Road trip to North Cape – a Nordic adventure
Driving through Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland to North Cape is one of the most spectacular road trips you can do in the Nordic countries. Along the way, fjords, mountains, midnight sun, historical sites, and capitals await. This trip takes you via Gothenburg, Oslo, Trondheim, and Bodö, further through the Arctic landscape to North Cape and then south through Kiruna, Luleå, and Stockholm before it ends in Copenhagen.
This is a travel suggestion, do you want to customize and change the start and end destination, or make a detour to Lofoten, Abisko National Park, and perhaps see more of Finland? Then you can easily plan your road trip here in our Travel Planner.
Gothenburg is the perfect starting point when the journey goes north through Scandinavia. Here you can walk through Haga, stroll along Avenyn, or take a boat trip in the archipelago. If you want to see more of the west coast before the trip goes north, it may be worth stopping in Smögen, Marstrand, or Tanumshede, where you can visit the UNESCO-protected rock carvings. If you are playful, Liseberg is always worth a visit.
On the way to Oslo: If you drive via E6 north, you can stop at Svinesund and enjoy the view of the fjord.
Oslo offers a perfect mix of history and modern architecture. Here you can visit the Opera House, walk along Aker Brygge, and explore the Viking heritage at the Viking Ship Museum. For those seeking nature experiences, there are nice hiking trails in Nordmarka.
On the way to Trondheim: The road goes through Gudbrandsdalen, where you can stop at Lillehammer and visit the Olympic arenas from 1994.
Trondheim is one of Norway's oldest cities and offers a unique mix of Viking history and Nordic charm. Nidaros Cathedral is a must, as is a walk along Bakklandet.
On the way to Bodö: The scenic road through Nordland offers dramatic landscapes. A stop at Saltstraumen, the world's strongest tidal current, is recommended.
Bodö is an important hub for those who want to explore Norway's northern coast. Here you can visit the Norwegian Aviation Museum or take the ferry to Lofoten and drive along the spectacular Lofoten Scenic Route.
On the way to Tromsø: Narvik is an interesting place to visit, especially for those who want to learn more about the history of World War II in the region.
Tromsø is one of the world's northernmost cities and offers a unique atmosphere. Here you can visit the Arctic Cathedral, take the Fjellheisen cable car, and experience the famous midnight sun.
On the way to North Cape: Pass Alta and visit the historic rock carvings. The road up to North Cape is one of Europe's most spectacular car roads.
North Cape – Europe's northernmost point. Driving to North Cape is an experience few forget. Here you can visit the North Cape cliff, see the midnight sun, and explore the North Cape Museum.
On the way to Kiruna: The journey south goes through Finnish Lapland, where the landscape is characterized by vast forests and wilderness. A stop in Karesuando, Sweden's northernmost urban area, is recommended.
Kiruna – Sweden's northernmost city and the road through Lapland is a city in change, with an ongoing move of the entire center. Here you can visit LKAB's visitor mine, see Kiruna Church, or take a trip to Abisko National Park.
On the way to Luleå: Stop at Jukkasjärvi and see the Icehotel, which has a permanent ice exhibition even in the summer.
Luleå is known for its archipelago and Gammelstad Church Town, which is a UNESCO-protected historical site. Here you can also explore the beautiful natural areas along the coast.
On the way to Sundsvall: Drive along E4 and make a stop at the High Coast Bridge for a fantastic view.
Sundsvall is known for its beautiful stone houses and its proximity to the High Coast. Visit Norra Berget for a nice view of the city or walk through Stenstaden.
On the way to Stockholm: A stop in Gävle or Uppsala can provide an interesting insight into Swedish history and culture.
Stockholm, Sweden's capital offers everything from historical sights to modern city pulse. Here you can visit the Old Town, the Vasa Museum, and Skansen. For those who want to explore the archipelago, there are boat tours to islands such as Vaxholm and Sandhamn.
On the way to Copenhagen: Pass Jönköping by Vättern and stop in Malmö before you drive over the Öresund Bridge.
Copenhagen by the Öresund is a worthy end to the Nordic journey. Here you can visit Nyhavn, Tivoli, and the Little Mermaid. The city has a wide range of restaurants, perfect for rounding off the trip.
A road trip through Scandinavia and the Nordic countries is one of the best ways to experience the region's unique nature and culture. Whether you are attracted by fjords, mountains, or city life, there is something to discover along the entire route.
