Transportation - True Scandinavia

From Land to Sea: Riding the Amphibious Bus in Stockholm

Leave a Comment / City Experience, Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia, Sweden | Articles / True Scandinavia

Have you ever imagined a bus that can swim? Well, in Stockholm, it’s real! Let’s discover how the amphibious bus in Stockholm makes city tours a splash of fun. Get ready for a ride like no other! What is an Amphibious Bus? Amphibious buses are cool vehicles that can travel on both land and water. Developed to overcome challenges like river crossings, they have an interesting history. These unique buses seamlessly transition from roads to water, making it easy to travel where land and water meet. Imagine going from a regular bus on the road to a boat gliding on the water—pretty awesome, huh? The Amphibious Bus Experience in Stockholm Embarking on the Amphibious Bus in Stockholm is an absolute blast! The tour seamlessly combines the thrill of city exploration with the tranquility of waterways. Cruising through Gamla Stan and catching sight of the Royal Palace from the bus is a captivating start. The transition to a boat ride brings an entirely new perspective, offering breathtaking views of Djurgården and the city’s skyline. The route strategically covers key landmarks, including the iconic Stockholm archipelago, creating a memorable blend of urban and aquatic charm. From start to finish, the tour is a visual feast, making it an absolute must for anyone eager to discover Stockholm’s beauty in a unique and exciting way! Book the best tours in Stockholm here: Top Amphibious Bus Stops and Landmarks An amphibious bus tour of Stockholm includes exploring the city on both land and water. You will learn about the city’s history while visiting notable landmarks such as Gröna Lund, the Royal Palace, and the Royal Island of Djurgården. Stops and Highlights Benefits of Riding an Amphibious Bus in Stockholm Riding an Amphibious Bus in Stockholm is like hitting the jackpot of city tours! You get to explore both land and water without switching vehicles, making it super convenient. A guide shares cool stories about famous landmarks, and you can snap awesome photos from unique angles. The thrill of the bus transforming into a boat is an experience in itself, ensuring you don’t miss out on any sights. It’s not just a tour; it’s a fun and memorable adventure, like getting two tours in one. Double the excitement, double the fun! Tips for a Memorable Amphibious Bus Tour For an unforgettable Stockholm Amphibious Bus tour, pick sunny days to make the most of the experience. Don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, and camera for added comfort and capturing great moments. When onboard, grab a seat at the front for the best land views and head to the back for awesome water scenery. Follow these tips, and you’re all set for a fantastic adventure! Safety Measures When it comes to Amphibious Bus tours, safety takes the front seat. Simply follow the guide’s instructions for a secure journey. The transition from land to water is expertly managed by seasoned operators, ensuring a smooth and safe experience. You’re in good hands with these professionals, making your tour not only enjoyable but also worry-free. Traveler Reviews and Experiences Travelers are excited about the amphibious bus in Stockholm, describing it as a one-of-a-kind and thrilling adventure. Their stories showcase Stockholm’s iconic landmarks during a seamless land-to-water transition, providing breathtaking views. Positive experiences are shared, with many recommending choosing a sunny day to enhance the overall enjoyment. It’s unanimous—according to reviews, the Amphibious Bus tour is a definite must-try for those seeking an unforgettable and unique exploration of the city. Comparisons with Other City Tours Compared with hop-on-hop-off buses and boat cruises—the amphibious bus tour takes the crown! Unlike the routine stops of hop-on-hop-off buses or the scenic but separate experiences of boat cruises, this tour effortlessly combines both land and water exploration. While traditional buses and boats follow their predictable paths, the amphibious bus surprises with a seamless transition, turning a city tour into an adventure. It outshines the standard tours by providing a dynamic and unique experience, ensuring that every moment is a delightful blend of city streets and scenic waterways. Why an amphibious bus tour may not be for you? Not a fan of splashes and surprises? An amphibious bus tour might not be your cup of tea in Stockholm. The mix of rolling on roads and cruising in water can be a recipe for dizziness or discomfort. If keeping your stomach settled is a top priority, you might prefer a steady stroll through the city’s streets. These buses swim and roll, and if that’s not your vibe, it’s okay. Maybe you prefer steady ground over water waves. City exploring should be comfy, and if splashing through water isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to soak in Stockholm. So, is riding an amphibious bus in Stockholm worth it? Absolutely worth it! Riding an amphibious bus in Stockholm is a fantastic double-decker of fun. Imagine exploring city streets, then smoothly transforming into a boat for a water adventure. It’s a two-in-one journey, offering unique views of iconic landmarks. The thrill of the bus becoming a boat adds an extra layer of excitement. The price is just as good as the experience—affordable and totally worth the adventure! So, if you’re looking for a unique experience in Stockholm, just go for it!

