“Discover the Nordic Wonders: A 12-Day Scandinavian Road Trip Adventure”

A 12-Day Scandinavian Road Trip Adventure

We started our trip flying from Brussels to Copenhagen, Denmark, where we rented a car at the airport and began our Scandinavian adventure for the next 12 days.

It was such an amazing experience that inspired me to start writing this post.

I traveled with my 2-year-old girl, and I must say that she enjoyed it even more than I did. Organizing this trip took a lot of time and energy, but it was worth it.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

We stayed 2 days at Scandic Sydhavnen hotel, not in the city center but next to the train station and well-connected with other parts of the city. Parking is available in front of the hotel for guests. It’s important to note that in Scandic hotels, rooms are cleaned only on your request 24 hours in advance, as they aim to be as green as possible.

The first day, we explored the city center, as it was the end of June, and the school year had just finished, with party trucks on every corner.

Places to visit in Copenhagen:

Nyhavn

One of the most visited places in Copenhagen, with colorful buildings and old charm. Offers perfect photo opportunities and is filled with bars and restaurants.

Tivoli

Located in the city center of Copenhagen, is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.

Tivoli includes several rides and attractions, including a carousel, roller coasters, and a Ferris wheel, buildings in the exotic style of an imaginary Orient, a theatre, restaurants and cafés, flower gardens and much more.

You need to pay for entrance to the park.

Bakken (Dyrehavesbakken)

The world’s oldest amusement park. We gt recommendations from natives to visit this amusement park. It is located 10km (about 6.21 mi) north of central Copenhagen. The concept is the same as in Tivoli, but you do not need to pay for entrance. It is a perfect place to visit with children, a large forest park north of Copenhagen with fun for all the family.

Nearby is Bellevue Beach, accessible after a 15-minute walk, one of the most popular beaches in the Copenhagen area.

The Little Mermaid

One of the most iconic landmarks in Copenhagen, located in the harbor. Despite its small size, it’s a favorite tourist attraction.

The royal and historic Copenhagen

With historical landmarks and amazing architecture on every corner, this part of the city includes Rosenborg Castle, Kastellet, Gefionspringvandet, and St. Alban’s Church. The blend of modern and old architecture is striking.

2. Malmo

Our second stop was Malmo, a 1-hour drive from Copenhagen, perfect for a day trip. I recommend visiting Slottsträdgården for a cafe with delicious food. We stayed 1 night in Scandic S:t Jörgen in the city center, with everything close by.

Ribersborgsstranden: A 40-minute walk from the city center, offering walking, biking, picnics, and beach activities.

Malmo becomes a quiet town during the evening hours.

Jakriborg

Jakriborg is a housing estate in Hjärup, perfect for a stop between Malmö and Lund. Known for its traditional and unique classic architecture. The best thing to do here is take pictures of the houses and streets.

3. Lund

I fell in love with Lund. Among the oldest cities in Sweden, it boasts a rich history and architecture. Best Western Plus Hotel Nordic was amazing, with character and a delicious breakfast that completed our experience.

Every street tells a different story, creating a lively city with numerous bars and restaurants offering delicious food. Lund is a melting pot of people from around the world, either studying or attending business conferences.

4. Lake House – Lillaryd Bolmvik

155 km from Lund is this piece of paradise. A perfect place to escape busy life and slow down. You can rent a boat, go for a ride on the lake, fish, or sunbathe at a small beach on the property. We regretted not booking at least 3 nights upon entering the house.

Kroksjöns Fiskecamp

On or way to Gothenburg, we had a picnic in Kroksjöns Fiskecamp and enjoyed amazing scenery.

5. Gothenburg

As we went further west, I was more impressed with nature and cities. Gothenburg is a city that has everything. Despite the weather, we had a wonderful time enjoying delicious seafood. Scandic Crown, in the city center, was our choice, located next to Central Station and the botanic garden.

6. Norway – Tretopphytter Pa Grensen, Beverhytta – Treehouse

A breathtaking treehouse in the forest was our first stop in Norway. It provided one of the best experiences, connecting with nature and listening to the sound of trees. We stayed for 1 night, but it added a completely different dimension to our trip.

7. Oslo

We spent 3 days in Oslo at Radisson Blu Plaza, close to the city center, exploring mostly on foot. Oslo exceeded our expectations with its architecture, people, restaurants, and food.

One of interesting things is that you cannot buy alcohol drinks on Sunday in Norway. And you can order whale and moose meat as a meal, because the tastes of these 2 meats are similar.

Places to visit in Oslo:

Karl Johans gate
Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
Royal Palace
Holmenkollen Ski Museum
Norwegian Opera and Ballet House

The Port of Oslo

The Port of Oslo is the largest port in Norway. Near the cruise terminal and below the large castle on a hill. Modern, wide-open area with unique modern architecture of budlings that surround the port.

Oslo Fjord

We took the Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise which gave us the possibility to discover the scenery from a sightseeing boat. Oslo is at the head of the Oslo Fjord and surrounded by forested hills. On the hills there are mostly vacation homes with breathing views of the bay.

Vigeland Park

Vigeland park is the world’s largest sculpture park featuring works by a single artist. It represents the circle of life with all emotions.

8. DSDF Cruise

On our way back from Oslo to Copenhagen, we took DSDF Cruise, enjoying spectacular fjord sceneries. Standard cabins are small, but dinner was good, and there are plenty of entertainments for children.