Do you have a taste for adventure and a love of history? Then a historical tour of Scandinavia is for you. Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Vikings as you explore one of the world’s oldest and best-preserved cultures. In this article, we take a look at the Viking legacy – the history, the culture, and the incredible experience of taking a guided tour through Scandinavia. Be ready to be inspired, challenged, and awed by the enduring Viking legacy – and prepare for a journey of a lifetime!
1. Exploring the History of the Vikings: Scandinavian Tours
The Vikings are legendary for their fearsome reputation and their maritime exploration centuries ago. A trip to Scandinavia is a great way to delve into the world of the Vikings and explore their culture, heritage, and history. Scandinavia is home to many fascinating sites and attractions inspired by the Vikings and their many famed exploits.
- Lofoten Islands: The stunning archipelago of Lofoten Islands in Norway offers a unique window into Viking culture and lifestyle. Trace the footsteps of the Vikings as you explore its archaeological attractions, like the Ona Viking Centre and the Iron Age Farm, and its natural wonders.
- Trelleborg Viking Fortress: Located near Copenhagen in Denmark, the Trelleborg Viking Fortress is a reconstructed fortress that was built by King Harald Bluetooth in 980 A.D. It features a reproduction of a Viking village, a museum, and interactive activities for kids.
- Viking Ship Museum: You won’t want to miss the Viking Ship Museum on the Bygdøy Peninsula in Oslo. Home to three 11th-century Viking ships, the museum offers a variety of interesting activities and exhibits, giving you an up-close look at the Vikings’ best-known tool for exploration: the sea vessel.
Scandinavia is a brilliant destination for a holiday with a difference. From the dramatic natural beauty of the north to the remnants of Viking culture throughout the land, explore Viking heritage and uncover a wealth of exciting activities and events to take part in.
2. Uncover the Mysteries of Nordic Legends with Experienced Tour Guides
Explore the enchanting history of Nordic Legends and folklore with experienced tour guides. Discover the stories of the gods and ancient tales of dragons, elves and dwarves which have come to define the region’s culture.
Our guides are experts in the field, sharing their vast knowledge of the stories and customs from Scandinavia, Finland and Iceland. On your tour, you’ll visit traditional sites steeped in mythology and gain insight into how these beliefs shape local life today.
Whether you’re coming alone or with family, you’ll be amazed by all the area has to offer:
- Visit the breathtaking Lysefjord and learn the legends of the hidden treasures guarded by trolls and witches
- Retrace the paths of legendary trolls as they search for gold and hidden riches
- Glimpse the world of elves and dwarves along the wild countryside
- Experience local marketplaces and historical landmarks while immersing yourself in Nordic culture
Our guides will provide the perfect tour of Nordic legends and culture. Our supportive and knowledgeable crew aim to make your experience one that you will never forget!
3. Relive the Epic Sagas of the North: Cultural Activities & Historical Sites
Northern Scandinavia is drenched in history and culture, with many epic sagas of battles between the Norse gods, thrilling Viking voyages, and how Scandinavian culture has evolved across centuries. Explore these exciting and fascinating stories through some of the most captivating activities and sites in the region.
- Visit a Viking Museum: Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the Norse Gods and Vikings with a visit to a local museum. From Viking replicas to centuries-old artifacts there is plenty to learn from a visit here.
- Take a Tour of Castles: Explore the powerful and impressive strongholds constructed by kings and lords of centuries past. Taking a tour of castles lets you relive these amazing stories and soak in the surrounding picturesque landscapes.
- Participate in Cultural Events: Northern Scandinavia holds many joyful celebrations of its heritage and culture, some of which have been going on for centuries. Join the street parties, markets, and parades as a great way to join the celebration.
The North of Scandinavia is also home to many popular tourist attractions like the original Viking settlement of Trelleborg and the captivating wooden Stave Churches. Visiting these exciting sites that have stood the test of time is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. For those looking for a more hands-on experience, there is no shortage of outdoor activities like archery, fishing, and more to help you go back in time.
Relive the epic sagas of the North with these exciting cultural activities and sites. From majestic castles and Viking settlements to vibrant festivals and outdoor adventure, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
4. A Taste of Scandinavian Cuisine: Regional Foods & Delicious Drinks
For those looking to try something new and explore the flavors of Scandinavian cuisine, there are plenty of regional favorites and traditional dishes that are worth trying. Here are some of the must-tries when it comes to Scandinavian food:
- Tunnbröd (Thinbread): This traditional dish comes from Sweden and is made of a hearty dough made with rye flour and wheat flour. Served with butter, cheese, or salmon, it’s salty and filled with flavor.
- Smørrebrød (Open-Faced Sandwiches): This type of Danish sandwich usually involves a piece of rye or white bread with a variety of toppings, including smoked salmon, herring, hard boiled eggs, and pickled vegetables.
- Kroppkaka (Potato Dumplings): These traditional Swedish dumplings are made out of boiled potatoes, flour, eggs, and sometimes other ingredients like onion or bacon.
- Gravlax: A typical Swedish appetizer, gravlax consists of cured salmon marinated in a sugar, salt, and dill mixture.
And don’t forget to try a few beverages while you’re here! The two most popular drinks in Scandinavia are aquavit – an aperitif made from distilled grain or potato spirits with spices and herbs – and beer. For a real Scandinavian experience, try a classic Belgian beer or a locally-brewed, full-fledged pale ale.
Scandinavian cuisine is only the beginning – there’s so much to explore in the region. Whether you’re looking for traditional dishes or experimental flavors, you’ll find it all in this diverse landscape.
5. Embrace the Viking Legacy: Immerse Yourself in Scandinavian Culture
Just as Viking history stops us in our tracks, so can Scandinavian culture when experienced up close and personal. Travel, literature, and culture of the region can draw us in with its unique appreciation of nature, a sense of deep-rooted history, and a special emphasis on comfort and quality. Here’s how to embrace the Viking legacy:
- Experience the Arctic Circle – Take a trip to the frigid, yet eerily stunning beauty of the Arctic Circle and explore the natural wonders that once served as the backdrop to Viking exploration in the age of maritime discovery.
- Visit a Museum – Cruise through the pages of a museum book or browse through exhibits that explore the culture and lifestyle of the Viking age. Learn about the early Norse traditions, beliefs, and daily practices of the era.
- Throw a Viking Party – Host a Viking-themed gathering with hearty Viking fare and re-enact a battle scene with dramatic game props and costumes. It’s sure to please both children and adults alike!
- Experience Scandinavian Cuisine – From hearty stews and hearty breads to pickled herrings, the traditional dishes of the Viking era will transport you to a faraway time and place. Sample these authentic flavors for an unforgettable taste of Scandinavian culture.
No matter how you choose to immerse yourself in the Viking legacy, it’s sure to be an unforgettable journey. Even today, Viking culture can be used to inspire us and to help us draw closer to our Scandinavian heritage.
Experience the distant past of chiefs and shield-maidens in Scandinavia. Sample modern delicacies born in Viking times like lutsubroed and kahta. Discover the legacy of Vikings firsthand on a historical tour of Scandinavia. Come explore the origin of a deep-rooted culture and leave with a glimpse of what made it so great.
