Scandinavia Backpacking Itinerary

The following is a great itinerary for travelling through Scandinavia and ensures you see all the best cities in the most logical order. It should take between 20-30 days to complete but again this will depend on how much time you spend in each destination and also how distracted you get!

1. Copenhagen (Denmark)

Despite being cheap by Scandinavian standards the Danish capital is a lively place with plenty to do throughout the days and into the evening. It makes a great starting location as it is furthest South of all the cities included in this itinerary.

2. Oslo (Norway)

A far quieter city that Copenhagen, spending time in Oslo will help you catch your breath and clear your head! For those that like wildlife there is plenty of unspoilt woodland and some great beaches, although the water is quite cold so beware!

3. The Fjords

The Fjords is a mountainous region on the West coast and contains some of the most stunning scenery in the whole of Scandinavia.  An absolute must for any backpacker who is interested in the great outdoors.

4. The Lofoten Islands

A small collection of islands that will ensure you experience the ‘real’ Norway. Popular with fishermen and those who like to relax in beautiful scenery.

5. Jokkmokk

During the summer months the sun barely sets in Jokkmokk so it is almost always light. Not a great place to visit in winter as there are only a couple of hours daylight per day!

6. Stockholm (Sweden)

The capital of Sweden is a great city that is buzzing with restaurants, bars and clubs during the evening and a massive selection of museums to visit during the day. The trip from Jokkmokk is a long one so ensure you have allow plenty of time to recover and enjoy Stockholm to the full.

7. Helsinki (Finland)

Thanks largely to the communist influence of Russia, Helsinki is a grand place with some magnificent architecture. Ensure you sample plenty of the local cuisine, it is some of the best in Scandinavia.

8. Rovaniemi

Back up North, Rovaniemi is right in the Article Circle and said to be where the myth of Santa Claus originated. A great place to visit if you have been brave enough to backpack with children.

Hopefully this itinerary will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Scandinavia. If not, please feel free to leave a comment below or email [email protected]

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