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

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

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

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

Travel to: Scandinavia

One-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Stockholm -> Oslo

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

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

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

Two-week Scandinavia itinerary

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

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

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

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

Three-week Scandinavia itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Can’t-miss sights and experiences in Scandinavia

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

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

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

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

Getting around Scandinavia 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ashley Nitransky

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

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A blog about travelling Scandinavia, living in Scandinavia and all things Scandinavia

Hi there! We are three friends obsessed with traveling and, to state the obvious, this is a travel blog about the countries that make up the mesmerizing region of Scandinavia!

Why specifically Scandinavia you ask? Well, traveling through Scandinavia has always been the biggest passion that all three of us share. We were always fascinated by the culture, the history of these lands, the breathtaking landscapes, the picturesque towns, the lively cities – everything these northern countries have to offer, we’ve seen it, we’ve done it, and are looking forward to seeing and do it again!

So, are you looking for travel guides to help you plan a trip to Scandinavia? You’re in the right place! Handy travel tips that will make your travel buddies impressed by your savvy? It’s all here! A plethora of articles about where to go, what to see, what to do, and how to do it? Plus, answers to all the obvious and not-so-obvious questions you may have had about what it’s like to live in or travel to Scandinavia?  We’ve got you covered!

Visit Denmark

The southernmost of the Scandinavian countries, Denmark combines seamlessly its modern Scandinavian architecture with the fairy tale charm and special atmosphere of the old picturesque towns. Though most tourists visit Copenhagen, the truth is that Denmark has much more to offer to the curious traveler. So what else is there to discover in Denmark besides its beautiful capital? Let’s find out!

Visit Norway

Norway attracts tons of visitors and it’s easy to see why. Astonishing fjords, snow-capped mountains, the famous Northern Lights, beautiful coastal settlements… The list goes on and on, however, the typical visitor is not only looking to experience the breathtaking Norwegian landscape by engaging in a variety of outdoor activities. Art and cultural tourism are just as popular in Norway, proving that this country is so much more than just stunning nature!

Visit Sweden

It is true that a description such as “the perfect blend of wonderful natural attractions and fascinating urban experiences” would apply to many places in Scandinavia. Make no mistake, however, each one of the Scandinavian countries has its own identity and distinct character, with Sweden not being an exception. Amazing scenery and rich cultural heritage, lively cities, towns of elegant charm, exciting food scenes, all with a distinct Swedish touch. Sweden is a country you will surely come to love!

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The Ultimate Scandinavia Itinerary | 12 Full Days, 6 Fantastic Stops

• Post author By Melissa
• Post date April 8, 2024
• 1 Comment on The Ultimate Scandinavia Itinerary | 12 Full Days, 6 Fantastic Stops

Scandinavia is a wonderful, safe, family-friendly region of northern Europe that will make for an unforgettable vacation. It is one of the more expensive areas of Europe to visit, but it is worth the money to see the natural beauty of this area.

We spent 12 days in Scandinavia and loved every single one of them. Our trip started in one of the most popular Scandinavian cities , Copenhagen, Denmark, and it ended in Bergen, Norway.

We were able to see parts of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, although by no means were we able to see and experience everything we wanted to in this region.

A lot of people have asked us about this trip, so I wanted to lay out all of the details in a full overview of Scandinavia… A complete Scandinavia itinerary – 12 days, 6 stops.

This Scandinavia itinerary briefly covers all the cities, towns, and villages we visited, the places we stayed, how much money we spent, and the attractions we were able to see.

Although you could easily spend 10 days in Norway alone, we only had 12 days for all of Scandinavia. So, this whirlwind travel itinerary covers a lot of ground.

Table of Contents

Useful things you will need for Scandinavia

Because you will be changing cities and hotels every couple of days, I recommend backpacking rather than bringing rolling luggage with you. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may also need rain gear. After all, Norway is lush and green for a reason. It rains a lot!

In fact, it rains a lot in Denmark and western Sweden, too. There is a good chance it will rain at least once during your 12 days in Scandinavia. Here are a few must-have items for your trip.

About Scandinavia and the Nordic North

The Nordic north region of Europe consists of five countries: Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland , and Iceland . However, only three of those countries are considered Scandinavia: Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Although many throughout the world use the terms “Nordic” and “Scandinavian” interchangeably, they are not the same, and locals in Iceland and Finland will make sure to correct you if you make that assumption.

The Scandinavian region of the Nordic north refers to the ancient territory of the Norsemen.

While the five countries that make up the Nordic north are all similar in economic structure, politics, and history, for the purpose of this itinerary, the term Scandinavia refers only to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.  

How to get around Scandinavia 

The major cities and tourist sites in Scandinavia are well connected by trains, buses, and even boats. But for part of our Scandinavia itinerary, we decided to rent a car and road trip. This allowed us to visit some of the smaller, charming fishing villages in western Sweden that aren’t very accessible using public transport.

• We always book rental cars in Europe through Discover Cars , so we can compare prices and get the best deal.
• We book most our train tickets using RailEurope which partners with train companies across the continent.  

ALSO READ: AN HONEST RAIL EUROPE REVIEW

Overview of this Scandinavia itinerary 

Here is a brief outline of our 12-day travel itinerary for Scandinavia. We will get into more details below on each city or region. Keep scrolling to see a day-by-day breakdown of what to see and do on your Scandinavia trip.

Copenhagen, Denmark (Day 1-3)

• Where to stay: Steelhouse Hostel
• What you’ll need: Copenhagen Card

Gothenburg, Sweden (Day 4)

• Where to stay: Scandic No25
• Train ticket from Copenhagen to Gothenburg

Smogen (Day 5)

• Where to stay: Smogen Hafsvad
• What you’ll need: rental car

Weather Islands (Day 6)

• Where to stay: TanumStrand

Oslo, Norway (Day 7-8)

• Where to stay: Scandic Byporten
• What you’ll need: Oslo Pass

Flam, Norway (Day 9)

• Where to stay: Brekke Apartments
• What you’ll need:  Norway in a Nutshell transportation package

Bergen, Norway (Day 10-12)

• Where to stay: Hotel Oleana

The different regions you’ll visit during this Scandinavia itinerary

The Scandinavian peninsula is huge, so if you only have 12 days in Scandinavia, I’d recommend not trying to see it all.

You’ll need to narrow down your Scandinavia itinerary to just a few places otherwise you’ll spend all your time driving or on a train.

This 12-day Scandinavia itinerary takes you through the majestic fjords of Norway, to the rugged west coast of Sweden, and to the bicycle-friendly streets of beautiful Copenhagen.

Fair warning, it will leave you wanting to see more. You see, Scandinavia isn’t just big, it’s incredible! Here are some of the highlights you’ll see in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of the most family-friendly cities in the world. Not only is it home to one of the best amusement parks in the world, but outside of that, there are so many things to do in Copenhagen with kids .

From the vibrant, photogenic canal street, Nyhavn, to the stunning Rosenborg castle and its surrounding gardens, you will love exploring the streets and sites of Copenhagen.

West Sweden coast

Relaxing, serene, and rugged – the West Coast of Sweden will be a tranquil escape during your busy 12 days in Scandinavia.

The coast is dotted with quaint fishing villages and an untainted and primarily uninhabited archipelago begging to be explored.

Oslo, Norway

The capital city of Norway is a great place to get a grasp on Scandinavian culture, history, and Nordic life in general.

With countless museums spanning various interests like art, Viking history, and even skiing, Oslo, Norway is a chic metropolitan area with a friendly and extremely safe vibe.

Norway fjords

The fjords of Norway are practically supernatural. They are beyond majestic. I’d go as far as to say they are heavenly. The fjords are the number one tourist draw for Norway, and for a very good reason.

This area of Norway, near the village of Flam , is one of the most naturally beautiful regions of the world.

A fjord is a deep, narrow body of water surrounded by steep mountains. In the fjords, you’ll see countless waterfalls, enjoy scenic hikes, and feel completely immersed in nature.

Bergen and the west Norway coast

Bergen is a quaint city at the mouth of the fjords. Sitting on the southwestern coast of Norway, Bergen is the rainiest city in Europe.

It is surrounded by mountains and is often called the gateway to the fjords, as it is the starting point of many of Norway’s most popular and picturesque fjord tours. This colorful city has a whimsical, almost fairytale-like charm.

With a row of colorful wooden buildings lining the old wharf, the city is often a starting or ending point on many Norway itineraries, including this 12-day Scandinavia itinerary.

But what about Stockholm? 

Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia , so why isn’t it included in our itinerary?

Time constraints and distance are the two main reasons that Sweden’s capital city is not on our Scandinavia travel itinerary. 

If you have a full two weeks in Scandinavia, you could visit Stockholm for a couple days then fly to Copenhagen and follow the rest of our itinerary. Or, you can always add Stockholm to a trip that includes Helsinki, Finland and the country of Estonia, instead.

Our Personal Experience following this Scandinavia travel guide

We traveled across Scandinavia with our then 3-year-old daughter, so nothing on this itinerary is extremely strenuous.

Although the days are filled with a ton of activities, this Scandinavia 12-day itinerary isn’t so full that you won’t be able to simply sit and enjoy a gelato, a glass of wine, or a fika in Sweden.

Although there isn’t anything on this itinerary that a toddler wouldn’t be able to do, if you are looking to take part in more adventurous activities, like some of the longer, strenuous hikes in Norway, you can still follow this itinerary and just modify your activities each day. 

Day-by-Day Breakdown of our 12 Days in Scandinavia

This day-by-day breakdown of our itinerary gives you a rough idea of how you can feasibly spend 12 days in Scandinavia, what to see, how much time you will need, and how to get around the easiest.

Day 1 – Copenhagen, Denmark

You’ll start your 12-day Scandinavia itinerary in Copenhagen, Denmark. We arrived by plane mid-morning and took the train to the central train station (also known as Kobenhavn H). At the airport you can also pick up your Copenhagen Card .

You will want to buy one for the 2-3 days you are in Copenhagen, as admission to everything on this itinerary is included in the price.

From Kobenhavn H train station it is a short walk to Steelhouse Hostel, where we stayed in a private hostel room that was perfect for traveling with kids .

There are various other hotels and accommodations in the area, as well if hostels aren’t your thing. Regardless of where you stay, you’ll want to drop off your bags at your hotel so you can spend your afternoon exploring luggage-free.

Reserve your Copenhagen Card

Your first Copenhagen experience will be a Carlsberg Brewery tour. The self-guided tour takes a couple of hours. It’s interesting and includes beer! The brewery has a free shuttle bus which picks you up across the street from the train station and runs hourly until 5 p.m.