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Is It Easy to Get from Copenhagen to Malmö?

Leave a Comment / City Experience, Denmark | Articles, Scandinavia, Sweden | Articles / True Scandinavia

The day trip from Copenhagen to Malmö is at the top of the list of effortless trips you can take in Scandinavia. You can visit two countries and two great cities, probably more comfortably and quickly than making your daily route to work. The distance between Copenhagen and Malmö is only 45 kilometers, and the travel time is about 40 minutes. It is common for someone to live in one of the two cities, and work in the other. There are several ways to get from Copenhagen to Malmö, including train, bus, car, and ferry. So, let’s see them all in detail. Getting from Copenhagen to Malmö by train There are more than 70 train departures from Copenhagen to Malmö every day. The ticket price is about $20 and the journey time is 45 minutes. A train departs approximately every 20 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station (København H). Therefore, it is not necessary to book a ticket in advance. There are also direct train services from Copenhagen Airport to Malmö. The ticket price is about the same, and the journey time is 20 minutes. Book your train ticket here: Getting from Copenhagen to Malmö by bus More than 15 buses depart from Copenhagen to Malmö every day. The ticket cost starts from $10, and the trip lasts about 70 minutes. The first departure is at 07:45 AM, and the last bus departs at 10:15 PM. As the schedules are constantly changing, you better check the departure times online before you travel. The best bus departure station from Copenhagen is Ingerslevsgade DGI. You can also take a bus from Copenhagen Airport. Buy your bus ticket here: Getting from Copenhagen to Malmö by ferry Before the Øresund Bridge, several ferries made the route from Copenhagen to Malmö and back. Nowadays, just a few people use the ferry to make this trip, but the option still exists. Specifically, the shipping company Øresundsbron still services this route, and the travel time is approximately 15 minutes. Seeing the Øresund Bridge, and the panoramic view of both cities from the ferry is magnificent. The only downside is the cost of the ride, which is about $130. Getting from Copenhagen to Malmö by car The journey from Copenhagen to Malmö by car takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. It passes through the Øresund Bridge, which connects the southernmost part of Sweden with Denmark. The road is too easy, and the route offers panoramic views from both cities. You can also make the trip by taxi. The cost will be around $130. Rent your car here: The Øresund Bridge Experience The journey from Copenhagen to Malmö is a unique experience, and the main reason is the Øresund Bridge. Øresund Bridge is a railway and motorway bridge across the Øresund strait. It was built in 1995 and connects Denmark and Sweden. It is the longest bridge in Europe, and it takes 10 minutes to cross by car. The reason why crossing the Øresund Bridge is such a unique experience is certainly not the view. The walls alongside the highway don’t leave much room to see much from the bridge and the cities. Also, you can’t park your car anywhere on the bridge. However, the feeling of driving on something so majestic will be unforgettable. You can feel the height you are at, and sometimes, you can feel the swaying of the bridge. You will also clearly experience your passing from one country to the other. The biggest downside to this route is the cost of tolls. It is currently at 495 DKK (approx. $70) for a single journey. Therefore, if you prefer a cheaper way to live the Øresund Bridge experience, we highly recommend taking the train. Do you need a passport to travel to Malmö from Copenhagen? No, you do not need a passport to go from Copenhagen to Malmö, as long as you are a citizen of a Scandinavian country or the Schengen area. You only need to have your ID with you. Generally, you will rarely see any border control, no matter how you cross the Danish border with Sweden. However, checks have been recently increasing due to the increase in immigration flows to Sweden. That’s why you should carry all your travel documents on your Copenhagen to Malmö trip. Highlights of Malmö for day-trippers Malmö is a city you can see in one day. You can visit the city center parks and walk on the beautiful cobbled streets. It’s got an old market square and various modern shopping centers. If you go to Malmöhus Castle, you’ll have the chance to visit four museums: the Art Museum, the Museum of Natural History, the Maritime House Museum, and the City Museum. They’re all in the same building. Furthermore, if you visit during summer, you must try swimming or just lazing around on one of the beaches in and near Malmö. Finally, you can try joining one of the organized tours, offered by several reliable travel agencies that operate here. Find the best tour in Malmö here: Comparative analysis of modes of transport Even on the simplest trips, each passenger has different needs and preferences. Let’s see which mode of transport suits the most common passenger needs, to help you decide which one to choose. How to travel from Copenhagen to Malmö fast The fastest way to get to Malmö from Copenhagen is by car. In 45 minutes, you can be right at your destination, without stops, and by crossing the Øresund Bridge in 10 minutes. So use a car if you want to save more time to see Malmö. How to travel from Copenhagen to Malmö cheap The cheapest way to get to Malmö from Copenhagen is by bus. The ticket costs about $12, and you don’t have to worry about tolls, gas, or other expenses. Therefore, if you are a budget traveler, the bus is the ideal mode of transport for you. How to travel from Copenhagen to Malmö in comfort The most comfortable way

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Do You Need to Rent a Car in Denmark?

