makes it a perfect playground for adventurers and photographers alike, offering unforgettable, dramatic views. Adding to Bodø’s appeal is its burgeoning food and drinks scene (try Lystpå for dinner and Brødrene Berbusmel Bakery for breakfast) as well as exciting new places to stay. The Wood Hotel will open in 2024, offering the town’s most luxurious lodgings yet, with pared-back Scandi design and floor-to-ceiling windows. For something a little more in tune with nature, try GlampNord .— Rosie Conroy

Budapest, Hungary

Go for: a fresh take on the 150 year-old city

As the city of Budapest turns 150, an overwhelming sense of old-meets-new is inspired by historic attractions living alongside just-opened hotels (such as the art deco-inspired W, above) and futuristic buildings (like the House of Music Hungary).

Renowned for its architecture, the Hungarian capital is home to everything from art nouveau and neoclassical to gothic and baroque, with the Blue Danube connecting it all like a ribbon. And then there are the mineral-rich thermal baths, featuring ornate design flourishes. The city also buzzes with creativity, which spills over into the vibrant nightlife; the ruin bars district is a tangible example of crafting opportunity from the ashes of adversity following the brutality of Communist rule. November 2023 marks 150 years since the previously divided cities of Buda, Pest, and Obuda were unified, as well as a series of cultural events. The Chain Bridge—the city’s oldest and a “symbol of togetherness,” according to Mayor Gergely Karácsony—has fully reopened after a two-year restoration, granting excellent views of Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building. New builds such as the spectacular House of Music Hungary and the National Athletics Centre (the central stadium for 2023’s World Athletics Championships) are testament to a city with optimism for its next 150 years. The art deco W Budapest —formerly a palace and on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed street—opened in July 2023 opposite the Hungarian State Opera. Also in the Marriott portfolio is the Dorothea Hotel , with its 216 rooms and glamorous rooftop restaurant. In keeping with the musical events celebrating the 150th anniversary, the 2022 opening of the Hard Rock Hotel—Eastern Europe’s first—combines musical memorabilia (Prince’s faux-fur coat in a shade of, unsurprisingly, purple) with an in-thick-of-it location on Nagymező Street, Budapest ’s legendary louche entertainment strip. — Sarah Rodrigues

Carlsberg City District in Denmark

Go for: new-new-wave eateries in the city's district of the moment

Petit fours are served at Studio, a new restaurant from acclaimed chef Christoffer Sørensen. It joins a select set of eateries in the Carlsberg District.

From Studio's food, to fashion ateliers and design houses, Carlsberg is an intentional hub of creative newness in the beloved Danish city.

For 161 years, Copenhagen ’s sprawling Carlsberg brewery held its secrets behind closed gates. When Carlsberg moved away in 2008, a plan was hatched to transform the old site, with its patinaed spires and life-size elephant statues, into a showcase neighborhood. What attracts residents to the emergent Carlsberg District also charms visitors: copious green space, easy public transit, and an evocative mash-up of contemporary and repurposed architecture, anchored by cherry-picked restaurants and shops. At the light-flooded Coffee Collective , they like to serve two roasts at once to contrast the beans’ terroirs. Aamanns , the pioneer of modernized smørrebrød, is also here, along with Neopolitan pizzeria Surt ; Kona , a destination izakaya from former Noma chef Philipp Inrieter, and Studio , by Christoffer Sørensen, a Michelin Best Young Chef. Home designers Carl Hansen and Søn , by Adelborg and PP Møbler have arrived. Fashion’s Henrik Vibskov has also moved in, packing his atelier with kaleidoscopic garments, in contrast with the classic suits of Deerest nearby. In December 2023, the Carlsberg brewery itself springs back to life, with a state-of-the-art, interactive visitors’ center and the revival of its 1847 bar-room. Also to come are Friday summer parties in the courtyard and the unveiling of namesake Carl Jacobsen’s lavish gardens, open to the public for the first time since their 1890 groundbreaking. Afterwards, retire to the windowseat of your room at Hotel Ottilia overlooking the construction cranes. In a city that believes in livable density, you’re witnessing smart urban planning unfold. — Betsy Andrews

Costa de Prata, Portugal

Go for : boho openings in an unsung corner of the country

Drive north of Lisbon to the quiet Costa de Prata, where Areias de Seixo is one of several new hotels attracting an effortlessly cool crowd.

After bedding down at Areias de Seixo, hit the world-class waves lining the coast—like those Portugal's World Surfing Reserve in Ericeira.

Not as show-offy as Comporta , much less known than the Algarve and with more surfer vibes than the Costa Vicentina, Costa de Prata (Silver Coast) is the strip of Portugal ’s Atlantic seaboard that we are most excited about right now. Start a south-to-north road trip in Ericeira, where Aethos Hotels opened an outpost in which smart design is combined with laid-back coastal cool at the end of 2022. It was hot on the heels of Immerso , a hotel full of local crafts and the same truly Portuguese personality as new restaurant and beach club Balagan. Heading north, Areias do Seixo continues to be a benchmark for luxury stays on the Costa de Prata, while in Nazaré, where German surfer Sebastian Steudtner rode a world record wave of 86 feet, Ohai Nazaré has family-friendly glamping. A visit to Obidos , one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal , is the perfect excuse to stay at the bohemian Literary Man or, if golf is more your thing, check in at Marriott’s Praia D’El Rey . Along the coast, surfing hub Peniche has standout beaches, including Consolação, and is a great jumping-off point for the Berlengas islands, an increasingly less secret paradise. The road trip ends in Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal, where MS Collection Palacete de Valdemouro has just opened under the Small Luxury Hotels banner. There’s no doubt that the Costa de Prata is on track to take gold. — David Moralejo

Cyclades, Greece

Go for: salty-air island-hopping made easier than ever

Stylish boutique hotel Kalesma Mykonos is opening a spa in 2024, marking a hotel boom throughout the cluster of islands known as the Cyclades.

It will be easy to hop between Kalesma and islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Milos, and Ios, thanks to new flights to and throughout the dazzling blue archipelago.

