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Scandinavia is a visual treat and a perfect vacation choice if you like serene and healing places. Countries such as Denmark, Sweden, and Norway house some of the best landscapes and architectural marvel in the world. Be it the heavenly fjords in Norway, the world-class architecture of Denmark, or the serene archipelago of Sweden, there’s a city in the Scandinavian region for every taste. Let’s see what are the best Scandinavian cities to visit and explore the culture and culinary first hand.
Copenhagen, Denmark
If you’re on vacation and want to wash away the wariness of day-to-day work-life involvements, this happy place is for you. Copenhagen was considered one of the happiest places on the planet as per the 2022 Healthy Lifestyle Cities Report.
Take a boat tour of the city over the clear water canals. Glide through the city, viewing Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Danish Opera House, Amalienborg Palace, and even the Little Mermaid statue en route.
Make the best of galleries, spires, castles, and palaces authentically preserved and maintained. Tivoli Gardens is a gorgeous monument that dates back to the 19th century. There’s always a performance in the open air you can catch, or ride the thrilling roller coaster at Tivoli Gardens.
Explore Michelin-starred restaurants, the Torvehallerne food market, and Nørrebro’s trendy bars. Moreover, the city focuses on keeping it all green and sustainable through active recycling participation from people. Overall the city is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and highly amicable local folks, so covering the city on foot gives you an edge.
Bergen, Norway
Norway’s former capital and the second largest city, Bergen is a treat to the eyes and the mind. Based on the coastline, this serene city offers easy access to breathtaking fjords such as Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord and Nærøyfjord. Best enjoyed in the summer, Bergen teems with tourists and the locals take to the open street cafes.
So bask in the sunlight, or venture into the artists’ dens in the clapboard houses of vibrant colors on the eastern side of the harbour, your call. In walking distance from the town, the fjords, the forested cliffs and water inlets await to make the trip an unforgettable experience. Many show-stealer waterfalls such as Steinsdalsfossen in between the fjords will lift your mood.
Mount Fløyen, a 1,047-foot peak in Bergen, offers stunning views of the coastline. There are two options for reaching the summit: hiking or taking the Fløibanen Funicular. Take in the breathtaking bird’s-eye view and maybe explore one of the walking trails.
Stockholm, Sweden
When it comes to history, cuisine, music, and culture, Stockholm is among the greatest Scandinavian cities. Scattered with gabled buildings in terracotta, ochre, and green, the narrow, cobblestoned alleys of medieval Gamla Stan resemble a living museum. Meanwhile, the sprawling complex of the luxurious Royal Palace and the Nobel Prize Museum offers an intriguing look into Swedish history.
This city is spread across 14 islands, with lush green landscapes, waterscapes, and historic architecture to behold. Enjoy a moment of relaxation with a hot beverage and a sweet treat during Fika, a custom from Sweden. Experience fine dining at some of Northern Europe’s most esteemed establishments. Alternatively, if you want to get out and about, head to Stureplan, the nightlife district.
To explore Stockholm, hire a bike or go on a guided tour. You will get to enjoy a city with lots of narrow streets to explore and minimal traffic. Make sure to visit the Royal Palace, located in Gamla Stan, the medieval district’s centre.
Oslo, Norway
Among the best scandinavian cities, Oslo is nestled between mountains and a forest. The capital city is green, artistic, and incredibly livable. It is situated at the end of a lengthy fjord. Clever and sophisticated, Oslo is becoming a hub for the arts and more and more avant-garde dining, dispelling the myth that Norwegians only eat hot dogs at their chic cafés and restaurants with Michelin stars.
Oslo is overflowing with museums and art galleries. Visit the National Museum, the largest of its sort in the Nordic region, and the MUNCH Museum, which honors Edvard Munch. Additionally, check out the 1870-founded Blomqvist Auction House Gallery for an incredible collection of jewelry, porcelain, antiques, and other items.
A must-do activity in Oslo is to visit the Olympic ski jump, Holmenkollen, for some of the greatest views over the city and fjord. A fascinating museum exploring the history of arctic exploration and skiing—two subjects dear to Norwegians’ hearts—is housed atop the tower, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Conclusion
Scandinavia offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Copenhagen, the historic alleys of Stockholm, or the stunning landscapes of Bergen, you’re sure to create lasting memories. With the reliable and comfortable accommodations provided by Scandic Hotels, your stay in any Scandinavian city will be truly exceptional!