Leave a Comment / Denmark | Articles, Scandinavia / True Scandinavia

There are some countries where it is difficult to impossible to get around without a car. Denmark is not one of them. If you are wondering whether it is necessary to rent a car in Denmark to visit the most popular parts of the country, the short answer is no. While some factors make renting a car in Denmark tempting, there are several more that make it unnecessary. Let’s look at some things that will help you decide whether you should or shouldn’t rent a car in Denmark. Public transportation in Denmark Denmark has one of the most extensive and efficient public transportation systems in Europe. There are many high-quality means of public transport in the country, which can take you almost everywhere safely. If you plan to visit one of the biggest cities in Denmark – such as Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, or Aalborg – renting a car is unnecessary. You can get around any Danish city by train, bus, or subway. The tickets are cheap, the stations are safe, and the vehicles are spotless. Even if you want to travel around the country, it is not necessary to rent a car. Denmark is a small country, and the distances are short. You can travel from Copenhagen to Aalborg in less than 5 hours. Using a train or bus is a fairly cheap transportation option compared to renting a car in Denmark. Cycling in Denmark Denmark is known for its cycling culture, which comes with some benefits. First of all, cycling is a fun way to explore a city. Second, cycling is good for your health and helps you stay fit while exploring new places. Finally, it is a very cheap and environmentally friendly way of moving. All cities in Denmark are bike-friendly. Even if you don’t use a bicycle in your home country, you won’t have trouble doing so in Denmark. There are bike lanes everywhere and bike parking spots in many areas. Moreover, most Danish cities are flat, so cycling will be a piece of cake. There are endless places from which you can rent a bike in every small and big city in Denmark. So why would you choose to spend a lot of money to rent a car in Denmark when you can get around more comfortably with a bike like a local? City-specific transportation considerations Let’s take a closer look at the need to rent a car in some of Denmark’s most popular destinations. In addition, let’s look at some alternative ways of moving within these destinations. Do you need to rent a car in Copenhagen? No, you do not need to rent a car in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is small enough that you can easily explore it in various other ways. Firstly, you can easily walk around it. The distances are short, and you won’t have to travel many kilometers if you live in a central part of the city. Secondly, you can get around by bike, since the bike paths provide easy access to all the famous sights. Alternatively, you can use the means of transport, since the city has a cheap and reliable bus and metro network. Do you need to rent a car in Denmark’s other major cities? No, you don’t need to rent a car in the rest of Denmark’s major cities. What applies to Copenhagen also applies to Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg, and the smaller towns of Denmark. You can easily explore them all on foot, by bike, or by public transport. Do you need to rent a car in Denmark’s rural areas? Yes, it is better to rent a car in Denmark if your purpose is to visit rural areas and the beautiful Danish beaches. Renting a car offers the easiest access to these areas than using any other means of transportation. Also, the perfect road network of the country will help you get to your destination fast, and it provides driving comfort and safety. Pros and Cons of Renting a Car in Denmark Let’s see some of the key pros and cons of renting a car in Denmark: Pros Renting a car in Denmark provides freedom and flexibility: Having a car in Denmark means you are not dependent on bus, train, and metro schedules. Therefore, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, without being limited to the city limits. For instance, you can do a day trip from Copenhagen and ride along the coast of North Zealand. You can take a road trip: Denmark is the perfect country for a road trip. It’s small, so you can drive throughout the country very quickly. It also offers many enjoyable stops, such as Møns Klint and numerous ancient castles. Finally, by renting a car in Denmark, you can make a much longer road trip combining it with neighboring Sweden. You can visit the Danish countryside: The Danish countryside is beautiful, full of cute little villages and breathtaking natural scenery. Although there is access by public transport, unfortunately, this is not the most convenient way to reach rural areas like Ribe or Gudhjem. On the other hand, a car offers easy and safe access to the Danish countryside, taking advantage of the country’s modern road network. Cons Renting a car in Denmark is expensive: Like most things in Denmark, renting a car is also shockingly expensive. The cost of renting a car alone is not so high. It’s the cost of gas that breaks the bank. Denmark is in the top 10 most expensive cities in the world regarding the price of gas. So if you want to get around cheaply in the country you better use public transportation. Parking in big cities is a pain: If you rent a car in Denmark, you must be aware that it is not allowed to park wherever you want. In major cities, finding parking alone is difficult and astronomically expensive. Many Danes, when visiting large cities, choose to leave their car outside the city limits and use public transport. It is

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10 Practical Tips for Booking Cheap Flights to Scandinavia