Is there anywhere more popular than the Greek islands right now? This past summer, the Cyclades—an island group that includes Mykonos , Santorini , Paros, Milos, and Ios—dominated social-media feeds with beautiful blue and white backdrops, thrilling beach clubs and nightclubs, and unparalleled shopping. With more smart stays being unveiled in 2024, as well as new flights, next summer is the time to make a Cyclades trip happen. Etihad , British Airways , and Saudia added new routes to various Greek islands in 2023, plus the 2022 launch of Cycladic , the first inter-island airline, means it’s easier than ever to get there. Hotel business is booming. Santo Pure in Oia on Santorini has just added 20 new suites, and next year it will be joined by sister hotel Santo Mine, a 37-suite luxury resort. Slick boutique hotel Kalesma on Mykonos will launch its spa for the 2024 season, including a hammam and cryotherapy area. Five-star, 80-acre Gundari Resort will open on Folegandros next May, while a new One&Only property will come to Kea in April. Such plush hotels are rare on these islands, expanding the options for luxury stays in the Cyclades. — Ali Wunderman

Go for: new hiking and biking trails, pristine countryside views

Kosovo's untouched valleys offer the perfect canvas for multi-day hiking and biking trips—like the Trans Dinarica cycling route, opening in 2024, which will wind its way past rivers, markets, and via ferrata setups.

Tiny Kosovo lacks the stunning beaches of Albania and luxury resorts of Montenegro, but Europe’s newest country has sky-scraping peaks, pastoral countryside and heart-warming hospitality, a combination ideal for multi-day hiking and biking trips. 2024 will mark the 25th anniversary since the end of the Kosovo war, and there's much to discover in the region now. Following in the footsteps of cross-border adventure trails such as the Peaks of the Balkans and High Scardus, the Trans Dinarica cycling route opens in 2024, making its way past the minarets framing Prizren’s eponymous river, through the Ottoman market town of Gjakova, and on to Peja. Perched on the edge of the Rugova Gorge, Peja serves as base camp for the country’s many outdoor adventures, including via ferratas and spelunking. A new paved path will soon connect the Lumbardhi River Promenade with the popular Health Trail—the beginning of the south-to-west route through the inaptly named Accursed Mountains. Two additional forthcoming routes connect trails in the Rugova Mountains to the gushing White Drin waterfall and Radac cave. Steps from the waterfall, the sleek, modern Ujëvara e Drinit Resort specializes in rooms with a view and fresh trout dinners. Through-hikers can rest weary bones and fill hungry bellies further from town at rural guesthouses such as Ariu , where traditional Kosovar dishes include flija, made with dairy produced on-site. — Naomi Tomky

Mallorca, Spain

Go for: an outpouring of exciting new hotels across the island

Whether you're looking for poolside cocktails or art installations, beloved Mallorca has more where that came from in 2024.

The pool and gardens at Ikos Porto Petro, a sleek resort that opened in 2023 in Mallorca, add to the region's hearty roster of luxury stays.

The grande dame of the Mediterranean remains unrivaled thanks to its pitch-perfect brand of low-key luxury, exceptional service, and focus on sustainability. But in recent months, the Balearic island has added even more jewels to its crown; among them is Son Bunyola , Richard Branson’s latest hotel, in the Tramuntana Mountains. Not far from there, in the town of Puigpunyent, the team behind Andalucia’s stellar Finca Cortesin has opened Grand Hotel Son Net in a 17th-century manor house. Also adding to the excitement for 2024 is the slick styling of Ikos Porto Petro , farm-turned-boutique stay The Lodge , and Zel Mallorca —the first Zel hotel is a collaboration between Rafael Nadal and another homegrown big hitter, Meliá. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s also the Four Seasons , which takes over the much-loved Hotel Formentor; Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra; beachfront Aethos ; and Marugal, which has unveiled its second project on the island after Cap Rocat. Meanwhile, S’Arracer del Dimoni hotel will open in Santa Margalida, and Belmond La Residencia will continue its artists-in-residence program and the third edition of art installation Mitico, in collaboration with Galleria Continua. — María Casbas

Northern Italy

Go for: next-level cycling, need-for-speed motorsports, and a slow travel on a new train line

No longer second-fiddle to France, cycling holidays in Italy are taking off—and the north of the country is where all the action is unfolding in 2024.

For the first time ever, the first three stages of the Tour de France will take place in Italy in 2024, a historic moment for the country, the sport, and the prestigious race. Competitors will saddle up in Florence , head east towards Rimini on the Adriatic Coast , follow the Apennines north through Emilia-Romagna , and complete stage three in Turin . With their truffles and terroirs, Italy’s northern regions are best known for their gastronomic heritage, but two-wheeled pursuits have long been part of the landscape. The 1998 Tour de France champion Marco Pantani was born here, while professional racer Davide Cassani was instrumental in developing the Via Romagna, a nearly 300-mile network of cycling routes throughout the region. Now, tour operators have upped their game in time for the event: Tourissimo’s week-long cycle holiday is designed to provide guests with live-action access to the tour itself, plus the chance to conquer the hills and thrills of Emilia-Romagna. Ride International Tours and Ride Holidays have released new routes to reflect growing interest in the region, while the looping, leisurely route between Parma and Modena by Inn Travel leaves more time for sampling local delicacies along the way. Those more comfortable on four wheels will find the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix and the annual Motor Valley Fest , both in May, irresistible—this is the birthplace of Maserati, Ferrari, and Lamborghini after all—while those who prefer life in the slow lane can board new railway routes between Turin and Canelli with Fondazione FS ’s 1930s carriages or take Nightjet ’s overnighter from Verona to Liguria (via Milan and Genoa ). Make a final pit stop in Pesaro to find out why it’s been crowned the Italian Capital of Culture for 2024. — Anna Prendergast

Yorkshire, UK

Go for: star chefs leading a foodie revolution

The Abbey Inn is the latest Yorkshire opening from local foodie hero Tommy Banks—and with three luxurious bedrooms launched in summer 2023, you won't have to travel far after indulging at one of the many Michelin-star restaurants in the area.

