Why Visit Iceland? There are many top things to see in Iceland, and it is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights

 

Why Visit Iceland? – Convince Me! I said to a friend.

Iceland is famously referred to as the Land of Fire and Ice, but this fascinating country is so much more than that! It is mind boggling landscapes with steaming earth and exploding volcanoes. It is freezing glaciers, majestic waterfalls, relaxing lagoons and I could go on for days! So, if you need convincing on why to visit Iceland, guest blogger Sue from Sue, Where? Why? What? Is going to convince you.

She will help you discover the top 10 reasons why you should place this epic land at the very top of your travel Wishlist. And once you know the best things to visit in Iceland you will be able to work out the best 7 day itinerary for Iceland, or will that be a 14 day itinerary for Iceland? Plus in this post, you will get details how to best organise your one or two week Iceland itinerary to ensure you have the best holiday in Iceland so as not to miss the best places to visit in Iceland. You can visit just Iceland or include it while visiting other Scandinavian countries.

 

Ready to Book Your Iceland Holiday

Get a great airfare to Iceland through Skyscanner
Book your accommodation via Booking.com
Book day tours with GetYourGuide
Slow travel around Iceland in a camper van from Cozy Campers Iceland

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Iceland

 

There are many great attractions in Iceland to visit, here are what I think are the top 10.

 

1. Volcanoes

 

Topping this list of things to visit in Iceland is the volcanoes. You can’t have fire and ice without the fire! Back in 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted and sent clouds of ash & dust high into the atmosphere. It caused chaos across Europe with over 100,000 flights grounded and millions of passengers left stranded. The event put Iceland well and truly on the tourist map and confused many reporters as they tried to pronounce its name!

Back in March 2021, Mount Fagradalsfjall started spewing molten lava, and a new volcano was created in the process. It is the longest eruption the country has seen for more than 50 years and the first new volcano in over 1000 years. What’s even better is that it lies just 40 minutes out of Reykjavik and you can hike to see it in all its explosive glory. For this reason you can base yourself in Reykjavik and visit the volcano on a day trip. Or you can visit on a road trip around Iceland.

Book your day trip to Mount Fagradalsfjall here.

 

2. Glaciers

 

And what about the ice? And plenty of it too in the form of all the epic glaciers that freeze the landscape. So next on this list of what to see in Iceland is the glaciers.

A visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a must on any trip to Iceland. The distant glacier has created what will unfortunately soon become the largest lake in Iceland. It is an education in the impact of global warming before your eyes, as well as a beautiful sight as icebergs break off and float in the lake. But you can also get up close and personal through hiking on glaciers, kayaking or taking a boat tour to gain a different perspective.

If you want to visit the glacier on a day trip from Reykjavik, you can book it here.

 

3. Waterfalls

 

Enjoy the Waterfalls of Iceland!

 

What can I say about the waterfalls in Iceland? I have seen Niagara Falls, got soaked at Victoria Falls, stared in awe at Iguazu Falls but was still blown away by the sheer number and epic scale of some of Iceland’s finest waterfalls. There’s one named after the Gods (Goðafoss). Then there’s one you can walk all around (Seljalandsfoss), plus the photogenic one used in all the films (Skógafoss) and then Gullfoss, the most famous of all. So a must see in Iceland is definitely the waterfalls. Ensure you include them in your Iceland itinerary.

 

4. Geysers

 

What can make a country more famous than having a whole natural phenomenon named after theirs? There aren’t many Icelandic words which have made their way into other languages, but this country is home to the mother of all geysers, literally. Geysir has been sporadically active for around 800 years however, not right now. When she does blow, she can reach a height of 120 metres. The good news for visitors is that her neighbour Strokkur its explosive plume of hot water up to 30 metres into the air, roughly every 5-10 minutes. And she is magnificent!

 

5. Tectonic Plates

 

Iceland marks the point where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet which is responsible for all the volcanic activity and fascinating landscapes along its length. The plates are separating on an average of 2-3 centimetres each year. In Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park (part of the Golden Circle) you can snorkel in the glacial waters of the fissure. It is the only place in the world that you can experience this unique activity and one of the best things to do in Iceland on any visit. 

You can book this experience now, just click on the link here.

 

What a bucket list experience to swim between the Tectonic Plates

 

6. Golden Circle

 

Speaking of the Golden Circle, this is the most popular tour in Iceland for good reason. After all, where else can you explore the land between two continents (Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park). Get soaked in spray from an epic waterfall (Gullfoss) and watch a geyser explode every 5 minutes (Strokkur)? And all in one day and in easy reach of Reykjavik?  Yep, the Golden Circle is around 300km taking some 3-4 hours to drive, add in time at some of the best things to see in Iceland and you are looking at a good day trip from Reykjavik.

You can book a Golden Circle day trip here.

 

7. Lagoons

 

You don’t have to delve too far into your research on Iceland to discover the Blue Lagoon. It is famous across the world for its warm, healing opaque waters. So much so that it featured on a list of National Geographics 25 Wonders of the World. But this famous lagoon isn’t the only one you can choose to relax in. You can find a pool to soak your bones practically anywhere in Iceland. The locals love to do it as well, but you will rarely meet any at the Blue Lagoon. They go to their public baths, meet their friends & pay a fraction of the price for the privilege. But if only the Blue Lagoon will do, it is the perfect stop on the way to or from Reykjavik airport.

 

8. Northern Lights

 

The Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis, are one of the big things that Iceland is famous for and it is a great place to attempt to see this iconic natural phenomenon. The best time to increase your chances is during the winter months from September to March. However, I was surprised to learn that they are always “ON”, it just depends on the conditions whether you can see them or not. The prerequisites are that your surroundings are dark and there are few clouds in the sky. So why not go & try your luck?