Leave a Comment / Scandinavia / True Scandinavia

Traveling to Scandinavia can be expensive for various reasons. However, one thing you shouldn’t worry about is the cost of flights. In fact, by following some basic rules, you can book affordable flights to all Scandinavian countries without any hassle. In this article, we’ll share ten simple and practical tips to help you find cheap flights to Scandinavia and save a big chunk of your travel budget. Ten tips on getting cheap flights to Scandinavia Plan ahead and get your tickets early It may seem like an obvious suggestion, but surprisingly, many people overlook it. Some might believe booking your tickets early doesn’t make a significant difference, but that’s not true. Scandinavia is a destination for numerous budget airlines, which tend to fill quickly. By booking your flight in advance, you can get your tickets at half the price or even cheaper, compared to booking just a few weeks before your trip. Now, you might wonder, when exactly is “early”? Based on our experience, the sweet spot for securing the cheapest flights to Scandinavian countries is around 4-5 months before your planned departure. Getting your ticket earlier than that won’t really change the price. Book your tickets from online platforms and flight search engines When it comes to flying affordably to Scandinavia, it’s best to avoid booking solely through the airlines’ websites. Instead, opt for flight search engines like Kiwi, Skyscanner, or Google Flights. By doing so, you can find better prices and have the advantage of comparing different options. In the worst-case scenario, the price might be the same. But at least you have the convenience of exploring multiple choices. For example, let’s consider a ticket price from Amsterdam to Stockholm. On an airline website, the best price for a round-trip ticket in November 2023 is $190, while on a flight search engine, you can find the same ticket for $140 or even less. Utilizing online platforms and flight search engines can save you a lot from your flight expenses. Find the cheapest flights to Scandinavia here: Use a transit flight to reach your final destination A transit flight involves a stop or connection in another city before reaching your final destination. This approach is the most cost-effective way to travel to most Scandinavian destinations. Whether you’re flying from a nearby location or a far-off place, transit flights are consistently cheaper than direct flights, particularly when heading to countries such as Iceland, Greenland, and Finland. This strategy also applies to cities like Bergen, Gothenburg, or Stavanger. While there might be occasions where you experience a longer wait time during the layover, the potential savings are well worth it. For example, a direct flight from New York to Reykjavik could cost around $800. But by opting for a transit flight with a layover in another European city, you might find prices as low as $500 or less. Go light with just one carry-on suitcase Always consider going light and traveling with just one carry-on suitcase, especially if you’re planning a short visit to Scandinavia. Bringing excessive luggage can add unnecessary costs to your trip. With a single carry-on, you can save money on checked baggage fees. For a weekend trip to cities like Copenhagen, Oslo, or Stockholm, checked baggage is certainly not required. For instance, let’s take the example of a SAS Airlines ticket. Without checked baggage, the ticket cost for a round trip from London to Copenhagen is around $50. However, if you add checked baggage to the booking, the price can increase by $75 or more. So, traveling with just one carry-on suitcase will definitely help you cut down on expenses and make your journey more economical. Use a VPN to change your location to find cheap flights to Scandinavia This simple trick can help you reduce costs significantly. When you browse flight options, airlines, and travel websites often customize their prices based on your location and browsing history. By using a VPN to appear as if you’re browsing from a different location, you can access lower fares offered to residents of that specific region. For instance, let’s consider booking a flight from Paris to Oslo. Without a VPN, the ticket price might be $120. However, by using a VPN to make it appear as if you’re browsing from Norway, the same flight could be available for $80 or even less. So, using a VPN can lead to substantial savings on your flight bookings, allowing you to travel more affordably. Consider booking off-season flights to Scandinavia Scandinavia is a beautiful destination in all seasons. However, it does experience periods of higher tourist activity known as the peak season, and quieter periods called the off-season. The off-season period in Scandinavia typically falls from November to March, excluding major holidays. During this time, flights to Scandinavia are cheaper due to lower demand. Airlines often offer discounted fares to attract more travelers during the off-season. By opting for off-season flights, which include the winter months, you can take advantage of these reduced prices and enjoy the same wonderful Scandinavian experience while saving money on your airfare. Book your departure and return flights on a weekday Consider booking your departure and return flights to Scandinavia on weekdays to maximize savings. Studies have revealed that flying between Monday and Wednesday can potentially save you up to 15% compared to flying on other days of the week. This rule holds for flights to Scandinavia as well. It’s easy to verify this yourself with a simple search. By minimizing your flight options to weekdays, you will always find lower fares and take advantage of the cost savings. So, when planning your trip, don’t forget that choosing weekdays for your departure and return flights can be a straightforward way to limit your expenses and make your journey to Scandinavia more budget-friendly. Book cheap flights to Scandinavia with cashback To secure cheap flights to Scandinavia, consider booking through WayAway. WayAway is a platform that not only offers the cheapest flight tickets to every part of Scandinavia,

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Should You Rent a Car in Sweden?

