12 Must-Visit Spots In Scandinavia
Posted by Scandinavia has some of the most beautiful places on Earth. From the towering peaks of the Swedish Alps to the pristine fjords of Norway, this region has it all. And while it may be best known for its natural beauty, Scandinavia also boasts some of the most vibrant cities in Europe. If you’re planning a trip to Sweden, Norway or Denmark, be sure to add these 12 must-see spots in Scandinavia.
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1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. From its historic buildings and museums to its lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this wonderful city. The most iconic stops include the Little Mermaid statue, the Tivoli Gardens, and the Royal Palace.
2. Oslo, Norway
Oslo is the capital of Norway and is one of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia. Situated at the head of a fjord, the city is a nature lover’s paradise. Oslo is also famous for its iconic museums and art galleries, including the Vigeland Sculpture Park where you can find more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland.
3. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and is often called the “Venice of the North” because of its picturesque setting. The city is spread across 14 islands, each with its own unique charm. The island of Gamla Stan, for instance, is home to the Royal Palace and the Storkyrkan Cathedral. Stockholm is also a great place to shop, with its many chic boutiques and department stores.
4. Bergen, Norway
Bergen is a picturesque city located on the west coast of Norway. It’s known for its beautiful harbour surrounded by towering mountains, and it is a true hiker’s paradise. If you decide to go to Bergen, be sure to visit the Floibanen funicular, which offers stunning views of the city, and the Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, a traditional market where you can indulge in some of Norway’s famous seafood.
5. Gothenburg, Sweden
Gothenburg is the second-largest city in Sweden and is located on the west coast of the country. It’s a popular destination for its many canals (earning it the nickname “Little London”), as well as its trendy bars and restaurants. Haga, an old district with cobbled streets and charming cafes, is a must-see stop while you’re in town.
6. Aarhus, Denmark
Aarhus is the second-largest city in Denmark and is located on the east coast of the country. It’s known for its lively student population (it’s home to Denmark’s largest university), and for the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, which boasts 10 floors of contemporary art and the city’s best views from its top floor. If you’re looking for a city with a relaxed, youthful atmosphere, Aarhus is the perfect place for you.
7. Trondheim, Norway
Trondheim is a historic city located in the middle of Norway. It’s known for its many ancient churches, as well as the Nidaros Cathedral, the largest religious site in Scandinavia. The city is also a great place to go hiking and skiing, with several trails and ski resorts located nearby.
8. Malmo, Sweden
Malmo is the third-largest city in Sweden and is located in the southern part of the country. It’s a popular destination for its many parks and gardens, including the beautiful, Instagram-ready Botanical Garden. The city is also home to the Malmo Museum, which chronicles the city’s history from its days as a medieval fortress to its present-day status as a thriving metropolis. But perhaps, the most iconic stop in Malmo is the Turning Torso, a 930-foot skyscraper with twists and turns that make it look like it’s twisting in the wind.
9. Lapland, Finland
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Lapland is the perfect place for you. This region in northern Finland is known for its stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests. In the winter, it’s also the home of Santa Claus. You can Santa’s village, located right on the Arctic Circle, and even go for a reindeer sleigh ride!
10. Tromso, Norway
Tromso is a city located in the Arctic Circle, which means it has some of the most incredible views of the Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights). Even if you don’t get to see the lights, though, Tromso is still worth a visit. It’s home to the world’s largest planetarium, as well as the Polar Museum, which chronicles the city’s history as a gateway to the Arctic.
11. Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoten Islands are a group of islands located in the Norwegian Sea. They’re known for their dramatic scenery, with towering peaks and pristine beaches. The most popular activities on the islands include hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. If you want to get away from it all and experience some of the most stunning scenery in Scandinavia, the Lofoten Islands are the perfect destination.
12. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and is located on the southern coast of the country. It’s a popular destination for its many museums, including the Icelandic Phallological Museum (yes, that’s a museum dedicated to phalluses), as well as its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, while you’re in town, be sure to visit Hallgrimskirkja, the tallest church in Iceland.
These are just some of the innumerable must-visit spots you will find in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Iceland. Though they are all equally magical, each destination has its own unique charm, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy no matter which one you choose. So whether you’re looking for a city break or a wilderness adventure, you’ll be sure to find it in Scandinavia.
So, what about languages?
While you will find a good number of English speakers in the capital cities, people from smaller towns are far more conservative when it comes to language. If you want to make the most of your time in Scandinavia, you should definitely consider taking a few Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, Danish or Icelandic lessons. By learning to speak the language of your next holiday destination, you will have a much more genuine, fulfilling and enriching experience, especially if talking to locals and learning from their culture is part of your motivation for travelling.
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If you need to brush up your speaking skills in any of the languages spoken across Scandinavia, reach out to us so we can come up with a tourism-focused lesson plan specially designed to suit your needs. If you need to brush up your speaking skills in any of the languages spoken across Scandinavia, All you have to do is tell us where you want to go, and we’ll match you with a native teacher for a tailored learning experience.