Scandinavians: who are they, who are they called that? Description and historical information about the peoples
February 25, 2014 In this article we will try to understand the term “Scandinavia” and find out which countries belong to it and what interesting things tourists can see there...The Scandinavian region usually includes all the countries of Northern Europe -, and. The Faroe Islands and Greenland are also included here, since they are parts of Denmark, and the Åland Islands are part of Finland.
But this formulation is erroneous, since traditionally only Sweden, Norway and Denmark belong to the historical and cultural region of Scandinavia. This region covers the Scandinavian Peninsula (Norway, Sweden and part of northwestern Finland), the Jutland Peninsula (Denmark) and adjacent islands.
But usually in all guidebooks Iceland and Finland are also called Scandinavia, since they are very close, and are also closely connected with the Scandinavian countries in history and culture. And even the flags of these five countries are similar; they all display a characteristic cross, slightly offset from the center to the left. By the way, it first appeared on the flag of Denmark.
In general, therefore, now the term “Scandinavia” has actually become synonymous with the term “Northern Europe”.
And in this article we will also call all these five countries Scandinavia. Indeed, they are brought together not only by geographical location, but also by culture, related languages and rich story, starting from ancient times, when the Vikings and Goths roamed the harsh expanses of this region.
Yes, and “vacation in Scandinavia” for the majority Russian tourists is associated, first of all, of course, with our “neighbor” Finland, so how could we live without it.
What to see in Scandinavia
The main tourist attractions of Scandinavia are the famous Norwegian fjords and ancient cities with their historical and architectural attractions.
In addition, almost every Scandinavian country has national parks with beautiful nature and good ski resorts.
In addition to this, Iceland also has huge waterfalls, a valley of geysers and giant glaciers.
In addition to bus tours, which are extremely common among Russian tourists traveling around the region (usually from St. Petersburg), cruises are also popular. They are divided into ferry cruises in the Scandinavian countries, one of the most popular routes is Finland - Sweden - Norway - Denmark, and cruises along the Norwegian fjords.
The latter are generally an attraction in themselves, because nowhere else in the world can you sail on a ship from the open sea tens of kilometers inland along narrow, winding sea bays with high rocky shores (the height of the cliffs reaches 1000 meters). And all this surrounded by amazing nature.
The most popular Scandinavian cities among cruise tourists are Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo and Bergen, as well as Helsinki.
However, Russians come to Scandinavia not only for the interesting excursion program. IN last years Our compatriots, mostly, of course, residents of the Leningrad region, actively rent cottages in Finland for vacation. They are rented both for weekends and for longer periods, and with different purposes– relaxation on lakes with fishing, relaxation at ski resorts and simply a relaxing family vacation in the lap of nature.
When is the best time to go to Scandinavia?
In general, tourism in the Scandinavian countries is off-season, and in any case, holidays here are not “hot” - the weather, even in the middle of summer, is usually moderate (+20...+23), so those who for some reason want to avoid the scorching sun can safely come here and high temperatures.
Well, in the winter months, Scandinavia turns into a real paradise for those dreaming of a real snow-white winter - with fluffy snowdrifts, stunningly beautiful snow-covered forests and clear skies.
The best time to visit Scandinavia is summer or winter!
One of the main features of the Scandinavians is their love of nature, squared. And this is not just a matter of responsibility and frugality. In Scandinavia, the cult of ecology is instilled from childhood. That is why these northern countries are famous for their cleanest forests and reservoirs with potable water, environmentally friendly products, and clothing. Their cities have a lot of greenery and timid wild birds, somewhere in the center of Stockholm you can easily stumble upon a hare, and wood is often used in architecture and environmental design.
The short, cool summers in Scandinavia give way to long, dark winters that encourage thought and contemplation. Northern peoples are reasonable, unhurried and relaxed. Life flows calmly and peacefully and does not involve uncertainty or worry. Decent salaries, guaranteed pensions and benefits, carefree old age... Everything is certain and predictable.
Work is a wolf
What Scandinavians fear most is losing their job. Conscientious and responsible, not prone to tardiness and absenteeism, as well as overtime, they are dedicated to their work. On weekdays you will not meet drunks on the streets of Copenhagen or Oslo. But in - as much as you like! Scandinavians love to relax in bars and drink lightly and a lot. And just as easily, as if nothing had happened, they go to work on Monday without delay.
In the Nordic countries the influence of trade unions is strong. It is not so easy to fire an employee even for serious duties. And those who have proven themselves well get all sorts of bonuses. To the point that, for example, an employee can be paid for the purchase of a new pair of shoes - for proper appearance at work.
A clear eye means a strong tooth
Scandinavians are friendly and cheerful. It is difficult to meet a gloomy person on the street. Often these are people with good skin and shiny teeth blond hair, clear eyes and a satisfied look. A sports lifestyle is cultivated in Scandinavia with might and main. There is no shortage of swimming pools, sports complexes and stadiums in cities. And visiting these establishments costs pennies.
Despite their outward openness and friendliness, Scandinavians respect their personal space and treat others the same way. It is not customary here to gossip, take an interest in someone’s personal life, or look at each other on the street. Close, frank glances are avoided.
Scandinavians, despite their high height, are unpretentious in food and clothing. And having an expensive car or bicycle is considered almost indecent.
Children in Scandinavia are idolized. They are allowed everything. They are loved and wanted a lot. In Sweden, for example, dads often go on parental leave.
Scandinavians respect and love tourists. Traveling through small rural towns, you can accidentally taste northern hospitality by stopping overnight at one of the farms. You will be so welcome that they will provide you with free overnight accommodation and even give you fresh food for the journey. Always feel free to ask local residents for help - they will be happy to explain something or simply chat with foreigners.