Leave a Comment / Scandinavia, Sweden | Articles / True Scandinavia

Are you wondering if you should rent a car in Sweden? We’ve got you covered! We won’t say “It depends” – we’ll give you a clear answer. Renting a car in Sweden is a topic of debate, as some people believe it’s an additional expense in an already expensive country. But fear not, as we’ll analyze the pros and cons of renting a car in Sweden so you can make an informed decision. Advantages of renting a car in Sweden If you’re getting ready for your trip to Sweden but need a little extra motivation to embark on a road trip, look no further! Here is a list of reasons why renting a car is the perfect way to explore Sweden: The Swedish road network is excellent The Swedish road network is excellent and one of the best in Europe! It is well-maintained, safe, and efficient, making it easy for drivers to cover long distances. The road network is designed in a way that it is very easy to drive for hours without getting exhausted or bored. The limited traffic and well-organized system make it even easier for drivers to navigate and reach their destination in good time. In fact, we had planned a small road trip, but we ended up driving 6-8 hours per day because of how seamless the driving experience was. Car rentals are cheap This may come as a surprise, but car rentals in Sweden are relatively cheap compared to other expenses in the country. While everything else in Sweden is expensive, renting a car is affordable! There are many international and local rental companies to choose from, and most are reliable with excellent reviews. We recently rented a Volkswagen T-Cross for a week, and it cost us less than 200 dollars. The prices are reasonable, and you can easily find a car rental company to fit your budget. Check here to compare car rental prices: You can take scenic routes and explore the countryside When it comes to combining beautiful landscapes and an excellent road network, few countries do it better than Sweden. By renting a car, you can have unlimited access to Sweden’s beautiful countryside and all its natural attractions. From mountains to forests and beaches to lakes, there is no shortage of sights to discover that you can access by car. Many national parks allow you to enter by car. You may even spot some of Sweden’s famous wildlife along the way! Plus, the country is designed to make it easy to park your car everywhere, even in isolated places. Toll fees are minimal or non-existent Although there are some tolls on bridges and tunnels, they are quite rare and won’t significantly impact your budget. During our own road trip in Sweden, we traveled for days on both highways and country roads and never came across any tolls. We even chose the fastest route suggested by our GPS and still didn’t have to spend a single penny on toll fees! Therefore, if expenses are your main concern, rest assured that toll fees won’t be an issue when renting a car in Sweden. Disadvantages of renting a car in Sweden Here are the primary reasons why renting a car in Sweden may not be the best option for you: Costly fuel prices At the time of writing this article, gas prices in Sweden are relatively high, with an average cost of around 19 SEK per liter (equivalent to approximately 1.8 USD or 1.7 EUR). While there are countries with even higher fuel prices, it’s important to consider the impact on your budget. To be more specific, embarking on a round trip of Sweden by car, covering approximately 3,000 kilometers, can lead to spending around 6,000 SEK (600 USD or 500 EUR) on fuel alone. Comparatively, traveling the same distance by train would typically cost significantly less, making it a more economical option for budget-conscious travelers. Parking in cities is challenging and expensive Parking in cities can be a challenging and expensive endeavor in Sweden. While it is relatively easy to find parking in the countryside and small towns, the situation changes in larger cities like Stockholm and Malmö. Free parking is scarce, and you’ll often need to pay for parking, which can be quite costly. For instance, in central Stockholm, hourly parking rates can range from 20 to 50 SEK (2 to 5 USD). Moreover, navigating the parking system in cities can be complex and not very user-friendly. Insurance and liability issues can be complex Having an accident is the ultimate nightmare for every traveler embarking on a road trip. Certain rental companies may demand a high insurance deposit upfront. But rest assured that they will refund it to you upon returning the car in good condition. Furthermore, expect a thorough inspection of the car for any damages upon its return. Being cautious and mindful of the car’s condition throughout the rental period is essential. In our experience, we opted for a company with lower insurance requirements. By returning the car washed and in excellent condition, the company conducted a brief check and we encountered no issues whatsoever. Weather conditions during winter can make driving difficult Weather conditions in Sweden during winter can make everything difficult! You can experience challenges even if you travel by public transportation. Rainfall during this time can turn the journey into a dreary and tiresome experience. Additionally, ice on the roads adds another layer of risk, making driving a potentially dangerous activity. It’s important to exercise caution and keep a low speed if you decide to do a winter road trip in Sweden. Renting a car vs public transportation Let’s delve into both options. Starting with public transportation, it’s important to highlight that Sweden boasts a great network, especially in its larger cities. There are so many reliable options, from buses to trams, trains, and even ferries. During our recent road trip to Sweden, we spent two days in Stockholm, and not once did we feel the need

