3 Weeks in Scandinavia - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Nordic Harmony: Ultimate Summer Journey to Norway, Iceland & Greenland

Dedicate 10 days to driving Iceland's Route 1 between shorter stays in southern Norway and western Greenland on this summer self-drive adventure. Perfect for those seeking a fast-paced, activity-packed tour, you'll cruise, kayak, hike, zipline, and horseback ride through volcanic landscapes and waterfall-riddled valleys. When you're not out on an active adventure, refresh and rejuvenate during visits to geothermal spas, quaint cafés, and welcoming fishing villages.

Welcome to Scandinavia! Your grand adventure kicks off in Oslo, and through a scenic dinner cruise, city tour, and aquavit tasting experience, you'll get a well-rounded introduction to Norway's capital. On Day 3, fly north to Ålesund and don your outdoor gear for a fantastic hike up Fjellstu, followed by a waterfront kayaking excursion. More grand outdoor adventures await in Geiranger, reachable by a 2.5-hour drive, including a thrilling zipline tour and a hike on the famous Fosseråsa National Trail. Afterward, tackle a scenic drive through the Romsdal Alps to Åndalsnes and pause to hike Mount Saksa.

Week two of your adventure brings you over the North Atlantic Ocean to Iceland, and over the following 10 days, you'll road trip along epic Route 1. Begin with an overnight in Reykjavík, then set off along the southern coast, pausing en route to explore Þingvellir National Park and check out mighty waterfalls and a glacial lagoon. Additionally, overnights in Hella, Vík, and Höfn ensure you're always bright-eyed when behind the wheel. Yet, the Eastfjords and the far north of Iceland still await, and as you continue your road trip, you'll hop between small fishing villages before reaching Lake Mývatn. 

You've now covered two-thirds of Iceland's Route 1, and over the following four days, you'll complete the loop. Along the way, a two-night stay in Akureyri features a whale watching experience and geothermal baths, while an overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula gets you out exploring volcanic landscapes and coastal cliffs. Then, from Reykjavík, catch a flight to Ilulissat, which will serve as your base to explore western Greenland. Boat along the Ilulissat Icefjord, helicopter over expansive glaciers, and hop between local markets before returning to Iceland to catch your departing flight. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Discover Scandinavia Like a Local: Finland, Sweden, Norway & Denmark

This three-week Scandinavia itinerary is an action-packed introduction to Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark's remote yet connected cities and villages, featuring a three-day bike trip, a two-day train journey, an overnight ferry, and numerous cruises. Organized transfers and prearranged activities allow you to forget logistics and focus on the stunning nature and intriguing history. At the same time, leisurely dinner cruises, spa visits, and foodie tours rejuvenate you for more energy-demanding activities.

Your journey begins in the city of Helsinki, Finland, and over a three-day stay, you'll visit its lesser-known highlights and embark on a set of day trips to Liesjärvi National Park and Tallinn, Estonia. Next, train to Turku, where you'll glide between historic landmarks onboard a riverboat and uncover the city's best eateries and saunas with the help of a local guide. An overnight ferry then sees you to Stockholm, Sweden. With a morning arrival, you'll have plenty of time to explore the city's cobbled streets and museums before boarding a restored 1906 Edwardian-era ship for a lovely archipelago tour.

The next leg of your trip is about discovering the charming villages, locks, and lakes of the famous Göta Canal—by bike and boat. Starting in Söderköping, reachable via train from Stockholm, you'll cycle alongside Lake Vänern and Lake Asplången, through lush countryside to Borensberg, and onward to Motala. Then, on the afternoon of Day 11, transfer by train to Gothenburg, where a relaxing kayaking tour and spa session ensure you're ready for the Norwegian portion of your trip. Your first destination is Oslo, which you'll take in while onboard a dinner cruise and during an extended walking tour.

Next on your agenda is a scenic two-day ride along the famous Flåm Railway, complete with scheduled stops to cruise Nærøyfjord and overnight in Flåm. Eventually, you'll reach the port city of charming Bergen, the perfect base to cruise along the unspoiled Osterfjorden and Hardangerfjord. Then, switch your attention to Copenhagen, Denmark, and settle in for a two-day stay focused on the region's local-known highlights. Sip your way through Mikkeller craft beers, roam the Viking Ship Museum, and tour the castle grounds of Broholm Slot before catching your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Finland, Norway & Sweden Self-Drive: Lappland in Winter

Take on the role of winter explorer throughout this tour of Scandinavia's far north. Dogsledding, snowshoeing, ice-climbing, and snowmobiling adventures make this itinerary ideal for travelers eager to get deeper into remote landscapes, while spa and sauna sessions add touches of comfort and luxury. Of course, the Arctic in winter is renowned for its night sky, and thanks to numerous evening excursions, you'll have plenty of opportunity to witness the mystical northern lights.

Your three-week journey starts in Rovaniemi, the capital of the Lappland region, where you'll visit Santa Clause Village and overnight in an ice hotel. Then, drive north to Levi for a thrilling hike under the northern lights, followed by a day of skiing. In addition, head to a remote hut to indulge in a hearty Arctic dinner before continuing to Pyhä. This resort is known for its privileged access to Pyhä-Luosto National Park, which you'll discover firsthand thanks to a unique reindeer sledding experience, an ice-climbing excursion, and a snowshoe outing. 

More wintry adventures are on your agenda as you make your way north on Day 9 to Tromsø, Norway, including an overnight in a remote wilderness camp. Once in Tromsø, don your warmest for a serene kayaking excursion, as well as a whale watching tour and dinner cruise. Next on your itinerary is a two-day stay on the island of Senja, in which you'll visit the Aurora Borealis Observatory and explore by horseback. Your final destination in Norway is Narvik, and after a scenic Rombakfjord cruise, you'll strap up your snowshoes for a picturesque walk along fjord coastlines. 

While the Norway portion of your trip is over, Sweden still awaits, and over the following five days, you'll fully embrace its frozen landscapes. Starting in Abisko, snowmobile through fairytale-esque forests, conquer a hike along the Abisko River, and warm up with a campfire dinner. Then, continue to Kiruna, where a dogsledding adventure greets your arrival, and a visit to Nutti Sámi Siida introduces you to the Sámi culture. Before returning to Rovaniemi to catch your departing flight, you'll also have a day to tick off activities of your choice, such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, or dogsledding. Learn more

More Great 3-Week Norway Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Norway? Check out these other three-week Norway itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.