For a bewitching break in 2024, go north. Yorkshire-born sculptor Henry Moore once said: “The observation of nature is part of an artist’s life.” And Yorkshire has some of the most seductive nature: sweeping landscapes like living oil paintings; undulating dales and peaks; deep-forested moors with big skies; heady lavender fields; lofty woodlands filled with birdsong; and golden sandy sweeps skirting the peppermint-blue sea. The Brontës’ romanticism is not lost. In 2024, go stargazing in Yorkshire’s national parks at the magical Dark Skies Festival . The Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta will return to its new home at Castle Howard in 2024, with rainbow-bright, early-morning mass balloon flights and night glows. There were plenty of Michelin mentions for the county in 2023, with keen eyes on the 2024 list, so restaurants with rooms are ramping up. Just up the road from The Black Swan in Oldstead, Michelin-lauded chef Tommy Banks’ latest outpost, The Abbey Inn , opened in May and its three luxurious bedrooms, care of Tommy’s mother, were launched in July. For the ultimate culinary sleepover, stay two nights and eat at both restaurants. Newbie Mýse , helmed by chef-and-sommelier couple Joshua and Victoria Overington, is a petite restaurant with rooms set among caramel-colored cottages in the sleepy village of Hovingham. Book in for its creative tasting menu, then retire upstairs to one of the cosy-cool rooms. In June, Middleton Lodge , a sustainable luxury retreat bordering the Yorkshire Dales National Park, launched the Forest Spa in the heart of a serenely wooded estate. Don’t pass by honeycomb-hued Helmsley, with its emerging culinary scene and the recent opening of Pignut —a restaurant with a sustainable focus and impressive casual and tasting-menu options. Expect plenty more magic in 2024. — Rachel Everett

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Best Places You Shouldn’t Miss To Visit In Northern Europe

When people think of European gateway, they tend to name off places like London, Paris, and Rome. Apart from these European cities, there are several cities and best places to visit in Northern Europe. Here we have done some work to help you to find some of the great places and best of Northern Europe Tourist Attractions you can visit Around.

Table of Contents

List of The Best Places To Visit In Northern Europe

• Reykjavik City
• Cardiff City in Wales

Dublin is the capital of and largest city of Ireland. It is on the east coast of Ireland, in the province of Leinster, at the mouth of the River Liffey, and is bordered on the south by the low mountains.

If you are planning to travel to Dublin, there will be countless things for you to do and see while you’re there.

Here are compiled of top 8 things to do in Dublin

• Visit the Guinness Storehouse factory
• Take a tour of Old Jameson Distillery
• Take a walk over Ha’ Penny Bridge
• Visit Christ Church Cathedral
• Visit Trinity College Library, the largest library of Ireland
• Take a food tour at Little Venice restaurant
• Take a  trip to the Cliffs of Moher
• Visit the Dublin Zoo

Where to stay in Dublin?

• Maple Hotel Dublin
• Dublin Central Inn
• Abigalis Hotel
• River House Hotel
• Temple Bar Inn

Reykjavik City Tours

Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland. The city lies in southwestern Iceland, on the southern shore of Faxa Bay. Iceland has uncountable tourist attractions where you can visit, and Reykjavik is one of the best among them.

Reykjavik is culturally richer, one of the most happening cities of Iceland which is full of natural wonders that people dream of seeing their whole lives. It’s one of the best places to visit in Northern Europe you should not miss to explore.

Best 7 Things to do in Reykjavik

• Visit the National Museum of Iceland
• Visit the popular concert hall and conference center Harpa
• Explore Reykjavik Maritime Museum
• Explore the dynamic street art
• Spend some hours at Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach
• Taste the coffee of Cafe Babalu
• Spend your evening at Grotta Island Lighthouse

Accommodations in Reykjavik

• ION City Hotel
• Castle House Luxury Apartments
• Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel
• Black Pearl Apartment Hotel
• Center Hotel Arnarhvoll

Riga City Tour

The capital city of Latvia, Riga is popular for its old town and city centers. The old town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Riga is also famous for its nightlife and discount airlines that offer cheaper flights from much of the European cities.

Top 9 things you will find interesting to do in Riga

• Notice the Architecture of Riga
• Visit House of the BlackHeads
• Relax in the Park
• Visit the Art Nouveau district
• Shop at Central Market
• Visit the Freedom Monument
• Visit St. Peter’s Church
• Explore the Riga Motor Museum
• Visit Riga Plaza

Accommodations in Riga

• Neiburgs Hotel
• Grand Palace Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World
• Hotel Bergs
• Redstone Boutique Hotel
• Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel, Riga

London is one of the most visited cities in Europe . It attracts more than 28 millions people every year

The city is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with a rich history and some of the remarkable culture of the world.

The city divided into the distinctive areas of North, West, South and East London.

There are always some new things to see and do in London.

The city comprised the world’s best art, entertainment, shopping, dining, and history. It is impossible to get bored in London.

Fine 10 things to do in London

• See a world-class exhibition at the V& A
• See free art at Tate Modern
• Spend a Sunday at Columbia Road Flower Market
• Spend some time at the Natural History Museum
• Explore the city from The Shard
• Watch Romeo and Juliet at the Victoria Palace Theatre
• Step inside the Palace of Westminster
• Go for dinners at Hoppers
• Harry Potter Studio Tour
• See Tower Bridge lift up

Where to stay in London?

• Motel One London-Tower Hill
• Sea Containers London
• Central Park Hotel
• Ham Yard Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
• The Fox & Goose Hotel

Visit Cardiff City in Wales

Cardiff is the capital and the largest city of Wales. It is the eleventh largest city in the United Kingdom .

This city has a bevy of museums, attractions, parks, music venues, restaurants, cafes and bars to explore.

8 of the Major attractions of Cardiff City

• Spend some hours at Bute Park
• Visit Cardiff Castle
• Explore the National Museum of Cardiff
• Visit one of the world’s finest civic centers, CITY HALL
• Enjoy views across the city, bay and Bristol Channel from Barrage
• Join the Circus at Cardiff
• Move with your children to Cardiff International White Water center
• Visit Cardiff Central Market

Accommodations in Cardiff

• Hotel Indigo – Cardiff
• Lincoln House Private Hotel
• Hilton Cardiff
• Glendale Hotel

Edinburgh: “A great place to visit”

Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit in northern Europe. There are several things to do in Edinburgh.

