Road Trip Adventure Around Scandinavia: Sweden, Norway & Denmark - 14 Days

Highlights

• Walk and zipline amid centuries-old trees in Sweden's Gryteskog Forest
• Hike to the towering Trollhättefallen waterfall in Sweden
• See the Nobel Peace Center as you explore Norway's capital
• Try sea rafting on the beautiful coastline of Kristiansand
• Take a dip in the Baltic Sea around the chalk-white cliffs of Denmark's Møns Klint

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Malmö (Sweden)

Welcome to Sweden! Malmö is a vibrant city just across the Öresund Strait from Copenhagen. With a rich history dating back to the 1200s and residents hailing from over 170 countries, Malmö is a melting pot of cultures. You'll check into your hotel and have time to explore the city today. Stroll through Lilla Torg and Stortorget, the city's historic squares, then visit Gamla Staden (Old Town) and its cobbled streets and historic buildings.

Check out Malmöhus Castle, the oldest preserved Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, or the Malmö Konsthall, one of Europe's largest exhibition halls for contemporary art. If time permits, you could head to the Turning Torso, one of the tallest buildings in Scandinavia, or relax on Ribersborgsstranden beach and take a dip in the sea. Another option is to visit the Malmö Museum and learn about the city's history and culture. Then get some rest at your hotel before tomorrow's road trip begins.

Day 2: Zipline in Gryteskog Forest, Drive to Eksjö

Pick up your rental car this morning and begin the road trip from Malmö, embarking on your journey through the stunning Swedish countryside. After a short drive, you'll arrive at Gryteskog Forest, home to a rich array of wildlife. Keep your eyes open for deer, foxes, and birds while enjoying a two-hour hike. The towering trees that surround you are some of the oldest in the region, with some dating back centuries, and the dense underbrush is alive with wildflowers, ferns, and mushrooms.

Continue to a zipline adventure park located in the heart of the forest. Get ready to feel the wind in your hair as you soar through the treetops, taking in stunning panoramic views from high above the forest floor. Leave the forest and continue for approximately 3.5 hours to the historic town of Eksjö, where you'll arrive in the evening just in time to catch the sunset over the picturesque town square. Enjoy dinner in a traditional Swedish restaurant before relaxing at your hotel for the night. Today, you'll cover about 187 miles (300 km).

Day 3: Drive to Jönköping, Explore

Hit the road this morning and travel to Jönköping in southern Sweden (37 mi / 60 km), a vibrant hub with a rich history and a stunning natural setting. Located on Lake Vättern, the city is known for its picturesque alleys and canals connecting it to the three lakes surrounding it. Just east of Jönköping lies the old mill town of Huskvarna, where weapons, appliances, and vehicles have been manufactured and sold under the world-famous Husqvarna brand since the 17th century.

The city offers many cultural and historical attractions, including the Husqvarna Museum, the Jönköping Museum, and many historic buildings and landmarks. The city is also a food lover's paradise, with various restaurants, delis, cafés, and farm shops offering a range of local and international flavors. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and adventures, from hiking and biking in the nearby forests and mountains to boating and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Vättern. 

Day 4: Walk in the Dumme Mosse Nature Reserve

Today's adventure takes you to Dumme Mosse Nature Reserve just outside Jönköping, an excellent destination for hikers and nature lovers. Dumme Mosse is classified as a nature reserve, and it's one of the country's largest and most varied swamp areas, with many different types of wetlands. The park has a variety of trails to explore on foot. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by abundant plant and animal life.

During spring and summer, Dumme Mosse is home to a variety of birds, including golden plovers, Eurasian curlews, wood sandpipers, and cranes. You'll also see various plant species, including dwarf birch, cross-leaved heath, and bog asphodel. Find yourself a spot to enjoy a picnic in a peaceful setting. If you visit in winter, you can get around the park's well-marked trails on cross-country skis.

Day 5: Hike to Trollhättefallen Waterfall, Drive to Sarpsborg (Norway) 

Travel to the beautiful city of Trollhättan 93 miles away (150 km). A highlight here is the Trollhättefallen, a magnificent waterfall accessible by a hiking trail. As you stand at the foot of this natural wonder, you'll be mesmerized by the sound of the crashing water and the stunning view of the surrounding landscape. Additional hiking trails lead you through the surrounding forests and up to the top of the waterfall. You'll see all kinds of flora and fauna along the way.

Later in the day, cross the border to Norway and the charming town of Sarpsborg (100 mi / 160 km), surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. The nearby Hafslund Manor is a popular destination for outdoor activities, and the Sarpsfossen waterfall is a must-see for anyone who loves to explore nature. The Bjoernstadskipet Rock Carving, located just outside town, features rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. 

Day 6: Hike to the Ravneberget Fortress, Drive to Oslo

Today you'll visit Ravneberget Fortress in Sarpsborg, a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. The fortress, built in the 20th century, provides a glimpse into Norway's past and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding town and countryside. Explore the historic fortifications, and learn about the strategic importance of this unique site. With its rich history and stunning views, Ravneberget Fortress is a perfect destination for an exciting and educational hike.

Continue to Norway's rapidly growing capital city, Oslo (60 mi / 90 km), surrounded by mountains and the sea. Go for a walk along Karl Johans Gate, Oslo's main thoroughfare, to Palace Park, where the Norwegian monarchy resides. From there, take a half-day wander around Aker Brygge, an area on the Oslofjord comprising modern shops, restaurants, and bars along the waterfront, as well as notable museums like the Nobel Peace Center and Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant in the historic center.

