The Nordic Region: An Insider’s Guide

Nordic countries inspire thoughts of colorful skies rippling with the Northern Lights and sleighs dashing through snowy winter wonderlands — but they are so much more. 

A trip to the Nordics is for anyone who loves urban cultural stops paired with exceptional landscapes, plus a bit of adventure thrown in. And each season brings a totally different set of experiences. 

From Norway’s fjords to Finland’s Lapland, I’ve put together some of my favorite intel about where to go and what to see in the Nordic Region, including Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark.

So whether you’re visiting open-air summer markets and majestic palaces in Copenhagen or chasing the Northern Lights in Abisko National Park, Sweden, here are some of the best places to stay, plus where to go and what to do.  

For personalized suggestions and detailed itineraries, reach out to me to start planning your Nordic getaway.

Need to know

Currency

The official currencies vary across the region: the Swedish Krona (SEK) in Sweden, Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Norway, Danish Krone (DKK) in Denmark and Euro (EUR) in Finland.

Transportation 

Trains, ferries and car rentals are the primary modes of transportation in the Nordic countries. Urban settings like Helsinki, Stockholm and Oslo are very walkable, and bicycles (there’s a substantial network of bike paths) are hugely popular during warmer months.

Airports

• Norway: Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) is the main international gateway to Norway and sits about 30 minutes from Oslo. Tromsø Airport (TOS) is in northern Norway and is a good choice when exploring the Arctic region. 
• Sweden: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) is the main gateway to Sweden and is located about 40 minutes from Stockholm. Kiruna Airport (KRN) sits in the far north — use this airport when exploring Swedish Lapland. 
• Finland: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is a 30-minute drive from Helsinki. Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) in the heart of Lapland offers easy access to northern Finland. 
• Denmark: Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is located just 15 minutes from the city center by train or car.
  

Best time to visit

• Summer (June to August): Expect mild to warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 77°F. These months are best for exploring Sweden’s lakes, Finland’s forests and Norway’s fjords, with the northern areas experiencing the midnight sun for near-endless daylight. Denmark, a more year-round destination, is on the warm end of this range.
• Winter (November to March): Winter temperatures range from 15°F to 32°F in the south to much colder in the far north. Skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding are popular, while Northern Lights viewing peaks during this time across the region. You can view the fjords during this season, but remember daylight hours are limited so plan accordingly. 
  

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: Lutefisk (dried fish reconstituted in lye) and Rakfisk (fermented fish) are traditional dishes, often enjoyed during winter.
• Sweden: Meatballs (köttbullar) served with lingonberry sauce and gravlax (cured salmon) are staples of Swedish cuisine.
• Denmark: Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and Frikadeller (meatballs) are popular, hearty choices.
• Finland: Karjalanpiirakka (rice-filled pastries) and Ruisleipä (rye bread) are Finnish comfort foods.
  

Languages and key phrases

English is widely spoken and understood in the Nordic countries, especially in the cities. Norwegian (both Bokmål and Nynorsk dialects), Swedish and Danish are the official languages of their respective countries, and Finland is bilingual, with both Finnish and Swedish.

• 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

Practical and comfortable clothing is essential. Be prepared for cold temperatures in winter months and cool nights in the summer months. Layered outfits, waterproof jackets and sturdy shoes are common. For upscale dining or city evenings, smart-casual attire is appropriate — think wool sweaters, tailored trousers and stylish boots. If you tend toward the modest side, make sure to bring a swimsuit for cold plunges and saunas.

Where to stay

Norway

Amerikalinjin, Oslo: A boutique, centrally located hotel housed in a historic building, blending Oslo’s maritime past with a modern aesthetic.

Sommerro, Oslo: An Art Deco-inspired hotel offering a stylish mix of historic charm and contemporary elegance in Oslo’s vibrant Frogner district.

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.

Sweden

Grand Hôtel Stockholm: A classic hotel overlooking the waterfront, offering elegant rooms and a rich history in central Stockholm.

Lydmar Hotel, Stockholm: A stylish boutique hotel with an artsy, relaxed vibe, known for its modern design and central location.

Finland

Hotel St. George, Helsinki: A chic, wellness-focused hotel combining understated luxury with a relaxed vibe in the center of Helsinki.

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.

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.

Hotel Sanders: A boutique hotel perfect for travelers looking for a quaint, welcoming stay near Copenhagen’s cultural sites.

