5 reasons to visit the Nordics
Known for their dramatic landscapes and cosmopolitan cities, the Nordic countries - which include Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark and Iceland - offer travellers a memorable holiday.
Visit stunning Lapland and experience an outdoor adventure, while learning about local Lappish traditions. If the conditions are right you'll catch a glimpse of the incredible Aurora Borealis.
Another way to enjoy the delights of the Nordics is to take a cruise through Oslofjord, visiting Oslo and its wealth of art and culture. Or journey along the Norwegian coast, spending time above the Arctic Circle, to really maximise your chances of catching a captivating Northern Lights display.
Or choose a city break with a hotel stay in one of the wonderful Nordic capitals. Explore the many islands that make up Stockholm; visit trendy Copenhagen; or spend a weekend in Reykjavík, and scale the tower of Hallgrímskirkja church for breathtaking views.
Read on to see our reasons why you should visit the Nordics...
Experience a winter wilderness like no other when you visit Lapland. Whether you decide for a flying visit by way of a day trip, or opt for a longer break, you'll have the opportunity to embark on winter pursuits, such as husky sledding and snowmobiling, or reindeer rides. Celebrate the magic of Christmas with a visit to Santa's village and soak up the festive atmosphere. You may well see huskies, reindeer and even Santa himself (as well as Mrs Claus) as you wander the snowy landscapes. Lapland is known for its unique and quirky accommodation, you could experience staying in an igloo-style hotel, a hotel made of ice and snow, or in glass igloos with a 360-degree views of the sky. What better opportunity to see the Northern Lights?
Visit: Explore the magical winter landscapes of Lapland on a five-day tour
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is one of the greatest natural light shows on earth and visiting the Nordic countries is a wonderful way of seeing them at their vibrant best. From northern Norway and Swedish Lapland to Finnish wilderness and Icelandic countryside, the Aurora Borealis dances across the skies in vivid greens and purples for a mesmerising show. Whether you're watching on from the deck of a cruise ship, from a glass-roofed cabin, or whilst snuggled in blankets beside a crackling fire, the Northern Lights always amaze. The Nordics offer one of the most magical and accessible ways to experience this unforgettable natural phenomenon.
Read more: Hear from Astronomer and Chief Aurora Chaser Tom Kerss in our exclusive chat
The region is renowned for its jaw-dropping scenery, where towering cliffs plunge into the deep blue sea below, waterfalls cascade from dizzying heights, and glaciers carve through the valleys. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is by cruise - whether sailing along Norway's UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord; around the 'Land of Fire and Ice', Iceland or to the remote Faroe Islands. The Nordic landscapes feel pristine and untouched. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, budding photographers, or anyone wishing to appreciate its natural beauty. While soaking up these landscapes, there will be the opportunity to connect with Arctic wildlife, from polar bears in Svalbard to reindeer in Finnish Lapland, as well as numerous species of whales in the surrounding waters.
Visit: Cruise from Newcastle to Iceland on this no-fly adventure or book an escorted tour of Norway
The Nordic countries have transformed the global food scene, particularly with the 'New Nordic Movement' - a concept which focuses on local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients. You'll find cuisine is rooted in tradition but combines innovative techniques to take foodies on a culinary adventure. With freshness at the heart of everything, from wild herbs to seafood and fish, you'll discover delicious flavours and authenticity. Denmark's known for its smørrebrød; Sweden for its cinnamon buns; and Norway for its hearty stews, offering a taste of comfort. In fact, on our cruises of Norway, you can taste 'Norway's coastal kitchen', as Hurtigruten work with 50 local farms, bakeries, and producers from across the country, and the food and drink you are served on board couldn't be fresher, more local or more seasonal.
Visit: Join chef James Martin on an eight-day Norway cruise; if you can't make that date, browse this 12-day trip instead
Read more: Our staff blog post reveals all about cruising with Hurtigruten
Nordic cities often feature prominently on the world's happiest and most liveable cities list, and it's easy to see why. With clean fresh air, innovative architecture and a commitment to sustainability, these locations feel refreshingly modern. Exploring is so accessible: cycle along Copenhagen's bike-friendly streets, or saunter along Reykjavík's colourful, pedestrianised neighbourhoods. Cosy coffee shops glow with candlelight, fully embracing the Danish spirit of hygge, while in Helsinki, contemporary design districts sit beside tranquil seaside saunas. Every day life celebrates balance, nature, and simple, meaningful pleasures. What else could you want?
