Epic Landscapes, Hidden Wonders, Cultural Encounters

Okay, confession time: I haven’t yet witnessed the Northern Lights (often called the Nordic Lights) in person. Despite all my travels, I’ve missed out on those magical, green-and-purple skies! But this year, I’m making it happen. If you’re thinking of doing the same, 2024 is a perfect year, as the Sun’s activity is reaching a “solar maximum.” That means even more dazzling light shows across the Arctic skies—fingers crossed for us both!

Of course, the Nordics aren’t just Northern Lights and cozy reindeer sleighs in snowy villages (although there’s plenty of that). Whether you’re trekking Norway’s fjords, wandering Copenhagen’s iconic open-air markets, or exploring Finland’s design-forward cities, the Nordics offer endless variety. This guide will take you from the fjords of Norway to the fairy-tale streets of Denmark, and into the heart of Swedish Lapland. Read on for the best places to stay, sights to see, and essential “need-to-knows.”

So, if you’re ready to dive into the Nordic magic, I’ll be here to help make it happen. Let’s plan an adventure! I would love to create the perfect itinerary with and for you and match you with the best hotels for you.

Need to Know

Currency:
Each country has its own currency: Swedish Krona (SEK) in Sweden, Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Norway, Danish Krone (DKK) in Denmark, and the Euro (EUR) in Finland.

Transportation:
Public transportation is stellar across the Nordics! Major cities are incredibly walkable, with options like ferries, trains, and bikes readily available. Norway and Sweden’s rail networks are scenic and efficient—perfect for travelers who love a good view.

Airports:

Norway: Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) and Tromsø Airport (TOS) for Arctic explorers.
Sweden: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) and Kiruna Airport (KRN) in Lapland.
Finland: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) and Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) in Lapland.
Denmark: Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is super close to the city center.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June - August):
If you’re more about lush landscapes and long days, summer is your season. Temperatures range from 60°F to 77°F, perfect for exploring Norway’s fjords, Sweden’s lake-studded landscapes, and Finland’s midnight sun. Denmark shines brightest in the summer, offering perfect conditions for strolling around Nyhavn’s vibrant harbor.

Winter (November - March):
This is Northern Lights season, with colder temps (15°F to 32°F in the south, dipping lower in the north). It’s a prime time for skiing, snowmobiling, and cozying up with gløgg (warm mulled wine). Be aware that daylight hours are limited, so plan activities accordingly to make the most of those magical twilight hues.

**Ideal length of stay**

A 7-10 night stay is perfect for a Nordic experience. This gives you time to hit the main attractions, like the Northern Lights, winter activities and local culture. For remote areas like Lapland or Tromsø, stay longer to account for longer travel times and a more immersive experience.

Signature Dishes

Norway: Try Lutefisk (aged fish—love it or hate it!) and Rakfisk, a fermented fish traditionally enjoyed during winter.
Sweden: Don’t miss the classic meatballs with lingonberry sauce, and gravlax (cured salmon).
Denmark: Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and Frikadeller (meatballs) are Danish staples.
Finland: Karjalanpiirakka (rice pastries) and rye bread (Ruisleipä) are Finnish must-tries—especially when dipped in butter!

**Languages and Key Phrases**
English is widely spoken, but a few words in the local language are always appreciated:
**Norway & Sweden:** "Takk" (Thank you), "Hei" (Hello), "Vær så snill" (Please).
**Denmark:** "Tak" (Thank you), "Hej" (Hello), "Undskyld" (Excuse me).
**Finland:** "Kiitos" (Thank you), "Hei" (Hello), "Anteeksi" (Excuse me).

What to Wear

Layer up! Even summer nights can get cool, so bring cozy sweaters and a good waterproof jacket for the inevitable rain shower. In winter, thermal layers, a hat, and waterproof boots will be your best friends. And if you’re heading to Finland, don’t forget swimwear for the sauna—and maybe a bit of courage for the plunge into an icy lake!

