Essential Scandinavia

Exploring Scandinavia by Rail: A Journey Through Beauty and History

In 2023, I embarked on an unforgettable journey through Scandinavia, traveling by rail and staying in some of the most charming and centrally located hotels each evening. We kicked off the adventure in Copenhagen, staying at the Admiral Hotel, where the blend of history and modern comfort set the tone for the trip. Our days in Copenhagen were packed with flavor and sights—starting with a food tour that gave us a taste of the city’s vibrant culinary scene, followed by a relaxing river cruise, and a tour of a stunning castle. Copenhagen truly is a beautiful, walkable city that feels incredibly safe at every turn.

Next, we boarded the train and headed into Norway. Our stops included Oslo, Bergen, and Flam—each offering its own unique charm. Oslo greeted us with both historical and modern marvels, and a highlight was our visit to the Munch Museum. Seeing Edvard Munch’s iconic works in person, especially The Scream, was a surreal experience. The museum’s striking architecture and impressive collection made it a must-see.

From Oslo, we continued to Bergen and Flam. One of the most memorable parts of the trip was the scenic ride from Myrdal to Flam on the famous Flåm Railway, a breathtaking route that takes you right into the heart of the fjords. Flam itself is nestled deep in one of these majestic fjords, and from there, we sailed on an electric ferry through the narrow waterways to Gudvangen. The serene beauty of the fjords was unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

Bergen, a picturesque town on the water, was a lovely surprise. It had the perfect balance of quaint charm and vibrant energy. From there, we continued our journey to Stockholm, where we stayed at the Diplomat Hotel—a stunning waterfront property in the heart of the city. Stockholm was a blend of old and new, and our 3-day visitor pass gave us access to museums, historical landmarks, and a guided boat tour of the city’s iconic waterways. It felt like we were stepping into history while also enjoying the modern pulse of the city.