Likely, the last thing on your mind when planning a winter holiday is travelling to some of the coldest regions in the world. Scandinavia, however, is home to stunning countries that become even more magical as winter sets in. These nations boast must-see attractions, breathtaking landscapes and abundant winter activities for visitors. Experiencing Scandinavia in winter is truly something you need to see for yourself. Once you do, you’ll quickly realise just how incredible these countries are during the colder months.

All About Scandinavian Winter

First things first, the winter months in this region span from October to April. During this time, temperatures drop, snow begins to fall, and the nights grow longer. The Scandinavian countries – Sweden, Denmark, and Norway – cover a vast part of Northern Europe. As a result, weather and daylight hours can vary greatly depending on where you go.

In many Nordic countries, you’ll hear the saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” With this in mind, we recommend researching the usual weather conditions at your chosen destination in detail. This way, you’ll know what to expect and what to pack for your winter adventure.

Also, be prepared for short daylight hours when visiting Scandinavia in winter. Your location will make a big difference. In the southern capital cities of Scandinavia, you’ll typically enjoy daylight from around 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM during midwinter. Further north, inside the Arctic Circle – places like Tromsø or Lapland – you may encounter a polar night. This phenomenon occurs when the sun does not rise above the horizon all day.

Tromsø, Norway

Known as the Arctic capital of Norway, Tromsø is a lively city brimming with exciting winter experiences. It’s an excellent base for aurora hunting, offering a range of tours to help you chase the northern lights across the Arctic wilderness. But Tromsø has more to offer than just the aurora. By day, you can delve into the city’s fascinating cultural heritage. Enjoy family-friendly activities like husky-pulled sled rides or visits to a husky lodge. Take the Fjellheisen cable car for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding fjords, or explore the Polar Museum to learn about Norway’s legendary polar explorers and their epic adventures.

Norway as a whole boasts an abundance of must-see attractions, including the Viking Ship Museum, Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, Lofoten, Akershus Fortress and Fram Museum. Adventurous visitors can try scuba diving, biking, hiking, or experiencing polar nights, alongside staying up to watch the mesmerising Northern Lights. The winter activities on offer seem endless, making it a favourite season for visitors.

Despite its relatively small size, Tromsø offers a good range of quality hotels along the waterfront. Radisson Blu and Scandic Ishavshotel are two good choices, both at the end of the short airport bus route. You can also consider popular spots like The Hanseatic Hotel in Bergen, Dalen Hotel, Hotel Union, Quality Spa & Resort Norefjell, or Grims Grenka. To fully immerse yourself in Norwegian culture, sample local cuisine at top restaurants such as Maltid, Huset, Renaa Matbaren, or Tre Bror Café & Bar. Norway’s combination of natural beauty, rich history, and delicious food ensures an unforgettable winter visit.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, is an ideal destination for a winter escape, offering urban charm and cultural attractions without the bustle of Stockholm. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, the city comes alive in winter with highlights like the Liseberg Christmas Market, one of Scandinavia’s largest, brimming with festive treats and gifts. Food lovers will delight in Gothenburg’s reputation for exceptional seafood and its burgeoning selection of acclaimed restaurants.

A visit wouldn’t be complete without taking a boat trip to the Gothenburg Archipelago to experience the rugged beauty of the Scandinavian coast in its winter splendour. For accommodation, the luxurious Hotel Pigalle evokes early 1900s Paris with its opulent design, while The Upper House offers modern five-star luxury, including a glass-bottomed swimming pool. The rest of Sweden also offers unique and enchanting experiences.

Visitors can enjoy activities like skiing, dog sledding in Sarek National Park, and exploring Abisko National Park, renowned for its Northern Lights. Wildlife safaris through Lapland’s snowy wilderness provide the chance to spot reindeer, wolves, and moose, creating unforgettable memories.

For a truly special stay, consider the world-famous Icehotel, the original ice accommodation, or choose from other luxurious options like the Grand Hôtel Stockholm. Sweden is also a culinary haven, featuring world-class restaurants such as Restaurang Samernas and Oaxen Krog & Slip, offering the perfect pairing of fine dining with stunning wintry landscapes.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, offers an authentic Nordic winter experience. Easily accessible via direct flights from Helsinki, its inland location ensures a snowy wonderland throughout the season. This picturesque destination is perfect for families, with highlights such as Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa and his reindeer, and thrilling activities like husky sledding through snow-laden forests. Visitors can also explore the Arktikum Science Museum to delve into Arctic life or marvel at the northern lights under clear night skies.

Rovaniemi’s diverse accommodation options cater to various tastes. Families can enjoy the cosy cabins at Santa Claus Holiday Village, while those seeking modern luxury can opt for the Arctic Treehouse Hotel, offering stunning treetop views. Beyond Rovaniemi, Finland is a winter paradise with snow-covered landscapes, skiing in Lapland, and traditional Finnish saunas. Unique stays, such as igloos or ice hotels like Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, add to the magic.

Aarhus, Denmark

Aarhus, Denmark, offers a charming winter break combining rich history, modern flair, and a vibrant food scene without the crowds. Stroll through the picturesque Latin Quarter with its cobbled streets and independent boutiques, or immerse yourself in art at the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, known for its iconic ‘rainbow panorama.’ The city’s food scene is also exceptional, with several Michelin-starred restaurants and cosy cafés perfect for a winter retreat.

While winter in Aarhus can be quite cold, with temperatures rarely exceeding -4°C during the day, the city’s attractions remain just as inviting. Visitors can enjoy the unique sights of Den Gamle By, an open-air museum recreating Danish life from past centuries. For accommodation, Hotel Royal provides a luxurious stay in a historic building, while Villa Provence offers a boutique experience, and Hotel Oasia features stylish Nordic design near the railway station.

Faroe Islands

Part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands consist of 18 volcanic islands situated between Iceland and Norway. These islands are connected by a network of roads, tunnels, causeways, bridges, and ferries, allowing travellers to easily journey from one island to another. While this destination might not be a city, the Faroe Islands are perfect for nature enthusiasts, offering numerous nature trails and opportunities for birdwatching, with thousands of seabirds inhabiting the valleys and coastal cliffs.

Although small, the Faroe Islands provide travellers with a unique experience. Recommended activities include hiking, boating, helicopter tours, rappelling, exploring museums, and shopping. Key attractions include Nolsoy, Torshavn Cathedral, Tynwald Hill, Magnus Cathedral, and Hestur. Popular places to stay in the Faroe Islands include Hotel Foroyar, Hafnia, Klaksvik Hotel, and Gjaargardur Guesthouse. The Faroe Islands also offer delectable restaurants such as Aarstova, Koks, Restaurant 11, and Barbara Fish House.

Discover more winter escapes here.