The Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Norway, and Denmark offer endless captivating travel experiences. There are lots of reasons to visit Sweden, plenty of excuses to visit Norway, and a sea of things to do in Denmark, so keep reading to find out what travel experiences are unique to Scandinavia.
Visit The 19th-Century Amusement Park, Tivoli Gardens, In Denmark
The Danish capital city of Copenhagen offers visitors endless attractions and impressive sights. One of the best things to do in the city if you only have 24 hours is visiting the amusement park known as Tivoli Gardens, which actually dates back to the 19thcentury.
Having opened in 1843, Tivoli is the second-oldest amusement park in the world (the oldest being Dyrehavsbakken, also located in Denmark). Offering rides, games, musicals, other performances, and a magical setting, it is popular among locals and tourists. And while you can go to an amusement park anywhere, you can’t visit one this old and fairytale-like outside of Scandinavia.
Tivoli is located centrally and is easy for visitors to get to. Walt Disney is said to have based the Disney theme parks on Tivoli Gardens after visiting in person. Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish fairytale writer, also visited.
There are rides for every kind of park guest, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or are more interested in the magic of nostalgia. The amusement park also serves as a lush garden, perfect for those who just want to stroll around and absorb the scenery.
Go Arctic Surfing In Norway
Technically, you can go arctic surfing outside of Scandinavia. But you need the cold conditions that are so common in the Scandinavian countries to do it. Many professional surfers and surfing enthusiasts purposely travel to Norway to partake in arctic surfing in the scenic Lofoten islands.
Beginners are welcome at the surfing retreat at Unstad Beach so you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy this unique activity. And if you’re not up to actually doing any arctic surfing yourself, you can always visit Lofoten and observe other people surfing. The islands boast spectacular views of the surrounding dramatic landscape made up of mountains and fjords.
You can go arctic surfing all year long in Norway and the retreats and guided surfing groups in the area will hook you up with the correct equipment and give you any pointers. This is definitely the type of activity that will push you out of your comfort zone while in Scandinavia.
Admire Art Underground In Stockholm
Although you can see art anywhere, being able to admire fascinating art in subway stations is a much rarer opportunity. More than 90 subway stations in Stockholm have been converted into art galleries housing exhibits in cave-like conditions. The world’s longest art exhibition is actually in Stockholm, known as Tunnelbana, and stretching over 110 kilometers.
The best part about visiting the art galleries beneath Stockholm is that you don’t need to pay an entry fee. As long as you’ve got a subway ticket, you can venture below to see them. This is easily one of the most unique things to do in Sweden because the art on display isn’t just graffiti (which you can find in pretty much anyway subway station). There are actually installations by professional artists that represent Swedish culture, including mosaics, paintings, and other pieces.
Stay In A Norwegian Arctic Dome
Ice hotels are becoming more popular in the Nordic countries and you can also stay in a glass igloo outside of Scandinavia. But arctic domes are a Norwegian invention, and although they do now exist outside of Norway, you’ll have ample chances to stay in one while in Norway, since so many are listed on Airbnb.
Staying in an arctic dome doesn’t come cheap but it is one of the most unique things you can do in Norway. They provide comfort while also allowing you the chance to admire the stunning scenery around you.