Scandinavia

Your Complete Travel Guide to the North

Rushing salmon rivers, dramatic fjords, thousands of lakes and cosmopolitan metropolises – Scandinavia has many different faces. Join us as we cover the northern countries in detail.

Scandinavia - the wild north — Scandinavia – wild nature and lively cities (KI-generiert)

Primeval forests, endless archipelago coasts with thousands of rocky islands and snow-capped mountain peaks characterize the landscape in the Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland.

From the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle to the sandy beaches of Denmark's coast, these northern countries deliver wildly different experiences depending on the season and region you choose.

On our portal you will find comprehensive information about the individual countries, their regions, cities, vacation homes and travel tips.

Scandinavia by Country

Finland – the land of a thousand lakes Sweden – between wilderness and modern cities Norway – land of fjords and northern lights Denmark – the happiest country in the world Iceland – island of fire and ice

Vacation Planning Made Easy

Looking for a cozy vacation home by a Finnish lake? Planning a road trip along the Norwegian fjords? Want to see the midnight sun in Lapland? We have detailed guides for each of these trips and many more.

Browse our comprehensive guides, reports and travel tips to make the most of your trip to the north.

When to Visit Scandinavia

Summer (June to August) brings 18-20 hours of daylight in most of Scandinavia, with temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. This is peak season for hiking, kayaking, and road trips. Accommodation prices rise by 30-50% compared to the off-season.

Winter (December to February) is the time for northern lights, skiing, and dog sledding. Northern Norway, Swedish Lapland, and Finnish Lapland all sit within the Aurora Zone. Temperatures regularly drop to -15 to -30 degrees Celsius above the Arctic Circle, so bring proper gear.

Shoulder seasons work well too. September brings autumn colors ("ruska" in Finnish) that turn the landscape gold and red. May is ideal for fewer crowds and reasonable prices while still getting long days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What countries are part of Scandinavia?

Traditionally, Scandinavia refers to Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. The broader term "Nordic countries" also includes Finland and Iceland. On this portal, we cover all five countries plus the Baltic Sea region.

Do I need a visa to visit Scandinavia?

All five Nordic countries are part of the Schengen Area. EU/EEA citizens need only a valid ID. US, Canadian, Australian, and UK citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa. Check your country's specific requirements before booking.

Is Scandinavia expensive to visit?

Yes, Scandinavia ranks among the priciest regions in Europe. Norway and Iceland are the most expensive. A budget traveler can expect to spend 80-120 euros per day, while mid-range travelers should plan for 150-250 euros daily. Renting a vacation cabin and cooking your own meals cuts costs significantly.

What is the best way to get around Scandinavia?

Renting a car gives you the most freedom, especially in Norway and Iceland. Train networks in Sweden and Finland are reliable and comfortable. Budget airlines connect major cities affordably. Ferries link coastal towns and are an experience in themselves.

Sergej Gerber

I am an absolute Scandinavia fan and have been traveling to the beautiful Scandinavian countries for over 12 years. Here I share my experiences and tips about the Scandinavian countries and the Baltic Sea region.