You can go on a tour leaving from Reykjavik to get a better look of the Northern Lights. Most tours include a visit to the Aurora Museum. Book your evening tour here.

 

9. Wildlife 

 

Icelandic horses are special. Whereas others have the gaits of walk, trot and gallop, Icelandic horses add tölt and skeið to their repertoire. Tölt is known for its speed and riding comfort. They say you can hold a pint of beer in one hand and not spill a drop while riding. Skeið on the other hand is a rhythmic gallop which makes you feel like you’re flying. A ride on one of these beautiful creatures is a uniquely Icelandic experience. 

But it’s not just the horses that can tick your wildlife boxes, because who doesn’t love seeing whales in their natural habitat? Or how about puffins? Iceland is home to 60% of the worlds Atlantic Puffin population, which adds up to 6 million of these colourful beaked creatures. 

 

10. Reykjavik

 

A great place to base yourself on your visit to Iceland is the capital Reykjavik

 

For anyone visiting Iceland, Reykjavik will be the first port of call on any Icelandic itinerary. Although Iceland has so much more to offer than just its capital city, by basing yourself in Reykjavik, you have all of these unbelievable landscapes and features within very easy reach. Add into that a stunning church, interesting history, a very safe environment and excellent food and why wouldn’t you?

 

Are You Convinced?

 

I hope I have been able to convince you to visit Iceland. And if you do, trust me, you will not be disappointed! So why visit Finland – I think Sue just convinced me! Now you know some of the best things to see in Iceland, it is time to organise your Iceland holiday.

 

Organise Your Iceland Holiday

 

Now to organise your Iceland trip.

 

Best time to visit Iceland

 

If wondering when the best time to visit Iceland is, well, considering Iceland is a country that has long cold winters, the summer months of June through August really is the best time to go. And yes, there will be plenty of other people touring around Iceland then to, but the days will be long and the weather at its best. But if it is your aim to see the Northern Lights, then the best time to visit Iceland will be between September and March. Just make sure you take the appropriate clothing to the time of year you choose to visit Iceland.

 

How to Get to Iceland

 

There are two ways to reach Iceland. First by air, on a plane landing at The Keflavik Airport located some 30 miles outside of the centre of Reykjavik. There are plenty of shuttles that will get you into the centre of Reykjavik in about 40 minutes. There is also the public bus 55 or you can take the most expensive option, a taxi. Depending on your itinerary in Iceland you may want to rent a car at the airport. You can get details of cars here.

Another option to get to Iceland is to take a ferry. The M/S Norröna sails weekly from Denmark to Iceland via the Faroe Islands. So if you want to bring your own vehicle to Iceland, this is the way to go.

 

How to get around Iceland

 

You have a number of options to travel around Iceland. There are public buses but these will need a little pre-planning so you meet timetables. There are tours you can go on, but the most popular and flexible way to get around Iceland is by renting a vehicle. This could be renting a car and staying in hotels and hostels or a renting a campervan and living in the van.

 

Where to stay in Iceland – Your Iceland Accommodation options

 

As Sue mentioned, a great place to base yourself for your visit to Iceland is in the capital Reykjavik. There are a number of accommodation options depending on your budget.

Hostels: Galaxy Pod Hostel is comfortable, relaxing and cozy offering a bed in a dormitory room or a capsule. Check availability and pricing for Galaxy Pod Hostel here. Another hostel, Loft – HI Hostel, features a lounge, bar and a rooftop terrace with a city view. Check availability and pricing for Loft – HI Hostel here.
Budget Note: Travel Inn Guest-house is found in the heart of Reykjavik and is a short (mostly) stroll to some of the popular attractions. Check availability and pricing for Travel Inn Guesthouse here.
Splurge Hotel: Canopy by Hilton is in a popular spot in Reykjavik and offers all the services you would need. Check availability and pricing for Canopy by Hilton here.

For other accommodation options in Reykjavik check out the options following.

 

How to Long Spend in Iceland

 

How long have you got? If seven days in Iceland is all you have, then you will get to see plenty. This is because Iceland is a small island. If you drive the Iceland Ring Road, known as Route 1, that takes you around the island, the loop is 825 miles or 1,328km long which can be driven in 2 days. But as you will want to make many stops along the way, a 7 day Iceland itinerary will let you see some of the best places to visit in Iceland. If you have time, you could always extend this to a 14 day Iceland itinerary. A suggested 7 day itinerary could include:

 

7 Day Iceland Itinerary

 

Day

1 – Arrive in Reykjavik, settle in your accommodation and get to know Reykjavik.
2 – Reykjavik
3 – day trip to volcano
4 – day trip to waterfalls
5 – Golden Circle day trip
6 – day trip to Geysirs and other hot springs
7 – Reykjavik and leave

or

1 – Arrive in Reykjavik, settle in your accommodation and get to know Reykjavik
2 – Reykjavik
3 -7 – hire a car and follow Iceland Ring Road taking in the Golden Circle before leaving from Reykjavik

 

Extend your holiday in Iceland on a working holiday. Get the lowdown on working holiday visas for Scandinavia here.

 

Are You Ready to Visit Iceland? Have you been convinced?

 

Helsinki Cathedral – on the must see and do list when visiting Finland

 

Finland, a mysterious Northern country about the size of Germany is home to the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights and is the original home of Santa Claus. The country of a bit above 5.5 million people is home to many natural wonders and some vibrant cities. If you are planning a trip to Finland, here are some highlights you must see and do in Finland.

 

Best time to visit Finland

 

If you are after the best weather then the summer months June-August are the best time to visit Finland. This is also when you will experience the Midnight Sun when the sun never sets and days and nights roll into one. However, if your main purpose is to see the Northern Lights then the best time to visit is during the colder months of December-March. Now, what to see and do in Finland.