After the brewery tour, enjoy your two beers then either shuttle, take the metro, or walk back to your hotel and enjoy a late lunch or early dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

• Where to stay in Copenhagen on a budget: Steelhouse Hostel
• Alternative hotel if hostels aren’t for you: Andersen Boutique Hotel

Day 1 Highlights

• Carlsberg Brewery tour
• Explore Vesterbro District 

Day 2 – Copenhagen, Denmark

This will be a busy day of sightseeing, so wear comfortable walking shoes and consider renting bicycles to get around the city faster like the locals do.

Start your day walking toward Stroget, the busy shopping district in Copenhagen. You’ll find plenty of places where you can grab breakfast along the way.

From there head to Nyhavn to stroll along the picturesque canal street before making your way to Amalienborg Palace to watch the changing of the guards at noon. Afterwards, you’ll hit up Kastellet, and the Little Mermaid, one of the most famous statues in Europe .

We walked back to Nyhavn afterwards for a late lunch along the canal and a boat tour. Afterwards, visit Christiansborg Palace, the Rundetaarn, and Rosenborg Castle. Dinner on day 2 will be Torvehallerne market.

Day 2 Highlights

• Amalienborg Royal Palace
• little Mermaid 
• Christiansborg Palace
• Round Tower
• Rosenborg Castle
• Torvehallerne Market

Day 3  – Copenhagen, Denmark

If you are visiting Scandinavia with kids, this day will be their favorite.

Start by taking the free shuttle to Den Bla Planet, the National Aquarium Denmark. It is the largest aquarium in northern Europe, so you can spend hours exploring and learning about marine life. This will take up a large part of your morning.

The rest of your day, including lunch and dinner, should be spent at Tivoli Gardens , the world’s second oldest theme park. It is amazing!

Day 3 Highlights

• Den Bla Planet
• Tivoli Gardens

Read about all of the Copenhagen attractions mentioned in this itinerary.

Day 4 – Gothenburg, Sweden

The fourth day of your 12-day tour of Scandinavia, you’ll take a morning train to Gothenburg, Sweden. The train ride takes roughly 3 ½ hours and requires switching trains in Malmo, Sweden.

Drop off your bags at your hotel and spend your afternoon exploring Gothenburg. You’ll want to check out the Feskekorka Fish Market and partake in the Swedish tradition of fika in the Haga district.

• Where to stay in Gothenburg: Scandic No 25
• Luxury hotel also near the train station: Clarion Hotel P ost

Day 4 Highlights

• Feskekorka Fish Market
• Gothenburg Botanical Garden

Day 5 – Smögen, Sweden and the west coast

After exploring Gothenburg, the second largest city in Sweden, you’ll get a break from the city streets on day 5 of your 12-day Scandinavia itinerary. This day will be spent exploring the charming fishing villages along the west coast of Sweden. Pick up your rental car and spend the day in rural, coastal Sweden.

Smogen is one of the most popular and picturesque fishing villages in west Sweden, primarily due to a pretty row of colorful fishing houses along the boardwalk. Make sure you enjoy a fresh seafood lunch while in Smogen. You can also stop at Bohus Fortress and the Pilane Sculpture Park.

• Where to stay in Smogen, Sweden: Smogens Hafvsbad

Day 5 Highlights

• Bohus Fortress
• Pilane Park

Day 6 – Fjallbacka, Sweden and Weather Islands

Fjallbacka and the Weather Islands are both equally fun to explore. In Fjallbacka, you can do an easy hike up Kungsklyftan and before catching a ferry to the Weather Islands.

The desolate islands are home to colonies of seals, so you may spot a few lounging on the rocky islands as you pass by in the ferry.

The ferry will drop you off at one of the only islands that is actually inhabited. Have lunch and walk around the island for a while to escape the crowds and recharge. Afterward, head to Grebbestad where you can relax and have fun in a huge indoor pool with a water slide at Tanumstrand Resort.

• Where to stay in Grebbestad, Sweden: Tanumstrand

Discover all the best stops in West Sweden .

Day 6 Highlights

• King’s Cleft Hike
• Weather Islands tour

Day 7 – Oslo, Norway

From Grebbestad, it is about a 2-hour drive to Oslo, Norway. On your first day in Oslo, you will want to visit the National Museum, Slottsplassen, the Nobel Peace Center and Frogner Park. Have dinner that night along Karls Johans Gate.

When you arrive in Oslo, you will want to drop off your rental car, and then drop off your luggage at the hotel.

I recommend staying somewhere near the Central Train Station and getting an Oslo Pass. It will save you a ton of money if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions in Oslo.

• Where to stay in Oslo, Norway: Scandic Byporten
• Alternative hotel also near the train station: Comfort Hotel Grand C e ntral

Reserve your Oslo Pass

Day 7 Highlights

• National Museum
• Karls Johans Gate
• Nobel Peace Center
• Frogner Park

Day 8 – Oslo, Norway

There is so much to do in Oslo that if you have the time, you could spend 3 or 4 days exploring the city. Your second day will primarily be spent on the Bygdøy peninsula.

You can take an Oslofjord tour that morning, which departs near the Olso City Hall and the city’s famous opera house.

From there, you’ll ferry over to the peninsula to check out the Fram Museum, Kon-Tiki Museum, Viking Museum, and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History.

If you aren’t a big fan of museums, you can pick and choose which ones you want to visit, but I’d definitely recommend the Fram and Cultural History museums.

In the afternoon, you’ll want to catch a train to the suburb of Holmenkollen to see the Olympic Ski Jump and Ski Museum. It’s a great place to watch the sunset over the Oslofjord.

Check out our full Oslo itinerary and read more about the Oslo attractions we recommend.

Day 8 Highlights

• Oslo City Hall
• Oslo Opera House
• Fram Museum
• Viking Ship Museum (reopening in 2025)
• Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
• Holmenkollen

Day 9 Flam, Norway

On the ninth day of your 12-day Scandinavia tour you’ll catch an early train to Flam. This is a popular route that is part of the “Norway in a Nutshell” Package.

The train ride takes roughly 6 hours. You’ll change trains in Myrdal to board a smaller tourist train on the Flam Railway.

It is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. When in Flam, you can hike to the Brekkefossen waterfall or kayak through the fjord.

You’ll want to spend at least one night in Flam, however if you have more time, this is another wonderful place to connect with nature and unplug.

• Where to stay in Flam, Norway: Brekke Apartments
• Alternative hotel with a bit more luxury (and a closer walk from the train station): Flamsbrygga Hotel

Check out all the great things to do in Flam .

Day 9 Highlights

• Flam Railway
• Brekkefossen hike

Day 10 – Norway fjord cruise

The best way to experience the Norway fjords is by water. A fjord cruise will take you from Flam to Gudvangen.

The 3 hour cruise takes you past countless waterfalls and gives you incredible views of one of the most stunning fjords in Norway. After the fjord cruise, you’ll board a luxury bus to the town of Voss.

The bus ride is equally picturesque and winds through steep canyons surrounded by mountains.

In Voss, you will transfer once again to a train that will take you to Bergen. All transportation on this day is also included in the “Norway in a Nutshell” package.

Book your Norway in a Nutshell package .

Day 10 Highlights

• Fjord Cruise and bus to Bergen

Day 11 – Bergen, Norway

You’ll have a few hours on day 10 to explore Bergen, but day 11 will be spent exploring all the city has to offer. You’ll want to see Bryggen, the Bergen fish market, and take the Fløibanen funicular and/or the Ulriken cable car to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

If you plan to do some hiking in Norway, Bergen is a great place to base yourself and you’ll want to pad the end of your itinerary with an extra day or so and do a day trip to hike some of Norway’s famous Trolltunga hiking trail.

• Where to stay in Bergen: Hotel Oleana
• Luxury hotel on the old wharf: Clarion Hotel Admiral

Day 11 Highlights

• Bergen Fish Market
• Fløibanen Funicular
• Ulriken Cable Car

Day 12 – Bergen, Norway

Finally, say goodbye to Scandinavia. Your 12-day experience in Scandinavia comes to an end. Depending on where you are from, you will fly out in the morning, afternoon, or evening to head home.

Spend your final hours shopping for those necessary souvenirs you won’t want to leave without, or if you have the time and like famous European churches , head to Fantoft to see a historical stave church.

Get more ideas of things to do in Bergen .

Day 12 Highlights

• Gamle Strandgaten -or-
• Fantoft Stave Church

Best way to get around Scandinavia

This is one of those trips that requires utilizing every single mode of transportation, trains, a rental car, bus, and a ferry.

You’ll have to take a train from Copenhagen to Gothenburg and rent a car in Gothenburg to explore the coast. That is really the only way to visit the quaint fishing villages along the coast.

Then you will travel by train, ferry and bus across Norway to see the fjords. But don’t worry, booking all those different modes of transportation doesn’t have to be difficult.

You can book all of your transportation across Norway by purchasing the Norway in a Nutshell package. Your rental car can be reserved here , and you can book your train from Copenhagen to Gothenburg here .

How much does a 12-day trip to Scandinavia cost?

If you’ve done any research about Scandinavia or the Nordic countries you probably already know that it is expensive.

We are neither luxury nor budget travelers. Like most families traveling with kids, we travel on a moderate-budget and book mid-range accommodations.

Comfort and convenience are important to us. We may splurge for a hotel or apartment in the right location, but eat street food instead of dining in restaurants.

For 12 days in Scandinavia during the off-season, not including flights, our family of three spent approximately $4,000 USD. That covered lodging, transportation, food, admission to attractions, and small souvenirs. Luckily, we got a great deal on our flights, too. Of course, this was several years ago, and with the cost of inflation, I’d definitely plan to budget about $6,000 USD if we did the same trip today.

I typically don’t discuss money or the amount we spend traveling, but in the interest of full disclosure and to help you plan effectively for your trip, I thought cost was an important part of the equation to include.

However, how much you’ll spend in 12 days in Scandinavia can vary greatly depending on how many people you are traveling with, the time of year you go, where you stay and eat, and what activities you add to this itinerary.

FAQs about traveling in Scandinavia

It’s only natural to have questions when planning a trip to Scandinavia – or anywhere else for that matter. Here are a few of the other most frequently asked questions that we have gotten about travel in Scandinavia.

How many days do you need for Scandinavia?

How many days you need in Scandinavia depends on what all you want to do and see there.

While you can easily follow this 12 Day Scandinavia itinerary and enjoy yourself, if you add an extra week to the itinerary, you can visit Stockholm or make your way up into the Arctic Circle and the Lapland in northern Sweden and northern Norway. And depending on the time of year, you might even get to see the Northern Lights!

What is the best month to visit Scandinavia?

Because Scandinavia sits so far north, the weather is most pleasant during the summer months. However, with the pleasant temperatures comes larger crowds. 