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The Most Exciting Norway Trips to Do from Oslo

Leave a Comment / Norway | Articles, Scandinavia / True Scandinavia

If you’re looking to explore Norway by train, plane, car, boat, or bus, Oslo is a natural starting point, given its central location. It’s possible to travel to more than 25 destinations from Oslo, ranging from the stunning fjords of the west coast to the iconic Arctic Circle in the far north. Oslo isn’t a big city. So if you want to save yourself a ton of time and money and maximize your opportunities for adventure, it might be smart to plan your routes ahead of time. But for those travelers with limited time, who want to see as much as possible, some great Norway trips can get you far off the beaten path and into the heart of its natural wonders. Popular Norway train routes Norway is a country with a long and rich history. There are many ways to explore this fascinating land. Norway’s national train system is one of the best in the world, connecting all parts of the country. Whether you’re planning to travel by rail or road in Norway, you’ll need to make sure you have the right tickets and passes for your trip. The Bergen line The Bergen line is the oldest railway in Norway. It passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in Western Norway. The train goes from Oslo to Bergen via Haukeli, Geilo, and Voss. The journey takes about five hours. The Flåm railway The Flåm Railway has been voted one of Scandinavia’s most scenic train rides. It begins at Myrdal station and ends at Flåm station, right next to Aurlandsfjord. The trip takes about four hours. But it’s worth spending an extra day or two in this area if you have time! The Dovre line The Dovre Line is one of the most popular train routes in Norway. It will take you from Oslo to Trondheim via Lillehammer. This Norwegian railway line provides access to many tourist attractions along the way, including Vinstra and Geilo. The trip takes about 10 hours and stops at several stations before arriving in Trondheim. The Nordland line The Nordland line runs between Trondheim and Bodø via Steinkjer, Narvik, and Fauske (this section was completed in 1989). This route is popular with locals and tourists because it offers access to many different areas of northern Norway, including the Lofoten Islands and Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park. You can also take this route if you want to go hiking in nature without driving around the countryside. The Rauma Line This route runs between Åndalsnes and Dombås, and it passes through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Norway. The train travels through mountains, valleys, forests, and lakes before reaching Dombås. From there, you can take another train to Oslo or Bergen. The Sørland Line This is one of the busiest railways in Norway, so you will often have to book ahead to secure a seat on this route. You can travel from Oslo to Kristiansand or Stavanger by taking this route. The journey takes approximately four hours and 50 minutes, but if you want to travel at night, you’ll need to book in advance because fewer trains are running during those hours. 10 Best Day Trips from Oslo, Norway Oslo is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, but it can be quite expensive. If you want to get out of the city and see some of the most beautiful parts of Norway, you’ll need to take a day trip. Take a glance at these Norway day trips from Oslo: Lillehammer Lillehammer is a small town about an hour from Oslo and a half from the airport. It’s known for the 1994 Winter Olympics when it hosted ski jumping, cross-country skiing, biathlon, and ice hockey competitions. The Olympic Museum is worth a visit, as is the Norwegian Ski Museum. Both are located in the Olympic Park, which also has an outdoor skating rink and ski trails during winter. Fredrikstad Fredrikstad is a city located about an hour southeast of Oslo on the coast of Oslofjorden (Oslo Fjord). It’s a shopping destination, famous for its antique market every second Saturday of each month. The waterfront area has some historic buildings. Including one built in 1628 that now houses a museum dedicated to local history and art exhibits! Nearby attractions include Halden Fortress (home to Norway’s largest military museum) and Halden Prison, where inmates work together on projects such as building furniture and growing vegetables for sale at local markets. Tønsberg Take the train from Oslo (about an hour) and visit Tønsberg, Norway’s oldest town. Take a walk around this charming old town and visit the Tønsberg Fortress, which dates back to 1671. You can also find lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes here too! Drøbak & Oscarsborg If you want some more relaxation after all that sightseeing, head down to Drøbak. You can have a boat trip on Lake Tyrifjorden or just enjoy a walk around this charming little town by the water. If you feel more adventurous, then take a boat trip to Oscarsborg Fortress. You can see how Norwegians defended their country against German forces during WWII. Germans bombed this fortress but didn’t manage to destroy it. Lake Mjøsa Lake Mjøsa is the largest lake in Norway and a popular day trip from Oslo. The town of Lillehammer is located on the eastern shore of the lake, like several other towns and villages. You can visit any of these villages by taking a ferry across Lake Mjøsa. The ferry ride is only about 10 minutes long. But you will get fantastic views of the mountains along the way. TusenFryd Amusement Park Tusenfryd Amusement Park is located just outside Oslo and is one of Norway’s largest amusement parks. It has over 40 different rides, including roller coasters and water slides. It also has many restaurants and small souvenir shops. So you won’t have any problems finding cute hats and t-shirts with pictures of famous landmarks. Tusenfryd Amusement Park also has an outdoor water park called