 

What to See and Do in Finland

 

Spend a few days in the Capital, Helsinki

 

The capital of Finland is Helsinki and most people start their visit to Finland here. And it is a great place to spend a few days. You can book yourself onto a tour to take you to the sites or you could purchase a Helsinki Card which allows you to enjoy free public transport, entry to some sights and museums and discounts on shopping and dining. You can choose from 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour validity depending on how long you plan to stay in Helsinki. Once you have your transport sorted you will need somewhere to stay. Here are some suggestions:

Hostel: Just a five minute walk from the Central Train Station in Central Helsinki is Yard Hostel offering everything you need for your visit to Helsinki. If wanting to be a out of town and only a short ferry ride away stay over on the island where the Fortress of Suomelinna is at Hostel Suomelinna,
Budget Hotel: For a conveniently located hotel try the Holiday Inn.
Splurge Hotel: Why not spoil yourself at the Scandic Grand in their restaurant or sauna.

 

Visit Kiasma

Kiasma, is Helsinki’s contemporary art museum.  You can experience the museum through touch, sight, and hearing, it is a place that amuses both adults and kids. Kiasma is a place that accepts you as you are, and where you are allowed to be anybody you desire. Since the museum often showcases experimental interactive exhibits, you might as well get lost in time (and space) while visiting.

 

Walk on the main street

Mannerheimintie is Helsinki’s longest street, reaching out to 5.5 kilometers in length. It goes through various neighborhoods and passes many cultural sights such as the Finnish Parliament Building, the Museum of Kiasma, the Helsinki Music Center, and Alvar Aalto’s Finlandia Hall. As you’re exploring the main street, take a look at Aleksanterinkatu. It is the primary shopping street and the oldest street in Helsinki, where you can find everything from fashion to statues and squares.

 

Take a break at Kamppi Chapel of Silence

Kamppi Chapel of Silence is located in one of Helsinki’s busiest areas. The chapel is made for everyone who seeks silence in the buzzing capital. The walls of the building are soundproof, ensuring you get the peace you need.

 

See the Rock Church

The Rock Church, Finland’s most popular architectural scene was designed by 2 brothers in the late 60s. The Church is located underground and was sculpted out of a large block of granite. When sunlight enters the church from above, the interior lights up, creating a beautiful sight.

 

Visit the Fortress of Suomelinna

A short ferry ride from Helsinki lies the Fortress of Suomelinna. It is a cultural treasure and one of the most popular sights in Finland. The sea fortress is one of the biggest of its kind in the world. Its construction began in the middle of the 18^th century when the country was still part of Sweden. Although the place is an attractive tourist spot, it is also home to around 900 people who live in the renovated barracks and ramparts.

 

See the Northern Lights

 

The Northern Lights are something to behold

 

Seeing the Northern Lights is something special. The further north you travel, the greater is the chance you’ll actually see the magical Aurora Borealis yourself. In Finland, this natural phenomenon can appear on 200 nights a year! Choose a month from September to March, and hope for a clear sky. The lights usually occur around midnight, or an hour or two before or after.

 

Experience the Midnight Sun

 

The Land of the Midnight Sun is a well-earned nickname of Finland. In contrast to the darkness in the winter months, the sun does not set at all in the country’s most Northern parts during summertime. Even in the capital and the Southern part of Finland, on a couple of nights, the sun only dips above the horizon for a moment. The best place to enjoy the 24h sunlight, is in nature. Go canoeing, hiking, or swimming in the beautiful light of the night. A special way to experience the Midnight Sun (or the Northern Lights perhaps) is to rent a glass igloo in one of the many resorts in Lapland. In a glass igloo, you can be sure not to miss any stunning views!

 

Go Skiing

 

Finland is home to around 75 ski resorts, and for a good reason – one-fifth of the population considers themselves as active skiers. Finns simply love snow sports. And how could they not? If you’re living in a country that is overtaken by thick white snow, it is hard not to fall in love with it.

When the season starts in late October, the most popular snow park Levi is already packed. Levi, Ylläs, Ruka, and Pyhä-Luosto make up the “Big Four” of Lapland’s ski resorts. They offer many activities for kids and adults, from skiing and snowboarding to Husky tours. After all, once you visit Finland, you can’t leave the country without having a fun day in the snow.

 

Sweat in a Finnish Sauna

 

Enjoy a Sauna

 

Since 40 degrees Celsius isn’t something that can be found in Scandinavia, Finns love to sweat in another way. Sauna is a big part of the culture in all Scandinavian countries. In fact, Sauna is the only Finnish word that has made it into the everyday English language. Many saunas can be found near lakes, allowing you to jump right into the cold water after sweating in the 80-degree heat. In the winter, Finns like many other Scandinavians, like to practice ice swimming after the sauna. Kotiharju Sauna and Arla Sauna are the most popular saunas in Helsinki however, there are many quality saunas to enjoy throughout Finland. 

 

Island-hop in the archipelago

 

With over 40,000 islands along the coastline, Finland has the largest archipelago in the world. Lighthouses and old wooden villages are everywhere you look, accompanied by national parks and historical mansions. Whether you decide to take the trip by ferry, kayak, or just bike along the coast, you’re guaranteed to have an adventure.

 

Meet Santa Clause in Rovaniemi

 

If you are a Santa Clause lover you can visit him in the village of Rovaniemi in Lapland, just over the border from Finland. The Santa Clause Village is open every day of the year, so it doesn’t matter when you visit, as he is always there. 

 

Final Words on Visiting Finland

 

The mysterious land of Finland holds more than meets the eye. Since over 70% of the country is covered in forests, Finland is home to many national parks. That being said, you shouldn’t miss a chance to have a ski trip in the Nordic mountains. Don’t forget to look around in the quirky capital, either. Since Helsinki carries culture in its streets and buildings, the capital is a must-see when visiting the country. When you leave, make sure to fill your pockets with the fresh air of Finland.

