Royal capitals and magnificent nature – road trip in Scandinavia
Discover Scandinavia's royal capitals, historical attractions, and magnificent nature on a road trip through Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. This journey takes you through vibrant cities, mountain landscapes, and coastal locations, with the opportunity to explore both culture and nature along the way.
Copenhagen – design, history, and royal heritage
Copenhagen with its charming mix of history, design, and gastronomy. Stroll along Strøget, visit Nyhavn, and experience Tivoli, one of the world's oldest amusement parks. Christiansborg Castle, formerly a royal castle and now the seat of the Danish parliament, can be visited. Amalienborg, the queen's residence, offers a daily changing of the guard and a museum about the Danish royal family.
Copenhagen is one of Europe's top food cities. For an extraordinary taste experience, there are several Michelin restaurants, such as Geranium and Noma. For more relaxed alternatives, Torvehallerne is an excellent place for street food and local delicacies. Also, try classic smørrebrød at a traditional Danish inn.
On the way to Gothenburg: Drive via the Great Belt Bridge and continue through Denmark to the ferry in Frederikshavn, which takes you to Gothenburg. Alternatively, you can drive over the Øresund Bridge and follow the west coast via Halmstad and Varberg, where you can visit Tylösand and Varberg's fortress.
Gothenburg – archipelago, culture, and maritime history
Sweden's second-largest city offers a mix of historical quarters, coastal experiences, and modern urban development. Visit Liseberg for amusement, explore Universeum, and walk through Haga's picturesque streets. The newly renovated Feskekôrka is perfect for seafood lovers, and a boat trip to the archipelago islands Vrångö or Styrsö provides a nature break.
On the way to Oslo: Follow E6 along the Bohuslän coast and make detours to Smögen, Fjällbacka, or Tanum's rock carvings before you cross the border into Norway.
Oslo – monarchy and Viking history
Norway's capital combines old and new. Explore the Opera House, walk in Vigeland Park, and learn more about the Vikings at the Viking Ship Museum. The Royal Palace, built in the 19th century, is open for visits during the summer and has a daily changing of the guard. Karl Johans gate runs through the heart of the city and past the National Museum and the Storting. Oslomarka offers nature experiences close to the city, and a boat trip on the Oslo Fjord is a popular activity.
On the way to Trondheim: Drive through Gudbrandsdalen, one of Norway's most beautiful valleys, and make a stop in Lillehammer to visit the Maihaugen open-air museum and the Olympic facilities from 1994.
Trondheim – medieval history and fjord landscape
Trondheim is known for Nidaros Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the Nordic countries and an important pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages. Visit the colorful district of Bakklandet, Sverresborg Open Air Museum, and Kristiansten Fortress for a panoramic view of the city. A trip out into the Trondheim Fjord offers the opportunity to experience the beautiful Norwegian coastal landscape.
On the way to Åre: Pass Røros, a UNESCO-protected old mining town with well-preserved wooden houses and a rich Sami cultural heritage.
Åre – mountain experiences all year round
Åre is one of Scandinavia's top alpine destinations, but there are also activities for other seasons. Hike up to Åreskutan, cycle in Åre Bike Park, or visit Tännforsen, Sweden's largest waterfall. The mountain world offers both adventure and relaxation in beautiful nature.
On the way to Sundsvall: Pass Östersund and Frösön, where the Jamtli historical museum provides insight into the history of Jämtland.
Sundsvall – the stone city by the sea
After the great city fire of 1888, Sundsvall was rebuilt in stone, giving the city center a unique architecture. Walk in Stenstan, visit Norra Berget for a view of the city, and explore the coastal landscape at Södra Berget. For a nature break, the High Coast and Skuleskogen National Park are a short distance away.
On the way to Stockholm: Drive E4 south and make stops in Hudiksvall or Gävle to visit the County Museum and the Swedish Railway Museum.
Stockholm – the royal palace and the archipelago
Stockholm offers culture, history, and scenic views. The Vasa Museum, ABBA The Museum, and Fotografiska are popular destinations, while Gamla Stan offers cobblestone streets and charming shops. The Royal Palace is one of the largest in Europe, and here you can visit the state apartments and the Royal Armoury with all its treasures. Djurgården houses both museums and nature, and a boat trip in the archipelago is a must.
Östermalm has both luxury restaurants and classic Swedish inns, while Södermalm offers innovative flavors and trendy bistros. Try traditional Swedish food at Restaurant Tradition, seafood at Wedholms Fisk, or Nordic fine dining at Frantzén, Sweden's only three-star Michelin restaurant. Don't miss the shopping and nightlife.
On the way to Kalmar: Stop in Trosa, an idyllic coastal town, or Västervik with its beautiful archipelago and climbing opportunities.
Kalmar – historical city and the Kalmar Union
Kalmar is one of Sweden's most important historical cities. The Kalmar Union was concluded here in 1397, when Denmark, Norway, and Sweden were united under a common monarch. Kalmar Castle, where the union was signed, is a well-preserved medieval castle that today serves as a museum. The city center is filled with charming alleys and shops, and Kalmarsund offers great swimming opportunities.
Take the bridge over to Öland: Öland offers a unique nature with Stora Alvaret, a vast limestone plateau that is on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Solliden, the royal family's summer residence, is located outside Borgholm and has a beautiful park open to visitors. Borgholm Castle ruin testifies to Öland's historical significance. The enchanted forest, the classic windmills, and the long sandy beaches make the island perfect for both cultural and nature experiences. Perfect stop for sun and bathing if it is the season.
Book accommodation and any additional services via Sembo for a smooth and flexible journey through Scandinavia.