But, if you visit in early May or early September, you will miss most of the crowds and still have decent weather, although long sleeves and layers will likely be needed. 

Winter is cold and dark in Scandinavia, but your odds of seeing the bucket list-worthy Aurora Borealis from late fall to early spring is really good.

Have you visited Denmark, Sweden, or Norway? What would you add to this Scandinavia 12-day itinerary (besides 12 more days)?

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1 comment on “The Ultimate Scandinavia Itinerary | 12 Full Days, 6 Fantastic Stops”

Lovely post on the north countries…Enjoyed all the good information.

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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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Anjali Chawla

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

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

Hey Fernando!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Travels!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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9 Day Scandinavian Road Trip Itinerary

I bought a Volvo through the overseas delivery program. This means that even though I live in the United States, I had a car, my car, to drive around Scandinavia for up to two weeks. I had the privilege of taking this trip with my father and one of my sons. We picked the car up in Gothenburg, Sweden. The possibilities of what to use our time for seemed endless, but we decided the thing we most wanted to experience were Norwegian fjords, so we headed toward Norway to make our Scandinavian road trip dreams come true.

We had a little over a week to explore Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, so we made our plan for a 9-Day Scandinavian road trip. We concentrated on Norway since that was the county that most intrigued us. Enjoy planning your road trip around Sweden, Denmark, and Norway.

Table of Contents

Day 1: Start in Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenberg was a bit off of our radar, but we came to pick up my Volvo at the factory. We were delighted that we had a chance to experience the waterfront of this western Sweden city. We had nine days to explore Europe with the car. It is the perfect starting point for a loop trip around western Sweden , central and southern Norway , and Denmark .

We stayed the night at the Clarion Post Hotel , lovely and ideally located for exploring Gothenburg on foot.

You can read more about the first three days of my trip in Exploring the Coast of Western Sweden .

Day 2: Drive through Western Sweden to Oslo, Norway

Our drive up Sweden’s coastline provided stops at an exciting stone burial ship and castle. We especially enjoyed exploring the gorgeous medieval town of Fredrikstad, Norway.

We then drove on to Oslo, where we stayed at the Oslo Thon Hotel , which had an excellent breakfast buffet and is located right near the Opera House. (3 1/2 hour drive time)

Day 3: Explore Oslo, Norway Followed By an Evening Drive to Flam

From our hotel, it was an easy walk through downtown to the palace. Most of the museums are farther away from the town center but are worth a visit. (4 1/2 hour drive time)

Day 4: Explore Flam, Norway

Our time exploring around Flam was my favorite day on the trip. We stayed at the  Flåmsbrygga Hotel right on Norway’s longest fjord.

Day 5: Drive to Bergen, Norway

We took the long way to Bergen because we wanted to chase waterfalls. We saw some incredible ones and a pretty unbelievable public restroom. Read about exploring the nearby Waterfalls Valley . Nowhere did I more understand how Norway became associated with trolls then by hiking through the moss-covered rocks among the brightly colored saxifrage flowers in these mountains. (3-hour drive including a fabulous ten hairpin road under a waterfall)

Day 6: Explore Bergen, Norway and Drive to Stavanger, Norway

These two seaside towns on the western coast of Norway were fun to explore. Our favorite part was taking the funicular to the top of Bergen. The view was outstanding, and there are the sweetest goats at the top! We stayed at the Bergen Thon , which was fine and close to town, but if I visited again, I would splurge and stay in at the  Radisson Blu Royal Hotel , which is right on the harbor. (4 Hour drive to Stavanger).

Day 7: Explore Stavanger, Norway, and Take an Overnight Ferry to Denmark

We wanted to break up the drive to Stavanger, so stayed overnight at the Grand Hotell in Stord . Stavanger surprised us. It was just the easiest place for us to catch a ferry, but it has a lot to offer about how Norwegians immigrated to the United States and the petroleum and canning industry. The ferry ride was very convenient, like a cruise ship with hundreds of cars below. After a good night’s sleep, we woke up in Hirtshals, Denmark. (10-hour ferry ride)

Day 8: Drive through Denmark to Copenhagen

It is a 4-hour drive to Copenhagen, and you get a chance to see the farms and forests of Denmark. Read more about our time in Copenhagen, viewing the spring colors at Tivoli Gardens , one of the world’s oldest amusement parks.

Day 9: Visit Hamlet’s Castle, then Take a Ferry to Sweden.

Kronberg Castle is just one hour north of Copenhagen. We stayed at the Stand & Badehotel Marienlyst  in Helsingør. Although it was hard to find, the decor in the rooms is among the prettiest I have ever seen, and the buffet breakfast right on the water was unbelievable! The ferry back to Sweden only takes about 30 minutes, and the drive back to Gothenburg is less than 2 hours.

Riding Ferries in Scandinavia

We are water-loving, boat people who found all the different ferries one of the most exciting parts of the trip. They are deceptive from the outside- they hold so many cars and big trucks. The cafes on-board provide a perfectly timed pit stop, and they often saved us hours of driving. Talk about lunch with a view! They all accepted credit cards, and only the overnight ferry required a reservation.

How is it Driving in Scandinavia?

Other than there being a lot of construction in Norway, Scandinavia is a delight to drive in. The roads are very well-maintained, wide, single, or double-landed highways— really one of the easiest areas in the world in which to drive.

And you will drive through some neat and long tunnels in Norway. The Lærdalstunnelen right outside of Bergen is over 15 miles long, perhaps the biggest traffic tunnel in the world!

What are the Costs of a Scandinavian Road Trip?

Although Norway produces a majority of the gasoline in the world, Norway’s fuel is the most expensive in the world due to the high taxes! It must be how they pay for the excellent roads. Sweden is the fourth highest, so it will still eat up a lot of your budget.

Sweden and Norway also have toll roads. The tolls are all taken with cameras, so you need to set up a toll pass online, preferably before you start driving. Volvo paid our tolls in Sweden. You can deal with yours here —register as a foreign driver in Norway here, which will also pay for your Norway ferry charges.

Look for your rental car here:  Compare Car Rental Rates in Norway .

Possible add-ons to your road trip

I am pleased with the choices that we made for spending our time in Scandinavia. If I had more time, I would do the following:

• Explore Stockholm. I have never been to this capital of Sweden and hope to one day, but it is a 7-hour drive from Gothenberg, and I had my sights set in the other direction on Norway! When in Stockholm, I would love to explore the Stockholm City Hall and learn more about the government there.
• Spend more time in Norway and travel north. We waited until the last moment in Bergen to decide not to do this. The main reason we chose to go south was the freak April snowstorm that hit while we were in Flam. By April, I am so done with snow.
• Climb to Troll’s Tongue or Trolltunga. This 5-hour hike to an outcrop dangling high over a fjord is not too far from Stavanger in southern Norway. Neither my 70-year old father nor 10-year old son was up for this hike, but I would love to return to do it.

In only over a week, we saw stone circles, cute fishing villages on the Norwegian, Baltic, and North Seas, snow-covered mountains, fjords, and one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. It was one of the best road trips I have taken. I hope this Scandinavia road trip itinerary helps you make your Scandinavia road trip dreams come true!

Where have you taken your favorite road trip? Please let me know in the comments.

If you liked it, please share it. Thank you!

32 thoughts on “9 Day Scandinavian Road Trip Itinerary”

I love this road trip, and will definitely be using this itinerary for planning! Than you so much for sharing this epic adventure

Have a great time on your adventure, Bruce!

I’m so glad I found your site & itinerary. My family will be taking advantage of the Volvo overseas delivery program this summer. Did you pass any glaciers during your travels? We’re wanting to walk up to or get really close to a glacier but will be traveling with an infant which disqualifies Glacier hiking. The Nigardsbreen glacier seems like too much of a detour but I’m not sure if the Fjaerland glacier is one that you see in the distance or if you’re able to get close. Thanks for documenting your adventure!

How fun, Crystal? What car are you getting? We did not see any glaciers that I knew of on this trip, although I did in Iceland. Have a great time!

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I first read this to learn more about Gothenburg, but then saw that you helped answer other questions of mine. My husband and I are flying into Copenhagen towards the end of June and spending a quick 8 days driving through 4 countries. We plan to stay one night in Gothenburg, and hope to do a night somewhere along the southern Norwegian coast so that the next morning we can catch a ferry to Hirtshals and proceed south to Hamburg and finally back to Copenhagen. So my question for you is….. did you ever have a desire to ride a European train? We are trying to decide if we will rent a car the entire time or only part of the time. You mention has expensive gasoline is…. so I am guessing that train fare may actually save us money as would NOT having to drive a car onto a ferry. What do you think? Thanks so much, Maggie

Maggie- We went on this trip for the main purpose of using our car, so didn’t explore trains. At one point I looked into going to Stockholm and would have left the car in Gothenburg to do that, because the train there was faster and inexpensive. I have taken trains through Italy, France, Austria and Germany and it has been a great way to travel. It is definitely worth comparing. Have a fabulous trip.

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I have never heard of this overseas delivery program, and honestly it sounds like the most amazing perk to buying a car EVER. But even without that, I have been really wanting to explore Scandinavia, but unable to choose just one area to base myself. Maybe this is seriously what I need to do! This is an awesome itinerary.

Good luck. I hope you get there soon!

This Volvo overseas delivery program is new to me, and I have to say it is pretty interesting concept ! What a smart way to incentivise customers to buy Volvo ! Will certainly check out the price offers in my country ! =p From your photos, I guess Norway is my favourite ! Love the nature trail at Stalheimfossen ! Also, those colourful houses at Nyhaven is so cute ! Love to plan a Scandinavian road trip some day ! =)

This Scandinavian road trip looks amazing! I’ve only ever been to Stockholm and I fell in love with the minimalistic vibes and Nordic environment! I dream of visiting Bergen, Norway and this road trip looks like it shows the best of the best.

It’s nice to hear about some of the smaller or lesser-known places, especially Flam, which I’d never heard of before. I would have loved some more information about the places though, particularly about the history or the stone burial ship

What an informative itinerary you have put together. I have been to all these places but only by plan though I would really like to do a road trip through Scandinavian like this one. So I can take everything in more and go at my own pace. Thanks for the tips about the trolls too because I would have never known and would get caught with a fee.

How did you get around last time?

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Was wondering what time of year you did this- I didn’t sure it in there but might have missed. We are taking a sort of last minute planned trip early November and wanted to see if there was a possibility to plan a similar itinerary?

We did our road trip in April.

We too are buying our Volvo through Overseas Delivery, this June. Thanks for all the ideas. We may spend 14 days in Sweden and perhaps a bit in Norway. Scenic drives, beautiful hotels, and exploring cities by foot are what we have in mind.

Have an amazing trip! BTW we still love our Volvo as much as we did five years ago!