 

Extend your stay in Finland

 

If you really enjoyed your stay in Finland and would like to extend it you may consider to live, work and play in Finland on a working holiday visa. Currently Finland has reciprocal working holiday agreements with Australia and New Zealand for citizens aged 18-30 years of age. If granted the visa, you will be able to stay for up to 1 year. If you are a European Union citizen then check out the europa.eu website for details on living and working in Finland. Types of work you could pick up include berry and fruit picking or in the skiing industry (which is huge).

Check out other Working Holiday Visa Programs in Scandinavia here.

 

Stockholm is a stylish and dynamic city with a picturesque Old Town. It is a mix of 13th century colourful houses, open-minded people and deep Viking history. Being located by the Baltic Sea it includes 14 islands and 57 bridges to connect them. And now you are heading to Stockholm for a visit. This could be as a stand alone holiday, long weekend getaway or as part of a Swedish working holiday.

No matter your reason for visiting Stockholm, you will want to see and do the best things the city has to offer. Having a Swedish friend whom I’ve visited in Stockholm a number of times, I’ve been lucky enough to see and visit all the touristy places plus, been taken to many places the locals love. If you only have three days in Stockholm, read on and find out the must-do things to experience on a 3 day visit to Stockholm.

 

Ready to visit Stockholm?

Get your airfare to Stockholm through Skyscanner and your accommodation through Booking.com

Book a trip on the Stockholm Hop-on Hop-off bus to see all the sights and get discounts on entrance fees with a Stockholm Pass.

Buy your jump the line ticket to my favourite museum the Vasa Museum and my second favourite museum the ABBA Museum

 

Best time to visit Stockholm

 

Anytime is a good time to visit Stockholm in my opinion. However the weather can play a big part on your decision on when to visit Stockholm on your 3 day visit. Stockholm, and most of Sweden enjoys warm summers and very cold winters. And I mean very cold with plenty of snow. If you want to visit during the best weather I would suggest visit during the warmer months. However, if you are visiting while on an extended stay, working holiday in Sweden or living in Sweden you will experience all weathers and it doesn’t really matter when you visit.

I have visited Stockholm three times during my travels. The first was in May when Sweden was beginning to warm up. The weather was nice during the day, yet it was still cool at night. My next visit was during the summer months. I was on a tour and the weather was just beautiful. In fact, a little on the hot side which made being a tourist quite tiring walking around in the heat. My third visit was with a Swedish friend who invited me home to Sweden for Christmas with her family. I arrived with a temperature of -15 degrees Celsius. I can say I have never been so cold and it made being a tourist quite unbearable at times. Not just from the cold but from the ice on the ground that I slipped on many times. So when is the best time to visit Stockholm? I would say, it will depend on what activity you are heading to Sweden for.

 

hello from a wintry Stockholm

 

Where to stay in Stockholm

 

If you’re wondering where to stay in Stockholm, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. The best areas to stay in Stockholm are in the inner city around Gamla Stan, Norrmalm, Östermalm and Södermalm. These areas house many of Stockholm’s main attractions, making them perfect base for your 3 days in Stockholm. Here are some options:

Hostel: City Backpackers Hostel, is a popular choice for budget-minded travellers looking for some place close to the city centre. For more hostel options and to get pricing and to book, check out HostelWorld.
Budget: For a frugal, no-frills options near central Stockholm, Comfort Hotel Xpress Stockholm.
Mid-range: Scandic Sjöfartshotellet is a great choice if you are planning to stay in Södermalm.
Splurge: For some opulence check out Stockholm’s prestigious Grand Hôtel.

For more accommodation options in Stockholm check out Booking.com.

 

How to get around Stockholm

 

The best way to get around Stockholm is to walk as many of the popular sites are relatively close together. Stockholm is a very pedestrian-friendly city and you can truly appreciate what Stockholm has to offer when you walk.

TIP: When walking around Gamla Stan, the Old City, ensure to wear a comfortable pair of flat shoes. This is because heels can get stuck in the pavement. And if walking around during the winter when snow is about, have shoes with very good tread to help stop slips on any hidden ice.

To get to some of the attractions further afield from Gamla Stan, definitely make use of the public transport system. Stockholm’s T-Banan (the subway, metro, underground) and the trams, regional trains and buses and the boat shuttle services are all top notch and make getting around Stockholm very easy. To use the transport you will need an electronic smart card called the SL Access Card which you load credit for your trips on the transport.

You can purchase one of these at Pressbyrån kiosks, tourist information offices, and Stockholm Public Transport (SL) centres. You can also purchase single-use travelcards with tickets valid for 75 minutes or 24 hours. It depends on your plans. You can get more information on the tickets and using the transport in Stockholm at the SL site.

 

Stockholm Metro and it’s Art

 

One of the best things about travelling on the public transport system in Sweden, in particular the Stockholm Metro is that it is akin to being a mobile art gallery. Stations can have mosaics, installations, murals and sculptures. You can appreciate them all for just the price of a train ticket. The Stockholm Metro has more than 100 stations with about 90 having intricate art displays.

My favourite station is T-Centralen (All lines). T-Centralen is decorated by blue vines and floral motifs intended to create peace and serenity for commuters. My second favourite is Rådhuset on the Blue line T10 and T11 which has numerous archaeological findings and exposed bedrock – magical! I will leave you to discover your favourites as you use the Stockholm Metro to travel around Stockholm.