Video on the topic
Sources:
- Interesting facts about the Scandinavians
The perception of a person by a person, which psychologists call social perception, is determined by many factors, not the least of which are occupied by various stereotypes, including national ones.
A person’s belonging to a particular nation forces us to attribute certain traits to him. For example, residents of Scandinavian countries are usually portrayed as exaggeratedly calm, while southerners are often portrayed as passionate and hot-tempered. There is no shortage of stereotypes regarding Russians. Some of them are even reflected in proverbs: “A Russian takes a long time to harness, but rides quickly.”
It cannot be said that these stereotypes are 100% true, but there is a rational grain in them. A native of Russia, for example, may mistake an ordinary friendly conversation between two Spaniards or Arabs for a quarrel. The habit of many Russian students is to idle during the semester and then study all the material in last days before the exam is also well known to the teachers.
The emergence of national character traits is natural. Each people lived for centuries in certain natural conditions, which shaped its way of life, traditions and character.
North and South
The further north a particular area is located, the harsher the conditions in which a person has to live, the more difficult it is to survive alone. A passionate, hot-tempered person with an uncontrollable temperament has a greater chance of quarreling with relatives and being expelled from the clan community than a calm and reasonable person.
In the harsh conditions of the northern lands (for example, on the Scandinavian Peninsula), such exiles were doomed to death; calmer people who did not break ties survived. In the southern climate, where there was no such “selection,” temperamental people could occupy a dominant position due to their increased activity. This explains the temperament of the southerners and the calmness of the northerners.
Mountains and plains
In almost all civilizations, the capitals were on the plains, not in the mountains. It is easier to travel and transport goods on the plains, which is why trade developed on the plains. The development of the economy “pulled with it” changes in social organization, leading to the emergence government agencies. Mountainous areas were less affected by these processes. That is why peoples living in mountainous areas preserved tribal traditions longer (the Caucasus in Russia, the north of Scotland in Great Britain).
Features of farming
Agricultural peoples, to which the ancient Slavs belonged, built their lives around field work. Russia is in a risky farming zone. The short farming season forced people to do their best in a short time, followed by a long period of relative inactivity.
Of course, in winter it was also necessary to work - care for livestock, chop wood, spin - but all this could not be compared with the colossal effort that the agricultural season required of the peasant, during which a lot had to be done. This is how the characteristic Russian habit of alternating long periods of inactivity with relatively short periods of intense labor was formed, which is manifested even among modern city-dwelling students who have never engaged in agriculture.
Slowness and slowness characterize the life of all of Northern Europe, whose residents are not in a hurry and therefore manage to get everywhere. And although these countries cannot boast of “heavenly pleasures” in the Bounty style, their romantic northern nature, unspoiled by gross human intervention, their rich cities with all the advantages of civilization, their turbulent history, as well as the highest standard of living attract tourists from many countries around the world.
For fairy tales and entertainment
The smallest Scandinavian country is located on the North Sea coast, across the Kattegat Strait, on the Jutland Peninsula. Kings and queens have ruled these lands since the Viking Age, and the famous white cross on the red flag has remained unchanged for 800 years.
The main attraction of Denmark- picturesque villages and towns, castles and monuments of past centuries, cool shady beech forests, beautiful lakes. In Denmark you will see fjords and bays, ancient estates and wide wooded plains, many modern cities and provincial towns, and, of course, the capital of Denmark. This city is called the pearl of Scandinavia. In 1996 it received the title of European Capital of Culture. Copenhagen, the country's largest city, is located in the northeast of the island of Zealand and was founded in 1167 as a fortress. This is the city where the queen lives, the seat of the government and parliament of Denmark, the political and cultural center of the country, and an important transport communications hub in Scandinavia. Copenhagen is a joyful, diverse city open to the world. Green copper roofs over red brick walls, a sea of greenery and again water, water: harbor waters, canals, lakes... All this is in wonderful harmony, forming a single picture that cannot be compared with anything.
All of Denmark is celebrating this year 200th anniversary of the birth of Hans Christian Andersen. The world's most famous storyteller was born on the island of Funen into a poor shoemaker's family in 1805. Even in early childhood, Andersen was an apprentice at a shoe factory. He published his first collection of fairy tales at the age of 17. Since then, his life has turned into a fairy tale, which he did not part with until old age. “The Little Mermaid”, “Flint”, “Thumbelina” - whatever fairy tales you remember, theirs is Andersen. After all, the famous storyteller wrote not only for children, but also for adults. Andersen wrote several novels and plays, which, however, did not gain as much popularity as his fairy tales.
Not wanting to part with their childhood, adult children built a Legoland amusement park. There are many attractions and games for children of all ages: Indians, cowboys, Captain Roger, inaccessible cliffs and mysterious caves, fairytale castles, electric cars and monorails. Miniature cars move resolutely through the streets. Ferries maneuver safely in the port. While children play in a world built from millions of Lego bricks, adults can taste Danish cuisine, which has absorbed the culinary traditions of almost all the peoples of the European north. Surprisingly, adults have just as much fun at Legoland as children. Near the park there is a cozy Legoland hotel, where anyone can book a room.
Do you want to see wild animals in their natural environment a habitat? Then go to safari park "Givskud". Animals from five continents - elephants, camels, wolves, llamas, buffaloes, ostriches, hippos, rhinoceroses and other fauna - live on a vast territory and feel at home. Well, to make you feel safe, you will be offered to watch animals and birds from the window of a bus or mini-train. While traveling through the park, you can walk on foot, but only in the places indicated on the map. At a safe distance you will see gorillas and chimpanzees, roan antelopes and pygmy hippos.