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Three Days in Bergen: The Perfect Introduction to Norway

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Norway. One of the most beautiful countries in the world. One of the most expensive countries in the world. A unique and cold and clear and precise destination — yet one that until recently had been out of my price range.

But I finally had an opportunity. Norwegian Air is now flying to New York, and at this time, I’ve found it to be the cheapest way to get across the Atlantic. I booked myself two one-way flights: London to Bergen for about $75 (not including luggage) and Bergen to New York three days later for about $350 (not including luggage).

A three-day trip to Bergen would be the perfect opportunity to get a taste of what Norway had to offer.

Once I had booked my flights, I reached out to Visit Norway and they offered to host me in Bergen for a few days, providing me with accommodation, a Norway in a Nutshell day tour , and a Bergen city press pass.

It turns out that three days is the ideal amount of time to visit Bergen. Being a small city, you can cover its main attractions on foot and still have time left over, yet not so much time that you get bored. I spent my first day sightseeing, my second day on a self-guided Norway in a Nutshell tour , and my third day relaxing and exploring on foot before jumping on the bus to the airport.

Table of Contents

A Beautiful Waterfront City

Bergen’s old town is built right on the water and on the edge of mountains. In my opinion, it’s one of the world’s most beautifully situated cities (along with Cape Town and Sydney!).

One of my greatest pleasures in traveling is simply wandering and getting a feel for the place. (Though if you’d rather learn more from a guide, there are plenty of city walking tours .) Here’s what you might see on a walk through Bergen.

Wandering Bergen made my heart swell with happiness. It made me realize how much I adore the Nordic countries — their beauty, their design, their architecture, their colors.

Things to Do in Bergen

Bergen’s most famous site is the Bryggen — its World Heritage-listed Hanseatic wharf, whose brightly painted wooden buildings have been standing for hundreds of years.

The Bryggen is a beautiful place to explore. Try to see it from the inside, too.

Catch it at different times of day if you can. The light is beautiful.

The Fish Market is located right by the Bryggen and is a nice place to window-shop or grab a bite to eat. They sell far more than just fish! Just keep in mind that this is one of the biggest tourist attractions in town and thus extremely overpriced, even by Norwegian standards.

Whale steak, anyone?

I didn’t partake this time around, though I did try whale in Iceland a few years ago.

I was extremely  disappointed that the Leprosy Museum was closed — it’s only open from May through August.

But I did discover its pretty courtyard.

There are two options to view Bergen from above: the Fløibanen Funicular and the Mount Ulriken Cable Car .

The Fløibanen Funicular is located in the center of town and a short journey to the top. The view is pictured above.

The cable car is about a 20-minute drive outside of town, and the ticket includes a ride from near the Fish Market. I went in the afternoon, and as you can see, it was the worst time for light. Go early in the day for better photos. The light was perfect in the other direction, though!

Want more of a workout? Consider hiking up Mount Floyen. You can join a guided hike  or rent a bike to explore on your own .

Between the two of them, I preferred the Fløibanen Funicular. Even though it didn’t go as high, I thought the view was prettier and being right in the center of town, it was less of a journey to get there.

Finally, I allowed myself one splurge — a four-course dinner with wine pairings at To Kokker , a restaurant literally inside the Bryggen. The place feels like a time capsule, with low ceilings and slanted wooden floors.

If you ever head far north, you have to try reindeer. It’s my favorite exotic meat — rich yet lean and extremely tender. At To Kokker, the best course was an absurdly soft reindeer steak in a berry and brown cheese sauce. Also on the menu: elk carpaccio, mussels and turbot, and panna cotta.

Still, though, I’m not sure I would recommend it unless you’re really into food. It’s pricey at 395/595 NOK ($60/91 USD), though I had a 50% press discount) and though it was delicious, it wasn’t quite the rhapsody I expected. I’d rather spend big bucks on a meal in France, Italy, or Spain.

Cafe-Hopping

One of my priorities when traveling is to get in some cafe time. Taking a break with a coffee is my favorite way to decompress in between rounds of sightseeing. Popping into Starbucks will get the job done, but I’d rather find an independent cafe if possible.

When I walked past  Bar Barista , I had to go in. I mean, look at it!

Despite the lack of wifi, it was a cool spot to take a break. Nice soundtrack, too — the owner is passionate about vinyl records.

Another cafe I loved was the very Nordic Kaffemisjonen . They served one of the best lattes I’ve ever had. With a side of wifi.

Norway in a Nutshell

I spent a full day on the Norway in a Nutshell tour, taking in the most beautiful landscapes in western Norway’s fjords by train, boat, and bus. If you’re in Norway for a limited time, this is the absolute best way to get a taste of the country’s dramatic landscapes in a single day.

More from Norway in a Nutshell:

Norway’s Fjords in Photos

Scenes from the Flåm Railway

You can see my fjord cruise photos here ; above is a photo from the Flåm Railway.

How much does it cost to travel to Norway?

Two years ago, I was in Stockholm and aghast at how expensive everything was. As I chomped away on my $18 margherita pizza, two older couples at a nearby table were laughing, eating, and ordering bottle after bottle of wine.

“They’re from Norway,” the waiter told me. “They come here because it’s so cheap.”

?!?!?!!!?!!

That, right there, gives you an idea of just how expensive Norway is.

Here are some of the costs I paid:

• One-way ticket on the Flybus (Bergen Airport to Bergen city, about 20 minutes): 90 NOK, or $14 USD
• Raspberry smoothie at a cafe: 66 NOK, or $10 USD
• Cup of berries at the market: 39 NOK, or $6 USD
• Four-course meal with wine pairings at To Kokker: 595 NOK, or $91 USD
• Bottle of water at the train station: 27 NOK, or $4 USD
• Reindeer burger and cappuccino at a casual restaurant in Flåm: 192 NOK, or $29 USD
• Toilet at the train station: 10 NOK, or $1.50 USD
• Two cheeseburgers and a small fries at McDonald’s (no judgment!): 49 NOK, or $7.50 USD
• Double latte at a cafe: 49 NOK, or $7.50 USD
• Hot dog and water at a convenience store: 52 NOK, or $8 USD

I found Norway to be the most expensive place I’ve been in Europe, even more expensive than Switzerland, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland. That said, I found it to be worth it — for a short weekend trip in a city as beautiful as Bergen, anyway!

I stayed at the Thon Hotel Bristol , a beautiful mid-range city center hotel that I loved. With low-season rates starting at about $170 per night and high-season rates much higher, it would have been out of my price range if I hadn’t been hosted (then again, most nice city center hotels are out of my price range); however, if it’s in your price range, I highly recommend it.

The cheapest city center accommodation in Bergen’s city center I could find is at the Bergen YMCA , where dorms start at about $30 USD; Marken Gjesthus is a more upmarket hostel with dorms from around $40 USD and doubles from around $110 USD.

Bergan has an excellent selection of rentals on Airbnb. See all Bergen’s Airbnb rentals here.

A three-day trip to Norway will do considerably less damage to your wallet than a two-week trip. With all there is to do in Bergen, I couldn’t think of a better destination to try Norway out for the first time.

Bergen: The Takeaway

Bergen is one of my new favorite cities of Europe, and if I fly Norwegian Air again, I see myself working in another stopover here in the future! Three days was the perfect amount of time to explore it.

If you’re in Europe — or even in New York, if you don’t mind a seven-hour flight and six-hour time difference — I recommend that you consider Bergen for a long weekend trip. I hope you love it as much as I did.

READ NEXT: Copenhagen in Photos

Essential Info: If you’re interested in doing lots of sightseeing in Bergen, consider the Bergen Card , which includes free or discounted admission to many sites in town. The card costs 260/200 NOK ($40/$30.50 USD) for 48/24 hours for adults and 100/75 NOK ($15/$11.50 USD) for 48/24 hours for children. I recommend adding up the costs of the places you want to visit and seeing if it’s cheaper with a card. I highly recommend traveling with a digital guidebook on my own. I use Lonely Planet guides and recommend Lonely Planet Norway — you can buy just the Bergen chapter if you’d like! The Bryggen and the Fish Market are free to visit. The Leprosy Museum is open from May through August only. Admission is 70 NOK ($11 USD) for adults, 35 NOK ($5 USD) for students, and free for children. The Fløibanen Funicular costs 85/43 NOK ($13/$6.50 USD) round-trip/one-way for adults and 43/22 NOK ($6.50/$3 USD) round-trip/one-way for kids. You can also walk up a paved path for free. The Mount Ulriken Cable Car costs 150/90 NOK ($23/$14 USD) round-trip/one-way for adults and 80/50 NOK ($12/8 USD) round-trip/one-way for kids. You can also hike up for free, but keep in mind that this is a mountain you’re climbing. The ticket includes a transfer from the city center, near the Fish Market. Prix fixe menus at To Kokker start at 395/595 NOK ($60/91 USD) for a four-course meal without/with wine pairings. The  Norway in a Nutshell  tour includes a train ride on the Flåm Railway, a cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen through the Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nærøyfjord, and a bus ride down 14 hairpin turns in the countryside, plus train transportation from your departure point. The tour runs from Bergen, Voss, or Oslo, though it’s closest to Voss and Bergen and runs year-round from those cities. The tour costs 1145 NOK ($178 USD) from Bergen, 775 NOK ($120 USD) from Voss, 1550 NOK ($241) as a one-way trip from Oslo to Bergen or vice versa (keep in mind that you’ll need to carry your bags throughout), and 2100 NOK ($326) from Oslo. I stayed at the Thon Hotel Bristol , where low-season rates start at about $170 USD.  Find deals on hotels in Bergen here . See all Bergen’s Airbnb rentals here. Don’t visit Norway without travel insurance. It could save you if you get ill, injured, or lose your luggage. I use and recommend  World Nomads  for trips to Norway.

Many thanks to  Visit Norway  for hosting me in Norway. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Have you been to Norway? Is Bergen your kind of city?

The complete guide to traveling Scandinavia

Scandinavia

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

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

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

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

 SCANDINAVIA TRIP COSTS

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

TRANSPORTATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOOD AND ALCOHOL

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

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

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

ACCOMMODATION

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

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

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

CITY PASSES

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

WHEN TO VISIT

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

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

MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO

1.the northern lights, sweden and norway.

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

2. The Royal Palace Drottningholm, Sweden

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

3. The Fjords of Norway

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

4. The little mermaid, Denmark

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

5. Christiania, Denmark

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

6. Bergen, Norway

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

7. Lapland, Sweden

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

8. Scandinavian food

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

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

9. Briksdal Glacieer, Norway

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

10. Stockholm

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

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

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2 Week Scandinavian Itinerary: Everything you need to know to visit Sweden, Denmark, Amsterdam, & Norway!