T-Centralin, Stockholm – my favourite station

 

3 Days in Stockholm Itinerary

 

Day 1 – Gamla Stan and The Centre of Town

 

When in a new city, I always like to go on it’s hop-on hop-off bus, and Stockholm has one of these. Yeah, I know they are touristy, but when I have limited time I like to go on these. They take you to all the best sights and allow me to get on and off. I usually do the entire route first as this gives me lots of ideas of the places I want to visit on my visit to Stockholm.  You can purchase a ticket for Stockholm’s Hop-on Hop-off bus here. I also team this with the Stockholm Pass which provides discounts on entrance tickets. You can purchase your Stockholm Pass here.

Kick your first day off in Stockholm by getting a real medieval feel at Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town. It is located mainly on Stadsholmen – the beautiful island in the middle of the city. This area dated from the 13^th century consists of colourful medieval houses, cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways making you feel like you are stepping back in time. In addition to having some of the major attractions in Stockholm, it has many cafes, bars, boutiques and restaurants to enjoy.

The best way to enjoy Gamla Stan is to get lost in the labyrinth of streets and alleys. Hopefully, strolling through the peaceful alleys, you will find your way to Stortorget square – the oldest square in the capital. It is a popular spot to meet and for concerts and shows, and the spot for the annual Christmas market. Stortorget’s most famous building is that of the former stock exchange. If you need a rest and a pick-me-up, enjoy fika (coffee accompanied by some pastries).

If you would prefer not to get lost in Gamla Stan, why not go on a guided walking tour. Book a walking tour of Gamla Stan here.

 

One of the laneways in Gamla Stan, Stockholm

 

A stone’s throw away from the square sits the Royal Palace. The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Sweden. The Queen’s official residence lies elsewhere in the equally impressive Drottningholm Palace – which is on our list to see on day 3. The Royal Palace was designed by renowned architect Nicodemus Tessin the Younger and was built between 1697 and 1754. The Royals have their offices at the palace and host offical state ceremonies.

As well, the Royal Palace is home to four museums which you can visit. A large chunk of the palace’s 600 rooms are open to the public for you to admire the sumptuous interiors and priceless works of art however, due to its sheer size, you can get ‘palace fatigue’ and may want to move on to experience other things Stockholm has to offer. However, I do recommend a visit the Royal Palace’s Royal Armory. This is the oldest museum in Sweden having been founded in 1628 the name is misleading since it is not so much about weapons as the ceremonial aspects.  It contains many Swedish artefacts pertaining to Sweden’s military history including ceremonial costumes and elaborate carriages. 

Purchase your ticket to visit the Royal Palace here.

Other buildings you will see while out and about in Stockholm are the Swedish Parliament Building, Stockholm Cathedral and the Stockholm Town Hall which is one of Stockholm’s most recognisable buildings. It is made of a 8 million dark red bricks and its tower has three golden crowns with the Swedish coat of arms. Quite spectacular. Even more spectacular is the inside with the Viking themed Council Chamber, the Blue Hall and the Golden Hall. The Blue Hall is known as the venue of the Nobel Prize banquet that takes place every December. 

To end your day head to Östermalm aka the ‘Upper East Side’ or ‘Belgravia’ of Stockholm and is one of the largest and most populous areas of Stockholm. It is a big residential area but is also home tomany fashion boutiques and top restaurants and cozy cafes. To  relieve your hunger, check out Östermalms Saluhall, the world’s 7^th best food hall. It was first opened in 1888 and has been loved by world-famous chefs and locals alike ever since. You will find all kinds of delectable Swedish food including seafood, vegetarian, meats and sweets. End your day with a hearty meal after a long day of walking.

 

Day 2 – Djurgården, The Island of Museums

 

Fun Fact: Stockholm is home to approximately 100 museums with remarkable collections. It is one of the most densely packed museum-cities in the world. Get ready to explore some of them on day 2 of this 3 day Stockholm itinerary.

As mentioned Stockholm is spread over 14 islands and is often referred to as ‘The Venice of the North’ and so a tour of the canals is a must. So for day 2 on this day 3 day visit to Stockholm discover the Stockholm’s waterways. Only available during the warmer months as the canals freeze over during winter, a tour of the waterways of about 50 minutes will give a great insight into Stockholm. After this tour head to Djurgården, an island in the middle of Stockholm, famous for its amusement parks, museums, and galleries. There are plenty of places to visit including Swedish History Museum, National Museum and the Modern Art Museum however, my choice for today are these following. Another day to wear good walking shoes as you will be on you feet a lot!

 

Vasa sits waiting for a visit in the Vasa Museum

 

No visit to Stockholm would be complete without visiting the Vasa Museum. It is one of the most popular museums in Scandinavia. The maritime museum is home to the immaculately restored 17^th-century warship, the Vasa, which sank in Stockholm harbour on her maiden voyage in 1628. Three hundred years later she was recovered and her restoration begun and completed. And believe me, she is impressive.

The ship is massive, its length is about 69 metres with its main base more than 52 metres tall. What makes the ship so impressive is its decoration – some 500 sculptures and 200 ornaments. Yes, impressive. As well as seeing the ship there are some 12,000 objects that were pulled up with the ship that you can see. Plus, there are plenty of interactive exhibits allowing you to understand how the ship was built, what life was like in Stockholm during the ship’s building plus loads more. The Vasa Museum is open daily and you can easily spend hours here.

You can purchase a skip the line entry ticket to the Vasa Museum here.

If feeling hungry, head to Ulla Windbladh, a fabulous restaurant known for serving traditional and modern Swedish cuisine. It is very popular with locals on  Djurgården and you can enjoy the food too!

Next museum on the list could be the ABBA Museum, no matter whether you’re a fan or not. The museum tells the story of one of the most successful Swedish pop bands in the world. The band’s stage clothes, concert footage, interviews, and much more are gathered in one place for you to see. There’s even a possibility to dance and sing with the holograms of ABBA. The achievements of the group are showcased from a historical perspective, helping you to understand the phenomenon of the legendary band.