Day 7: Guided City Tour of Oslo

Get ready to enjoy Oslo with an experienced guide! Today's tour covers everything from the must-see sights of Oslo, such as the Opera House, Akershus Fortress, and the Royal Palace, to lesser-known gems like Vigeland Park and its 200 sculptures. You'll also take a winding drive up the mountain to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and visit the Viking Ship Museum on the peninsula of Bygdøy.

With plenty of opportunities for photos and a chance to stretch your legs, this tour is the perfect way to see everything Oslo offers in just five hours. And if you need suggestions for dinner reservations, your guide will recommend some venues for a relaxing meal after the tour. 

Day 8: Drive to Kristiansand, Explore & Afternoon Sea Rafting

Today you'll drive to Kristiansand (200 mi / 320 km), the largest city in southern Norway and home to the Kristiansand Zoo, Norway's second most visited attraction. Explore the Old Town, known as Posebyen, with its historic wooden houses, a beautiful cathedral, and great restaurant options. Visit the Kilden (concert hall), Fiskebrygga (the fish harbor), Odderøya (an island in the center of the city), and Ravendalen and Baneheia (beautiful viewpoints overlooking the city).

Outdoor adventures await in the afternoon. Experience the thrill of sea rafting on the stunning coastline of Kristiansand. Jump aboard a high-speed raft and race atop the waves, taking in the breathtaking scenery. Then try standup paddleboarding on the calm and clear waters around Odderøya, a small island just a short distance from Kristiansand.

Day 9: Drive to Stavanger, Explore

Drive to the coastal city of Stavanger (143 mi / 230 km) and go for a stroll around the quaint and colorful streets of Old Stavanger, absorbing the bustling energy of the city's fishing industry. In the afternoon, one option is to go kayaking through breathtaking fjords. If you're looking for a more leisurely activity, relax on one of the city's many stunning beaches or enjoy a cup of coffee at a cozy café.

Alternatively, you could visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to learn about the city's oil-rich history and the technology behind this important industry. For a taste of Norwegian culture, indulge in the delicious local cuisine and sample traditional dishes such as smoked salmon, reindeer meat, and brunost cheese.

Day 10: Go on a Cruise in Lysefjord & Hike to Pulpit Rock 

Today you'll experience the adventure of a lifetime! This breathtaking journey begins with a scenic boat ride through the majestic Lysefjord, where towering mountains and cascading waterfalls surround you. Take in amazing views as the boat approaches the famous Pulpit Rock. You'll take a guided hike up the mountain, following a well-marked trail leading to the edge of the world-famous bluff. You'll stand high above the fjord with nothing but awe-inspiring views all around you.

On your way back, you'll pass by more of the Lysefjord's most iconic landmarks, including Vagabond's Cave and the Hengjane Waterfall. You might even spot some playful seals and porpoises swimming alongside the boat.

Day 11: Day Trip to Flørli

You'll take another boat cruise deep into the Lysefjord today, this time toward Flørli. This hamlet is best known for its tough climb to the top via 4,444 steps up a steep mountain. It's famously home to the longest wooden stairway in the world! Flørli is also known for its hydropower history, and you can learn more about this in the Power Hall, which hosts an interesting exhibit.

Pack a picnic for this journey, or take advantage of the on-site café for lunch. Better yet, finish the climb with a rewarding beer at the pub! If you'd rather stick to water, you can rent kayaks or canoes and paddle around this stunning area of the Lysefjord. Then, in the afternoon, return to Stavanger by ferry.

Day 12: Ferry to Hirtshals (Denmark), Drive to Copenhagen

Enjoy a scenic ferry journey from Stavanger to coastal Hirtshals today—welcome to Denmark! You'll continue your road trip on the other side of the border, heading on an epic five-hour drive (241 mi / 388 km) to Copenhagen through some of Denmark's most charming landscapes. As you depart from Hirtshals, you'll be greeted by vast fields of green and small hills dotted with quaint farms and cottages. The landscape will gradually transform into lush forests, providing a perfect backdrop for your drive.

As you make your way toward Copenhagen, you'll have the chance to explore some of Denmark's most fascinating towns and cities. Don't miss out on Aalborg, a charming city with a rich history and plenty of cultural attractions, or Aarhus, known for its picturesque harbor and lovely old town. As you approach the Danish capital, the landscape will change again, with bustling cityscapes and iconic landmarks coming into view. 

Day 13: Day Trip to Møns Klint & Forest Tower in the Countryside 

After an overnight in Copenhagen, you'll leave the hustle and bustle of the city once more and explore the stunning Danish countryside. First, head to the beautiful Møns Klint (85 mi / 135 km), where towering white chalk cliffs rise majestically above the sparkling blue waters of the Baltic Sea. If you're feeling adventurous, you'll have plenty of time to explore this stunning natural wonder and even take a dip in the calm waters of the sea.

Next, venture to the new Forest Tower, a tall wooden structure offering excellent views of the surrounding forest and countryside. Climb to the top for an unforgettable bird's-eye view of the beautiful Danish landscape. Throughout the day, you'll have the chance to learn about the area's unique geology, history, and wildlife from expert guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love of this beautiful part of the country.

Day 14: Explore Copenhagen, Depart

Discover the enchanting city of Copenhagen with a free day to explore. Visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, admire the beauty of the Rosenborg Castle, and check out the colorful neighborhoods of Nyhavn and Christianshavn. Take a stroll through the lush gardens of Tivoli, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, or immerse yourself in the city's rich history at the National Museum of Denmark. After an action-packed road trip, it's time to return your rental car to the airport and board your flight home or to your next destination. Safe travels!

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