Land of fjords, trolls and Vikings
A country where you can get the most unforgettable experiences. A trip to Norway is a great opportunity not only to have a good rest, enjoying beautiful nature- fjords, glaciers and waterfalls, but also get to know the sights of the most beautiful cities of this country.
The journey to the fjords begins with a train ride from deep into eastern Norway, and continues along the Flamsbanen mountain railway, considered a masterpiece of engineering. Its length is 19 km, it passes through 20 tunnels, at an inclination of 18 degrees. During the trip, you will experience Norwegian nature on several levels: the glaciated mountain peaks, then the tundra landscape and, finally, the greenery of fertile valleys. And everywhere it’s crystal pure water fjords and waterfalls.
The true size of some distant waterfalls can only be realized by seeing a thread of a bridge or moving dots above the “trickle” of water, which turn out to be people. 20 km of track that the train covers within an hour due to the abundance of turns and bends, making stops, for example, at one of the most famous and beautiful waterfalls, the huge Kjosfossen, which supplies this unique railway with electricity. There is an old Norwegian legend according to which a witch lives at this waterfall, who appears to travelers in the form of a beautiful girl, enchanting them, and they remain at the waterfall forever.
- this is the Venice of the north!
Most of us consider Sweden to be northern cold country. However, there is snow here for at most 3 weeks a year, and autumn lasts until Christmas. But the waters in Sweden are the sea! And that's the attraction capital - Stockholm, a city built on water, as they say in Sweden. More precisely, the capital of Sweden is located on 14 islands. There is water splashing everywhere in the city, and you can’t guess whether it is the salt water of the Baltic Sea, or the fresh water of Lake Mälaren. Even today, the strategically advantageous location of the island is still striking, thanks to which the city was founded here, first mentioned in chronicles in 1252.
You can explore Stockholm on your own, but it is better to go on an organized excursion, during which you will visit several islands that make up this magnificent city.
Kungsholmen - Royal Island - is the administrative center of the city, where the picturesque Lake Mälaren is located, in the place where the City Hall was built.
Södermalm - South Island - is the largest of Stockholm's islands. The observation deck on the Söderheiden hill offers an unforgettable panorama of the city.
Gamla Stan - Old Town - the historical center of Stockholm, where the atmosphere of the Middle Ages is still preserved. Here, in the 13th century, the “Three Crowns” defensive tower was built and a city was formed. Here, on the wide palace square near the Royal Palace, bordered by semicircular symmetrical buildings, the changing of the guard of the royal guard takes place exactly at noon. Moreover, if you decide to look at the ceremony the next day, you will be surprised to find that this time the “performance program” is completely different.
The Scandinavian countries offer a harsh northern climate, the highest quality of life and a rather interesting culture.
Scandinavia is traditionally called the North of Europe, or rather three countries that are located on the Scandinavian Peninsula and adjacent islands: Norway, Sweden and Denmark. In a broad philistine sense, Iceland and Finland are also often classified as Scandinavian countries.
Historically, Scandinavia is a land of harsh Vikings - sailors, traders and robbers rolled into one. For a long time, the Scandinavians were a big headache for the surrounding tribes, as they regularly carried out brutal raids on their neighbors.
Scandinavia map
Scandinavian sagas about brave heroes are, in fact, stories about how one of the kings (local tribal rulers) went to foreign lands, gloriously plundered them, brought mountains of goods, and the whole tribe feasted for many days, glorifying their breadwinner. The richer the booty, the greater the feat in the eyes of his fellow tribesmen.
Some of the Vikings became famous not only for their robberies, but also for their great geographical discoveries(Eric the Red, for example). But this is rather a pleasant bonus - the Scandinavians went across the three seas in search of rich booty, and not out of love for the unknown.
Scandinavia - the birthplace of the Vikings Visa to Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland: documents
All Scandinavian countries are part of the Schengen zone and have uniform rules for visa documents. The list includes:
- A form that can be filled out for an electronic visa on the websites of Visa Application Centers of specific countries (see websites below)
- A foreign passport valid for at least three months as of the date of return from the trip (for Iceland, you must also attach copies of each page of the passport with marks)
- Photocopies of old Schengen visas (if they are pasted into the previous passport, attach a photocopy of its first page and the visas that are pasted into it)
- 2 color photos 3.5x4.5 cm on a white background (for Finland, the background needs a light gray)
Schengen visa to Sweden - Receipt of payment of application fees (can be paid at the visa application center)
- A copy of the Russian Federation passport (all completed pages), children under 14 must attach a photocopy of the birth certificate, from 14 to 18 years old - both a photocopy of the saint and a photocopy of the Russian Federation passport (for Iceland a copy of all pages is required, even blank ones)
- Certificate: for workers - from their place of work, for students and schoolchildren - from their place of study, and a bank certificate confirming the availability of an account
- Hotel reservations can be made on Booking.com
- Booking train, air or ferry tickets
- Medical policy covering travel dates, the amount of coverage is not less than 30,000 euros, In the “coverage area” column you must indicate “all Schengen countries”
- Consent to the processing of personal data (the form can be found on the visa websites below)
- Notarized consent to take a child to the Schengen area if one of the parents (or both) does not accompany the minor citizen of the Russian Federation on the trip
Consulate of Finland in St. Petersburg Attention! Despite the general nature of the requirements, when applying for a visa to a specific Scandinavian country, additional nuances and document requirements may arise; please check with the Visa Centers for details.
More detailed information You can find information about the rules, terms and cost of a visa on the following sites:
What language is spoken in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland?
