There is often an incorrect perception when it comes to Scandinavia and the Nordic Countries, as many people tend to believe that they are the same thing. Well, you must know that they are not. The Nordic Countries refer to the countries and islands located in the northern part of Europe which include the peninsulas of Scandinavia and Jutland, the eastern Baltic plain and the islands off the northern European mainland.
As a result, Scandinavia, with its famous fjords, enchanting mountains, lakes and memories of the Ice Age, is only a small part of Northern Europe that includes Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland. That said, I’ll give you a small list of the places I always visit when I go to Denmark, Sweden and Norway:
Denmark
Copenhagen
Nestling on the islands of Zeeland and Amager, Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark and one of the greenest cities in the world, it is certainly a wonderful destination for any type of traveler. Probably the most beautiful city in Scandinavia in fact the elegant Copenhagen has everything from beautiful architecture, museums and galleries, fascinating canals, culturally diverse neighborhoods, and an old historic center that seems out of a fairy tale, green parks, many cafes, Europe’s longest shopping street (Strøget), the most beautiful amusement park in the world (Tivoli), and even a couple of beaches awarded with “Blue Flag”.
Aarhus
Beautifully situated on the east side of the Jutland peninsula, Aarhus, Denmark’s main port, is a charming gathering of woods, beaches, lakes and fascinating Danish historical buildings depicting past eras and various architectural styles from all over the country.
Aarhus is a modern metropolis, but has a heart and a charm all its own that resides not only in the pleasant arrangement, but also in the positive atmosphere, the genuine smiles of the locals, the traditions of the Vikings and the multicultural atmosphere that prevails throughout the city.
Sweden
Stockholm
Perhaps not as famous as other major European cities, Stockholm, the beautiful Swedish capital, enjoys the reputation of one of the most beautiful and sophisticated cities on the continent. Located in south-east Sweden, on an archipelago of 14 islands, Stockholm boasts a delightful old town (Gamla Stan) full of medieval castles and alleyways, one of the world’s largest museum collections, stunning architecture, as well as a vast choice of parks.
In addition, the abundance of water, the vibrant nightlife, the new that blends beautifully with the old, the high quality of life and the green environment make it one of the largest cities not only in Scandinavia or in Europe, but also in the world.
Gothenburg
In addition to being the gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of western Sweden, Gothenburg, the second largest city in the country, is also rich in history, architecture, culture, parks, botanical gardens and nature reserves.
In addition, the multitude of outdoor cafes, the great open-air maritime museum, the canals and opportunities for boat trips, the islands dotted off the coast outside the city and the picturesque cobblestone streets of Haga, make Gothenburg a wonderful open city and an mandatory travel destination while in Sweden.
Malmö
With beautiful old houses, dozens of pretty gardens, charming squares with numerous cafes, colorful buildings and beautiful brick houses, Malmö, the former capital of Sweden, is a city for people and a joy for the eyes. Green, vibrant and rich in history, the port city of Malmö is a wonderful experience for several options like culture, leisure, shopping, unspoiled nature, sandy beaches or the Scandinavian Christmas markets.
Norway
Oslo
Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a charming, cosmopolitan city that still retains its small-town fishing atmosphere. It is a truly magnificent place where skyscrapers blend beautifully with the typically German architecture, where the vibrant atmosphere blends with the absolute beauty of the natural landscape, and where the thriving development does not overwhelm the exciting Norwegian nature.
There are few cities in the world that can actually beat Oslo when it comes to outdoor activities, as the Norwegian capital offers you everything from winter sports such as skiing and skating to other enjoyable activities such as kayaking, island, sailing, and much more.
Bergen
Known as one of the rainiest cities in the world, Bergen, with its beautiful center overlooking the fjord of Byfjorden, has its right dose of natural size that adds to its beauty, along with the old wooden houses that dominate the waterfront. Bergen is Norway’s second largest city, and some would say it is also the most beautiful.
However, one thing is certain, the train journey from Oslo to Bergen is famous for being one of the top 5 most scenic train journeys in the world.