Interesting 9 Thing To Do In Edinburgh

• Wash your face in the dew of Arthur’s Seat
• Eat dinner at Restaurant Martin Wishart
• Enjoy the view from Edinburgh Castle
• Go on a shopping spree on Victoria Street
• Boggle your mind at Camera Obscura
• Take a stroll through the Meadows
• Go for afternoon tea at Colonnades
• Experience a gig at the Queen’s Hall
• Sleep in the lap of luxury at the Balmoral

Edinburgh Accommodations

• The Balmoral Hotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel
• Fraser Suites Edinburgh
• The White Lady
• The Inn Place
• Twins Lions Hotel

Stavanger is a place you shouldn’t miss to Explore

Stavanger is a gorgeous town on the western coast of Norway. The city is comprised of countless natural attractions popular hikes including Preikestolen and Kjerag, as well as its beautiful old town and interesting museums.

What you should not miss exploring in Stavanger?

• Visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum
• Explore Stavanger Cathedral
• LEARN ABOUT SARDINES AT THE NORWEGIAN CANNING MUSEUM
• Wander Stavanger Town Centre
• While away time Bustling Harbour
• Hike to Preikestolen
• Climb the 4444 steps of Florli
• Hike to Kjerag
• The Jaren Beaches

Budget Hotels To Stay In Stavanger

• Quality Airport Hotel Stavanger
• Clarion Hotel
• Forus Leilighetshotel
• Wathne Camping

You can book flight tickets with a budget-friendly travel agency to and enjoy a fair discount, travel discounts and added an airport taxi service to your chosen hotel’s doorsteps. Select from a variety of airways as per your trip plan, as you can even customize your transits.

6 Cheaper Airlines that take you to Northern Europe

• Etihad Airways: https://www.etihad.com/en-us/
• GoAir: https://www.goair.in/
• Wizz Air: https://wizzair.com/en-gb/flights /
• Onur Air: https://www.onurair.com/en/
• easyJet: https://www.easyjet.com/us
• Norwegian Air: http://www.norwegian.com/

Northern Europe in Map

There are many more probably 100s of the best places to visit in Northern Europe like Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Bergen, Galway, and many more. Just stay connected with us to read more about places to explore in Europen cities which might be useful for you when visiting. Don’t forget to leave your comment if you think there’s anything more to us or if I missed something to address!

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Adventure Travel is a team of travel guides, travel photographer, travel journalist based in Nepal and from the parts of the world. We all in our team enjoy traveling and publishing facts of travel, trekking, and hiking to help travel lovers to find the facts of travel locations, equipment, culture and locality of places and many more. Keep visiting Adventure Travel we have many more updates coming soon for you. Enjoy reading travel advice , viewing photos of all different locations from the world be informed about places to travel in the world.

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27 of the best places to visit in Europe 

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

From sunny Greek Islands - like Amorgos (pictured) - to northerly capitals, here are Europe's best places to visit © imagIN.gr photography / Shutterstock

There is simply no way to tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, fascinating history and dazzling artistic and culinary diversity.

Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw: Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s graceful canals, Paris’ Napoleonic splendor, and the multilayered historical and cultural canvas of London. There’s also a huge diversity of natural scenery: rugged Scottish Highlands with glens and lochs, the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence, and the Adriatic coastline speckled with thousands of islands. And those are  just the highlights.

Some of Europe's most popular spots have also felt the effects of overtourism in recent years, as increasing visitor numbers leave an impact on local populations, services and historic sites. Traveling off-season, supporting local businesses and researching the particulars of the issue in your chosen destination can help offset some of the problems.

But with a little planning and care, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime. Here are 27 of the best places to visit in Europe. 

1. London, UK

Truly one of the world’s greatest cities

London is mercurial and endlessly fascinating; you could spend a lifetime getting to know it, then realize it’s gone and changed again. Stretching back from the mighty River Thames, its lush parks and historic districts are crammed with extraordinary sights: royal palaces, towering cathedrals and remarkable museums and galleries. Add the pick of the world’s theaters, restaurants , sports venues and shops, and you’ll be very reluctant to leave.

Planning a visit to London? Time it right with our seasonal guide

2. Venice, Italy

Magical city seemingly floating on water

A sunny winter’s day, with far fewer tourists around, is the perfect time to lap up Venice 's unique and magical atmosphere. Ditch your map and wander the shadowy back lanes of Dorsoduro while imagining secret assignations and whispered conspiracies at every turn. Then visit two of Venice’s top galleries, the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , which house works by many of the giants of 20th-century art.

Visiting Venice requires a delicate balance. Here are 25 things you need to know before you go

3. Paris, France

Get up close with an architectural icon

Designed as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World Fair), Paris ’ elegant art nouveau Eiffel Tower has become the defining fixture of the skyline.   The first floor is home to glitzy glass pavilions housing interactive exhibits; outside, peer down through the glass floor to the ground below. Visit at dusk for the best day and night views of the City of Light and make a toast at the sparkling champagne bar.

4. Rome, Italy

Classical ruins mixed with contemporary style

From the crumbling Colosseum to the ancient Forum and the Via Appia Antica , few sights are more evocative than the ruins of ancient Rome . Two thousand years ago, this city was the center of the greatest empire of the ancient world, where gladiators battled and emperors lived in unimaginable luxury. Nowadays it’s a haunting spot: as you walk the cobbled paths, you can almost sense the ghosts in the air.

Ready to explore Rome? Here are the city's best experiences

5. Berlin, Germany

Catch the ever-changing zeitgeist

Nearly 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, it’s hard to believe that this most cosmopolitan of cities once marked the frontier of the Cold War. But reminders of Berlin 's divided past still remain: whether you’re passing the Brandenburg Gate , gazing at graffiti at the East Side Gallery or studying the exhibits at the DDR Museum , it’s an essential part of understanding what makes Germany’s capital. From there, it's time to soak up the city's amazing modern touches, like its iconic club culture , unique independent shops and cool neighborhoods . 