In addition to common geography, the Scandinavian countries have a common culture and history. In each of the Scandinavian countries you will meet Finns, Swedes, Norwegians and representatives of small Scandinavian tribes and nationalities living there.
Sports fans from Sweden The most common language in Scandinavia is Swedish: it is spoken by residents of Sweden and some citizens of Finland. In Finnish schools, basic learning of the Swedish language is included in the compulsory curriculum.
Finnish is the official language of Finland, which can also be found in Sweden and Norway in the form of different dialects of local Finnish communities
Iceland was a Danish protectorate for a long time, so Icelandic and Danish languages are found in both Denmark and Iceland. German is also spoken in Denmark.
In Norway, things are interesting with languages. Due to the huge variety of dialects in the country, there are two official Norwegian languages and two national scripts. In general, the Norwegian language is very close in origin to the Icelandic and Danish languages
The Sami are the most widespread ethnic group in Finland. Most urban residents of Scandinavia can speak English (basic level).
What is the currency in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland?
All five countries have a single currency in official circulation: the euro. One euro is equal to 100 euro cents. There are banknotes in circulation in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 euros, as well as coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 euro cents, 1 and 2 euros.
Currency can be exchanged at bank branches and at hotel receptions. Payments are accepted everywhere bank cards, there are terminals in every locality.
Euro is the official currency of the Scandinavian countries Time difference with Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland
The time difference between Moscow and the Scandinavian countries is:
- Iceland, Reykjavik: -3 hours
- Denmark, Copenhagen: -1 hour
- Norway, Oslo: -1 hour
- Finland, Helsinki: time coincides with Moscow
- Sweden, Stockholm: -1 hour
The time difference with Moscow in Scandinavia is from 3 to 1 hour New Year in Scandinavia: celebration, relaxation
Scandinavian countries are the most suitable place to celebrate the New Year. Where, where, and in the kingdom of eternal snow, real experts live winter activities and magical Christmas stories.
Winter holidays in the Scandinavian countries are, first of all, excellent excursions (read about the attractions of the Scandinavian countries below), and secondly, there are wonderful ski resorts (for more information about alpine skiing in Scandinavia, see).
But the main goal in Scandinavia, if you are traveling with children, is, of course, a trip to Santa Claus (or rather, to his Scandinavian brothers).
New Year in Scandinavian countries Santa Claus Village in Finland
The largest residence of Santa Claus in Scandinavia is located near the Finnish city of Rovaniemi. Santa Park (that’s the name of the residence) is a whole fairy-tale city, which can be reached from Rovaniemi by regular bus in just 15 minutes.
In Santa Park you will find a lot of entertainment for children and adults: Mrs. Claus's gingerbread kitchen, the Post Office and Elf Toy Factory, reindeer sledding, ice rides and, of course, the main event for every visitor to Santa Park - a personal date with Santa Claus .
Santa Park is located on the edge of the Arctic Circle, where you can see the stunning aurora and be immersed in the polar night for days. The park has an official website in Russian, where you will find any additional information.
Santa Park in Rovaniemi, Finland Residence of Santa Claus in Norway
In Norway, the residence of Santa Claus is located 300 km from Oslo in the town of Savalen. The local Santa Claus is called Julenissen, and his possessions are much more modest than the Finnish ones. But there is something to have fun here too.
You can visit Julenissen's office, where he reads letters from children, go to the local petting zoo with northern animals, treat yourself to ginger waffles and visit a gift factory.
In winter, not far from Julenissen's residence, a small ski resort with children's slopes opens. Dog sledding, reindeer sledding and snowmobiling are available. A good SPA center and Finnish sauna are open here all year round.
Tomteland - Santa Claus Village in Sweden Where to find Santa Claus in Denmark?
Unfortunately, there is no Santa Claus village in the Kingdom of Denmark. But here every year you can see not just one, but hundreds of Santa Clauses from all over the world.
The World Santa Claus Congress traditionally takes place in July, lasts a whole week and includes in its program such important questions, like the sizes of gingerbread cookies, the technique of moving in the chimney, the most fashionable gifts and much more.
During the congress in Copehagen, you can see the Santa Claus parade, take part in various shows and chat with real elves. See the official World Santa Claus Congres website.
World Santa Claus Congress in Denmark Santa Claus in Iceland
Iceland is the most pagan of the Scandinavian countries, where Christian traditions have still not taken root very well, so Santa is a rather rare guest in Iceland. Instead of one kind grandfather, 15 harmful old men come to Icelandic children at once and instead of gifts they bring complete troubles.
In general, the presence of Santa Claus in Iceland is limited to branded mailboxes, in which children drop their letters. But you won’t be able to meet directly with the local Santa Claus.
Yule - harmful Christmas old people in Iceland Scandinavia Ferry Tours: Sweden, Finland
A very popular type of travel in the Scandinavian countries is ferry cruises from St. Petersburg. Tours are available all year round; you can purchase such a trip at any travel agency in Russia.
The routes and duration are different - from 3 days to two weeks. The price includes travel by bus from St. Petersburg to Helsinki, then the journey continues in a cabin (the level of comfort depends on your choice) of a modern ferry vessel.
Ferry boat on a cruise in Scandinavia Meals are provided on the ferry, entertainment programs, there are souvenir stalls and shops. The ferry stops daily in one of the Scandinavian capitals. Group excursions around the city are offered on board. If you wish, you can take a walk on your own.
Some programs require overnight stays in a hotel for 1-2 nights (the choice of hotel category can also be made when ordering a tour).
The big advantage of such trips is the presence of a Russian-speaking escort, an expedited procedure for obtaining a visa and a certain comfort: you don’t feel the sway on the ferry, you live an ordinary hotel life here, but every day your “hotel” ends up in a new place - compared to bus excursions this is a huge plus.
You can roughly estimate the cost of traveling by ferry.
Cabin on a ferry boat in Scandinavia Bus tours in Scandinavia
Bus tours to Scandinavia are another opportunity to see as many sights as possible in Northern Europe in one trip. Groups depart from St. Petersburg. The first leg of the journey usually involves a ferry to one of the Scandinavian countries, then you transfer to a bus and continue your journey.
Tours can be combined in different ways: duration, route and options for ferry and bus transportation depend on your wishes and specific tour operator programs. Within one tour, you can choose hotel categories and cabin comfort levels.
You can view options for ready-made bus tours around Scandinavia.
Copenhagen, Denmark Scandinavian countries
Sweden
Sweden is the most Scandinavian of all the Nordic countries. This country gave the world Carlson, the ABBA group, IKEA furniture and Nobel Prize. The main values of the Swedes are practicality, simplicity and restraint.
Sweden is a monarchy, but the king shares power with parliament and is more of an honorary figurehead. The Swedes adore their king, love everything with the prefix “eco”, and adhere to the ironclad rule “do not harm nature.” Interesting fact: in Sweden it is allowed to enter private property and walk on the territory of others, provided that they treat nature with care.
Stockholm, Sweden Summer holidays, attractions of Sweden
The most notable museums in Sweden: Vasa Ship Museum, Nobel Museum (interactive gallery of award winners), National Museum of Sweden (painting exhibition), Stockholm Architecture Museum (very strange building models), Stockholm Historical Museum (Viking treasures), Stockholm Natural History Museum (very interesting for children because many interactive exhibits) and the Museum of the Middle Ages (all about knights).
Vasa Ship Museum, Sweden The most interesting castles and fortresses: Vadstena Abbey (14th century monastery), Gripsholm Castle (royal residence), Drottingholm Castle (local Versailles), Örebro, Malmö and Kalmar castles (dark Middle Ages)
Orebro Castle, Sweden Globe Arena and Skyview– a venue for world-class sports competitions and concerts – a modern building with a huge spherical dome, to the top of which there is a special capsule funicular. The highest point of the funicular is at a bird's eye view and offers panoramic views of Stockholm in full view.
Globe Arena and Skyview lift in Sweden Skansen– open-air folklore museum. This is an entire village that represents the traditional way of life in Sweden in XIX-XX centuries. The village is “populated” by actors-animators in national costumes, who play the role of artisans, traders and ordinary people.
Skansen Museum in Sweden Gamla Stan– the old center of Stockholm, a colorful medieval area with urban development traditional for Scandinavia at that time
Gamla Stan district in Sweden Longholmen Prison– a former medieval dungeon, which currently houses a museum, restaurant and hotel at the same time. Hotel guests are provided with a prison uniform (optional), and on the walls of the rooms, which were once prison cells, information about their most famous prisoners is posted.
Hotel-prison in Longholm. Sweden Royal Palace in Stockholm– the current residence of the Swedish monarchs, which is available for visits by tourists.
Unibakken- the town-museum of the Swedish storyteller Astrid Lindgren, inhabited by the heroes of her works: “Baby and Carlosn”, “Pippi Longstocking”, “Madiken and Pims from Junibakken”.
Junibakken Park, Sweden Emporia– a mega-shopping center in Malmö, a mecca for local and visiting shopaholics, 200 stores of shoes, clothing and household items, as well as very unusual interiors.
What to bring from Sweden?
- A figurine of a moose is a national symbol, the most popular souvenir
- Swedish crystal - products High Quality and extremely unusual design
- Swedish chocolate is not inferior in quality to Swiss and Belgian
- Clothing - Swedish brands are almost unknown in Russia, but are highly valued in Europe for their quality and practicality
Moose figurine - a traditional souvenir from Sweden Norway
Norway is a land of brave discoverers (the most famous are Thor Heyerdahl and Fridtjof Nansen), Norwegian fjords and, oddly enough, very friendly people. The harsh Nordic character here is manifested in everything: in the local landscapes of the harsh North, in folk legends, heroic figures of the Norwegians and their traditional entertainment.
Oslo is the capital of Norway Recreation in summer and winter, attractions of the kingdom
Royal Palace in Oslo- the residence of the Norwegian kings, who are alive and rule the country to this day. The palace is open to tourists, but group tours are only in Swedish; to tour with an English- or Russian-speaking guide, you must make a reservation in advance.
Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway Vigeland Park– a huge exhibition of sculptures (more than 200) by the Swedish sculptor Gustav Vigeland (in some places his work is strongly reminiscent of Tsereteli).
Bryggen- an object world heritage UNESCO, a medieval embankment quarter in the center of Bergen, which is familiar to almost everyone from tourist postcards and booklets of Norway.
Bryggen - promenade in Bergen, Norway Oslo History Museum– an archaeological, ethnographic and art museum in one bottle, a huge exhibition.
Heni Unsta Center d – museum contemporary art and cultural center. Installations by local artists and concerts of ethnic music will drive the most sophisticated connoisseurs of modern artistic expressions crazy.
Norwegian Armed Forces Museum– an exhibition of weapons, camping equipment and the soldier’s life of Norwegian warriors from the early Viking era to the Second World War.
Sculpture in the center of Heni Unstad, Norway Museums in honor of famous Norwegians:“Kon-Tiki” (about Thor Heyerdahl), Ibsen’s house-museum, Trollhaugen (Edvard Grieg’s estate), Exhibition-museum of paintings by Munch (the author of the famous painting “The Scream”).
Rosencrantz Tower and Hawkons Hall– an early medieval fortification and residence of King Haakon Haakonsson of Norway (XIII century).
Norwegian Museum of Ethnography– a folklore city with active infrastructure (craft shops, church, farm), interactive exhibitions (village and city life) and natural houses, carefully moved from different parts of Norway.
Haakon's Palace and Rosencrantz Tower, Norway Cruises in the Norwegian Fjords. Fishing in Norway
Fjords of Norway
Norwegian fjords (bays) are a unique terrain that was formed during the Ice Age. A prehistoric glacier left deep cracks and fissures in the rocks of Norway, which eventually filled with water.
The fjords are the real pride of Norwegians and one of the main attractions for which tourists from all over the world come to this harsh northern region.
Hardangerfjord, Norway The most famous fjords in Norway: Hardangerfjord (blooming fruit trees, mild climate, waterfalls), Geirangerfjord (picturesque villages and the best fishing), Lysefjord (impregnable mesmerizing cliffs), Sognefjord (glacier, national park and fairy-tale houses along the banks).
The best way to travel through the Norwegian fjords is a cruise, which will allow you to see the most inaccessible shores and stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Cruises come in different durations (usually a week) and a wide variety of routes (the entire coastline of Norway is indented with hundreds of bays of various sizes).
Fjord cruises run from April to October. You can see approximate programs and costs of fjord cruises.
Sognefjord, Norway Fishing in Norway
Fishing in Norway is not just a hobby, but something akin to a national sport and a local attraction in one bottle. In any travel guide you will find “Fishing in Norway” among the first suggestions on the list.
The most popular among tourists are sea fishing and fishing in the fjords. Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, the local waters are simply teeming with marine reptiles of various sizes, so even the most novice fishermen will be lucky. Typically, fishing is offered as a separate excursion on land-based tours and as entertainment on board cruise ships.
Sea fishing in Norway What to bring from Norway?
- A figurine of a troll, a favorite folklore character of the Norwegians, or a small copy of a Viking boat
- Norwegian aquatite – alcoholic drink from potatoes and cumin, which (attention!!!) is specially sent on ships to Australia and back so that a bottle of aquatite crosses the equator twice - only this way, according to the Norwegians, allows the drink to achieve the desired strength and consistency (dates of crossing the equator and name ships are indicated on each bottle)
- Branded knitted items with ornaments
- Brown Norwegian cheese "Brunost"
- Smoked salmon and other seafood
- Rosemaling - a cute trinket with a traditional Norwegian floral design
Troll figurine - the best souvenir from Norway Finland
Finland stands somewhat apart from all the Scandinavian countries. The Scandinavians themselves tease the Finns for their slowness. It is a traditionally rural, sleepy country that cannot boast big cities and a great excursion. But Finland has a unique charm of secluded, slow life that attracts tourists so much.
Jyvaskyla, Finland Recreation in summer and winter, fishing, attractions
- Sveaborg– a sea fort of the 18th century, on the territory of which there are currently historical, military and architectural museums.
- Karelian house in Imatra– an open-air folklore museum about the life of the Sami in the 19th century.
- Tsar's dacha in Kotka– family house-museum Alexandra III, the summer residence of the king and his entourage. The original interior and personal belongings of the king have been preserved.
- Sculpture Park in Imatra– a section of forest in which about 500 sculptures by Finnish artist Veje Renkkenen are exhibited. The sculptures are so bizarre and frightening that the park as a whole gives the impression of a rather mystical place.
Sculpture Park in Imatra, Finland - Aleksanterinkatu– the central shopping street of Helsniki, the most fashionable place in the capital of Finland.
- Moomin Valley- theme park, one of the best children's parks in the world. The park is populated by life-size puppets of the book's characters, and its landscape recreates the scenes described in Tove Jansson's fairy tales.
- Fishing- a favorite entertainment for tourists on numerous lakes in Finland. A stunning catch is guaranteed. Particularly fanatical fishermen rent comfortable wooden cottages on the shores for two or three days to fully enjoy the experience. You can find suitable houses and cottages on the website Booking.ru
Moominvalley, Finland What can you bring from Finland?
- Finka (puukko in Finnish) is a traditional hunting knife.
- A figurine or souvenir depicting a mummy troll
- Kuksa – Finnish wooden mug
- Liquorice - Finnish candy with a very strange taste
- Lapponia or Minttu – signature berry and mint liqueur
- Branded sauna accessories
Kuksa - a branded mug from Finland Denmark
Denmark is a small fairy-tale country, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. Of all the Scandinavian countries, Denmark is the most interesting in terms of attractions and historical monuments.
Denmark's small size means you don't have to spend a lot of time traveling between cities. Wherever you stay, you'll have easy access to most Danish attractions. You can choose a suitable hotel for accommodation on the website Booking.com.
The Little Mermaid is a symbol of Copenhagen, Denmark Recreation, attractions of the Kingdom of Denmark
Amalienborg- the residence of the Danish kings, who live there to this day. Despite the presence of royalty, the palace is accessible to tourists, albeit at different times and with some restrictions. Every day at noon, a solemn changing of the guard ceremony takes place in front of the palace.
There are two scenarios for the ceremony: solemn, if the royal couple is in the palace (then a state flag) and shortened if the queen and her family are away.
Amalienborg Palace, Denmark Copenhagen City Hall- the tallest building in the city. A colonnade is available for inspection, to the top of which you will have to walk up a steep spiral staircase, as well as some interior rooms, one of which houses Olsen’s astronomical clock, the most accurate clock mechanism in the world.
Copenhagen City Hall, Denmark Christianshavn- a separate commune of Copenhagen, a “city within a city”, located in a historical fortress of the 17th century. The commune has its own rules and laws, for example, a ban on motor vehicles and the free sale of cannabis. In fact, this is a large hippie community, where it is interesting to look, but you hardly want to stay there: mild anarchy and unsanitary conditions reign throughout Christiania.
Building in Christianshavn, Denmark Numerous palaces and fortresses of Denmark: Odense (15th-century monastery), Frederiksborg (royal palace and knight's museum), Vallo (medieval shelter for homeless women, which is still in operation), Kronborg (scene of Shakespeare's Hamlet), Sønderborg (fortress founded by the great-grandson of Vladimir Monomakh, Valdemar the Great) , Hammershus (the oldest fortress in Denmark) and others.
Kronborg Fortress, Denmark Andersen's world- a museum dedicated to the work of the Great Danish Storyteller, as well as the Andersen Museum in Odense - an exhibition about the life and creative path of the writer. The museum has an interesting interactive exhibition that allows visitors to feel like the hero of one of Andersen’s fairy tales or plunge into the historical era of the times when fairy tales were written.
Monument to Andersen in Odense, Denmark Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum is a rich private collection of awkward things, puzzles, funny incidents, stupid stories and interesting facts from all over the world. This is the strangest museum collection, where they will tell you how to kill a vampire, show you a cow with two heads, amuse you with obscene jokes, tell you about different types of farts and surprise you in many other very sophisticated ways.
Ripley Museum, Copenhagen, Denmark Museums and parks in Denmark: National Art Gallery of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsen Museum (sculptures), Glypotek Carlsberg (art objects from different eras), Royal Library of Denmark, National Museum of Denmark and others.
Amusement parks: Legoland in Billund (the largest theme park in the world, in which everything except the rides is built from LEGO parts), and Tivoli Park (one of the oldest amusement parks in Europe, where you can ride attractions from the late 19th to early 20th centuries).
Denmark in miniature, Legoland Museum, Copenhagen What to bring from Denmark?
- Gammel Dansk is a traditional local alcoholic drink that the Danes drink with or without reason: as an aperitif, for colds, for breakfast instead of coffee, in the heat for cooling, and so on.
- Danish marzipans are signature sweets that are produced here in huge quantities and in different varieties.
- Danish cheeses, especially Danablu - a crumbly blue cheese
- Best in new Year decoration in the world
- Branded LEGO sets and construction sets
- Handmade jewelry of very high quality and original Scandinavian design
Jewelry from Denmark
In many ways, Iceland deserves the epithet “the best” - the highest prices in all of Europe, the most stunning landscapes, the most closed lifestyle, the strangest and most mysterious traditions, the most blond blondes, the northernmost country in Europe.
Holidays and attractions in Iceland
- Reykjavik Town Hall- a strange futuristic building of the city administration, the premises of which often host exhibitions, cultural events and concerts. Here you can also see a unique 3D map of Iceland
- Thingvellir– national park, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Hallgrimskirkja Church, Iceland - Hallgrimskirkja– a Lutheran church whose modern architecture is designed to amaze visitors to Reykjavik futuristic style, but in fact it seems to cause an aesthetic shock
- Imagine Peace- a unique monument designed by Yoko Ono, which she simultaneously dedicated to her husband, the song “Imagine” and all the people of the planet. The building is concrete well, on the walls of which the inscription “Imagine peace” is carved on different languages world, and from the depths of the well powerful spotlights direct vertical rays of light, which create an optical column extending into the heavens
View of Reykjavik, the Imagine Peace Tower and the skylight, Iceland - Esya- an ancient extinct volcano on the outskirts of Reykjavik, which is considered the patron saint of the city (unlike other Europeans, whose patrons are entirely Saints, Icelanders remained faithful to their pagan roots)
- Perlan– a cultural center and part-time boiler room (whatever Icelanders can come up with) – the most fashionable venue for cultural events in Reykjavik. There is also a restaurant, shops, a museum and a winter garden here.
Video. Iceland
Video. Denmark, Copenhagen
Video. Norway
Video. Finland, Lapland
Video. Sweden: 10 interesting facts
Interesting information about Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland and Norway.
Politics and economics
1. The oldest flag in the world is the national flag of Denmark.
2. Scandinavian countries always occupy high positions in the ranking in terms of the standard of living of the population.
3. B Scandinavian countries The government is focusing on improving the lives of children, and not on the number of children in the family.
4. According to Danish labor law, the employee must be notified of dismissal 2 months in advance.
5. Denmark has free health insurance.
6. In 1749, the first population census in the world took place in Sweden.
7. Denmark is considered the calmest country in Europe.
8. In Denmark, four free newspapers are distributed every day at all bus stops.
9. In Scandinavian countries, the tax rate depends on income. The higher the income, the higher the tax.
10. In 1902, fingerprints were first used in Denmark.
11. The working day in Denmark ends at four in the evening. And it starts at eight in the morning.
12. The highest income tax in one of the Nordic countries is 545%.
13. To find a well-paid job in Sweden, you need to know the official language. Foreigners are offered to study it at special courses (SFI) in local municipalities.
14. In Sweden English language used on the same level as national language. But it is not considered official yet.
15. Norway is one of the largest oil exporters in the world.
16. The Norwegian government is purchasing about 1,000 copies of a new book for state libraries.
17. In most Scandinavian countries, public higher education institutions are free.
18. In Sweden, to get in line, you must first get an electronic ticket.
19. In Sweden, shops are open until five in the evening.
20. In July, all Swedish business firms and entertainment venues close. After all, mid-summer is vacation time.
21. Minimum wage in Norway it is $20-25.
22. Denmark – European country, which has the lowest unemployment rate.
23. The head of state in Iceland and Finland is the president, and in Denmark, Norway and Sweden it is the king.
24. Unlike other European peoples, Scandinavians care about environment. For example, Sweden has many waste recycling plants. She even imports garbage from Norway.
25. The most famous Scandinavian companies are IKEA and Nokia.
26. Most residents of these countries have higher education.
home and family
27. In Denmark, men do all household chores.
28. Men in Denmark get married at the age of 30.
29. Iceland and Norway have the highest birth rates among the indigenous population.
30. In Scandinavian countries, the number of women in parliament exceeds the number of men.
31. Norway is the first country in the world to introduce maternity leave for men at the official level.
32. In Sweden and Norway, children are prohibited from advertising goods and services until they are 12 years old.
Food and drink
33. In Iceland, drinking beer was prohibited until 1989.
34. Norway is one of the Nordic countries where advertising of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.
35. Residents of Norway consume cod oil daily.
36. There are a large number of confectionery shops in Denmark.
37. Fewest number of restaurants fast food(McDonald's) is located in Sweden.
38. Swedes love to drink coffee. About six cups daily.
39. As it turns out, salmon sushi was first prepared in the last century in Norway. And now sushi is prepared using this recipe in Japanese restaurants.
40. In Swedish stores you can find products in tubes.
41. Iceland drinks more Coca-Cola than any other country in the world.
42. Pizza Grandiosa is considered an unofficial national dish in Norway.
Nature
43. There are a lot of mosquitoes in Finland in summer.
44. March in Norway is the coldest month.
45. In Norway it is legal to hunt whales.
46. In the Scandinavian countries there are many fjords - ancient and deep earth faults that are filled with water.
47. Finnish territory is covered by 9% lakes.
48. The largest fjord is located in Norway - Sognefjord.
49. Approximately 11.4% of Iceland's territory is occupied by glaciers.
50. Earthquakes occur very often in Iceland.
51. In Iceland, underground eruptions of the Grímsvötn and Katla volcanoes occur.
52. Short and non-navigable rivers flow through Denmark.
53. There are about 60,000 lakes in Finland.
54. There are no mountains in Denmark.
55. When there are polar nights in Norway, then the sun shines for only three hours during the day.
56. The deepest lake is in Norway. Its depth is approximately 514 m.
Famous people and characters
57. Carlson in Sweden is considered a negative character.
58. Astrid Lingren is a famous Swedish writer.
59. Immanuel Nobel is the father of the famous Alfred Nobel. He was an inventor and businessman. His most practical invention is plywood.
60. Actress Greta Garbo is Swedish by birth.
61. The famous expressionist artist Edvard Munch is Norwegian by origin.
62. Alfred Nobel is a Swedish chemical engineer, as well as the founder of the famous prize.
63. Famous Norwegian writer - Hamsun Knut.
64. Denmark's most famous writer is Hans Christian Andersen.
65. Amled is the prototype of Prince Hamlet. He was the Prince of Jutland.
66. The fairy-tale character Santa Claus lives in Lapland.
67. Eliel Saarinen is a famous Finnish architect. One of his most important masterpieces is the building of the railway station in Helsinki.
Construction, transport and communications
68. The height of Danish buildings is a maximum of six floors.
69. There is no railway in Iceland.
70. The cleanest water in the world flows in the taps of the cities and villages of Iceland.
71. Bicycles are the most common form of transport in Denmark.
72. A personal car is considered a luxury in Denmark.
73. Sweden will completely switch to biofuel by 2025.
74. Strøget is the longest street not only in Copenhagen, but also in the world. This Danish shopping street is 2 km long.
75. Almost 100% of electricity in Norway is generated by hydroelectric power plants.
76. The most expensive gasoline is sold in Norway.
77. The Opera web browser was developed in Norway.
78. The cost of a travel ticket in Finland depends on a person’s earnings. The more he earns, the higher the ticket price.
79. Considering that there are few sunny days in these countries, local residents paint their houses in different colors.
Culture and sports
80. Scandinavia got its name in honor of the historical province of Scania (located in Sweden).
81. Icelanders have been keeping their language for a thousand years. There are few borrowed words in it.
82. Many Icelanders believe in elves.
83. Homeland skiing is Norway.
84. In the last century, the largest number of known musical groups originated in Sweden.
85. The inhabitants of Iceland do not have surnames.
86. In Scandinavian countries, residents love to go fishing.
87. Only in Norway do they build a special type of wooden church.
88. Residents of Sweden love to play hockey.
89. In 960, Denmark converted to Christianity.
90. In 1254, Copenhagen received city status.
91. Modern alpine skiing originated in Norway. After all, the first skis appeared in this country in 1850.
92. There is a city in Norway called “Hell”.
93. In these countries, more books are published per capita annually than in the whole world.
94. Swedes are very fond of various research and innovations. For example, they invented the zipper, computer mouse, pacemaker, refrigerator and other useful things.
95. In 1932, the Lego constructor appeared for the first time in the world in Denmark.
96. The majority of all believers in the Scandinavian countries are Protestants (Lutherans).
97. Every year on December 10, scientists gather at Stockholm City Hall to receive the Nobel Prize.
98. Norwegians strongly revere their ancestors, who were famous Vikings.
99. In Norway, the St. Olav Festival is held annually.
100. Lagom is a word that describes the Swedish way of life. There is no exact translation of it. It can mean living in harmony without extreme emotions.
