Trip Name	Save	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Norwegian Fjords & Crossing the Arctic Circle		$33990	16	Aug 4, 2025	On this 16-day Norwegian Fjords & Crossing the Arctic Circle from Bergen to Oslo aboard Scenic Eclipse, have the chance to attend engaging lectures … 0
Arctic Odyssey	Savings	$7195	8	May 30, 2025	Embark on an 8-day cruise from Tromso to Longyearbyen aboard the Ocean Albatros. Begin your exceptional journey in Tromso, Norway's Arctic capital, … 0

Get Inspired to Explore Scandinavia

Cruises with Sea Kayaking

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Favorite scandinavian Lodges & Hotels

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All Scandinavia Articles

Scandinavia Cruise Guide & Travel Tips

The majestic, ice-covered tundra of Scandinavia proudly crowns the globe. Unlike tropical cruises where snorkeling & tanning are the highlights, here you'll need to bundle up as you get acquainted with the fascinating and unique sites of the Arctic Circle.

Norway: Witness the incredible biodiversity of the Sea of Okhotsk, where polar bears & seals tread through the waters; Get to know the Spitsbergen archipelago, home to Svalbard & Longyearbyen.
Iceland: Immerse yourself in Norse folklore as you follow in the steps of the Vikings. Explore the West Coast & Ísafjördur, considered by many to be one of the most magnificent fjords in the Arctic. In Reykjavik, museums and buildings preserve ancient artifacts and architecture.

No matter which cruise you choose, you are sure to see the marvelous Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Some crusies even offer exclusive expeditions to the North Pole.

Top 11 Things to Do and See in Scandinavia - Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Scandinavia, a region renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, offers a plethora of attractions and activities that cater to a wide range of interests.

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Getting to Scandinavia
Scandinavia comprises the whole northern region of Europe, including Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. So depending on where you are traveling from and where you are traveling to, there are a number of options:

From Europe by bus or train: Europe's intricate and consistent bus and train network makes it easy to get a train to most major cities in Scandinavia (other than those in Iceland, of course). Since some destinations require overnight commutes, trains typically provide cabin cars to sleep in.

From Europe by plane: If you are traveling from other parts of Europe that are too far to go by train or bus, then it's easy to find a flight that connects to the major cities in all Scandinavian countries. This is also the only way to get to Iceland.

From the United States, Asia, & Australia: There are many direct flights from both coasts of the United States and throughout Asia. From Australia & New Zealand, you will have to connect via Europe or Asia.

Getting around Scandinavia
If you are already in Scandinavia, a good alternative to land or air transportation is taking a ferry or speedboat. These will take you to most of the major port cities from which the cruises depart.

Arctic Cruise: When to Go?

Though the austere Arctic landscape is often imagined to be a cold white wasteland, the brief months of summer see the flora blossoming and the fauna emerging from their long winter dormancy. Find out the best time to visit the Arctic based on your interests and expectations.

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Polar bear balances on the ice in the Arctic

Wildlife Guide to Polar Regions

Which Polar region is home to penguins? Or how about those elusive narwhals? Before your travels, it will be helpful to learn more about the different species that inhabit the Polar regions of the Arctic and Antarctica. You may be surprised to learn the differences!

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Fun Facts About Scandinavia

Land of the Midnight Sun: Scandinavia, encompassing Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, experiences the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun during summer. In the Arctic Circle, the sun remains visible for 24 hours, providing an enchanting natural light show.
Fjords of Norway: Norway boasts some of the world's most breathtaking fjords, including the iconic Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. These glacially-carved, steep-sided inlets offer stunning landscapes and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Viking Heritage: Scandinavia is synonymous with Viking history. The Vikings, skilled seafarers and warriors, originated from this region around the eighth to eleventh centuries, leaving an indelible mark on European history and beyond.
Sauna Culture in Finland: Finland, renowned for its thousands of lakes, is equally famous for its sauna culture. With over two million saunas in the country (almost one per household), Finns have elevated sauna bathing to a national ritual.
Danish Happiness: Denmark consistently ranks high on global happiness indices. The concept of "hygge," a Danish cultural phenomenon centered around coziness and well-being, is credited for contributing to the nation's overall contentment.
Lapland's Northern Lights: Lapland, stretching across parts of Norway, Sweden, and Finland, is a prime location for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The region's vast, dark skies provide a canvas for this celestial light display.
Allemansrätten in Sweden: "Allemansrätten," meaning the Right of Public Access, grants everyone the freedom to roam in nature. This unique concept allows people to explore and camp on most uncultivated land, fostering a deep connection to the outdoors.
Green Energy Leadership: Scandinavia is at the forefront of sustainable energy. Norway relies on hydropower, Sweden on a mix of renewable sources, and Denmark is a wind power pioneer, consistently ranking among the world leaders in wind energy production.
The Sami People: Indigenous to the Arctic region, the Sami people have a rich cultural heritage spanning Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. Their traditional semi-nomadic lifestyle revolves around reindeer herding, and they have a distinct language and vibrant folk traditions.
World's Oldest Parliament in Iceland: Iceland is home to the world's oldest parliament, the Alþingi, established in 930 AD. Meeting at Þingvellir National Park, it exemplifies Iceland's historical commitment to democratic governance.
Noma - Culinary Excellence in Denmark: Renowned restaurant Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark, has been repeatedly ranked as one of the best in the world. Chef René Redzepi's innovative approach incorporates local Nordic ingredients, showcasing the region's culinary prowess.

