7 Best Scandinavian Cities you'll want to Visit in Europe

Scandinavia is a historic and cultural region of Europe, with so much to see and do. Its long and intriguing history mostly manifests itself in the Scandinavian cities, which not only harbor the history, architecture, and culture of the region’s incredible past but are also impressive gateways to Scandinavia’s famous landscape, which is known across the world for its breathtaking fjords, forests and wilderness, not to mention its proximity to the Arctic with the spectacular Northern Lights.

From cities that provide skiing holidays as well as cultural museums, to cities that are made up of islands and surrounded by crisp water and ancient castles, Scandinavia is a magical, marvelous destination for any visitor and these cities are the place to start.

Stockholm

Sweden’s capital city is one of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia. With its incredible land mass made up of 14 little islands, the city includes a pretty old town, known as Gamla Stan and plenty of impressive museums to tell you more about the city and its interesting history. The city is also very picturesque with a number of green spaces and medieval alleyways to explore, and is surrounded by calming water – a unique position for the region and more than enough to keep you wanting more.

Copenhagen

Another capital city, Copenhagen is Denmark’s pride and joy. Not only is Copenhagen a pretty city located on the islands of Zeeland and Amager, but it’s also an extremely environmentally friendly city. Discover its historic architecture, museums and art galleries that make the city a cultural paradise. And if it’s cityscape you are after, Copenhagen has it all with stunning canals and inviting neighborhoods that offer an insight into the charming population. You can also visit the stunning Tivoli amusement park and the city’s very own beaches, which are renowned for being clean and beautiful.

Oslo

Oslo may be the capital of Norway but it still manages to retain its roots. Known for being a local city with local activities, Oslo mixes the modernity of huge glass skyscrapers with the old houses and buildings of its past, as well as with the vast and magnificent Norwegian landscape. Located on the water and close to the wild islands and mountains of Norway, the city is not only known for its cultural assets but also for its action-packed adventures, including kayaking, hiking, and sailing, which are easy to do from the city.

Bergen

Bergen might be known for being one of the rainiest cities in Europe, but you can forgive a little bit of water when you see the stunning landscape that surrounds it. Located opposite the Byfjorden fjord, the city evokes a feeling of nature from its very center. Famed for the pretty wooden houses that line its waterfront, Bergen is not only one of the prettiest cities in Norway, it’s also one of the largest, with a bustling population and an easy link with Oslo.

Gothenburg

As the second largest city in Sweden, Gothenburg has all of the history and the architecture of its larger neighbors, and plenty of Scandinavian landscape for visitors to be amazed by. The city is located in the heart of the breathtaking landscape of West Sweden, while the interior of the city is filled with quaint old streets, botanical gardens and nature reserves. Take a boat to explore the nearby islands and the picture-perfect cobbled streets of historic Haga.

Malmo

The centuries-old city of Malmo is a quaint spot with beautiful houses and colorful buildings. The former capital of Sweden, Malmo is the perfect city for just walking around and embracing city life. Explore the pretty gardens, coffee shops and attractive old squares as you wander around the city which sometimes doesn’t feel much like a city at all.

Alesund

The traditional town and surrounding region of Alesund is surrounded by mountains and landscape that is perfect for skiing and hiking, while the city itself is a Scandinavian mecca for art nouveau architecture. Wherever you are in the city you can enjoy and embrace the spectacular landscape that sits around it, in fact the city is a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage in the Geirangerfjord, as well as the bird sanctuary island of Runde and the summits at the Hjorundfhord and the Sunnmorsalpene.

See More of Scandinavia with a Rental Car from Kemwel

If you’ve been planning a trip to Scandinavia, consider visiting one, or all, of the incredible cities listed above with an affordable car rental in Sweden. Set out and explore on any number of day trips and road trips, discovering all of the regions majestic landscapes and attractions! Kemwel offers a number of exclusive travel deals on more than just rental cars; check out our great rates on airfare, comfortable hotels, and more.