Northern Europe is known for its dramatic landscapes, colorful wooden houses, Viking history, and long summer days. Think deep fjords, wild coastlines, cozy cafés, modern design, and the magical Northern Lights. This region feels clean, calm, and close to nature.
How to get there and getting around?
Airport: Major international airports include Copenhagen, Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki, and Reykjavik. These hubs are well connected to Europe and North America. You can compare flights and find the cheapest deals via Skyscanner. If you don’t know yet when you are going to leave the country, buy an onward ticket and fake your return. This works fine.
Train / Bus options: Train travel is comfortable and efficient in Scandinavia and the Baltics. Cities have reliable public transport systems including buses, trams, and metro lines. Scenic routes, especially in Norway, are highlights of any trip. Tickets are usually digital and easy to purchase via apps.
Ferries: Ferries connect many coastal cities and islands, especially between Sweden, Finland, Estonia, and Denmark. Overnight ferry routes are common and comfortable. Direct Ferries is a great platform to compare ferry prices.
Car rental / driving: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring fjords, countryside areas, and Iceland’s Ring Road. Roads are well maintained, but weather conditions in winter can be challenging. Use DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices.
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FAQ about Northern Europe
Is Northern Europe safe for (female) solo travelers?
Yes, Northern Europe is one of the safest regions in the world for (female) solo travelers. Cities are clean, well organized, and public transport is reliable. During my three-month backpacking trip in Scandinavia, I never felt unsafe.
Why is Northern Europe worth visiting?
I love Northern Europe for its raw landscapes, design-focused cities, peaceful atmosphere, and natural phenomena like the Northern Lights and midnight sun.
Is Northern Europe cheap to visit?
No, it’s one of the more expensive regions in Europe. Accommodation, dining, and alcohol can be pricey. Planning ahead and cooking your own meals can help reduce costs. Traveling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay the local currency with a Wise Visa Card or Revolut Maestro Card. I have been using these cards for several years and have saved a lot of money as a result. I recommend bringing both bank cards with you when you travel.
Is tipping expected in Northern Europe?
Tipping is not mandatory. Service charges are usually included, but rounding up for good service is appreciated.
Do I need a visa for visiting Northern Europe?
Most countries are part of the Schengen Area. Many nationalities can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Always check official government websites before traveling.
Do I need travel insurance for visiting Northern Europe?
Yes, travel insurance is recommended, especially if you plan outdoor activities like hiking or winter sports. Heymondo or Safetywing are among the cheapest travel insurances for travelers and cover medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. As a reader of Girlswanderlust, you’ll receive a 5% discount on your next Heymondo travel insurance.
Will my mobile phone work in Northern Europe?
Can I drink tap water in Northern Europe?
Yes, tap water is extremely clean and safe to drink throughout the region.
Do I need to speak the local language in Northern Europe?
Not necessarily. English is widely spoken, especially in Scandinavia and Iceland, making travel very easy.