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

A spectacular walled city

Dubrovnik 's main claim to fame are its historic ramparts , considered among the finest in the world, which surround luminous marble streets and finely ornamented buildings. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the walls are still remarkably intact today, and the vistas over the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea are sublime, especially at dusk, when the fading light makes the hues dramatic and the panoramas unforgettable.

Want to see more of Croatia? Follow our week-long itinerary

7. Prague, Czechia

An architectural central European jewel

The capital of the Czechia  is one of Europe’s most alluring and dynamic places. For all its modern verve, some parts of the city have hardly changed since medieval times – cobbled cul-de-sacs twist through the Old Town, framed by teetering townhouses, baroque buildings and graceful bridges. And if castles are your thing, Prague has an absolute beauty: a 1000-year-old fortress covering around 7 hectares – the world’s largest ancient castle complex.

Make sure to try these quintessential Prague experiences

8. Vienna, Austria

Grand heart of a former empire

The monumentally graceful Hofburg whisks you back to the age of empires in Vienna as you marvel at the treasury’s imperial crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Riding School and the chandelier-lit apartments fit for Empress Elisabeth. The palace, a legacy of the 640-year Habsburg era, is rivaled in grandeur only by the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the baroque Schloss Belvedere , both set in exquisite gardens.

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands

World Heritage-listed canals and gabled buildings

To say Amsterdammers love the water is an understatement. Stroll next to the canals and check out some of the thousands of houseboats. Or better still, go for a ride. From boat level you’ll see a whole new set of architectural details, such as the ornamentation bedecking the bridges. And when you pass the appealing canalside cafe terraces, mark the location for a later return.

Planning your stay in Amsterdam? Here's our guide to the city's best neighborhoods  

10. Budapest, Hungary

Beautiful capital city straddling the Danube 

Along both sides of the romantic Danube River, with the Buda Hills to the west and the start of the Great Plain to the east, Budapest is perhaps the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe. Parks brim with attractions, the architecture is second to none, museums are filled with treasures, pleasure boats sail up and down the scenic Danube Bend, Turkish-era thermal baths belch steam and the city's nightlife throbs till dawn most nights. 

Before you go to Budapest, read up on our tips from a local writer

11. Barcelona, Spain

See the genius of a visionary architect

Barcelona is famous for its Modernista architecture, much of which was designed by Antoni Gaudí. His masterpiece is the mighty cathedral La Sagrada Família , which remains a work in progress close to a century after its creator’s death. It’s a bizarre combination of crazy and classic: Gothic touches intersect with eccentric experiments and improbable angles. Even half completed, it’s a modern-day wonder.

Get ready to visit Barcelona with these important things to know before you go  

12. Lisbon, Portugal

Soulful city armed with Gothic grit

Alfama , with its labyrinthine alleyways, hidden courtyards and curving, shadow-filled lanes, is a magical place to lose all sense of direction and delve into Lisbon 's soul. On the journey, you’ll pass breadbox-sized grocers, brilliantly tiled buildings and views of steeply pitched rooftops leading down to the glittering Tagus. Pause at cozy taverns filled with easygoing chatter, with the scent of chargrilled sardines and the mournful rhythms of fado drifting in the breeze.

Plan the right time for your visit to Lisbon with our seasonal guide

13. The Scottish Highlands

Scenic grandeur and echoes of the past

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands . From the regal charm of Royal Deeside, via the brooding majesty of Glen Coe, to the mysterious waters of sweeping Loch Ness , these are landscapes that inspire awe. The region is scattered with fairy-tale castles and the hiking is suitably glorious. Add the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and romantic hotels, and you have an unforgettable corner of Scotland . 

Exploring more of Scotland? Here are our top road trips

14. Dublin, Ireland

Pints of Guinness and literary connections

Whether you’re wandering around the leafy Georgian terraces of St Stephen’s Green or getting acquainted with the past at Kilmainham Gaol , in Dublin you’re never far from a literary or historic sight. And then there are the city’s pubs : there are few better places to down a pint than Dublin, and you can even make a pilgrimage to the original Guinness brewery . Either way, you’ll surely make a few Irish friends along the way. 

See the best of Dublin with our guide to the city's top things to do

15. Florence and Tuscany, Italy

Italy’s most romanticized region

The gently rolling hills of Tuscany , bathed in golden light and dotted with vineyards, sum up Italy’s attractions in a nutshell. Here picture-perfect hilltop towns vie with magnificent scenery and some of Italy’s best food and wine. And there’s Florence , home to what UNESCO describes as "the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world". It’s a city packed with blockbuster museums, elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes.

Experience the best of Tuscany with our tips for first-time visitors

16. Ruins of Pompeii, Italy

Ancient city destroyed and preserved by Vesuvius

Frozen in its death throes, the sprawling, time-warped ruins of Pompeii hurtle you 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets, lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters and even an ancient brothel. Then, in the eerie stillness, with your eye on ominous Mt Vesuvius, ponder the town’s final hours when the skies grew dark and heavy with volcanic ash.

17. Andalucía, Spain

Vibrant cities studded with impressive architecture

Andalucía , ancient al-Andalus, is awash with glorious architecture that dates back to the eight centuries of Moorish rule that ended in 1492. Granada , Córdoba and Seville are the high points of a journey of extraordinary riches. In Granada, the palace complex of the Alhambra , in particular, is close to perfection, and perhaps one of the most impressive works of Islamic art anywhere in the world. Put simply, this is Spain ’s most beautiful monument.

18. Reykjavík, Iceland

The world’s most northerly capital

Most Icelanders live in Reykjavík and even on the shortest visit you’ll be struck by how quirky and creative the population is. Despite being on the northern margin of Europe, the locals have crafted a town packed with captivating art, rich cuisine and an epic music scene. Learn about a history stretching back to the Vikings and use the city as a base for trips to Iceland’s amazing natural wonders.

Here's how to experience the best of Iceland

19. Copenhagen, Denmark

Coolest kid on the Nordic block

Scandinavia is all about pared-back contemporary style – something that the Danish capital has in spades. Home to a thriving design scene, Copenhagen sports Michelin-starred restaurants, hipster cafes and bars, and swoon-worthy boutiques around every corner. Add in top-class museums and galleries and a 1000-year-old harbor with handsome historic architecture and you have the perfect Scandi city. 