You can purchase a skip the line entry ticket to the ABBA Museum here.

If you can fit it in, head to Skansen to see how Swedes lived many centuries back. It opened in 1891 and is the oldest open-air museum in the world, allowing you to discover the history of the country and the people. Wild animals, country houses, and farmlands make you feel like one of the locals. Some 150 historical farms and dwellings from over Sweden were transported to Skansen for their museum to showcase the life of Swedish peoples. Step back in time with glass-blowers, bakers and other craftsmen to discover their skills. 

If you are in Stockholm between May to September you could visit Gröna Lund. This is Sweden’s oldest amusement park and has been around since the 1880s. With over 30 rides including a wooden roller coaster, there is plenty of food and amusements to enjoy – what a great place to end day 2 of this 3 day visit to Stockholm on Djurgården. 

 

Day 3 – Another Palace, then shop till you drop with a beer or two

 

For the morning of day 3 on this 3 day Stockholm visit I suggest you head out to the beautiful Drottningholm Palace. It dates from the 17th century and is based on French and Italian architecture and Sweden’s royal family has been using part of the palace as a private residence since 1981. On your visit to the palace there are a number of areas to take in. The Court Theatre is the oldest in the world. There is the Chinese Pavilion, the surrounding English style gardens with a maze, and my favourite part, the Great Staircase dominating the centre of palace. Second favourite is Queen Hedvig Eleonora’s State Bedroom – very glitzy! The Palace was added to the World Heritage Site list by UNESCO in 1991.

 

Drottningholm Palace

 

After time at the Drottningholm Palace head back into Stockholm to enjoy some shopping. Sweden is known for products such as glassware, stainless-steel, ceramics, silver, furniture and textiles. Just north of Gamla Stan is Norrmalm, the commercial heart of Stockholm. It is well known for its department stores, shopping malls, exclusive boutiques, and nightspots. And some of the best streets for shopping in Stockholm are Drottninggatan and Hamngatan where you will find major department stores like Åhlens City, Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) and Biblioteksgatan which is like America’s Fifth Avenue of Stockholm and is home to luxury brand-name boutiques. There are also plenty of shops to pick up souvenirs like the Dala wooden horse. Can I say, I love using my treasured glass serving plate from ‘Boda’ that I purchased in Sweden.

If you still want more shopping head to Södermalm which is south of Gamla Stan. Södermalm is characterised by its dramatic landscape of craggy cliffs, turrets and towers. Once known as the ‘slum’ of Stockholm, this area has transformed itself after industry left and creative types moved in. Södermalm now features is most ‘hipster’ neighbourhood lists in the world. And you will see why when you walk around the streets where there are plenty of unique shops, vintage stores and galleries. Hornsgatan and Götgatan in particular are full of small shops selling bric-a-brac. Other hip streets of note to explore are Åsögatan, Bondegatan, and Skånegatan. The prettiest street, I thought, n Södermalm is Fjällgatan, an old-fashioned cobblestone street with old wooden cottages. 

While ambling around Södermalm, check out Mariaberget, with its stone buildings, alleys and winding streets – so don’t forget to wear those good walking shoes you have worn for the last couple of days! While wondering around Mariaberget go to the Monteliusvägen Viewpoint. It is a narrow path on the shore of Söderalm. From there you can see the church Riddarholmskyrka, the royal palace, and Gamla Stan. 

If you’ve read the bestseller books of the Millenium Trilogy from Stieg Larsson’s, you can join the Millenium Tour that takes you to the main spots of the novel. Mikael Blomqvist and Lisbeth Salander reside in Södermalm. Blomqvist lives in a penthouse at Bellmansgatan 1 just beside Monteliusvägen, while Salander lives in an apartment at Fiskargatan 9.

You can book your ticket for the Millenium walking tour here.

With all the walking, sightseeing and shopping, why not cap off this 3 day Stockholm itinerary with a drink and a meal in one of the many pubs in Södermalm. There are a number of craft brews available in places such as Omnipollos hatt or Nostrano where you can also get great traditional, or not so traditional Swedish meals. What a great way to end your visit to Stockholm.

 

Final Words on Visiting Stockholm

 

This is an action packed 3 day itinerary for Stockholm with lots of walking involved. But I’m sure, when you follow it – or choose which parts to follow – you will experience a lot of what Stockholm has to offer and the Swedish way of life. I’d love to hear if you have been, or are planning to go to Stockholm in the comments following. 

 

Are you wanting to live and work in Sweden for up to a year? Well you can if you qualify for a Sweden working holiday visa.

Sweden is known for its beautiful people, Viking history and having over 100 museums too enjoy. If you would like to experience all Sweden has to offer why not consider the Sweden Working Holiday Visa. With one of these, or EU heritage you could work and travel in Sweden for up to one year. In this post I’m uncovering more about this exciting working holiday visa to Sweden option. So get ready to live, work and play in Sweden.

 

Ready to go on a working holiday in Sweden?

Apply for your visa at your nearest Swedish Embassy

Book a Flight to Sweden at Skyscanner and accommodation at Booking.com

My favourite place to visit: The Vasa Museum – get your ticket through GetYourGuide

 

Sweden Working Holiday Visa

 

Sweden has working holiday visa agreements with 7 participating countries. Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea. If you are a citizen of one of these countries, are aged 18 to 30 years inclusive you could apply for the Sweden working holiday visa. With one of these visas you can:

• Live in Sweden for up to one year
• Work for one employer for 6 months
• Visit other European countries within the Schengen Zone

 

To apply for the Swedish working holiday visa, you need to: 

• Be 18-30 years of age (inclusive)
• Have a valid passport
• Saved at least SEK 15,000 so you can support yourself during your initial stay in Sweden
• Bought a return ticket or enough money to buy one
• Have a valid health insurance policy

For more details and to apply, contact your nearest Swedish Embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Sweden (Migrationsverket).

