Things to Do in Scandinavia & Finland

The right activities depend on the season. In winter, the snow and the Northern Lights shape the days. In summer, long daylight makes lakes, fjords and cities easy to enjoy. This guide groups the main activities by interest, with links to the packages that cover them.

Northern Lights and winter activities

Lapland is the main region for winter activities and the Northern Lights. Winter days are cold, snowy and short, so plan outdoor time around the daylight. Northern Lights outings are usually in the evening, and sightings depend on clear skies and weather. February offers excellent snow conditions and aurora chances. Our Lapland Northern Lights & Santa Village 5N package builds this into five nights in Rovaniemi.

Santa-themed experiences and Arctic access

Rovaniemi is known for Santa-themed experiences and gives access to the Arctic. These suit families with children, and they are easy to combine with winter activities. Ask your planner about the timings before you book, because schedules and access can change with the weather.

Saunas, lakes and summer nature

The Finnish Lakeland is known for lakes, saunas and summer nature. June to August is the warm-weather window, with long daylight and mild temperatures. Finland's lakes suit a slower pace, so use them as a break between city days in Helsinki and northern travel.

Museums, design and city life

Helsinki is known for design and architecture, and its seaside city atmosphere makes walking easy. Oslo offers museums, a waterfront and modern city culture. Public transport in both cities, including trams, ferries and the metro in Helsinki and Ruter in Oslo, makes it simple to visit several sights in one day. Our Scandinavia 10N package links Helsinki, Oslo and Bergen.

Islands, coast and ferries

The archipelago and coastal areas around Helsinki offer scenic island travel and outdoor activities. Ferries are widely used in the capital area. In Norway, ferries are essential for fjords and islands, so a fjord day often includes a ferry leg. Check schedules before you go, since ferry timings change with the season.

Fjords and scenic rail

Bergen gives access to the fjords, and Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are among the most iconic fjord scenes. The Flåm Railway is a scenic rail journey through fjord country. Our Norway Fjords 7N package includes a fjord day that can take in the Flåm Railway, as your planner confirms.

Hiking and outdoor walks

Norway's fjords and mountains suit hiking. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is one of Norway's most famous hikes. Mountain and coastal weather can change quickly, so check trail conditions and dress in layers before any outdoor activity. In winter, icy paths call for care, and snow can close routes.

Arctic experiences in the far north

Tromsø is known for the Northern Lights and Arctic experiences. The Lofoten Islands offer dramatic landscapes and fishing villages, and the North Cape is a classic Arctic stop. Travel to these places takes longer than in the cities, so confirm the route and timings with your planner.

Foraging and autumn colours

Late summer and autumn are promoted for foraging and autumn foliage in Finland. This is a quieter season for travel, with cool, crisp weather. September brings the first autumn colours, while October is cold, often rainy or windy.

How was this guide compiled?

This guide is compiled from published tourism, weather and transport information. It was last checked on 2 November 2026. Activities, opening times and seasonal access can change, so confirm each one with your planner before you book.

Where to go next

Read the Scandinavia and Finland travel guide, then places to visit, best time to visit and trip cost. For a ready plan, see the Norway Fjords 7N, Lapland Northern Lights & Santa Village 5N or Scandinavia 10N packages.