Scandinavia and its neighboring Nordic countries are a treasure trove of wild archipelagos, unspoiled natural beauty, and thrilling Arctic getaways! These captivating destinations in Northern Europe encompass Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. During Scandinavia's polar night, the sun stays hidden, treating travelers to the mesmerizing spectacle of the aurora borealis painting the night sky with its vibrant colors. In the summer months, under the enchanting midnight sun, you can revel in a day that seemingly lasts forever, offering a full 24 hours of daylight. Explore the awe-inspiring fjords of Norway, journey through the winter wonderland of Finnish Lapland, immerse yourself in the marvel of Sweden's renowned ICEHOTEL, or set sail on an unforgettable cruise along the picturesque Norwegian coast.
The group of countries commonly called "Scandanavia" is made up of Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Norway.
Aurora Borealis: The mesmerizing northern lights grace the skies across Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland! Regarded as one of the world's most spectacular light displays, this breathtaking array of colors emerges as charged electrons and protons from the sun are propelled directly towards Earth.
Christmas Magic: Rovaniemi, nestled in Finland, is home to one of the most enchanting destinations on Earth—the Santa Claus Village. Here, you can cross the Arctic Circle, meet the jolly man in red himself, send postcards from Santa's post office, pay a visit to the friendly reindeer, and frolic with Santa's cheerful elves.
Husky and Reindeer Sledding: There's no finer way to embrace the exquisite landscapes of Scandinavia and its Nordic neighbors than by embarking on husky or reindeer sledding adventures! In Finland, reindeer hold a cherished place as traditional modes of transport, offering an authentic glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
Midnight Sun: Scandinavia experiences the captivating Midnight Sun phenomenon above the Arctic Circle during its long summer days. When the solstice arrives, the sun remains visible on the horizon for a full 24 hours. With nights bathed in the soft glow of sunlight, there are ample hours in the day to explore the wonders of Scandinavia.
Polar Night: In stark contrast to the Midnight Sun, the Polar Night descends during the heart of winter, plunging the region into 24 hours of darkness as the sun remains hidden. The night sky comes alive with the vivid hues of the aurora borealis, casting an enchanting light over the snowy landscape.
Scandinavia is a year-round destination, with the choice of when to visit largely determined by your interests. For those seeking the mesmerizing Northern Lights spectacle, the optimal period spans from September to April. It's worth noting that the farther north you venture, the higher your chances of witnessing this natural wonder.
High season unfolds from mid-June to August, coinciding with the arrival of warmer weather and the magic of midsummer. The shoulder season, spanning from September to October, offers pleasant weather without the crowds that swarm popular tourist spots during the high season. Some attractions might be closed during this time, but you can enjoy a more peaceful experience at the rest.
Currency: Krone, although it's essential to note that the value of the Krone differs from country to country in the region.
Language: Sweden primarily speaks Swedish, Norway uses Norwegian, and Denmark communicates in Danish. While these languages are quite similar in the Scandinavian countries, the various dialects and accents can make communication a bit complex.
What makes it special: Notable are the Norwegian fjords, the Scandinavian Mountains covering much of Norway and parts of Sweden, the flat, low areas in Denmark and the archipelagos of Finland, Norway and Sweden. Finland and Sweden have many lakes and moraines, legacies of the ice age, which ended about ten millennia ago.
Weather: Scandinavia experiences distinct seasons. Summer spans from June to August, followed by autumn from September to October/November, then winter from November/December to March/February, and finally spring from March/April to May. The climate varies from north to south, with the northern regions enduring much colder, sub-zero temperatures, while the southern areas enjoy a milder climate.
Social customs: Scandinavia is a region in Northern Europe that includes countries such as Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and sometimes Iceland. While each of these countries has its own unique culture and customs, there are some general social customs that are commonly observed throughout the region. Personal space is highly regarded in Scandinavia. It's important to maintain a comfortable distance when speaking with someone and avoid standing too close to strangers. People in Scandinavia tend to communicate directly and honestly. They appreciate clarity and transparency in conversations, and subtlety or beating around the bush may be seen as a lack of honesty. Scandinavia is known for its strong commitment to gender equality. Men and women are typically treated equally in social, professional, and political contexts. Gender roles are less rigid than in many other cultures. Scandinavians typically dress conservatively and practically. Dressing for the weather is essential, and casual attire is often acceptable for everyday situations. Environmental consciousness is a significant cultural value in Scandinavia. Recycling and sustainability are important, and people are generally mindful of their impact on the environment.