I don’t know about you, but when I think of Scandinavia, the first thing that comes to mind is SUPER tall, blonde hair, blue eyed beauties! And let me be clear, they are EVERYWHERE over there, it’s like heaven! I mean….if you’re into that sort of thing (wink wink). My best friend and I recently traveled throughout Scandinavia for two weeks and it was amazing! I wanted to share a few of my favorite photo memories and stops as we made our way through Sweden, Denmark, Amsterdam, and Norway.

This was one of my all time favorite trips, so I had to share how I felt about traveling to Scandinavia! I loved it so much, I am now using Rosetta Stone to learn how to speak Swedish. #obsessed

Check out my 2 week Scandinavian adventure and everything. you must see and do when you visit Sweden, Denmark, Amsterdam, & Norway!

First stop: copenhagen, denmark.

We stumbled into a random restaurant thinking we could, like America, just sit somewhere. Not the case with Manfreds, but as luck would have it, it was between meals and this Michelin Star had us seated with a glass of wine and tasting menu for two in no time. This place is a MUST SEE. Chef’s Christian F. Puglisi and Kim Rossen, who own many local favorites (Relae & NOMA), opened Manfreds in 2010 and is one of the worlds only veggie focused restaurants, famous for its raw meat.

Tivoli Gardens is a great place to stop with the family – OR – for those of us who love the thrill of a rollercoaster and sweet smell of fresh cotton candy. With it’s beautiful gardens, loads of sweet treats, and rides for adults and children alike; Tivoli is a great way to spend the afternoon.

Garden shot at Tivoli

Aarhus, Denmark

Three and a half hours on a train heading NW, we arrived in Aarhus, Denmark , at the most beautiful hotel in the center of the city. Hotel Guldsmeden  is the place to stay in Aarhus, which is the 2nd largest city in Denmark. The city also houses the University of Aarhus, giving it a vibrant mix of youthful energy!

A few quick steps out of the hotel, and we were off to explore the city of Aarhus.  Aarhus stops included:  Langhoff & Juul , AROS Museum , and many of the quaint local restaurants who happened to be packed due to the annual Aarhus Festival .   The AROS Museum was incredible! The contemporary art museum featured works from Robert Mapplethorpe , The 9 Spaces , Meriç Ringbor , and the AROS famous Rainbow Panorama !

The Rainbow Panorama is an elevated walkway featuring every color of the rainbow and city views for miles!

One of my favorite parts about exploring a new city, is walking around its streets without a map. We found so many unique streets, like the one above, each leading to a new part of the city and opening doors to an entirely new experience. Once we walked through this passage way, we found ourselves sitting in on a local flamenco dance performance. It was WILD! We stuck out like sore thumbs, and the entire show was spoken in Dutch. We just nodded our heads and clapped when we were supposed to, it was a truly unforgettable moment! Shortly after, we found ourselves at the Aarhus Festival, listening to live music and dancing the night away. To say that Aarhus is a must see, is an understatement!

While not totally considered to be in Scandinavia, we couldn’t get this close and not make a much needed  pot  pit stop! We stayed in the heart of the Red Light District, which in hindsight, was completely by accident but totally worked out! Hovering right above one of the many canals, it made the perfect spot for people watching. Check out our  Airbnb  for your next trip.

Merchandizing is on point here with the Nutella placed directly below the “goods.”  Well played Amsterdam, well played!

While Amsterdam in my mind is all about  weed  partying, there are some really awesome things to check out while you’re in town. We stayed for 4 days and stumbled into some amazing finds:  Van Gough Museum ,  Vondel Park , Red Light Secret Museum, explaining the history behind prostitution, Shopping in the  Nine Streets ;  OU. Boutique  was my favorite,   Moco Museum  featuring Andy Warhol and Banksy,  Anne Frank House , Boozey Canal Tours and much more! Did I mention this was Fashion Week in Amsterdam?! We were lucky enough to stumble upon and get access to the Elle Style Awards after party at  Wink  , it was UNREAL! After we entered the party we met up with some of the tallest men I’ve ever encountered. #heaven

Quintessential I AMsterdam shot. What you might not know, is the meaning behind this touristy structure and phrase. The phrase represents the people of Amsterdam. It shows the pride, confidence and dedication to the city and its cultures. It’s a personal endorsement for the city and what makes it so unique.

A few highlights, I remember seeing Dorothy on the side of the truck by Banksy in the Moco Museum.  I also found the raddest bookstore I’ve ever been to (pictured above). They had magazines I’ve never heard of, travel magazines from around the world. I purchased my new favorite called  Drift , featuring Stockholm, our last stop, and all it has to offer by way of Fika. Time to study up.

This picture was taken just outside the Anne Frank House, which was an experience I will never forget and a book that everyone should read. Anne Frank was an incredible young lady, inspiring people form a young age and continuing to inspire long after her short life with us. If you haven’t read  Diary of a Young Girl , read it, it’s a life changer!

Thanks for the memories Amsterdam, here we come Norway!!

Oslo, Norway

I have so many pictures of this beautiful city, it was hard to choose which ones to share. Our first night was a no brainer,  Fjord Sunset Cruise.  Especially since after just stumbling on it (Thanks Google), we’d heard this Mother/Daughter group planned over a year ago, to make this specific sunset cruise. #winning The sunset was spectacular and we were served a traditional Norwegian cuisine of fresh prawns and buttered bread. Heaven!

The Oslo Opera House from the water. #WAR was the exhibit

Picture form the top of the Oslo Opera House the next day. The clouds make this shot almost heavenly. It felt like you were close! Hours later, we had our butts in the seats inside watching our first opera. Thank goodness for subtitles!

Last stop on this fantastic adventure has forever been my dream! Sweden still sits at the top of my list and Stockholm is by far my favorite city so far in Europe!

Stockholm, Sweden

Saved the BEST for last! Side note, this was the BEST Airbnb experience I’ve ever had. Amazing location, had a blast with the owner and hands down would recommend staying  here  to anyone staying in the city!

Okay, so I am not usually one for pastries BUT Swedish pastries are some of the best I’ve ever had! Specifically, in Stockholm the phrase often used is “Ska vi fika” meaning “lets take a break.” Locals are known to fika 3-4 times everyday. America, let’s take a lesson here!

Stockholm has dozens of quaint neighborhoods, each with it’s own personality. The neighborhoods are separated by water ways, making it yet another wonderful city privy to boat tours. Gamla Stan is considered Stockholm’s old town and has the most beautiful architecture filled with history and ready to explore.

Stockholm is a walking city with every neighborhood presenting a different side, each turn can be mesmerizing! I could spend hours wandering the streets and popping into restaurants for wine and fika! So many wonderful places to go and to see in Stockholm. Here are a few of my favorites:  Sturehof Restaurant , fantastic food with a chefs tasting menu of all the local favorites. Best fika (per me and my Drift book):  Cafe Pascal  & my personal favorite,  Johan & Nyström .

A few of the treats you MUST not miss out on during your fika break: Cardamon Bun (seriously like crack, phenomenal), Pistashio Cake, Haga and you MUST overdose on “chokladbollar” or better know as chocolate/coconut balls! Trust me, you need nothing else!

We took a 2 hour tour (I just sang the Gilligan’s Island theme song) throughout Stockholm, which I would highly recommend as it’s also narrated and provides a lot of history behind the beautiful city and its culture.

Outside of the fabulous shopping that can be found sprinkled throughout downtown there are a few places that you should definitely peak your head into,  Haymarket Hotel  is GORGEOUS and has a super swanky bar called  Paul’s  inside with an awesome atmosphere. I also recommend dinner at  Grill , which was fantastic and had a really cute interior with a warm and welcoming feel.

This was the trip of a lifetime for me! There is not one thing I would change about our Scandinavian adventure. I’m in love with Sweden and hope to be back again, speaking fluently of course, very soon!

Never stop exploring!

A GA peach living life on the West coast! San Francisco > Seattle!!! A little about me... Retails best friend, crazed beauty treatment aficionado, lover of all things wine, chocoholic and sugar feen, running and pilates nut, that loves life, loves to travel, enjoys making new friends and spending time with family.

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Scandinavia itinerary — how to make a best itinerary for scandinavia for 8 days.

Fairytale Nordic land with picturesque forests, thousands of magnificent lakes, Viking heritage. Not only that, with only 4 countries with tall, blond people, IKEA and fashion, Scandinavia is the perfect destination for a trip that combines majestic nature with art , architecture, cuisine and long history. So, how to make the best itinerary for Scandinavia? Let’s check out our suggested Scandinavia travel itinerary (Scandinavia itinerary, Scandinavia trip itinerary) for 8 days 7 nights (Scandinavia itinerary 7 days) to help you plan a memorial trip to explore the Nordic region!

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• Copenhagen travel blog — The fullest Copenhagen travel guide for a great budget trip for the first-timers
• 1 day in Copenhagen — Copenhagen 1 day itinerary & how to spend 24 hours in Copenhagen pefectly?

Nordic travel itinerary

The basic Scandinavia trip itinerary of 8 days going through the Nordic countries of Scandinavia can be summarized as follows:

• Day 1-3: Arrive in Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark
• Day 3-4: Copenhagen – Oslo
• Day 4-5: Oslo – Bergen
• Day 5-6: Bergen – Alesund
• Day 6-8: Alesund – Stockholm

Scandinavia itinerary—Day 1: Copenhagen

You come to Copenhagen in the morning, check in at your hotel (you should book a room close to Nyhavn) central area and not too far from shopping areas and old town.

Then stroll the famous Strøget shopping street, starting at Copenhagen’s City Hall and walking through Kongens Nytrov until you reach the Nyhavn area. It is a beautiful pedestrian street that blends with the rhythm of the bustling city of Copenhagen, which is always full of locals and tourists alike.

There are many nice cafes, bars and small shops along this street. The end point of the walk is the beautiful Nyhavn waterfront, where outdoor restaurants are lined up on one side and boats dock on the other. At the same time, both sides are colorful houses with Scandinavian architecture. You can enjoy street food or have dinner at restaurants right next to the Nyhavn canal.

Scandinavia trip itinerary: Day 2: Copenhagen

Today will be a long day of walking to explore Copenhagen, a small city that is easy to experience without the need to take the train or other public transport. Starting from Town Hall, then downtown spots include Christiansborg Palace, Royal Library, Catholic Church, Christiania, Danish Resistance Museum, Amalienborg Palace, Mermaid Statue, Citadel of Copenhagen, Rosenberg Castle and the Round Tower.

Walking through central Copenhagen allows you to experience the history, culture and vibrant life of the city. Quite a few bars, cafes, restaurants are decorated with eye-catching decorations. The old quarters with typical Scandinavian architecture always attract people to take pictures.