Where to stay

Norway

Amerikalinjin, Oslo: A favorite! A boutique, centrally located hotel housed in a historic building, blending Oslo’s maritime past with a modern aesthetic. Perks: Preferred Platinum perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Sommerro, Oslo: An Art Deco-inspired hotel offering a stylish mix of historic charm and contemporary elegance in Oslo’s vibrant Frogner district. Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Thief: A sleek, design-forward hotel known for its modern art, waterfront views and its distinctive curved facade in Oslo’s trendy Tjuvholmen neighborhood. Preferred Platinum perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Sweden

Grand Hôtel Stockholm: A classic hotel overlooking the waterfront, offering elegant rooms and a rich history in central Stockholm. Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Lydmar Hotel, Stockholm: A stylish boutique hotel with an artsy, relaxed vibe, known for its modern design and central location. Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Finland

Hotel St. George, Helsinki: A chic, wellness-focused hotel combining understated luxury with a relaxed vibe in the center of Helsinki. Design Hotels Pro perks include a hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Barö, Finland: A nature-inspired retreat offering minimalist design and stunning archipelago views, perfect for a peaceful, eco-friendly getaway.

Runo Hotel Porvoo: A boutique hotel set in a historic building with airy, Scandinavian-inspired interiors style in a picturesque riverside setting. Design Hotels Pro perks include a complimentary cocktail class, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Denmark

Villa Copenhagen: A grand, eco-conscious hotel that blends the clean lines of Danish style with historic elegance in a central location near Copenhagen’s main sights. I love this hotel, more here .Preferred Platinum perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Hotel Sanders: A boutique hotel perfect for travelers looking for a quaint, welcoming stay near Copenhagen’s cultural sites. Fora Perks include a complimentary lunch or dinner for two, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Activities

Activities in Norway

Northern Lights in Tromsø: A prime location to witness the Northern Lights. Add thrilling activities like dog sledding and whale watching for a complete Arctic adventure.
Fjord Train Rides: Journey through the picturesque fjords, such as Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord, by train or boat — a stunning showcase of Norway’s natural beauty.
Bryggen Wharf in Bergen: Discover Bergen’s colorful, UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, then ride the funicular up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views.
Art in Oslo: Stroll through Oslo’s vibrant art scene, including the National Museum of Art and the Astrup Fearnley Museum, blending contemporary and classic works.
Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Experience a reindeer sleigh ride in northern Norway and gain insight into Sami culture.
Oslo Christmas Markets: Get in the holiday spirit by wandering Oslo’s Christmas markets, brimming with seasonal treats, festive stalls, and holiday shopping.
Helgeland Coast Kayaking: Paddle through the hidden gems of the Helgeland coastline, often called Norway's best-kept secret. You’ll find crystal-clear waters, uninhabited islands, and local myths that add a magical vibe.
Hiking Pulpit Rock at Sunrise: Go on a dawn hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) in Lysefjord to beat the crowds and witness a sunrise over the fjord. It’s a challenging hike, but the early-morning views are unforgettable.
Traditional Farmstay Experience: Stay at a støl — a summer farm on Norway’s mountains. Some farms, like those in Valdres, offer cozy, rustic stays where you can learn about age-old Norwegian farming practices and try local dishes.

Activities in Sweden

Northern Lights in Abisko: Abisko National Park is globally renowned for Northern Lights sightings thanks to its clear skies.
Explore Stockholm: Start in the historic Gamla Stan, then take a boat to see Stockholm’s archipelago. Museum buffs can explore the Viking Museum, Vasa Museum, and Spiritmuseum — all in one scenic hub.
Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi: A must-stay in the famous Ice Hotel, reimagined each year from ice.
Cinnamon Bun Class: Perfect your skills with a cinnamon bun-making class — a sweet way to immerse yourself in Swedish culture.
City Boat Tour: A boat tour around Stockholm reveals unique city views and architectural gems.
Sami Culture Tour: Visit Jokkmokk in Swedish Lapland, a center for Sami culture. You can join guided tours to meet Sami artisans, try traditional food, and even see reindeer in their natural habitat.
Wild Moose Safari: In the region of Bergslagen, take a guided night safari to see moose in the wild — a quintessential Swedish experience with professional wildlife guides who share fascinating stories about the area’s ecosystems.
Stay in a Tree Hotel: In Harads, the Treehotel offers unique, individually-designed treehouse lodgings set high in the forest. Options include a UFO room, a mirrored cube, and a bird’s nest. It's a surreal experience in the Swedish wilderness.