 

EU and EEA Citizens Visa Options

 

Sweden is an EU (European Union) member and anyone who is a citizen of an EU or EEA country is entitled to stay in Sweden for a shorter or longer period to work or study. You do not need a work permit or a residence permit and must register yourself if you intend to stay in the country for longer than three months. Check out the official EU website for more details.

 

Best time to go on your Swedish Working Holiday

 

If you are wondering when is the best time to go on your Swedish working holiday, well, you can be influenced by the weather, the cost of transport and accommodation and the availability of jobs.

The weather can be a huge influence on deciding when to move abroad to Sweden. Sweden has beautiful and hot summers and then freezing winters with plenty of snow and temperatures around freezing point and lower. I visited a friend in Stockholm one winter and I arrived with the temperature -15 degrees Celsius and a blizzard on the way which saw the temperature drop to -21 degrees Celsius. I have never been so cold! Going on a working holiday for 12 months means you will experience every season however, if you are not use to the cold weather you may want to first arrive during the warmer months. But really, anytime is a good time to start your working holiday.

 

Where to Start Your Swedish Working Holiday

 

Most heading to Sweden on a working holiday visa start their year living in Sweden in Stockholm. Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and offers the working holiday maker to Sweden lots of options. These include places to live, work and places to play. Stockholm will allow you to get your bearings to decide if you want to stay in the capital or move to another area in Sweden.

 

Things to do on arrival in Sweden

 

When you arrive in Sweden, there are some things you need to do before you can begin to live, work and play in Sweden. These include:

• Register with a Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to pay taxes from your wages.
• Register with Swedish Social Insurance Agency (Försäkringskassan). This will allow you to use public health services in Sweden. If you are an EU citizen, you should also have your EHIC with you. Check out the official EU website for more details.
• Find somewhere to live
• Find a job
• Be a tourist for a few days in Stockholm to help get over any jetlag and to get your bearings.

 

Once things are sorted, start enjoying your working holiday in Sweden

 

Accommodation in Sweden

 

Most who come to Sweden on a working will start in Stockholm. There is plenty of short-term accommodation available including in hostels and hotels. For something longer a small flat can be found. I suggest you book your initial accommodation for at least 2 weeks. This is because by the time you have recovered from jet lag or any time differences, done some sightseeing, organised the things mentioned to do on your arrival and found somewhere long-term to live, the 2 weeks will almost be up. Some places to stay include:

Hostels are a great place to start your working holiday in Sweden as they are full of other travellers. City Backpackers is a great place to start as it is the most popular hostel in Stockholm for Backpackers. The facilities offered are clean, modern with heated floors in the showers – great during the cold winter months. Skanstulls Hostel is another great hostel to begin your Swedish working holiday. It is next to the Skanstulls metro station making it easy for you to jump on the metro to explore. For more hostel options in Stockholm and Sweden and to get pricing and to book check out HostelWorld.

Hotels are in abundance in Stockholm and the rest of Sweden. If looking for a budget to mid-range hotel to begin your year in Sweden check out Comfort Hotel Xpress or the NOFO Hotel BW Premier Collection. For more options, or for something with a little more luxury check out Booking.com.

To find long-term accommodation for your one year working holiday in Sweden check out websites such as Bostadd Direkt, blocket, Easyroommate.com or dn.

 

Working Holiday Jobs in Sweden

 

The good news about working in Sweden is that English is spoken widely. So you do not need to speak or write the Swedish language, however, learning some Swedish words and phrases will help. It will help you to immerse yourself in the local culture more. 

Most working holiday makers to Sweden usually find work in one of the three major cities: Stockholm, Malmo and Gotenborg where you could find a job in an office, retail store, hospitality venue or with a family as an Au Pair. Also, along the coastline, between the major cities, there is also work, particularly in the holiday resorts during the summer months. During the long winter months you may find work in a ski resort. And there is seasonal agriculture work picking fruit and vegetables available. Find out more about working in Sweden on the official EU website and check out the job board.

You could also find work in your accommodation and working in a hostel can take care of accommodation and a job at the same time. Many hostels are run by travellers who are happy to work on reception or clean rooms. In return for working you are provided with accommodation, which might be a bed in a dorm room, meals while on duty and a wage. Some travellers even work in return for free accommodation.  

Being an Au Pair in Sweden is a popular option. One of the best things about this type of work is positions are live-in, so that takes care of a job and a place to live in the one go. Duties include basic cleaning around the house as well as looking after children and their needs. For a position check out employment companies such as Aupair or AupairWorld.

Useful sites to find employment in Sweden include JobsinStockholm  which lists jobs for English speakers in Sweden and is a great place to start looking for employment, as are the following sites The Local, Sweden Jobs and Swedish Work.

You could also consider being a digital nomad in Sweden. Wifi is pretty fast however, the cost of living is quite high. But if your business is portable and you want to spend time in Sweden, well why not? There are many remote workers and digital nomads calling Sweden home.

 

Playing and Travelling in Sweden

 

I think playing and travelling is the best part of any holiday in Sweden. And there is plenty to see and do. You will definitely need to spend time in Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, with its Gamla Stan (Old City), palaces and islands to explore. There are also plenty of museums to visit including the Wasa Museum and the ABBA Museum.

Get out of Stockholm and there are plenty of towns like Helsingborg, Malmö, Ystad, Lundt, Halmstad, Gothenburg, Angelholm and Kristianstad to name a few. These towns are easily accessible by car, bus and train. Each town has something different to offer from historic buildings to cathedrals to museums to coffee shops and shopping districts. 