Scandinavia itinerary—Day 3: Oslo

On the morning of the Day 3, wake up, have breakfast and go to the airport for a flight to Oslo. In Oslo , you should choose a centrally located hotel like Hotel Perminalen . Review the main attractions you will going to and the trip itinerary.

The first spot to visit is to take the ferry to the Viking Museum. From the bus stop near the museum, you can go to Vigeland Park to admire hundreds of life-size sculptures of the great Norwegian sculptor – Gustav Vigeland.

This area is ideal for you to walk around and experience the most famous places in Oslo. These include Slottet (Oslo palace), Stortinget (Norway’s supreme legislative assembly), and Oslo City Hall. All are located along Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s main street, named after King Charles III John who was once King of Sweden.

In the late afternoon you can watch the Opera House at sunset, which offers a beautiful view of the Nordic sky. Then a sumptuous dinner in Oslo’s main street.

Best itinerary for Scandinavia: Day 4: From Oslo to Bergen (Norway in a nutshell tour)

After checking out of the hotel, you go to Oslo’s Central Station to catch the train to Myrdal. At Myrdal, change train to Flam and then take a ferry to Gudvangen. From Gudvangen, take the bus to Voss, then take the train back to Bergen.

Day 4 evening in beautiful Bergen , Norway’s second largest city. There is so much to explore here with picturesque old streets, nooks and crannies, colorful houses. In the late afternoon you can take the cable car up to Mount Fløyen, enjoying the panoramic view of Bergen harbor from above.

Scandinavia itinerary 7 days—Day 5: From Bergen to Alesund

Alesun is about 250 miles north of Bergen on the west coast of Norway. Sitting on the bus and watching the scenery on both sides on the way from Bergen to Alesund is magnificent, mesmerizing. The mountainous landscape in Norway and the roads through the winding fjords always make us heartbroken.

Travel time takes about 10 hours, this is one of the most beautiful sections of the Norway in nutshell tour. In Alesund, there are also many beautiful old towns with famous artistic and architectural scenes, which are worth exploring. You can climb up to Fjellstua for a panoramic view of the pretty little town below.

Scandinavia travel itinerary—Day 6: Geirangerfjord Fjord

Continue to take a round trip bus from Alesund to Geiranger via Hellesylt. From Hellesylt, you take a ferry to the famous Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Along the edges, the roads of the fjord, you will see farms, many small houses and extremely majestic waterfalls. The terminus of the ferry is the town of Geiranger.

Start climbing to the Norwegian Fjord Centre, about a 20-minute walk away. The scenery of Geirangerfjord along the road is really hard to describe in words. Nature is so majestic and pristine. That evening you continue to take the bus to Alesund.

Day 7: Stockholm – Sweden

After 3 days of experiencing the wonderful nature of Norway, on day 7 catching an early morning flight to Stockholm. Check in to your hotel and get ready for a wander around this lovely city. Start at Stockholm’s City Hall and walk along Stromgatan through the Nybroplan (New Bridge Square) area. Stroll along the Strandvagen, enjoying the sights of the city.

If you come to Stockholm on a Friday night, you should experience the Stureplan neighborhood, which is one of the most beautiful places with happy hour in Stockholm. Also should experience Kungsträdgården, a garden with many green trees.

At the end of the evening, take the train to the Södermalm district to get to the Skyview, from where you will have great views of the city from above. The Södermalm area is also famous for its nightlife. Lots of outdoor activities in the evening, countless restaurants and bars.

Scandinavia itinerary 8 days — Day 8: Stockholm

The second day in Stockholm, continue to visit the Vasa Museum, which is one of the must-see places in Stockholm. The most prominent is the ancient ship from the 17th century (which has been restored intact) with many interesting anecdotes about this ship, as well as the process of shipbuilding, sailing and conquering the sea.

Continue by boat to the Royal Palace, where there are museums about Swedish history. Evening is the time to visit Gamla Stan in the Old Town. This area is famous for the romance of Stockholm, distinguished by its pretty alleys and cobbled streets. Take a stroll along the streets of Old Town and enjoy the fresh air of Stockholm. Be sure to stop by a restaurant down the street for a taste of the city’s great cuisine.

Conclusion of Scandinavia travel itinerary

Sometimes with only 8 days, you feel like you have just “riding a horse to see flowers” in the vast Nordic land. Just going to the majestic country of Norway takes a whole month. However, with this basic Scandinavia itinerary you can also get to know a bit about Scandinavia, its main destinations and their culture and history. For those who don’t have enough time but still want to learn about the beautiful and rich Nordic.

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

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

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

Picture this…

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

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

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

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

Sounds amazing right?

Let’s get planning!

Click to download this itinerary as a PDF document

What's in this article

Scandinavia itinerary overview

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

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

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

Responsible travel choices

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

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

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

Getting to and from Scandinavia

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

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

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

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

Day 1 – Explore Bergen, Norway

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

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

Good to know:  Bergen airport transfer information

READ: more about beautiful Bergen

Recommended hotel in Bergen

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

Day 2 – Bergen and fjord cruise

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

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

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

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

Recommended dining in Bergen

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

Day 3 – Bergen to Flåm by ferry

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

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

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

Book tickets for the journey on line at Norled

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

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

READ: 7 different ways to see the fjords in Norway

Flåm and a fjord safari

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

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

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

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

Recommended hotels in Flåm

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

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

Day 4 – Flåm railway | Flåm to Oslo by train

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Oslo museums and culture

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

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

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

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

Recommended hotels in Oslo

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

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

Day 6 – Explore Oslo | Train from Oslo to Gothenburg

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Discover Gothenburg – Swedish city by the sea

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

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

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

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

Recommended hotels in Gothenburg

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

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

Day 8 – Gothenburg | Train from Gothenburg to Copenhagen

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

READ: Get Your Swede on – 48 hours in Gothenburg

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

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

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

Recommended dining in Gothenburg

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

Want to take a side trip to Stockholm? Click here

Day 9 – Copenhagen highlights

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended hotels in Copenhagen

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

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

Day 10 – Copenhagen | Rosenborg Castle | Nørrebro

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

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

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

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

Recommended dining in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

Day 11 – Copenhagen | Tivoli Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to visit, accommodation and food

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

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

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

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

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

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

Transport and attractions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodation in Scandinavia

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

Scandinavian Food

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

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

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

The fun stuff

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

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

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

▪️ How much does it really cost to visit Iceland ?

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

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

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

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

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2 Week Road Trips Through Scandinavia: Your Guide

Scandinavia is a Northern European region that encompasses the countries of Denmark, Sweden and Norway. With lush countryside, stunning coastline and rugged mountains, it's ideal for a road trip. Plus, take the wheel and you can stop whenever you want to take in the breathtaking views and attractions.

If you're interested in going on a  Scandinavia road trip of 2 weeks, there are plenty of options. You could spend time exploring one country, delve into a specific region, or even tour all 3 Scandinavian countries in a single itinerary.

Read on for inspiration and suggestions on how you can plan an unforgettable tour. Here we'll give you our insider recommendations on the best road trip routes in Scandinavia.

Road trips in Sweden

Sweden is the country of ABBA, a thousand isles (or more like 200,000!), sleek design, and  fika coffee break . Stockholm, its capital, is fantastic for a city break, but have you ever thought of visiting the other  Swedish cities and countryside? You’ll be surprised what you find.

Read about visiting  Sweden in summer or winter to decide on the best time for you. In winter, we recommend independent train and cruise travel so you can sit back and relax. 

Tour the 3 big Swedish cities

With 2 weeks in Sweden, you could travel between Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg. You’ll enjoy the mix of urban vibes, with interactive museums and grand royal palaces, and the superb nature and tranquil oases along the way.

Journey from Stockholm to the lush area around Lake Vättern where you could go for some wild swimming. Then drive through the scenic Swedish province of Småland to visit historic ruins and castles.

Cross onto the island of Öland and wander through the limestone plateau of Stora Alvaret , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You then follow the coast south to Ystad and then north toward Gothenburg. As you’re travelling at your own pace you can stop at quaint villages and sandy beaches along the way.

Journey north to Sunne through the Swedish forest. Enjoy the scenery and, if the weather allows, stop for another lake swim. Sweden is the perfect place for immersing yourself in nature. Finally, we recommend spending some time in the Dalarna county. It is one of the most popular areas to visit in Sweden.

Good to know: This is one example of a tour you could take around Sweden. But Nordic Visitor itineraries can be tailored. Maybe you want to spend more time in certain locations or extend your trip. Just ask our Swedish travel experts !

• Check out our Sweden self-drive tours
• Related: Read about the top Swedish road trips for a variety of tour lengths

Road trips in Norway

Norway is known for its fantastic hiking opportunities, scenic fjords, and Viking history. As Norway is another large country, you'll have many possibilities for places to visit on a 2-week road trip. Here are our two favourite suggestions:

West coast: Bergen, Trondheim and Stavanger

You may be able to drive this itinerary of 700 kilometres (435 miles) in a few days. But you can spend as much time as you wish along the way. It’s the beauty of a road trip as you choose where and what you stop to see.

Bergen to Trondheim will take you inland via the lovely town of Loen , nestled between mountains. And on the way back, you’ll follow the beautiful coast of Norway. Explore the majestic fjords, renowned worldwide for their grandeur and beauty.

You’ll also get to experience the Atlantic Ocean Road , one of Norway’s most scenic drives. Then sail south again, via Bergen, all the way to Stavanger . You could even take time to hike up the iconic Pulpit Rock too.

• Browse Norwegian self-drive tours for a memorable road trip

Complete tour from Oslo

Soak up the countryside and mountains as well as the western fjords on this tour of Norway's southern regions. Although it leaves out the north (we think it’s worth its own holiday!) this road trip will take you through a variety of cities, villages, and natural landscapes.

You’ll get to admire what Norway has to offer on a complete tour from Oslo to the west coast and back. Along the way you'll discover the fjords, high peaks, fishing villages, and so much more.

Here are the 10 best things to do with 2 weeks in Norway :

• Stroll through Norway’s grand capital,  Oslo
• Wander through the Rondane National Park and visit Røros
• Visit the dramatic fjord landscape and maybe even go kayaking
• Experience the quaint village of  Flåm and its steep railway
• See the west coast city of Bergen and all its highlights
• Drive the exciting routes of  Trollstigen , the Atlantic Road and  Eagle Road
• Take in the stunning views surrounding Loen
• Marvel at the ethereal waterfalls  Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil
• Explore the medieval city and historic capital of Norway, Trondheim
• Spend time in the Olympic town of  Lillehammer

Scandinavian triangle

When it comes to an unforgettable road trip through Scandinavia, we recommend visiting all 3 countries in one tour. Sweden, Denmark and Norway are close together, well-connected, and share similar historical and cultural aspects. For that reason, the region as a whole makes for a fantastic destination.