Activities

Norway

• Northern Lights: Head to Tromsø for one of the best places to view the Northern Lights, along with dog sledding and whale watching.
• Train: Take a scenic train or boat tour through Norway’s famous fjords, such as Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord, known for their beauty.
• Bryggen Wharf: Explore Bergen’s colorful UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf and take the funicular up Mount Fløyen for breathtaking views.
• Museums: Visit Oslo’s art museums, including the National Museum of Art and the Astrup Fearnley Museum for a mix of contemporary and classic art.
• Sleigh rides: Participate in reindeer sleigh rides and learn about Sami culture in the northern regions of Norway.
• Christmas markets: Stroll through Oslo’s Christmas Markets, where you can enjoy festive stalls, seasonal treats and holiday shopping. 
  

Sweden

• Northern Lights: Head to Abisko National Park, one of the best spots in the world to see the Northern Lights due to its clear skies. 
• Explore Stockholm: Don’t miss the historic neighborhood of Gamla Stan. A good way to see Stockholm’s archipelago is by boat. Museum WAY (a cultural hub by the water) will give you a great snapshot of the area’s history at the Viking Museum, Vasa Museum and Spiritmuseum, all located next to each other. Design lovers can wander through the Södermalm and SoFo neighborhoods, known for the arts, vintage shops and cool cafes.
• Ice Hotel: Stay in the world-famous Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi, carved from ice each year.
• Baking class: Take a cinnamon bun-making class to master the art of creating those sweet Swedish treats.
• Boat ride: Get a unique vantage point of the city and its architecture by taking a boat tour. (I can help book this.)
  

Finland

• Northern Lights: Witness the magical Northern Lights in Lapland (Ruka or Levi) and enjoy activities such as dog sledding, reindeer safaris and snowshoeing in Finland’s Arctic regions.
• Sauna: Take part in the famous Finnish tradition — the sauna. And for those that have a hearty stamina, follow this with a cold plunge or roll in the snow.
• Explore Helsinki: The capital city’s design district includes the Helsinki Cathedral and a market square where you’ll find local boutiques and cafes (don’t miss the delicious pastries — some of the best pastries you’ll taste anywhere).
• Visit Santa Claus Village: Make your childhood dreams come true with a visit to Rovaniemi, the official home of Santa Claus. Families can’t miss this for a huge dose of festive charm.
• Island hopping: Discover the beautiful islands in the Finnish archipelago with a boat tour from Turku.
  

Denmark

• Museums: Explore Contemporary Art and Design at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and Designmuseum Danmark, where cutting-edge exhibitions meet Danish design heritage. Explore Aarhus and the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, known for its rainbow-colored panoramic rooftop walk and exhibitions.
• Botanical Gardens: Stroll through the gorgeous gardens at the Botanical Gardens in Copenhagen during warm months, and explore the exotic greenhouse plants all year — a perfect break from the bustling city.
• Explore Copenhagen: Visit the Hidden Courtyards of Copenhagen, where tucked-away cafes and boutiques offer a more intimate setting for shopping and dining. 
• Northern Lights: Northern Lights viewing is possible in remote areas like Thy National Park, where you’ll find quiet luxury lodges about five hours from Copenhagen. 
  

Add-on destinations

If you’re heading to the Nordic Region, it makes sense to spend a little extra time exploring some other nearby destinations. These spots make a good pairing with any of the Nordic countries because of their proximity and easy flight connections. Contact me for suggestions on where to stay and what to do, as well as some more options.

• Iceland: Iceland is home to dramatic landscapes with volcanoes, geysers and hot springs. It’s a great addition for nature lovers and those who want outdoor adventure.
• Edinburgh, Scotland: A short flight from the Nordic capitals, Edinburgh combines history with striking landscapes. Its medieval Old Town and Edinburgh Castle make it a good stop for travelers who want to experience more of Northern Europe’s heritage and charm.
• Tallinn, Estonia: Hop on a ferry from Helsinki to reach Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time with cobbled streets and centuries-old architecture — a great combo after soaking in some of the Nordic’s natural landscapes.
• Riga, Latvia: Travelers reach Latvia via flight or ferry from Stockholm or Helsinki. Riga’s Art Nouveau architecture and Old Town make it interesting just to walk around. Summer months feature outdoor markets and cafes with terrace dining. 
• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Take a flight from any Nordic capital to Amsterdam for a mix of historic canals, world-class museums (like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum) and a relaxed, bike-friendly culture. The city’s charming neighborhoods and easygoing vibe make it a great pairing with any Nordic itinerary.
  

For customized recommendations and expert planning, reach out to me to begin your Nordic adventure.