 

How to Travel around Sweden (Planes, trains and automobiles)

 

If you are wondering how to travel around Sweden, well, Sweden has some great transport options.

 

Air Travel in Sweden

 

Sweden is serviced by a number of airports. Arlanda Airport In Stockholm, is the main airport in Sweden and situated a mere forty kilometres north of the centre of Stockholm. Then there are smaller airports of Bromma, Skavsta and Vasteras and in Gothenburg, Landvetter and Gothenburg City. However, it is often easier to stay on the ground, particularly if there is lots of snow on the ground.

 

Train and Bus travel in Sweden

 

Train and bus are standard modes of transport for getting around Sweden. Buses are the more economical option. And train travel is the fastest way between two cities with train stations conveniently located in the centre of town. It will depend on your preference, and the routes you plan to take as to how you travel in and around Sweden.

 

Train Tavel in Sweden

 

Sweden’s rail network is one of the most efficient and most advanced in Europe. The network is run by SJ and major routes are serviced by the X2000 high-speed gains. These trains typically reach speeds of up to 125 mph and see travellers leaving Stockholm and arriving in Gothenburg in under 3 hours. There are plenty of other high speed trains to take you to other Swedish destinations. SJ offer Flexi-pass that allows travel in first and second class and between three and five days of travel during a one month period. These passes can start at just over Sek 100. Scandal also offers a flexipass allowing up to 10 days of travel, including ferry journeys in a 2 month period within Scandinavia. Sweden is also part of the Eurail network so check out their passes.

 

Bus Travel in Sweden

 

Bus routes are extensive in Sweden and reach many places. Check out fares and passes with Swebus, FlixBus and Eurolines.

 

Renting a car in Sweden

 

If looking for a flexible way to travel around Sweden consider renting a car. Roads are easy to drive on and parking is plentiful. Be careful driving on snowy and icy roads! There are a number of car rental companies in Sweden. If you would like to rent a vehicle check out DiscoverCars for rates and availability.

 

Are You Ready to Live and Work in Sweden?

 

Sweden has plenty to offer the working holiday maker or those who want to spend extended time there. If you are looking for a great place to live, work and play Sweden should be on your list. If you have lived, worked and played in Sweden on a working holiday or are thinking about it and have questions, we would love to hear from you in the comments following.

 

Move abroad and live and work in Scandinavia on one of the Scandinavian Working Holiday Visas

 

Scandinavia is a region in Northern Europe that is known for its royal families, snowy winters and tall, blonde people. The Scandinavian Peninsula is the largest peninsula in Europe and it extends from the Arctic Circle to the North and Baltic Seas. It is mostly defined as the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway and Sweden that historically shared the Peninsula. However, Finland and Iceland are generally included also, and I have included details of those counties in this post on living and working in Scandinavia.

If you are wanting to extend your stay in a Scandinavian country, one of the options allowing you to do this is to apply for a working holiday visa. That is if you are a non-EU citizen.

 

Visas to live work and play in Scandinavia

 

Denmark, Finland and Sweden – Part of the European Union (EU)

 

Denmark, Finland and Sweden are country members of the European Union (EU). This means citizens of other member countries are allowed to live, work and play in Scandinavia. If you are a citizen of an EU country, then get more details about living and working in Scandinavia at the official EU website www.europa.eu.int.

 

Scandinavian countries are Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland

 

Working Holiday Visas available in Scandinavia

 

If you are a non-EU citizen, meaning not from an EU member state, you will be pleased to know here are five Scandinavian countries with a working holiday visas available. Qualifying for one of these working holiday visas allows you:

• an extended stay in the country for up to 12 months.
• allowed to take work to fund your travels.

 

Scandinavian countries with Working Holiday Visa

 

Denmark

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of:  Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Danish Embassy or Consulate

 

Finland

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Japan and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate

READ MORE:
Finland Highlights – What to See and Do in Finland

Iceland

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of:  Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Icelandic Embassy or Consulate

READ MORE:
Why Visit Iceland – Convince Me

Norway

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Canada, Japan and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years depending on country agreement)
Contact: your nearest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate

 

Sweden

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Canada, Chile New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Swedish Embassy or Consulate

 

READ MORE:
Sweden Working Holiday Visa Guide
How to Spend 3 Days in Stockholm

 

As you can see, there are a number of options. Your main decision is which Scandinavian country will you choose to live, work and play in. Each country has a lot to offer.

 

Work Types for Working Holiday Makers in Scandinavia

 

Types of work will vary for whether you are bi-lingual or not. Knowing the language will definitely help in your job search. These countries do include English as part of their school curriculum, so you will find many people speak English very well. This means if you only speak English you can find work in a number of job types. Popular places to find a job includes office based positions. Also, in a traveller’s hostel and in coffee shops, bars and restaurants. Jobs in these professions are easier to obtain during the warmer months. This is when many tourists visit the Scandinavian region creating seasonal jobs.

As most of Scandinavia is covered in snow during the winter months there is the possibility of working in the ski centres. Scandinavia isn’t that mountainous and so there is a lot of cross country skiing. The ski resorts require a vast number of people, particularly to fill hospitality position, so the centres run efficiently.

 

Where Will You Live While in Scandinavia

 

You will need both short and long-term accommodation during your time in living and working in Scandinavia. When you first arrive, I highly recommend staying in either a hostel or a hotel room until you find something longer term. For short-term accommodation in Scandinavia check out HostelWorld for a bed in a hostel room. And Booking.com for a hotel room. For longer term accommodation I suggest you decide on the area you wish to live in first and then go house hunting.

Which ever country you decide to have an extended stay in I hope you enjoy your time when you Live, Work and Play in Scandinavia.

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