Planning a vacation: a winter trip to Scandinavia

Northern European countries are increasingly attracting travelers. Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, which were once uninteresting and unremarkable, have now turned into a tourist magnet. And there is nothing to be surprised about. After all, the Viking homeland is beautiful and amazing. A year, and perhaps a lifetime, would not be enough to explore it thoroughly. But we will try to do it in a weekend. To know what locations are worth visiting there, read on.

Norway

Let's start our journey from the land where the capital of the Vikings was once located. Their main city was Oslo, which still serves as a center for Norwegians. When you first come here, it takes your breath away not for one minute but for the entire planned vacation. It is impossible not to admire the beauty of the local nature. People here live in harmony with the flora and fauna. This is evidenced by the dense forests that seem to protect the settlement from intruders.

It's so beautiful here that you want to run and look at every building, every stone, sign, terrace or balcony. If you have the energy, be sure to go for a walk right away. This way you will have time to see more.

Where to go? First of all, to the Royal Palace and museums of modern art, Munch and Viking ships. We also recommend visiting the Cathedral, walking to the Town Hall, and checking out the Akershus Fortress.

Let's move on. Our next stop is Bergen, an ancient city with unusual traditions and an original history. We are sure you have heard of it. Its panorama is often depicted on postcards and shown in movies.

Just like in the capital, there are many things to see here. First, there is the Bryggen district. It is the neighborhood that is depicted on postcards. There are two-story wooden houses on the shore of Vågen Bay that are painted yellow, green, and red. The buildings used to serve as storage facilities for grain and fish caught late at night. Now it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is worth going to the St Mary's Church, visiting the Bergenhus Fortress, walking to the Rosenkrantz Tower, and visiting the Damsgård Manor and the VilVite Science Center. Finally, head to Mount Fløyen. There is a funicular, the Fløibanen, which offers incredible views.

If you have enough time, be sure to visit Ålesund, an art nouveau city. In addition to beautiful architecture, it has incredible nature with its famous fjords, waterfalls and massive glaciers.

Sweden

The country is famous for its measured rhythm of life, safety and careful attitude to flora and fauna. The Swedes are great environmentalists. Every family sorts garbage, not because the laws do not allow it otherwise, but because of the desire to protect the Earth from being "poisoned". In this country, 99% of the waste is recycled and only 1% is sent to a landfill.

You should start your trip from the capital. And the first place we recommend going is the subway. Yes, we know, it sounds a bit strange, but it is the hallmark of Stockholm. Its tunnels are not gray, peeling bricks, but painted walls. Each station has its own painting that tells the story of the region. So get your camera ready as the journey will be interesting.

It would be a crime to come here and not go to the main town hall. It offers an incredible view of the Old Town. It is on this square that the Nobel Banquet is traditionally held. Of course, you shouldn't miss the Absolut Ice bar. Even if you don't drink alcohol, visit it just to admire the beauty of the place, which is made entirely of ice. It is not only the facade of the building but also the interior decoration and furniture of the pub.

If you have the opportunity, you should definitely go to Gotland. One or two days will be enough to enjoy the atmosphere of fishing villages, colorful wooden houses and local flora.

Denmark

This small country is home to many amazing places that will take a lot of time to explore in detail. The first thing to note is that it is possible to travel the country by bike. So if you want to, you can realize this option. Moreover, "iron horses" are everywhere here, and you don't have to pay to use them.

It is logical that the trip should start from the capital, Copenhagen. The city is very cozy and hospitable. Wandering through its narrow streets is a pleasure. When you have admired the surroundings, go to Amalienborg Palace, Andersen Museum, Carlsberg Glyptotek, Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, Castellet Castle and the Panoramic Tower.

We also recommend a trip to Elsinore, which is located near the center of Denmark. 45 minutes by car and you are there. This is where the famous Hamlet's house is located. Then head to Roskilde and visit the Cathedral, the main tomb of the Danish kings.

If you have time, energy and desire, head to Billund, Odense, Aarhus, Aalborg and Svendborg. There are also many architectural masterpieces there.

Traveling around the Scandinavian countries is a treat for the eyes. It is in these lands that you can see how powerful and beautiful nature is and also learn from the locals how to protect and appreciate it.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA told you about the most beautiful cities in Europe.

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