20. Provence, France

Gallic charm in the south of France

For many people, the pastoral landscapes of Provence are a French fantasy come true. Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, hilltop villages, legendary wines, bustling markets and a balmy climate. For decades, it’s been a hot spot for vacationers and second-homers, inspired by the vision of the rustic good life.

Want to see more of France? Here's our guide to the country's best things to do

21. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Hike, ski and admire these postcard-perfect peaks

The stirring ramparts of the Swiss Alps grace chocolate bar wrappers and evoke stereotypical Heidi scenes, but nothing prepares you for their allure up close. The most famous summit, the Matterhorn, is a mesmerizing peak that looms above the timber-chalet-filled Swiss village of Zermatt . Gaze at it from a tranquil cafe, hike in its shadow along the tangle of alpine paths above town, with cowbells clinking in the distance, or pause on a ski slope and admire its craggy, chiseled outline. 

22. Istanbul, Türkiye

Where Europe meets Asia 

Serving stints as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires and an ancient crossroads of civilizations, Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities. The historical highlights cluster in Sultanahmet – the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , Topkapı Palace and Grand Bazaar – with the vast  Süleymaniye Mosque  crowning a hilltop in Eminönü.

Find your way around İstanbul with our neighborhood guide

23. Athens, Greece

Monument-strewn capital of Ancient Greece

Greece has ancient monuments at seemingly every turn, but it’s in Athens where the greatest and most iconic still stand. High on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city, the Acropolis epitomizes the glory of ancient Greece with its graceful Parthenon and 17,000-seat Theatre of Dionysos . Other impressive ruins littering this vibrant city include the Temple of Olympian Zeus and two agoras (marketplaces; one Greek, one Roman) mingling with first-rate museums.

24. Schloss Neuschwanstein, Germany

Fairy-tale castle in a fairy-tale setting

Rising from Alpine foothills in the heart of Bavaria , the 19th-century Schloss Neuschwanstein seems to spring from a child’s imagination of the perfect castle. Its pencil-thin turrets, vertiginous walls and glorious setting make it one of Europe’s most recognizable structures, the prototype for many a Disney castle.

25. Greek Islands, Greece

Whitewashed Mediterranean villages above a turquoise sea

Wherever you land, the Greek Islands grab your attention and don’t let go. While popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos have undoubtedly suffered under the weight of overtourism, there are plenty of others to explore  that offer more off-the-beaten path experiences. Take in the lush Ionian Islands  or the far-flung Dodecanese  — whatever you choose, you're in for an incredible experience. 

26. Ring of Kerry, Ireland

A wild and medieval Irish road trip

There’s nowhere quite like Ireland , and the Ring of Kerry , a 179km (111-mile) route through the Iveragh Peninsula, captures all the essential elements of Irish charm on one memorable circuit. Wild and craggy landscapes frame isolated beaches, evocative ruined fortresses stand sentinel over similarly wild Atlantic seas, and windswept mountains watch over villages and islands that could be nowhere else on earth but here.

27. Oslo, Norway

Scandinavia’s gateway to the fjords

Oslo is doing everything it can to claim the prize of Europe’s capital of contemporary style. The Opera House evokes an iceberg in a fjord, public art is a national pastime, and the city’s extraordinary museums span the Viking age to modern Norway. So impressive are the results, that Oslo has become so much more than a mere stopover on the road to the fjords.

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The 10 Most Beautiful and Underrated Cities in Northern Europe

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When people think of a European getaway, they tend to name off places like London, Paris, and Rome. While each of those cities has earned its spot on various travelers’ bucket lists, there are many cities that are just as worthy of “must see” status that are a little more off the beaten path. Northern Europe tends to get the short end of the stick when it comes to tourism, despite its rich, long and varied history. With small populations, limited influence and often harsh climates, the northern countries, including Scandinavia, Finland and the Baltics don’t exactly seem like havens for travelers – but these underrated escapes are also home to some of the most beautiful, diverse and storied cities in all of Europe. Here are 10 of the hidden gems in Europe’s Northern kingdoms.

10. Roskilde, Denmark

Roskilde is a city with only 50,000 inhabitants, but it’s easily one of the most important cities in Denmark; in fact, it was the Danish capital for many generations. The city dates back to the Viking Age and, according to medieval sources, was the site of a royal palace and a cathedral built by Harald Bluetooth, the legendary founder of Denmark. Though the Roskilde Cathedral that stands today dates from 12 th and 13 th centuries, Harald Bluetooth’s tomb is here, along with the graves of other Danish monarchs. Attached to the cathedral is Roskilde Palace. Roskilde is also famed for its Viking Ship Museum, which houses the remains of 5 well-preserved Viking ships, which were unearthed from the Roskilde Fjords surrounding the city.

9. Turku, Finland

Before the capital moved to Helsinki in 1812, Turku was the most important city in Finland. Today, it’s still an important center and one of the largest cities in Finland. Situated at the mouth of the Aura River, Turku is integral to both Finnish tourism and business. Of the notable sites, the Cathedral of Turku, erected in the 1300s, is a must-see, along with the Castle of Turku. Due to its location on the Baltic, Turku boasts scenic coastline and access to many small islands in the Archipelago Sea. Like its much-larger Swedish counterpart, Stockholm, the city’s maritime culture encourages day trips to the islands. And yes, there are tours highlighting the design and architecture that the Finns are famous for.

8. Kiruna, Sweden

How far north can you go? In Sweden, the answer is Kiruna, an Arctic Circle town that is home to the world’s very first ice hotel. Here, the aurora borealis put on a spectacular display during long winter nights and the midnight sun dominates summer days. A train will take you north to the land of cloudberries, the traditional home of the Sami. In the winter, 2 nearby mountains, Kiirunavaara and Luossavaara, provide excellent skiing and the nearby lake Luossajarvi can be used for ice skating. Dog sledding is another popular activity and every winter, the town holds a Snow Festival. Kiruna Church, built in Gothic Revival style in 1912, is one of Sweden’s largest wooden buildings and was voted Sweden’s most popular pre-1950s building.

