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As Nordic crime dramas and celebrity chefs gain traction, Australians are increasingly drawn to Europe’s northern reaches, writes Ute Junker.
For many, the relationship with Scandinavia has resembled a long-distance love affair. Australians revelled in the infectious melodies of ABBA and frequented Ikea stores, yet the allure of Scandinavia—characterized by its stark winters and enchanting summer nights—was often overshadowed by its perceived remoteness and high costs, making it a challenging destination.
However, in recent years, the landscape has transformed. A burgeoning appreciation for Scandinavia’s groundbreaking culinary scene, combined with an obsession for gripping Nordic noir and the celebrity status of actors like Mads Mikkelsen and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, has shifted Australians’ perceptions. We now see these northern lands not just as cultural icons, but as enticing travel destinations.
ERIK JORGENSEN/visitnorway.com
The trend speaks volumes, as Australian visitors to Sweden have surged by 27% since 2008, while Finland has witnessed a 25% increase since 2010. The influx is even more pronounced in Denmark, where the number of Australians traveling there has more than doubled since 2005. In Norway, the numbers were equally impressive, with a twofold increase in Australian visitors in 2013 compared to 2012.
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According to Flemming Bruhn, director of Visit Denmark, several factors contribute to this growing interest from Australians. The so-called “Princess Mary effect” plays a significant role, bolstered by landmarks such as the 40th anniversary of Sydney’s Opera House and the allure of Scandinavian television dramas like *The Killing*. Bruhn emphasizes the shared cultural attributes between Australia and Denmark: “We have a similar sense of humor and a comparable approach to life.”
At Bentours, a travel agency specializing in Scandinavian vacations for over 30 years, CEO Caroline Kennedy notes a marked increase in interest. Her clientele tends to be older, financially secure travelers seeking unique experiences that blend breathtaking scenery with rich cultural encounters. Popular destinations for these travelers include the breathtaking Norwegian fjords in summer and the mesmerizing northern lights in winter.
One crucial factor in this growing trend is the increasing ease of access to Scandinavia. For years, FinnAir has provided one-stop flights to the region, and since 2011, Emirates has introduced its own routes. As of September, Oslo will join Copenhagen and Stockholm as Emirates’ third major hub in the area.
“Australians are venturing more boldly into Europe,” states Bryan Banston, Emirates’ vice-president for Australasia. He notes that Aussie travelers are quick to embrace new routes, frequently opting to fly into one city and depart from another directly.
“We’ve noted significant growth in the destinations we’ve expanded to, and we foresee this trend continuing,” he adds.
Despite its formidable climate—or perhaps because of it—Scandinavia is increasingly being recognized as a year-round destination. Banston notes that summer sees a surge in cruise activity, while winter attracts adventurers seeking thrilling outdoor experiences.
First-time visitors often find themselves daunted by the wealth of choices available. From the breathtaking Norwegian fjords to medieval towns, Michelin-starred restaurants, and insights into indigenous Sami culture, curating the perfect itinerary can feel overwhelming.
To assist travelers, we have curated several themed itineraries—focused on design, family fun, culinary adventures, and outdoor thrills. Each selection offers highlights from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, along with Finland, which seamlessly fits into any Scandinavian travel plan.
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Utilize our curated lists as a foundation for your travels, or feel free to mix and match elements to create your personalized itinerary.
A key piece of advice when planning your journey: Keep a map handy. Given the geographical proximity of these nations, you might find that the quickest route to your desired destination is through a neighboring country. For instance, the Swedish city of Malmö is far closer to Copenhagen than it is to Stockholm.
Exploring Architecture and Design
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Scandinavia boasts an innate talent for design, reflected in its clean lines that adorn everything from architecture to fashion boutiques. Those who admire the works of architectural visionaries such as Alvar Aalto, Arne Jacobson, and Joern Utzon will find plenty to explore.
Oslo: A Hub of Contemporary Design
Oslo, rapidly becoming Europe’s fastest-growing capital, is in the midst of a construction boom. Notable additions to the skyline include the stunning Opera House by Snohetta and Corsgata 5, an avant-garde apartment block complementing its historical neighbors.
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While in Oslo, visitors should not miss the DogA, the Norwegian Centre for Design and Architecture, or the unique Vigelandsparken sculpture park.