To get a taste of all 3 nations, we recommend visiting the capitals: Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo. This way you can discover these grand cities of Scandinavia , with their entertaining museums, gourmet cuisine, and royal palaces. And between the capitals, spend time enjoying the beautiful countryside.

You can even choose whether you'd like to drive, along Sweden’s south-west coast, or take the ferry between Copenhagen and Oslo. If you opt for the ferry, you'll board a large ship with your car and spend a night sailing along the Kattegat Strait.

• Explore self-drive tours around Scandinavia
• Related: Read about the best trips for first-time visitors to Scandinavia

Iceland’s Ring Road

Although not part of Scandinavia, Iceland is an absolute must see in the Nordics. And as it's THE place for a road trip, we had to include it.

Route 1, also nicknamed the Ring Road, circles Iceland, connecting nearly all the regions of the island. With 2 weeks, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the attractions and soak up the scenery along the way.

Highlights on a 2-week tour of Iceland include:

• Spending time exploring Reykjavík , Iceland's lively capital city
• Discovering the 3 most famous attractions on the Golden Circle  route
• Walking along the  Diamond Beach to see the glistening ice scattered on the shore
• Marvelling at the top waterfalls around the country
• Seeing the massive floating icebergs at the  Jökulsárlón g lacier lagoon
• Strolling through the quaint streets of  Akureyri , the capital of the north
• Exploring Iceland's beautiful national parks: Vatnajökull , Þingvellir and Snæfellsjökull
• Journeying through the volcanic  Lake Mývatn area
• Enjoying the striking nature of the Snæfellsnes peninsula

You could also add in the remote, but spectacular Westfjords to your itinerary to get a complete tour of the island.

• Find out more about Iceland self-drive tours

Suggestion for a 2-week Scandinavian road trip itinerary

If you would like to take a  2-week tour around the region and want to include all 3 countries, here is our suggestion.

This itinerary is available with Nordic Visitor, but you can always ask our travel experts to tailor your tour. If you’d rather drive via Gothenburg, add day trips, or even include a Finland cruise to see Helsinki, just ask!

Day 1 – Welcome to Sweden

Fly into Stockholm and, depending on when you arrive, spend some time wandering around the capital city of Sweden. Stroll along the shopping street Drottninggatan and explore the surrounding area of Östermalm. You’ll find interesting shops, cafés, and restaurants for a perfect introduction to Scandinavian culture.

Spend the night in Stockholm.

Day 2 – Full day in Stockholm

Today you will explore the heart of scenic Stockholm. Start with a walk around the Old Town (Gamla Stan). Here you’ll find the Royal Palace, the parliament, old churches, beautiful cobblestone streets and medieval houses.

Later, head to Djurgården, a cultural oasis that's just a short ferry ride away. You could visit the kitschy Abba Museum, the Nordic Museum, the Gröna Lund amusement park, and the Skansen open-air museum.

Spend another night in Stockholm.

Day 3 – Into the Swedish countryside

Today you pick up your rental car and kick off your road trip toward the south of Sweden. Your destination is Kalmar, a medieval city with a rich history, making it a perfect stop for history buffs. In the old town, you can visit Kalmar Castle, which dates back over 800 years.

Spend the night in Kalmar.

Day 4 – A day at leisure in Öland

From Kalmar, cross onto Öland, a region characterised by sandy beaches, a beautiful coastline, and a vast agricultural landscape. Enjoy the scenery and bask in the quietness of this island. Two highlights include Solliden Palace, the summer residence of the Swedish royal family, and Stora Alvaret, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spend another night in Kalmar.

Day 5 – Sweden’s south coast

Your first visit today, on your way to Sweden’s most southern region, is at the naval city of Karlskrona, another Swedish World Heritage site.

Before you reach the charming town of Ystad, there are many stops along the way that might interest you. These include Kiviks Musteri and the fortress of Glimmingehus, which dates back to the middle ages.

Spend the night in Ystad.

Day 6 – Explore Skåne

Drive through splendid Skåne and the area of Österlen today. You can stop at quaint villages, sandy beaches and historical sites, and don’t forget to taste the local cuisine. We recommend stopping by the popular Ales Stenar stone ship monument, which offers a picturesque view of the Baltic Sea.

Spend another night in Ystad.

Day 7 – Explore Copenhagen

Drive to Smygehuk, the southernmost point in Sweden, before continuing on to the old towns of Skanör and Falsterbo where you will encounter long stretches of white sand beaches. Next, arrive in the charming capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen. Take time to explore the colourful harbour, Nyhavn, and the amusement park, Tivoli Gardens.

Spend the night in Copenhagen.

Day 8 – Set sail for Norway

Spend the morning at your leisure in Copenhagen. You could visit popular landmarks such as Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, and the famous Little Mermaid statue, or even take a canal boat tour. In the late afternoon, you’ll board your cruise to Oslo.

Spend the night on the ferry.

Day 9 – Arrival in Norway

This morning you’ll sail along the Oslo Fjord, so admire the view before arriving in Norway’s capital. You then have the rest of the day to visit some of Oslo’s highlights. We recommend the historical  Royal Palace , the mighty Akershus Fortress, the modern Oslo Opera House, and the  Aker Brygge area along the harbour.

Spend the night in Oslo.

Day 10 – Explore the capital, Oslo

You have a full day to explore Oslo as much as you want. We recommend visiting the beautiful  Vigeland Sculpture Park and the  Holmenkollen Ski Museum and tower. You could also learn about history at the Kon-Tiki Museum or simply stroll along the popular Karl Johans street.

Spend another night in Oslo.

Day 11 – Scenic drive to Örebro

From Oslo, cross back into Sweden and drive all the way to the city of Örebro. Along the way, make a stop at Karlstad, which is known as the "City of Sunshine". You could also visit Kristinehamn where you find a 15-metre-tall Picasso sculpture which was donated to the city by the artist in 1964.

Spend the night in Örebro.

Day 12 – Leisure day in Örebro

You could visit the 14th-century Örebro Castle and the Wadköping open-air museum, with buildings that date back to the 17th century. Another suggestion for quiet walks is to wander through the large public park, Slottsparken (Palace Park).

Spend another night in Örebro.

Day 13 – Drive back to Stockholm

Your first stop today is at the open-air museum Rademachersmedjorna. This area is famous for its many castles and manor houses, including the 16th-century Gripsholm Castle. After a day of sightseeing, you’ll return to Stockholm to drop off your rental car.

Day 14 - Departure

Enjoy one last Scandinavian breakfast and visit some more sights before it is time to fly home.

• Related:   15 things to see and do in Stockholm

Other ways to travel around Scandinavia

There are many ways to see the countries and regions of Scandinavia. If you would rather enjoy the view than drive around, you could go on a guided tour or travel independently via public transportation.

With two weeks, the possibilities are endless. You could sail through the Norwegian fjords and discover the capitals of Finland and Estonia, Helsinki and Tallinn. Or, pair your trip around Scandinavia with some day tours in Iceland to take in another culture.

Independent travel in Scandinavia

If you would like to discover Scandinavia on your own but prefer not to drive, then an independent tour is the perfect choice. Public transportation in Scandinavia is fast, reliable and punctual, so getting around by train and ferry is a great alternative to driving.

On top of visiting the Scandinavian capitals, you could add a Norway in a Nutshell tour to your itinerary. You’ll take train rides, cruises and buses to see some of the most iconic locations in Norway.

Independent travel is ideal for  winter tours as driving conditions can make it a bit harder to get around. And you may have the added bonus of seeing the northern lights  inside the Arctic Circle.

Winter is also a good time to go up into  Northern Norway , Svalbard , or Lapland , which encompasses the northern regions of Finland and Sweden. Stay in an Ice Hotel , go dog sledding or visit the Santa Claus Village .

• Browse our independent tours around Scandinavia
• Related: 10 Cool facts about Denmark

Small group tours

To see the region from a local’s point of view and make some new friends along the way, pick from one of our  guided small group tours in Scandinavia .

You’ll get an enriching experience of Scandinavia, getting under the skin of Sweden, Denmark and Norway in the company of a knowledgeable guide and like-minded companions.

This also makes guided tour packages perfect if you'd like to travel to Scandinavia on your own. Check out these top group trips in Europe for solo travellers for inspiration. 

Ready for your Scandinavia road trip? Why not let a local organise it for you? Our Scandinavia travel consultants are based in Stockholm and have extensive experience of the region. They can tailor an itinerary just for you based on your needs and tastes.

Plus, you always have support with Nordic Visitor, with access to our 24/7 helpline during your tour. We’re here to make sure you have the road trip of a lifetime.

Browse our  Scandinavia self-drive tours or get in touch to start planning.

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

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

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I’ve travelled extensively throughout Scandinavia and I’m hopelessly in love with it. People often have many questions about this Northerly region, including the region that lies above the Arctic Circle, so you should find many of those questions answered among these pages.

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Once a full-time backpacker, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway.

I've now traveled through over 80 countries and have a soft spot for pretty landscapes, the Nordics, anywhere I can practice my Russian, and venturing off the tourist trail.

I've been living in Norway since 2015, and I've made it my mission to share all the tips I can about travel in Norway - on any budget!

Traveling definitely changes you, and sometimes it can be difficult to return home. Join me as I try to balance my love of travel with making a home in Norway!

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Summer in Scandinavia: five eco-friendly ideas to holiday like a local

The essence of a Nordic summer is to lean into a slower pace of life and embrace nature, from staying in a Swedish summer house to gentle canoe tours in Finland

Oslo: summer in the city

With swimmable harbours in Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki and across Denmark’s cities, not to mention plenty of ways to enjoy the sea, from kayaking to urban fishing, there’s often a seaside air to Nordic cities in summer, and especially in Oslo.

One of the best summer activities is to tour the Oslofjord and its archipelago by boat – pack a picnic and set sail in search of hidden swimming spots and colourful island houses. Brim Explorer is one of the best options: an eco-friendly boat company offering silent tours powered by an electric motor (tours from £44). You can also show your love for the water by joining Mad Goats in their fjord clean-up operations every Sunday; participation gives you access to one of their saunas for free and a free burger at the end.

There’s a growing art scene to discover around the harbour. The National Museum is showing an unmissable exhibition by Sápmi artist Britta Marakatt-Labba focused on the environmental struggle and climate issues seen from an indigenous perspective, until August. Afterwards, stroll around the harbour promenade past the opera house, and visit the Munch Museum . There is a new family-friendly beach, Operastranda, by the Opera House this year; it’s also great to swim at the Sørenga seawater pool . Stay at the eco-conscious Oslo Guldsmeden , a Nordic-Balinese hotel in the Vika district from £100 a night.