7. Tampere, Finland

The “Manchester of Finland,” or “Manse” in Finnish, Tampere is located between 2 lakes, Nasijarvi and Pyhajarvi. The lakes are at different levels and the Tammerkoski rapids that link them run through the city. Founded in the 18 th century by the Swedish King Gustav II, Tampere is renowned as a center of cultural life in Finland. The third largest city in the country is home to multiple theaters, an international theater festival, a short film festival, an urban rock festival and the Tampere Floral Festival. Tampere is also home to many museums, including a spy museum, the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame and a shoe museum, as well as one of the last museums in the world dedicated to Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin.

6. Aalborg, Denmark

Built at the narrowest point on the Limfjord, Aalborg rose to prominence as one of the most important harbors in Northern Europe during the Middle Ages. Today, it’s become an important hub of culture, even hosting one of the largest annual festivals in Scandinavia. Aalborg has many theaters, performance venues and museums, along with an orchestra and opera company. Budolfi Church, now a cathedral, was consecrated in the 1300s, and in 1550 a royal residence was built in the city. Aalborg’s most famous buildings, however, may be the half-timbered mansions, built by the city’s prosperous merchants such as Jorgen Olufsen. Also notable is Jomfru Ane Gade (Virgin Anne’s Street), noted among travelers for its cafes during the day and clubs at night!

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Although not “Europe” in the strictest sense, Iceland is often included in discussions of Northern Europe thanks to its Norse heritage. The capital, Reykjavik, is situated on a peninsula. The hills Öskjuhli∂ and Skolavör∂uholt are former volcanoes and the mountains of the Blafjöll range for the city’s backdrop. Also nearby is the famed Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa. The city is home to the largest church in Iceland, the parliament building, and several museums and art galleries. Iceland is renowned for its natural beauty, and Reykjavik boasts Hofdi, a nature reserve; a cluster of red volcanic craters; and a geothermally heated beach. Reykjavik is most renowned for its nightlife, with over 100 bars and clubs, many of which are open until 4:30 am on weekends.

4. Vilnius, Lithuania

Although Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, and the second-largest city in the 3 Baltic states, it’s often passed over by tourists, if only for the fact that, for much of its history, it has been under the rule of one country or another, most recently as part of the Soviet Union until 1990. Nonetheless, this beautiful city has centuries of history to share with visitors. Lying at the confluence of the Vilna and Neris Rivers, Vilnius was founded during the Middle Ages. It soon became the capital, in part because its geography made it less vulnerable to attack. Vilnius boasts ancient churches and palaces, many in Baroque or Eastern Orthodox styles. A trip through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, won’t disappoint!

3. Trondheim, Norway

Founded in 997, Trondheim served as the capital of Norway during the Viking Age, until 1217. Long the seat of the Norwegian royal family, the city is situated on the River Nidelva, which flows through Trondheim and supplies water to the surrounding fjords. Munkholmen, a small islet, is a popular tourist destination, and the Stiftsgarden, a 17 th century royal palace, is quite possibly the largest wooden building in Northern Europe. The Nidaros Cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, dominates most views of the city. The cathedral is only one of many historic churches in the city, although many buildings have been lost in fires over the centuries. Surrounded by wetlands, it’s not uncommon to see animals like foxes and moose in the city.

2. Uppsala, Sweden

This quintessentially Swedish city was, for centuries, incredibly important in Swedish culture. Just an hour by train out of Stockholm, Uppsala features the medieval Domkyrka cathedral, a 17 th century royal palace, the oldest university in Scandinavia, the house of Carl Linneaus, Viking graves at Gamla Uppsala and runestones scattered about the city. Uppsala is relatively small compared to cities like Stockholm, but that makes it all the more pleasant. The slower pace of life, along with fantastic scenery and parks along the River Frysen, make Uppsala one of the most underrated cities in Northern Europe. At the end of April, students celebrate Walpurgis Night (Valborg in Swedish) by floating homemade boats down the river and drinking copious amounts of champagne.

1. Tallinn, Estonia

Like Vilnius, Tallinn is a beautiful Baltic city that has been overlooked by travelers, although tourism to the city has been growing. Tallinn is Estonia’s largest city, with 32 percent of the population calling it home. The capital is situated on Estonia’s northern coast, across the Gulf of Finland; it’s just 50 miles from Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg. Never razed or pillaged (although bombed during World War II), Tallin’s Old Town is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval towns. Sites include the city walls, 2 towers, and numerous medieval churches. On Cathedral Hill, the main attraction is the medieval Toompea Castle, which houses the Estonian Parliament. Kadriog Palace, built by Peter the Great just after the Great Northern War, is another popular tourist destination.

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Best Times & Places to See the Northern Lights in Europe

The northern lights are a naturally occurring phenomenon that will bewitch you with their magic. The Vikings believed the shimmering aurora were reflections of the shining shields and armour of the gods. Who could blame them? This dazzling spectacle does indeed look like something out of this world!

Of course, thanks to science, we know the northern lights aren't down to sorcery. To catch them, you need 3 key factors to align at the same time: dark skies, solar activity, and clear weather. You also need to know when and where to see auroras for your best chances of witnessing them on a northern lights tour package .

If aurora borealis sightings are on your wish list, read on to discover the best times and places to see the northern lights.

• Plan your aurora adventure with these northern lights tours

Best time to see northern lights

Unfortunately, the northern lights don’t show up on demand. You can only see the aurora borealis at certain times of the year when conditions are right. That’s why you need to plan your northern lights tour ahead to give you the best chances of catching them.

The best time of day to view the northern lights

As dark skies are one of the key factors for spotting the northern lights, the best time of day to look for them is at night. The darker the sky, the easier it is to discern the aurora’s colours dancing above you.

That’s why northern lights tours take place in the evening. Additionally, many hotels offer aurora wake-up calls should the lights show up in the middle of the night.

The best time of year for aurora viewing

You are more likely to see the northern lights in winter, between the months of October and April. This is because the night sky is darker in winter and there are fewer daylight hours. You need darkness to be able to spot the colours of the aurora borealis, as they are harder to see in daylight.

