Stunning scenery, magical lakes, breathtaking fjords, and cosmopolitan cities – you can find all these in Scandinavia. As a tourist destination, Scandinavia provides amazing landscapes and awe-inspiring natural wonders such as the aurora borealis. However, the Scandinavian region is also home to a diversified culture of mystery, myths and legendary gods. You’ll also enjoy interesting city life and outdoor events.
If you’re looking for the best places to travel in Scandinavia, don’t miss out on the cosmopolitan cities including Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo. We’ve highlighted the best spots to visit so you can enjoy an amazing trip whenever you visit the region.
A Trip to Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is Sweden’s capital and it stretches over 11 islands. When you’re in Stockholm, you should visit the Royal Swedish Opera, founded in 1773 and built across from the Royal Palace. Also check out The Old Town which remains one of the best maintained European historic districts, mainly because only pedestrians can cross the cobblestone streets.
The Royal Palace, on the island of the Old Town, is a fascinating landmark comprising over 600 rooms and 7 floors, where you can witness the daily custom of Changing of the Guard at 12:15 P.M from Monday to Saturday and at 1:15 P.M. on Sundays.
Also, if you’re passionate about culture, visit Skansen’s open-air museum which comprises 150 buildings showcasing 500 years of history including the Sami camps and Skane farmsteads. But if you’re looking to have fun, check out the Grona Lund, which is one of the oldest fairgrounds in Sweden. It includes 30 different rides such as the Fun House and the Ghost Train.
To have a taste of the local culinary tradition, try the Swedish meatballs made from reindeer, salmon, pork, moose, rooster, ox or boar. And, if you’re invited for fika by one of the locals, don’t hesitate, it’s just a coffee break with a variety of pastry products involved.
Moreover, the Swedes also have something called “snus” which is a form of pasteurised tobacco which comes in cans where you can choose from loose snus or pouch snus. This kind of snus is limited to Sweden, so you can’t purchase in a brick-and-mortar store locally in your country. However, if you can’t reach Sweden, but you still want to try out the Swedish snus, just visit SnusDirect.com. The online shop guarantees fast and low-cost delivery around the world for a wide range of flavors and brands.
Off to Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital of Copenhagen should also be on the top of your Scandinavian list of places to visit. It’s not only the happiest place in the world but also the centre of all designer products.
The first thing you’ll notice in Copenhagen is the shocking number of cyclists as about half of the city’s population take their bikes to work. However, public transportation is highly efficient and it only takes you about 15 minutes to reach the city centre from the airport by metro.
Also, here you’ll find the world’s best restaurants here as the city comprises several Michelin star restaurants such as Noma, the Relæ or the Kødbyens Fiskebar. But, if you’re looking for some shopping therapy, you can enjoy the variety of designer stores such as the Hay, Royal Copenhagen or Normann Copenhagen. You’ll discover trendy and fashionable home appliances, innovative kitchenware, and amazing ceramics or glass.
The best time of the year to visit Copenhagen is on Christmas and New Year’s. You’ll instantly be captivated by the tasteful and delicate white lights on Christmas trees around the city. And, the Christmas markets are the places to be. You can shop around for designer products such as candle holders or indulge in local tradition and taste the licorice candies.
Do You Fancy A Trip to Oslo?
You’ll find this stunning Norwegian capital at the top of the Oslo Fjord. The 1000-year-old city is not only the 3rd largest city in Scandinavia, but it’s also Norway’s economic, demographic and political centre. And, thanks to its technological, economic and cultural innovations, Oslo has become the cosmopolitan hub of the region comprising premium architecture, restaurants, museums, and shopping centres.
Tourists have unlimited opportunities in Oslo. You can either hike in the mountains, enjoy adventures in the forest, go to a concert, check out the urban city life or take a swim in the fjord – all these in only one day.
Oslo is a diverse and modern city which caters to all tastes and preferences. Enjoy a bit of shopping in the city’s centre next to Karl Johans gate, where you’ll find the latest fashion trends. However, if you really want to get acquainted with the city’s personality, book a guided tour such as boat trips, bus sightseeing, tours of the many museums or guided walks.