Activities in Finland

Northern Lights in Lapland: Witness the magical Northern Lights in Lapland while dog sledding, reindeer safaris, or snowshoeing through Arctic landscapes.
Finnish Sauna Tradition: Embrace Finnish culture by unwinding in a sauna, followed by a cold plunge for a true Finnish experience.
Explore Helsinki: Wander through Helsinki’s Design District, featuring the Helsinki Cathedral and Market Square, where boutique shops and pastry cafes await.
Santa Claus Village: Visit Rovaniemi, Santa’s official home, for a festive and unforgettable family experience.
Archipelago Island Hopping: Discover Turku’s stunning islands by boat, ideal for nature lovers.
Sleep Under the Northern Lights in a Glass Igloo: Near Rovaniemi, glass igloos provide an unparalleled view of the night sky, letting you watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of a warm bed.
Berry and Mushroom Foraging: During late summer and early fall, join locals in foraging for berries and mushrooms in Finnish forests. Local guides can help you safely identify edible varieties, and it’s a peaceful way to experience Finnish nature.
Rokua Geopark: This UNESCO Geopark in central Finland has ancient dunes, vast forests, and stunning lakes. It’s a beautiful area for hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, and has been formed over thousands of years by glaciers and shifting landscapes.

Activities in Denmark

Art Museums: Explore contemporary art at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art or dive into Danish design at the Designmuseum Danmark and ARoS Aarhus Art Museum.
Botanical Gardens: Relax in Copenhagen’s Botanical Gardens, with year-round tropical greenhouse exhibits and lush seasonal blooms.
Hidden Courtyards of Copenhagen: Find tucked-away cafes and shops nestled within Copenhagen’s charming courtyards.
Northern Lights in Thy National Park: Experience a secluded view of the Northern Lights from Thy National Park, staying in cozy lodges just five hours from Copenhagen.
Bonfire on the Beach at Skagen: Visit Skagen at the tip of Denmark, where the North Sea and Baltic Sea meet. Locals gather for beach bonfires, especially in summer, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere by the sea.
Winter Bathing in the Sea: Join the locals in Copenhagen who take brisk, refreshing dips in the sea year-round, especially at the Islands Brygge Harbour Baths. Follow it up with a warm sauna!
Wine Tasting on a Danish Vineyard: Denmark’s wine industry is small but growing. Head to a vineyard like Dyrehøj Vingaard on Røsnæs for a wine-tasting tour featuring unique Nordic varietals and scenic coastal views.
More on Copenhagen in my article ‘36 hours in Copenhagen”

Add-On Destinations

Maximize your Nordic adventure by pairing your trip with nearby destinations. For personalized recommendations and bookings, reach out for planning assistance.

Iceland: Iceland offers mesmerizing landscapes with volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Edinburgh, Scotland: Just a short flight from the Nordic capitals, Edinburgh blends historic sites like Edinburgh Castle with breathtaking landscapes.
Tallinn, Estonia: Take a ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, a UNESCO site with cobbled streets and centuries-old architecture.
Riga, Latvia: Fly or ferry from Stockholm or Helsinki to discover Riga’s Art Nouveau buildings and vibrant Old Town.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Enjoy Amsterdam’s historic canals, museums, and bike-friendly culture, perfect as a relaxing addition to a Nordic journey.

Reach out, so we can put together a beautiful adventure!

Insider’s Guide to the Nordic Region