Travel
Secret Scandinavia: 10 Hidden Gems
For more and more travellers, Scandinavia is an object of fascination. With these travel tips, you may also become one of those so-called Nordic fans
It’s the region of long winter nights, endless summer days, notoriously happy people and one of the highest standards of living in the world. For more and more travellers, Scandinavia is an object of fascination. With these travel tips, you may also become one of those so-called Nordic fans.
In Copenhagen…
Torvehallerne Market Hall
Mikkeler Microbrewery
Founded in 2006, the Mikkeler brewery has one goal: to produce the most surprising, rule-breaking beers possible. In less than a decade, it has become a real Copenhagen institution – a place where being surprised is the rule, not the exception. mikkeller.dk
[Photo courtesy Mikkeler]
In Stockholm…
Explore The Archipelago
It’s there, all around the city, but the focus on the beauty of Stockholm sometimes tricks travellers into not venturing further into the archipelago – a terrible shame. Dotted with 30,000 islands, it’s easy to explore by boat during a nice summer day.
[Photo: Let Ideas Compete/Flickr]
Stockholm Metro Stations
Stockholmers are proud to say that when commuting to work, they actually walk into the world’s biggest art exhibition. Out of 100 metro stations in the Swedish capital, 90 are decorated with sculptures, mosaics and paintings. Don’t be surprised if, while admiring them, you miss your connection.
[Photo: JuanjoCarvajal/Flickr]
Big Ben Stand Up Comedy
In Sweden, English is almost a second national language, so it’s not surprising to learn that jokes here are often made in English. To get a touch of Swedish humour in Shakespeare’s tongue, head to Big Ben Stand Up Comedy on Thursday nights. You’re in for a big laugh.
[Photo: Wikimedia Commons]
In Helsinki…
Kotiharju Public Sauna
Being in Finland and not going to sauna is pretty much impossible. To enjoy this peculiar experience in Helsinki, the Kotiharju public sauna is the place to be. Of course you have to go there the Finnish way – in the nude – but shy visitors have the option to rent a private sauna.
[Photo: Oona Räisänen/Wikimedia Commons]
Design District Helsinki
You might have heard of Marimekko, Iittala or Fiskar – all iconic Finnish design brands. Today, though, Helsinki wants to take its designing skills to another level, inviting visitors to discover new trends in its Design District. Located in the heart of the Finnish capital, it brings together dozens of small but innovative fashion and houseware designers.
designdistrict.fi/en/
[Photo: designdistrict.fi]
The Island Of Seurasaari
In Helsinki, he who is in need of a rural atmosphere quickly turns to the Island of Seurasaari. After a short boat trip on the Baltic Sea, visitors can take in this open-air island museum, where renovated wooden cabins – a trademark of Finnish history – are scattered about a thick forest.
[Photo: Kevin Oliver/Flickr]
In Oslo…
The Cosmopolite Concert Hall
Norway is well-known for its lively metal music scene, but Cosmopolite offers another kind of experience. This concert hall, which hosts an array of talented world music artists, mixes an audience of loyal locals and curious travelers to create the atmosphere of a warm and welcoming community.
[Photo © Cosmopolite]
Surrounding Forests
Escaping to the forest on weekends is a national pastime in Norway; it is indeed hard to resist to the temptation. In summer, a quick hop in the subway takes you to delightful hiking trails, shaded with tall pine trees. In winter, put on your skis and, within half an hour from the Oslo city centre, work on those winter sport skills.
[Photo: VisitOSLO/Erik Tresse]
Article by Pauline Curtet
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