Winter in Northern Europe brings long, dark nights, particularly between December and February. In fact, in some regions in the far north, the sun doesn’t rise at all – a phenomenon called the “polar night” . The more hours of darkness then the more chances you have of seeing the aurora borealis.

Winter in the Nordics is a magical time of year for so many other reasons. As well as getting the opportunity to hunt for the lights, you can also enjoy activities in the snow like dog sledding or snowmobiling. You could even stay in a Nordic ice hotel!

In Iceland you can walk through natural ice caves or see dramatic landscapes glittering with frost. Plus, winter is a quieter travel season compared to summer, so visit between October and April for fewer crowds at the top attractions. 

• Explore Iceland tours in winter
• Visit Lapland in winter
• Enjoy winter in Northern Norway or Svalbard

Is there a “best year” to see the northern lights?

You can spot the northern lights any year. Essentially there is no “best year” to hunt for them.

Some believe that certain periods of the 11-year solar cycle provide a better chance of seeing the aurora light up the sky. When the sun experiences its solar maximum, that means that solar activity is high and more charged particles are released. This most recently took place in 2014.

That said, geomagnetic storms can occur at any time, so you can still see the northern lights during the solar minimum stage. The aurora borealis is unpredictable so even if you search for them during the solar maximum, sightings are not guaranteed.

Best place to see northern lights

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon that you can witness at far northerly latitudes. You can only see the aurora borealis in the Northern Hemisphere, whereas the aurora australis is visible in the Southern Hemisphere.

Since solar activity is at its strongest closer to the North Pole, you should head to the Arctic Circle to increase your chances of spotting the northern lights.

The best places to see the aurora borealis are the Nordic countries of Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland, which lie within or near the Arctic Circle. You could also look for them in Russia, Alaska, and Canada’s northwest territories.

Why are the Nordic destinations ideal for northern lights viewing? Because they are located in the “aurora zone”.

The aurora zone

The “aurora zone” (or “northern lights belt”) is a latitudinal oval between 65-72°N. This band is where the most auroral frequency and intensity occurs, so your best bet is to visit this area for northern lights tours .

Iceland and the northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland are located within the aurora zone. However, every now and then the belt extends further south when geomagnetic activity is strong. That means you could even see the northern lights from Scotland if you’re really lucky!

Good to know : While sightings of the northern lights are possible in the UK and Ireland, they are too rare for dedicated aurora-hunting missions. We recommend being much nearer to, or actually inside, the Arctic Circle, in one of the locations recommended below instead!

Visit Iceland in winter and you could see the colourful aurora borealis flickering above jaw-dropping scenery. This beautiful country is situated at 65°N, which means it lies within the northern lights belt.

Not only does Iceland’s location make it ideal for aurora viewing, but so too do the wide, open landscapes. With little light pollution, the dark skies of Iceland make aurora sightings more vivid. So although you could actually see them from Reykjavík, we recommend heading out of the city on a dedicated tour.

Some of the best places to see the northern lights in Iceland include the remote Westfjords, North Iceland, and the black sand beaches around Vík. As well as spotting the aurora, there are many more exciting things you can do in Iceland in winter . Think ice caving, bathing in hot springs, and much more!

• Choose from a range of northern lights tours in Iceland
• Experience the magic of Iceland with these winter vacation packages

Norway is another stunning Nordic country where you can see the aurora borealis in winter. Northern Norway, in particular, is prime aurora-spotting territory. Journey to this secluded slither of land north of the Arctic Circle to look for the lights dancing in the skies above.

Given the country’s sheer size, it’s good to know exactly where to go in Norway for your northern lights tour . You could travel to Tromsø – the “Gateway to the Arctic” and “Paris of the North”. Venture into the countryside on an aurora safari, or opt for a cruise to see the magical light show from the sea.

Tromsø is one of the places where you can experience the polar night in deep winter, whereby the sun doesn’t rise for weeks. This means more hours of darkness and therefore more time to spot the northern lights!

The polar night also occurs in Svalbard , Kirkenes , the Lofoten islands and Nordkapp (North Cape) – all fantastic aurora hunting locations. What’s more, these destinations offer you a host of winter activities. From ice fishing to staying in snow hotels, there are so many cool things to do in Norway in winter .

• Chase the aurora by land or sea with these Norway northern lights tours

Sweden & Finland

Similarly to Norway, the northern parts of Sweden and Finland are located in the Arctic Circle and northern lights belt, which makes them prime aurora viewing territory. This region is called Lapland , and it spreads across both Sweden and Finland.

Visit Swedish or Finnish Lapland for northern lights tours and you’ll have a good chance of seeing the aurora illuminate the sky. Lapland has everything you need: low light pollution, dark winter skies, and solar activity. When all these conditions combine, the northern lights put on a spectacular show for you!

Some of the best places for you to see the aurora borealis in Lapland are Rovaniemi and Kemi (Finland), and Abisko National Park near Kiruna (Sweden). If you visit the Aurora Sky Station , you’ll get to enjoy a gourmet meal and northern lights exhibition before embarking on a guided tour.

In Lapland there are some really exciting ways you could go on an aurora safari to hunt for the lights. Try snowmobiling, dog sledding or snowshoeing at night. And even if you don’t catch sight of the aurora, these activities are just some of the incredible experiences you can have in Lapland in winter .

• Visit Finland or Sweden on these Lapland northern lights tours

When you’re ready to make your dream northern lights tour a reality, Nordic Visitor can help. Our winter travel experts have witnessed the aurora borealis first-hand and will use their insider knowledge to design your vacation package.

So whether or not the northern lights show up for you, expect a winter holiday in the Nordics filled with exciting experiences and unforgettable memories.  Get in touch   with us to start planning your trip.

Wanderlust has taken Emma across much of the world, but it was Scotland that she made her adopted home. Aside from enjoying countryside walks, campervan weekends and gigs in Glasgow, you’ll often find her writing about European travel and plotting her next trip.

Getting there

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

NORTHERN LIGHTS CIRCLE TOUR

Lapland adventure - aurora sky station, northern lights in lofoten & tromsø, related posts, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland.

Blogs , Nordic , Iceland , Northern Lights , Scandinavia , Lapland , Sweden , Norway , Svalbard , Finland , Guides

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