Explore Denmark ’s sunniest isle

Bornholm is officially the Danes’ favourite holiday spot (as voted for last year in the Danish Travel Awards). Reachable by bus and ferry or hydrofoil from Copenhagen, it’s known as the country’s sunshine island: Svaneke, a charming harbour town on the west coast, is the sunniest spot in the whole of Denmark.

There’s no need for a car: you can get around relatively easily by bike and bus to explore fishing villages and small towns such as Gudhjem, known for its national cooking competition , and sunny Svaneke, in search of the best ice-cream, smoked herring and locally brewed beer. Bornholm has an artist colony vibe reminiscent of parts of Cornwall and is well known for its ceramics. You can find small workshops and galleries dotted around its villages, and especially in the town of Nexø, where there is a ceramics school. Beaches are wide, sandy and beautiful – especially child-friendly, dune-backed Dueodde, which Lonely Planet recently listed as one of the 20 best beaches in Europe .

New this year, Eco Beach Camp offers glamping from about £150 a night (sleeping two to four) on the beach just steps from the island’s Michelin-starred Kadeau restaurant, known for its focus on hyper-local, sustainable food. Or rent a summer house through firms including Novasol and Dancenter where rates start from about £300 for a week’s stay. It’s expected that you’ll bring basics with you, including bed linen.

Norway’s Arctic hiking route

Culture and nature come together on Norway’s longest hiking route this summer. The 400-mile Nordlandsruta , which runs along the Norwegian-Swedish border, will be joining in the celebrations to mark the Arctic city of Bodø’s year in the spotlight as one of 2024’s European Capitals of Culture. There are a range of artist-led events in cabins along the trail, and activities include poetry and portrait workshops and a mobile perfumery making scents from the herbs that hikers pick along the route.

Evening entertainment includes campfire cooking, improv theatre and Sápmi lassoo throwing. It also plays into another key Nordic travel theme: friluftsliv , a love of the great outdoors. Norwegians love to hike and there is an extensive network of trails, with hiking cabins along them, across the country.

It’s a beautiful hike – whether you’re in the region for the celebrations or not – passing through the Arctic Circle, Laponian Area world heritage site , national parks and Sápmi cities. From meadows filled with wildflowers to snow-capped mountains, reindeer-herding plateaux and raging rivers, it has all the drama you’d expect of this northern landscape. There are 43 unstaffed huts on the route – you’ll need a key from Norwegian trekking organisation DNT to use them.

To walk the whole route would take around six weeks, but it’s broken down into eight smaller stages for those with less time. For ramblers with an eye on reindeer herding and Sápmi husbandry, the 57-mile stretch from Raudlia to Susendalen treks across two valleys and past the hat-shaped Hatten mountain while the 45-mile section from Bolna to Umbukta skirts the sacred Sápmi mountain of Auronasen, silver mines and a glacier. Weekend hikes along the trail are also possible from Narvik and Bodø.

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Finland’s peaceful waterways

If you like lakes, islands and trees, Finland is the place for you – it is the most forested country in Europe and has more bodies of water than any other country in the world . In the Kainuu region in the east of the country, it’s easy to get away from the crowds for pure immersion in Nordic nature.

Nature Travels offers self-guided canoe tours in the region where you can camp wild along the route, fish for your supper and go at your own pace. The pick of the bunch is a remote adventure on the Tar Route (from £154 per person, for three nights/four days, based on two people, including all equipment and transfers to start point), the historic route once used to transport tar to the Baltic Sea. Instead of tar, your cargo will be just yourselves, your tent and enough food for a four to eight-day tour of quiet waterways, short and easily bypassed rapids, and protected islands.

Along the route you might spot moose, foxes, owls or even eagles. Stop to fish for your dinner, cook it on an open fire and retire to a lean-to shelter or tent in the evening. Look out, too, for island saunas, dotted along the route, where you can ease the tension in your back and arms after a hard day’s paddle. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent: Finland’s forests are known for their pesky flies.

This route commonly starts from Kuhmo, accessed by train and bus from Helsinki, while Helsinki itself can be reached by ferry from Stockholm if you prefer not to fly.

Stay in a Swedish summer house

It’s traditional in this part of the world to spend at least part of the summer in a “summer house” (actually more of a simple cabin) in nature. The essence of summer house life is leaning into a slower pace of life: read a book under a tree, bake a cake, a gentle walk. It’s about living in harmony with nature, too, and embracing the joys it offers, including sea swimming, fishing, hiking and boating.

The Stockholm archipelago is one of the most accessible and popular summer house destinations. Access is via one of the many public ferries (one-way trips from the city pier cost up to £14 depending on the location). It’s as easy as taking a bus.

The region is protected by the Archipelago Foundation , which preserves public access to land and water in the area, and has a wide range of characterful accommodation spread all over the islands. They include a 19th-century former customs house on the remote and rocky island of Huvudskär, remade into a rustic youth hostel (room rates from £186 for a four-bed room), as well as summer cottages on the activity-packed southern island of Utö, where two-person cabins start at around £338 for a week in high season.

Summer cottages usually require you to bring bed linen. Depending on which island you choose, you might need to bring all your supplies for the week too. Peak season for Scandinavia is typically July – travel in August for slightly reduced rates.

Copenhagen-based Laura Hall writes the Modern Scandinavian newsletter

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Out of the box, in Norway

With places in southern Europe having peaked at more than 50C for a few days last summer – for the second year in a row – many travellers’ thoughts are turning to Europe’s northern reaches. (That it’s light all night in June and July only adds to the appeal.) An outfit in Norway creates experiences and itineraries that leverage that interest amid the country’s extraordinary nature, buzzing culinary scene and cultural attractions from the Viking-era to the ultra-contemporary. Up Norway was founded by Oslo-born Torunn Tronsvang; she worked for Aman in Bhutan and Anantara in remote northern Thailand, so has form in the space where considered luxury meets soft adventure.

Up Norway can pull together a Michelin-all-stars tour around Trøndelag and Trondheim (2022 European Region of Gastronomy, and home of this year’s Bocuse d’Or), or a forage-your-own-seaweed, open-fire private dinner on a deserted fjord. Likewise, museum and collection visits, walking and cycling itineraries, and intriguing “discover your roots” journeys that make us wish we had some Scandi DNA in our helix. There’s also a “feelgood” wellness journey, with stops for arctic dips and floating saunas in Copenhagen and Gothenburg as well as the charming Norwegian west-coast city of Bergen. Itineraries from £2,999 per person for a five-night trip, not including international flights, upnorway.com

Ravishing royal designs in Sweden

Blekinge is Sweden’s smallest county and one of its wilder ones, situated on the southernmost coast, covered in alternating forest and plain and dotted with villages and coastal rock baths. The Eriksberg Hotel & Nature Reserve stretches across 1,350 hectares of land here. A working farm since the 17th century, whose owners began rewilding it in the 1940s, it now offers a catalogue of stays and experiences. These range from glamping to wine-paired gourmet meals to “safari” drives to observe bison, wild boar, red and fallow deer and dozens of endemic bird species.

Last month, Eriksberg added to its accommodations with The Ark ( Arken in Swedish), a 23-room contemporary accommodation half-suspended in the landscape. All the rooms are south-facing with floor-to-ceiling windows, and beds are placed at their centre; wake up, draw back the blinds, and you’ve a panorama over what Eriksberg calls its “savannah”. Within the hotel are three signature suites, each a unique and fantastical room-scape whose interiors invite the outside in. The designs were masterminded by the two principals at Stockholm-based boutique firm Bernadotte Kylberg – one of whom is Prince Carl Philip, Duke of Värmland. eriksberg.se , from SKr1,881 (about £138); The Ark, from SKr2,900 (about £213)

Gimme (Danish) Shelter

A Danish product design firm – in this case, one that’s best known for making… bins (but really sleek, pretty ones) – decides to apply its nous to a collection of accommodations. Actually a very Nordic leap, when you think about it, because at the root of good hospitality are many of the same qualities that define good Scandi design: space, simplicity, beautiful natural materials that make you happy to be around. Vipp opened its first guesthouse seven years ago, “a 55sq m steel pod by a Swedish lake”, as the company describes it; since then it has expanded with farmhouses in Denmark, a whitewashed villa in Puglia and a mountainside house in Andorra among others (coming this autumn: a rammed-earth property in Todos Santos, on Mexico’s Baja California peninsula). The shelters are vastly different from each other but share a common feature: you and your party are the only guests.

Cold Hawaii is the newest to the portfolio; it sits in solitude amid the grassy dunes of Thy, the largest national park in Denmark. This particular stretch of North Sea is the local surfers’ semi-secret wave (hence the name of the beach from which the guesthouse takes its name). With his renovation of one of very few fisherman’s cottages that still stand along the coastline, Danish architect Ebbe Lavsen (along with Caroline Hahn) has turned the 185sq m space into a three-bedroom, two-storey haven of bleached timber, glass and pale brick. The magazine-worthy central kitchen is, naturally, signed Vipp from top to bottom. The skies are vast, the views empty, and the sea a couple of hundred yards away. vipp.com , from €545

Rustic luxury over Lofoten

The summit of Mount Rønvik, in Bodø on Norway’s north coast, has long been a popular rest point for local walkers and tourists, with its views of the towering Lofoten Wall and, from September to April, the Northern Lights. In 1890, the Turisthytta – “tourist cabin” – was built here, all in wood; it was replaced in 1965 by a modernist interpretation of the same concept that eventually fell into disrepair and was demolished eight years ago.

Next month, Nordic Hotels & Resorts – the company behind Sommerro in Oslo and Villa Copenhagen in the Danish capital – will open Wood Hotel Bodø on the site of the old Turisthytta. Constructed, like the 1890 original, mostly of local timber, it has 177 rooms ranging from cosy studios to two-bedroom suites, a clutch of restaurants, and a spa-sauna and fitness area arrayed across its entire eighth floor, where the views are one of the primary attractions (as they also are from the rooftop pool). The mountain is laced with trails and the surrounding sea is eminently swimmable under the midnight sun. woodbodo.com , opening rates from NKr1490 (about £110)

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

Forget Scandinavia: The Real Key to Happiness Lies Elsewhere (M)

The happiest countries in the world may not be what you have been told.

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Author: Jeremy Dean

Psychologist, Jeremy Dean, PhD is the founder and author of PsyBlog. He holds a doctorate in psychology from University College London and two other advanced degrees in psychology. He has been writing about scientific research on PsyBlog since 2004. He is also the author of the book "Making Habits, Breaking Habits" (Da Capo, 2013) and several ebooks. View all posts by Jeremy Dean

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .