Backpacking around Europe in my early 20s, I knew I had to leave Scandinavia for later—there was just too much to see in one go. With its vast landscapes, vibrant cities and unique culture, I figured I’d need at least four weeks to do it justice. But what I didn’t realise at the time was that Scandinavia isn’t just one destination—with the change of the seasons, it’s transformed into an entirely new experience.
While planning a Scandinavian adventure, it’s impossible to overlook how close Estonia and Latvia are - just a short ferry or flight away. These Baltic gems add an extra layer of history, charm and adventure, no matter the season.
I remember my time as a consultant in the UK, flipping through pages of a travel brochure on city stays from the UK perspective and seeing these cities of Latvia and Estonia unfold before me. Their fairy-tale architecture, rich history and cobblestone streets seemed almost frozen in time; unlike anything I had seen before. There’s a depth to this part of Northern Europe—a sense of heritage and timeless beauty—that simply can’t be replicated anywhere else.
So, what’s the best time to go? Let’s dive into what each season has to offer.
Summer in Scandinavia and the Baltics: The Land of the Midnight Sun
“Golden light at midnight, endless hiking trails, and ferry rides through sparkling fjords.”
What to Expect:
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Long daylight hours: The sun barely sets in northern Norway, Sweden and Finland.
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Mild temperatures: A comfortable 15–25°C, perfect for outdoor adventures.
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Vibrant cities and festivals: Locals making the most of the sunshine with outdoor cafes, street markets, and summer festivals.
Top Summer Activities:
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Hiking: Conquer Norway’s Trolltunga, Preikestolen, or Sweden’s Kungsleden Trail.
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Fjord kayaking and boat tours: Paddle through Geirangerfjord or cruise the Stockholm Archipelago.
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Cycling: Explore Copenhagen’s bike-friendly streets or ride through the Baltic countryside.
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Wildlife watching: Whale watching in Norway, puffin spotting in Iceland.
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Beach escapes: Relax on Denmark’s coastline or Latvia’s white-sand beaches in Jurmala.
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Cultural explorations: Wander Tallinn’s medieval Old Town or explore Riga’s stunning Art Nouveau district.
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Summer festivals: Celebrate Midsummer in Sweden, experience Tallinn’s Medieval Days, or enjoy live music at Riga’s Positivus Festival.
Best Summer Stops in Estonia and Latvia:
- Tallinn, Estonia: A fairy-tale Old Town with medieval towers, vibrant markets and a lively summer vibe.
- Saaremaa, Estonia: A picturesque island perfect for cycling and coastal walks.
- Riga, Latvia: A blend of stunning architecture, riverside parks and buzzing summer cafes.
- Gauja National Park, Latvia: Fantastic for hiking, castle-hopping and kayaking.
Winter in Scandinavia and the Baltics: A True Arctic Wonderland
“Snow-dusted villages, Northern Lights dancing across the sky, and the pure magic of the Arctic.”
What to Expect:
- Short daylight hours: The sun barely rises in parts of Scandinavia, creating a cozy, magical atmosphere.
- Snow-covered landscapes: From frozen lakes to historic towns, experience scenery blanketed in white.
- Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Best seen from Norway, Sweden and Finland between September and March, these magical displays light up the night sky.
- Christmas Markets and Festive Spirit: Cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, Tallinn and Riga transform into winter wonderlands over the festive period.
Top Winter Activities:
- Northern Lights Hunting: Chase the auroras in Tromsø, Abisko or Finnish Lapland.
- Dog Sledding and Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Take on these classic Arctic experiences in Lapland and northern Norway.
- Snowmobiling and Ice Fishing: Available across Finland and Sweden’s frozen lakes.
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Glide down world-class slopes in Norway (Trysil, Hemsedal), Sweden (Åre) and Finland (Levi).
- Ice Hotels & Glass Igloos: Stay in Sweden’s ICEHOTEL or a Finnish glass igloo.
- Saunas and Ice Bathing: A must-try winter tradition in Finland, Estonia and Latvia.
- Christmas Markets: There so many options to explore the magic of Europe's Christmas markets. Wander through festive stalls in Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, Tallinn’s Town Hall Square and Riga’s Dome Square.
- Winter Ferry Trips: Cross the Baltic Sea between Helsinki, Tallinn and Stockholm for a unique cold-weather cruise.
Best Winter Stops in Estonia and Latvia:
- Tallinn, Estonia: Home to one of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets, plus cozy medieval taverns for warming up with mulled wine.
- Riga, Latvia: The birthplace of the Christmas tree, offering a stunning winter cityscape and a festive atmosphere.
- Tartu, Estonia: A charming university town with snowy cobbled streets and beautiful holiday lights.
Which Season is Right for You?
- If you love hiking, long days and vibrant cities → Go in summer.
- If you want Northern Lights, snow-covered landscapes and Christmas magic → Go in winter.
- If you want both? → Plan two trips (or visit in autumn for a mix of golden landscapes and the start of the Northern Lights season).
Scandinavia and the Baltics aren’t places you can fully experience in just one visit—each season offers something completely different. Whether you’re soaking in the midnight sun on a fjord cruise or sipping hot chocolate in a medieval Christmas market, it’s a region that keeps surprising you.
If you’re ready to plan your adventure, I’d love to help you craft the perfect itinerary.
Get in touch with JLW Travel, and let’s make it happen!