For more info on specific destinations, click on the countries below.

Norway

Norway is your gateway to the Arctic. From Svalbard to the Barents Sea, you'll learn about fascinating Scandinavian culture & how it has developed throughout the centuries. Norway is also a common departure port for cruises that visit Iceland & Greenland and track polar bears and whales across glaciers and around ice floes.

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Greenland

Cross the Arctic circle as you float between ice floes and icebergs along dramatic coastlines and visit quaint villages. Explore the frozen icescapes of Greenland on an Arctic cruise through the Northwest passage or the European islands of Svalbard and Iceland. Day excursions include hikes across glaciers and panga navigations around fjords.

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Iceland

From the capital city of Reykjavik, explore Iceland's otherworldly glaciers, fjords, volcanoes & hot springs on a small ship expedition cruise deep into the Arctic or an immersive land tour. Discover the remnants of the Norse & Viking cultures that were originally established here centuries ago and that can still be seen even today.

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Finland

Sharing a border with Sweden, Norway, and Russia, Finland's history is culturally diverse and intriguing. As your cruise passes through this ancient part of northeastern Europe, you will witness the art & architecture that highlight this culture.

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Sweden

Explore Sweden's enchanting blend of vibrant urban life and pristine natural beauty, from Stockholm's archipelago charm to the serene wilderness of Lapland, where the mesmerizing Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky.

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Brightly colored houses decorate the pier.

Denmark

A stop in Denmark is a highlight of many European cruises that also visit the British Isles, Scandinavia, and the Baltic nations. Explore the charming capital of Copenhagen or discover small fishing villages like Skugen and Gudhjem. A Danish cruise is great for foodies, active explorers, or history buffs!

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Scandinavia FAQs

What countries are part of Scandinavia?

Scandinavia traditionally includes three countries: Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Sometimes, Finland and Iceland are also considered part of the broader Nordic region.

What is the best time to visit Scandinavia?

The best time to visit depends on your interests. For warm weather and outdoor activities, visit between June and August. For winter sports and to experience the Northern Lights, plan your trip between December and March.

Do I need a visa to travel to Scandinavia?

If you are from an EU/EEA country, you do not need a visa. Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

What is the currency used in Scandinavian countries?

Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK), Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK), and Sweden uses the Swedish Krona (SEK). The official currency of Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK), while the currency used in Finland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some local currency for smaller establishments.

Is English widely spoken in Scandinavia?

Yes, English is widely spoken and understood in all Scandinavian countries. Most people, especially in urban areas and in the service industry, speak English fluently.

How do I get around in Scandinavia?

Scandinavia has an excellent public transportation system. Trains, buses, and ferries connect major cities and towns, providing reliable and efficient travel options. Domestic flights are also available for faster travel between distant locations. Renting a car is a good option for exploring remote areas and enjoying scenic drives at your own pace. However, cruises may be one of the best ways to explore multiple countries and gain direct access to more remote towns and natural sites. Scandinavian cruises often include stops in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, and sometimes extend to Finland and Iceland. They offer the opportunity to see stunning fjords, picturesque coastal villages, and historic cities, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a floating hotel.

What should I pack for my trip to Scandinavia?

Pack layers to accommodate changing weather. Even in summer, evenings can be cool. If visiting in winter, bring thermal clothing, a warm coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. Don't forget a good pair of walking shoes for exploring cities and nature.

Are Scandinavia's natural attractions accessible year-round?

Many natural attractions are accessible year-round, but some may be best visited in specific seasons. For example, hiking and fjord tours are popular in summer, while winter sports and Northern Lights viewing are winter highlights.

What are some must-see attractions in Scandinavia?

Must-see attractions include Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, and The Little Mermaid statue in Denmark. Norway’s fjords, Bergen, and the Northern Lights in Tromsø. Or Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, the Vasa Museum, and the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, all located in Sweden.

Is Scandinavia expensive to visit?

Scandinavia is known for its high cost of living. Accommodation, dining, and activities can be pricey. To save money, consider staying in budget accommodations, eating at local markets or self-catering, and taking advantage of free or low-cost attractions.

Can I use my mobile phone in Scandinavia?

Yes, mobile phone coverage is excellent. If you have an EU SIM card, you can use it without additional roaming charges. Otherwise, consider buying a local SIM card or checking with your provider about international plans.

Are there any health precautions I need to take?

Scandinavia has high healthcare standards. No special vaccinations are required. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. EU/EEA citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

What are the emergency numbers in Scandinavia?

The general emergency number for all official Scandinavian countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden) is 112.

What cultural etiquette should I be aware of?

Scandinavians value punctuality and privacy. It’s polite to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

What electrical plugs are used in Scandinavia?

Scandinavia uses Type C and F electrical plugs with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Make sure to bring a suitable adapter if your devices use a different plug type.

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