Scandinavia offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from the Northern Lights and majestic mountains to stunning landscapes and delicious local cuisine. With so much to see and do, it can be tough to choose between Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. Here’s a guide to help you decide where to start your Scandinavian adventure, highlighting activities and tours in each country.

Finland is famous for its quirky World Championships, like who can sit in a sauna the longest or carry their wife the farthest. In winter, Finland transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for ice skating, hiking in national parks, skiing, and chasing the Aurora Borealis. Don’t miss the Finnish sauna experience, where important life decisions and business deals are often made. If you’re traveling with kids or are young at heart, visit Santa Claus town in Rovaniemi, where Christmas is celebrated year-round. Explore attractions like Snowman World and Elf School, and stay in Santa Claus holiday village. History buffs will enjoy Finland’s many fortresses, such as Olavinlinna Castle and Suomenlinna fortress, which offer picturesque sights perfect for Instagram.

Sweden has something to offer in every region. Before heading to the big cities, visit smaller towns like Visby, a medieval city, or Kalmar with its Renaissance Castle. Rättvik, the folk music capital, hosts the Musik vid Siljan Festival annually. For a unique experience, stay in the Ice Hotel in Kiruna, crafted by sculptors from around the world. In Sweden’s major cities—Malmo, Gothenburg, and Stockholm—you’ll find diverse attractions. Malmo offers modernism and stunning views of Copenhagen from Ribersborg beach. Gothenburg can be explored on foot, by bike, or by tram, and features island-hopping by ferry and Scandinavia’s largest amusement park, Liseberg. Stockholm boasts historic sites like Old Town, the Vasa museum, and the Royal Castle, as well as the world’s longest art gallery in its subway stations.

Norway is a paradise for nature lovers, with hiking routes, scenic roads, and wildlife adventures. If you enjoy hiking, Norway’s trails like Preikestolen, Trolltunga, Skåla, and Romsdalseggen offer breathtaking fjord and mountain views. For a different kind of adventure, visit Flam for scenic landscapes and kayaking. Norway’s mountainous terrain isn’t ideal for cycling, but routes like Kystruta, Kanalruta, and Numedalsruta are available. After exploring nature, visit Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its fish market and Bryggen harbor. Oslo, though small, offers architectural wonders like the Opera House and Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, as well as the National Gallery and Holmenkollen ski-jump.

Denmark, though small, is packed with beautiful places to visit. Copenhagen is often described as Europe’s most beautiful and relaxed city. Rent a bike to tour the city quickly, starting with the Little Mermaid statue and continuing to Amalienborg Palace. Explore the unique Christiania quarter, a neighborhood born from protest. In winter, cozy up in a local coffee shop and experience Danish hygge. Outside Copenhagen, Aarhus is a smaller version of the capital, perfect for a summer visit. The Faroe Islands, part of Denmark, offer a hiker’s paradise with unpredictable weather and numerous waterfalls, making it a worthwhile three-day trip.

The Vikings were fortunate to live in such a fascinating region, and this guide should inspire you to explore the Nordic countries. If you’re still unsure where to start, check out Baltic Tours for the best offers.