Alesund: An Art Nouveau Treasure
In 1904, Alesund suffered a catastrophic fire, which, in hindsight, might have been a serendipitous event. The town was reconstructed in the then-emerging art nouveau style, turning it into a veritable open-air museum for architecture enthusiasts.
Copenhagen: The Danish Design Capital
Copenhagen is a veritable haven for fans of Danish design. The city offers many attractions, including the Danish Design Centre, along with modern marvels like the Black Diamond, which houses the Royal Library, the Tivoli Concert Hall, and the National Aquarium—a creation inspired by the shape of a whirlpool. Architecture aficionados will want to spend a night at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, a masterpiece designed by Arne Jacobson himself.
Aalborg: Home of Joern Utzon
For admirers of the legendary architect Joern Utzon, a visit to Aalborg is essential. The Utzon Centre, a harmonious complex of striking pavilions, showcases his signature design style.
Malmo: Skyscraping Ambitions
This southern city is home to one of Scandinavia’s most iconic structures, the Turning Torso by Santiago Calatrava. This extraordinary skyscraper twists 90 degrees, captivating those with an appreciation for contemporary architecture.
Helsinki: Grand Architectural Designs
Helsinki boasts an impressive array of architectural masterpieces. From art nouveau gems to modern wonders, including Alvar Aalto’s Finlandia Hall and Steven Holl’s Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum, the city perfectly balances tradition and innovation. The underground Church in the Rock is a must-visit, and the Arabia housing development showcases a beautiful integration of art into everyday life (self-guided walking tours are available through the Visit Helsinki website). Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Hvittrask, the studio home of Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen, where every element—from the design of the building to the furniture—was conceived by him and his colleagues.
Jyvaskyla: Alvar Aalto’s Legacy
Hailing from Jyvaskyla, the renowned architect Alvar Aalto left behind 30 notable structures, including his Experimental House and the Aalto family’s summer retreat. The Alvar Aalto Museum continues to celebrate this design icon’s multifaceted contributions.
The Great Outdoors Awaits
During summer, Scandinavia transforms into a playground of stunning landscapes, where adventures abound for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Aland Archipelago: Cycling Paradise
Nestled between Finland and Sweden, this collection of 6,700 islands, predominantly uninhabited and blanketed in pine forests, beckons cyclists who might even catch glimpses of moose along the way. Bridges and ferries connect the islands, with well-marked bike routes making navigation easy.
Lysefjord: A Fjord Lover’s Dream
Norway’s fjordlands offer breathtaking scenery, with the Lysefjord near Stavanger standing out for its accessibility. Hiking routes like the one leading to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) or Kjerag are popular, as are opportunities to kayak or ride on horseback through the breathtaking landscapes.
Kungsleden: The King’s Trail
This renowned 450-kilometer trail located in Swedish Lapland traces a picturesque route past rugged mountains and gurgling streams. The 100-kilometer segment from Abisko to Nikkaluokta forms a week-long trek traversing birch forests and lush alpine meadows, ultimately leading to a Sami camp, where visitors can immerse themselves in the culture of Sweden’s indigenous people.
Exploring the Underdog: Jutland Underground
This Danish province has turned abandoned mines into unique tourist attractions, offering kilometers of underground passageways for exploration. Sites like Monsted Limestone Quarries, Daugbjerg Limestone Mines, and Thingbæk Limestone Mines let you venture into a subterranean world, often revealing colonies of bats that have made these ancient structures their home.
Gjesværstappan: Birdwatcher’s Delight
While many flock to the northernmost point of Norway at Nordkapp, the true avian spectacle lies to the west, where Gjesværstappan’s islands boast Norway’s largest puffin colony. A bird safari here offers encounters with these delightful creatures and a host of other seabirds.
Family-Friendly Fun
From kayaking in Stockholm’s archipelago to exhilarating train adventures straight into fjords, Scandinavia brims with activities that appeal to families, including a chance to visit Santa Claus himself.
Roskilde: A Viking Experience
The Viking Ship Museum in Denmark’s historic capital showcases a diverse array of ancient vessels, offering children the unique opportunity to board a Viking ship and sail across the fjord. They’ll also be fascinated by the animated clock in the Roskilde Cathedral, where St. George battles a dragon every hour, and PIXL PARK, an interactive playground with movement-triggered audio and visual effects.
