Like most of Europe, there is no clear demarcation of the countries that fit into Northern Europe and many variations exist. However, the United Nations geoscheme places 10 countries in Northern Europe, from the five Scandinavian countries to the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, and Iceland, along with 7 dependent areas like the Isle of Man, Faroe Islands, and Jersey.
Northern Europe with its wide expanse of wilderness, forests, lakes, and volcanoes, enshrined by the mystical northern lights epitomizes all that the great outdoors should be. Some of Europe’s best hiking trails are located in this scenic expanse of land which also has some breathtakingly beautiful coastline. Winter transforms the verdant green into thick carpets of snow, giving rise to some of the best skiing sites in the world. Most countries in this part of Europe have developed economies and their cities are shining examples of the high standards of living. Some of the cleanest cities in the world such as Copenhagen and Stockholm are located in Northern Europe where green sustainable living is a way of life. Despite the long depressing winters, Northern Europe also has some of the happiest cities in the world, with Reykjavik, Helsinki, and Bergen featuring in this list.
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most visited landmark. Situated approximately 12 miles from the Keflavík International Airport and 24 miles from Reykjavík. This amazing geothermal spa is located in the Reykjanes peninsula near the town of Grindavík. Its location among the lava fields and beautiful scenery with steam caused by the temperature difference between the…
The Stockholm syndrome is defined as having feelings of affection by a victim toward a captor. After spending New Year’s in Stockholm we can honestly say we suffer from this syndrome for Stockholm truly captivated us.[booking_product_helper shortname=”stockholm”] Stockholm is not just Sweden’s capital city but also its cultural, media, political, and economic center. It is…
When I was a child my favorite uncle told me so many stories about London, he said: “a bad day in London is still better than a good day anywhere else”, funny, but true. There is nowhere in the world quite like London. This is not just another capital city, it’s a thriving metropolis with a unique…
Copenhagen is a dynamic and trendy Scandinavian metropolis ahs well as the beautiful capital of Denmark. Visit one of the city’s many art, history or warfare museums, world-class shopping in the charming streets of the city center, one of the city’s trendy neighborhoods or enjoy gourmet cuisine in one of the city’s Michelin starred restaurants.…
Oslo is the capital and most populous city if Norway and the oldest of the Scandinavian capitals, its history goes back 1000 years, to the time when the first settlements were built at the inlet of the Oslo fjord. The Norwegians are some of the most hospitable people in the world and a tourist will…
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. It is a vibrant and ever-evolving city, with easy-going charm and cultural heritage. Whether it is sporting events, shopping, architecture buildings or historical landmarks, there is plenty to discover. We have compiled a couple of tips and recommendations with the…
Located between Tallinn, Stockholm and St. Petersburg, on the north coast of the Gulf of Finland. Helsinki, the largest city and the capital of Finland, is the country’s hub for business, research, education, culture, and government. It is a vibrant seaside city with green parks and open spaces, historical buildings with fine architecture and more…
The Baltic is home to many beautiful cities, Tallinn is one of them. This city may be a small city with only 400,000 residents but it is a source of so much energy and such a vibrant life that we had to come and see it ourselves. Walking through Tallinn makes you think of fairy…
Despite its large Russian population due to its Soviet history, Riga, the capital of Latvia, has a character of its own. Rigans are so proud of their own heritage and language that they even hold contests to celebrate its proper use. This UNESCO world heritage is a true Baltic beauty not just because of its great examples of Art Nouveau…
Edinburgh is one of Scotland’s most beautiful cities, known for the Edinburgh Castle, National Gallery, St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh Zoo and National Museum of Scotland but this incredible metropolis is more than that. It is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for conventions. In the past 2 years Edinburgh hosted more than 151…
They say Tromso is the entrance to the North Pole but honestly once we spent a couple of hours there we did not want to go further. It may seem like a small village at first but Tromso has developed into a modern city with a diverse, warm and vibrant population from all over Norway, as…