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How to travel from Oslo to Bergen by train

1 Comment / Nature Attractions, Norway | Articles, Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia / True Scandinavia

Bergensbanen | The Bergen line Bergensbanen – or the Bergen railway, as is known in English – is the railway route that connects Norway’s two biggest cities. In this article, you’ll find many reasons why the train journey from Oslo to Bergen is an unmissable experience! It goes without saying that the Bergen railway is not the only way to get to Bergen from Oslo. If you’re planning on taking this trip, here are your options: Travel from Oslo to Bergen by bus There are two different bus routes that you can choose from if you want to get to Bergen from Oslo: One that goes through Haukelifjell and one that goes through Valdres. The latter is often preferred due to the fantastic scenery that you get to enjoy while you travel. Both routes include a bus change during the trip and they last for approximately nine and a half hours. Taking the bus is possibly the cheapest way to get to Bergen though it takes the longest. Travel from Oslo to Bergen by airplane Catching a flight from Oslo to Bergen is by far the fastest way to get there. It typically takes less than an hour, while the second fastest option which is the train, needs more than six hours to reach its destination. Also, getting to Bergen city from Bergen Flesland Airport is a fairly undemanding task, as there are enough options for your transportation. If time is an issue, taking a flight from Oslo to Bergen is the obvious thing to do. The drawback to this though is that will miss a chance to experience a wonderful train ride. The Bergen railway offers unparalleled views of the Norwegian landscapes. Travel from Oslo to Bergen by train One of the most celebrated train rides in the world, the Bergen line (or Bergensbanen in Norwegian) is one of the most beautiful railway routes in Europe. Every year, countless visitors take the train from Oslo to Bergen. Not only because it is a safe and convenient way to travel between the two cities. Bergensbanen is also an authentic Norwegian experience, a glimpse of Norway’s wild and wonderful nature. I strongly recommend getting a window seat to enjoy the scenery as much as possible. Bergensbanen history | How the Bergen railway was made Construction work on the Bergen line started as early as 1875. However, it wasn’t until 1909 that the Bergen railway was finally able to connect the two major cities. The first train to make the historic route arrived in Oslo from Bergen on 25 November 1909. The railway’s construction was exceptionally difficult, as 182 tunnels had to be dug manually through solid rock and under extremely harsh conditions. Many thousands of workers had endured, among other hardships, the piercing cold of an inhospitable environment the Bergen line was completed. Their courage created what King Haakon VII hailed as an engineering masterpiece. Getting your tickets for the Bergen line First things first, be provident enough to book your ticket here. You can find considerably better prices if you buy your ticket in advance. In addition, don’t neglect to check if you are entitled to a discount (in case you are a student, a senior citizen, etc). When buying your tickets, do consider getting seats that are on the side of the train that has the best views. The better side is the left when you are going from Oslo to Bergen. Accordingly, the right is the better side when the train goes from Bergen to Oslo. How to get from Oslo to Bergen by train The starting point for our trip is the Oslo Central Station, which is located in the center of Oslo. From there, we board the train and our westward journey begins. The train journey from Oslo to Bergen Once you are on board, your only task is to sit back and relax. The seats are comfortable and, if you were lucky or quick enough to get your ticket early, you are now sitting next to a window. What follows is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Bergensbanen | our journey to Bergen begins After a couple of hours, the train arrives at Flå Station in beautiful Hallingdal. There you can gaze at the Hallingdalselva, the Hallingdal river, as the train moves alongside it across the valley. The Hallingdal area is a popular destination for many, including mountain bike enthusiasts. There are enough thrilling mountain bike trails to make this an exciting destination for fans of the sport. However, the area is probably more well known as a skiing destination and is also extremely popular among hikers. Very close to the station is Bjorneparken, also known as Bear Park. Despite its name, it doesn’t have only bears in its enclosures but also some other wildlife. In case you decide to visit it expecting to see the bears, keep in mind that they hibernate during winter! Bergensbanen | Geilo Stasjon The Bergen line is now about three and a half hours away from Oslo and the train reaches Geilo. This is another skiing destination that is extremely popular and offers a great variety of action-packed outdoor activities. Rafting in the Numedalslågen river is also an option and I can attest it’s a fun and fascinating thing to do! Bergensbanen | Hardangervidda Hardangervidda, the famous mountain plateau, appears after Geilo. I often find this the most impressive and satisfying part of the trip. It is the largest natural park in the country, and the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Fun fact: Hardangervidda was a filming location for the 1980 film Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back! Filming took place in Hardangerjøkulen, depicting the frigid planet Hoth. Bergensbanen | Finse stasjon After Haugastøl, up next is a stop at Finse station. Located at 1222 m above sea level, this is the highest train station in Norway. Finse is a tiny village and by train is the only way to get there.