Billund: A Lego Wonderland
In Denmark, a visit to Legoland Park in Billund is a must-do for families. Children will delight in exhilarating rides and intricate models of incredible structures and animals carved from thousands of Lego bricks.
Stockholm: An Outdoor Paradise
With its picturesque Old Town and nearby archipelago of approximately 30,000 islands, Stockholm is an ideal destination for families. A day on Djurgarden Island, exploring museums, forests, meadows, and amusement parks, promises fun for everyone. Consider taking a kayaking tour, especially one that allows for an overnight barbecue and sauna experience!
Flam Railway: Scenic Wonders
The spectacular train journey from Oslo to Bergen features jaw-dropping scenery, especially upon reaching Myrdal, where a ride on the Flam Railway awaits. This thrilling ride spirals down 900 meters, taking you past stunning waterfalls, all while being confidently secured by five safety brake systems.
But the adventure doesn’t end there; from Flam, you can cruise along the breathtaking Sognefjord until you arrive in Bergen.
Rovaniemi: Santa’s Home
Few places excite children more than the opportunity to visit Santa Claus. Rovaniemi, positioned right on the Arctic Circle, has become a hub for holiday-themed tourism. Santa Claus Village and Santa Park provide the chance to meet Santa, see reindeer, and even receive a Christmas letter from the jolly man himself. Don’t forget to explore the Arktikum, a museum dedicated to Sami culture, where kids will marvel at artifacts such as clothing crafted from polar bear fur.
Culinary Delights
The culinary scene across Scandinavia has evolved tremendously, reshaping how locals experience food. Even smaller cities like Aalborg and Helsinki now boast a diverse array of dining options that tantalize the taste buds.
Copenhagen: Street Eats and Fine Dining
While Noma may once again claim the title of the best restaurant in the world, securing a reservation is akin to winning the lottery. Fear not; Copenhagen offers many fantastic dining experiences, from upscale to casual. Try stoppiting by Meyer’s Deli for tasty Danish delicacies or indulge in a hot dog from Dop’s organic stand, renowned for its fresh offerings.
Aalborg: Savoring Local Fare
Known for its culinary treasures, North Jutland serves up delightful offerings that include Limfjord oysters, succulent pink lobsters, and air-cured ham. Restaurants like Mortens Kro and Provence provide memorable dining experiences, while Aalborg’s floating restaurants invite guests onto converted houseboats, making for charming dinners. For beer enthusiasts, the Aalborg Beerwalk allows you to sample brews from six local microbreweries.
Gothenburg: A Seafood Haven
As Sweden’s second-largest city and a coastal gem, Gothenburg is a foodie’s dream. The historic Feskekorka, dubbed the “fish church,” presents a stunning array of fresh seafood. For those hungry for a true gastronomic experience, Sjomagasinet serves up standout dishes like lobster claw with crispy bacon bits and pine nuts.
Oslo: Michelin Stars
Oslo boasts a collection of Michelin-starred restaurants, though its dining scene can stretch your budget thin. Fauna stands out for offering a five-course meal at a relatively affordable price, while fine dining establishments like Ylajali and the exclusive Maaemo command top dollar.
Helsinki: Culinary Creativity
Helsinki may be compact, but its culinary landscape is rich and diverse. Restaurants like Luomo and Chef & Sommelier highlight local ingredients, with cozy spots like Restaurant Savoy showcasing designs by Alvar Aalto. During warmer months, seasonal eateries pop up across the islands, with NJK being a popular dining destination for crayfish lovers. Don’t miss grabbing a delicious fish sandwich from one of the boats in the harbor or exploring the Old Market Hall and the vibrant Eat & Joy Farmers’ Market.
FIVE MORE DESTINATIONS WORTH A DETOUR
AARHUS
With its medieval streets and vibrant cultural scene, Aarhus ranks among Denmark’s most charming towns.
TURKU
Finland’s oldest town, Turku, offers a picturesque riverside setting, bustling with life and sights like its striking cathedral and castle.
VISBY
To fully appreciate the allure of Visby, an ancient walled city on Gotland, arrive by boat for the best experience.
LOFOTEN ISLANDS
The Lofoten Islands in Norway boast soaring mountains, quaint fishing villages, and a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for unwinding.
KALMAR SLOTT
This fairy-tale castle in southeastern Sweden, complete with a moat and turrets, invites adventurers to explore its medieval charm.