Manchester is a special city in North West England with a rich history and culture. This once largest industrial metropolis has transformed itself into England’s edgy northern capital – it’s the home of some of Britain’s biggest music legends, iconic landmarks, a multitude of shopping, thriving arts, culture scene, world-famous sports and entertainment facilities. Take…
Glasgow (means ‘dear green place’) is Scotland’s largest city and is renowned for its culture, style and the friendliness of its people. We walked into shops, hotels, restaurants, galleries – every Glaswegian we encountered was extremely friendly, so we are not surprised that Glasgow recently voted the ‘friendliest city in the world’. Glasgow is one of…
Central Europe is one of the most fascinating yet underrated regions, and Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital and largest city, is a good example. With its twisting alleys of Baroque and Gothic architecture, Renaissance-style castles, long history, rich culture, delicious food and friendly locals; Vilnius is a major stop along the Baltic route, and an adorable little city. We invite you…
The modern and cosmopolitan capital of Wales, Cardiff, is Europe’s youngest capital city and is fast becoming one of the most fashionable cities in the United Kingdom. Cardiff is a city of attractions, sport, culture and entertainment; From castles, museums, galleries and theatre, boating lakes, parks and adventure playgrounds to live concerts and festivals. We’ll make it easy…
Many people might have heard of it, but are not sure where it is exactly. The Isle of Man, a small island between Ireland and Great Britain, is a beautiful and under-visited destination. The island is a self-governing British Crown dependency, and contrary to popular belief is not a part of the United Kingdom. It…
Iceland is a country that you definitely need to visit. Specially Reykjavík, the northernmost capital city in the world. It may be one of Europe’s smallest and most remote capitals, but it is a cosmopolitan city that offers a wealth of cultural, gastronomical and visual experiences and a throng of unforgettable activities. Enjoy our list of…
Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital, is a beautiful port city. It is packed with history, culture, exciting events, great food and experiencing a huge resurgence in interest as a tourist destination recently. Take a look at our Top 10 Things To Do In Belfast. [booking_product_helper shortname=”belfast”] City Hall 1 Since 1906, Belfast City Hall is a stunning…
Bergen is known as the “Gateway to the Fjords” as the city is surrounded by this world-famous attraction. But in between sailing Bergen’s fjords you will discover a charming city, full of history and tradition. Get started with our Top 7 Things To Do In Bergen. [booking_product_helper shortname=”bergen”] Bergen Cathedral 1 Bergen Cathedral has been…
Home to the oldest University in Britain and the second oldest surviving university in the World (after the University of Bologna), the city of Oxford is an architectural marvel, and its many amazing buildings are the reasons why it is so famous. See the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Great Hall at Christ Church, view the city…
Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city (after Copenhagen), is an important cultural center with exceptional art facilities and museums. More than 40,000 students in the city make of Aarhus a young and dynamic place and despite its size, it manages to offer visitors the perfect mix of a small-town charm and a cosmopolitan city. Aarhus has a…
Liverpool is the 7th largest city in Britain and was once one of the world’s largest ports. Besides the obvious fact that The Beatles come from there, Liverpool is well known for its industrial heritage, having built the first dock and inter-city passenger railway line. Nowadays, the city’s waterfront is a designated World Heritage Site and…
The Faroe Islands may be a tiny spot on your map, however, it has a well-earned spot in Nordic history and geography books. It is also known worldwide due to its interesting and beautiful fauna, especially migratory birds and endemic species that choose the Faroe Islands to rest and/or nest. Sharp green hills, colorful cottages,…
Lapland, the largest and northernmost region of Finland, is truly a wonderful and magical place. Its unique nature, diverse activities and fascinating attractions offer unique holiday experiences throughout the year. Here is our list of the Top 8 Things To Do In Lapland. [booking_product_helper shortname=”lapland”] Santa Claus Village 1 The Santa Claus Village is an amusement park…