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What Americans need for a Denmark Road Trip

Leave a Comment / Denmark | Articles, Nature Attractions, Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia / True Scandinavia

A Denmark Road trip An amazing Experience

To steal a line from the poet John Donne: there are few feelings better than the splendor of riding into a new place with your best friends. The road trip is as American as it gets. It is predicated on the idea that getting out and moving is good for the soul. There is so much to do in a road trip across Scandinavia. It can be hard to know where to go or what you should see. Especially if your travel time is limited. In response to this problem, here’s an itinerary for a Denmark road trip across those glorious Scandinavian plains. A valid passport If you plan to visit Denmark for an extended period or have other travel plans in Europe, you must have a valid passport. Danish authorities will not grant entry to anyone without one. If you do have one make sure you do not lose it. It’s not guaranteed that your visa will be extended or your travels will go smoothly if you lose your passport while abroad.The validity requirements are pretty straightforward: the passport must be valid for at least three months after your intended date of departure from Denmark. It must be valid for the entire period of your intended stay in Denmark. It also has to have been issued within the past 10 years—no exceptions! A valid driving license You won’t need much to drive in Denmark. If you are a US citizen, the only document you need for a Denmark road trip is a valid driving license. However, as we all know, this does not ensure that your trip will be safe or enjoyable. What does Denmark need from its drivers? First and foremost, an international driving license. This type of license is required for non-EU citizens driving in Denmark. If you already have an international driving license from the US or Canada (or another country), then no additional action is needed on your part. While your state-issued license is good enough to verify that you can drive legally within the US, it is not recognized by other countries—including those in Europe—unless it has been validated by a few formalities with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Your state DMV can give you details on how to get one. Danish phone number or SIM card with data If you are looking to hop in the car and explore the Danish countryside, you’ll probably want a way to stay connected. While you can access WiFi on your phone when you’re out and about, it is important to note that some regions don’t have good coverage. Plus, using your data abroad will cost extra. To avoid being hit with an unexpected bill, it’s common sense to get a local SIM card or a Danish phone number for your trip. Before heading to Denmark, be sure to contact your cell phone provider at home. Ask them about getting a new or temporary SIM card from a Danish network provider. That way all of your calls and texts will be billed in krone (DKK). If they are unable or unwilling to help, look into getting one from a kiosk in Copenhagen Airport or any convenience store throughout the country. Credit card to pay tolls and gas You can drive in Denmark without a credit card and still avoid paying tolls. But if you want to pay for gas, get out of a traffic jam or pass through one of Denmark’s road tolls, you’ll need one. And even if you’re not driving in Denmark, it is a good idea to have a credit card from one of the major networks — Visa or MasterCard — just in case anything breaks down. You might also want to take along an American Express card as well. Some hotels and restaurants prefer AmEx over Visa or Mastercard (but they do charge a higher fee). Snacks In Denmark, most gas stations have vending machines with candy and chips available for purchase. But what if you’re driving late at night? Or on a Sunday? Or on a weekday when all the nearby shops are closed? Healthy snacks like nuts and dried fruit are great for munching on while driving. They’re also good sources of protein and fiber, which will keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Danish krone Denmark is a lovely country in northern Europe with a rich history, beautiful countryside, and a plethora of cultural activities. However, traveling here from other countries can be confusing in terms of currency. Denmark is not part of the Eurozone and therefore uses its currency, the Danish krone (DKK). Exchanging US dollars or other currencies for their equivalent in DKK before arriving in Denmark is imperative to budgeting well. The exchange rate of the DKK to other currencies changes depending on the day. But it tends to stay within a certain range. First aid kit It’s a good idea to pack a first aid kit for your road trip to Denmark. Roads are safe there. But it’s better to be prepared for everything. This will help you in case of an accident, or if someone gets sick or injured. The following is a list of items that you should consider including in your first aid kit: Painkillers and anti-inflammatories (e.g., aspirin, paracetamol), antihistamines (for hay fever and allergies), bandages and dressings, adhesive tape, and scissors. Accessories When preparing for a day trip or weekend excursion, many travelers will automatically think of packing clothes, shoes, and toiletries. But for those planning a Denmark road trip, there are some items that you may want to consider bringing along on your journey as well. These are some of the things that you will need: Decide your Denmark road trip destinations When making a long trip to Denmark, it is always nice to know where the main tourist attractions are. By familiarizing yourself with these points of interest, you can better plan your trip and decide what you want to see. If your travels include

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