History of Scandinavia
We don’t want to give it all away, but no doubt you’ll have heard a lot about this influential part of the world. Luckily you’ll have us to guide you as you learn about the history in Scandinavia.
What happened in Scandinavia?
Well… there’s lots to tell, and the rich history of this region has to be seen to be believed. Luckily the capitals of Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen are the perfect place for those secrets to be revealed.
Stockholm’s medieval beginnings can be imagined as stories unfold when walking the labyrinth of enchanting cobbled streets, alleyways, picturesque squares and rustic townhouses. Described as the ‘Venice of the North’ the 14 islands, connected by 57 bridges has an exciting history as a trading hub for foreign goods and merchants with the city’s prosperity coinciding with a period of extraordinary growth. Stockholm expanded during the 1600s with Sweden’s rise as a great superpower, however by the 1800s the success had faded… Transformed yet again by the wave of a technological, industrial revolution – companies such as Ericsson have been going strong for over 140 years – the royal capital is continuously evolving in the modern world.
From Oslo’s humble beginnings over one thousand years ago, the city and its people were shaped by the vision of its founder, known as the last Viking King. Deeply troubling times hit Norway and, for generations, the country was ruled by Denmark or in union with Sweden. After 500 years of being subservient to other Scandinavian countries until regaining independence in 1905, this now proud and patriotic country has many stories to tell. From its Viking past to it’s 1900s polar exploration success, Norway has helped map and shape our world. The peoples’ determination and grit to show resistance against the Nazis, its promotion of harmony and being the home of the Nobel Peace Prize (uh…this was long after the Vikings!) and the long-standing focus on its citizen’s welfare make Norway and Oslo a treasure trove of stories.
Denmark’s role in history in Scandinavia is something to behold. It’s capital, Copenhagen, was originally a fishing village during the Viking Age, though considered to be founded by Bishop Absalon in the 1100s when it grew and developed as an important trading centre. Despite its size on the map, Denmark was a great superpower, and one of its monarchs was known as the ‘father in law of Europe’, so named as all of his children married into other royal families! Copenhagen’s streets and buildings are distinctive, which can be attributed to King Christian IV during the 1600s – with new city districts added and a renaissance style implemented, the building styles compliment the contrasting modern architecture the capital has become famous for. Being the capital of the happiest country in the world (as Denmark is frequently judged) the story of Copenhagen is well worth delving into.
Even on the briefest of visits, you’ll discover the fascinating history in Scandinavia and the stories that await you within the capitals of Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen. We can’t wait to tell you all about it!
On the lookout for an adventure that covers all of Stockholm? The Grand Stockholm Private Driving Tour combines the city essentials; The Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, City Hall and the Old Town. Stockholm’s Highlights – complete!
From
eur 490
per person
There’s more to Sweden than Stockholm! See the country(side) you imagined, from the King’s residence to Sweden’s first town. Our Sigtuna & Drottningholm Palace Private Driving Tour takes us for an adventure, local style.
From
eur 434
per person
Sit back and relax as we zoom through the Swedish capital on our Stockholm on Wheels Private Driving Tour. From hip Södermalm and quaint Old Town to posh Östermalm and lush Djurgården, we’ll see it all on this scenic drive of the city.
From
eur 182
per person
While Stockholm might be a youngster compared to the Vikings it is nonetheless located in the heartland of the Swedish Viking realm. Take a trip with us and meet the Vain Vikings of Runriket having put their eternal marks on the scenery.
From
eur 290
per person
This adventure walks us through Oslo city centre and aboard a sightseeing boat for a cruise of the Oslo fjord. Enjoy the stunning view of the Norwegian capital and its shore on our Oslo from Coastline to City Private Walking Tour.
From
eur 272
per person
Oslo’s modern city centre was designed to be discovered on foot. Join us for an Oslo City Private Walking Tour and see for yourself! We’ll check out the best of the city centre, digging into Norwegian culture along the way.
From
eur 100
per person
Journey from modern city to old town to countryside, all in one day. How? With our Oslo & Norsk Folkemuseum Private Walking Tour, of course! Immerse yourself in Norway’s history, culture, and customs and channel your inner Norwegian.
From
eur 190
per person
As a coastline capital, Oslo and maritime go hand in hand. From polar adventurers to Pacific Ocean explorers, we’ll discover Oslo city and the Kontiki and Fram Museum on our Maritime Oslo Private Walking Tour. Let our Oslo expedition begin!
From
eur 226
per person
Did you know Oslo is the 3rd most northern capital in the world? Is this perhaps where the fascination with the polar regions comes from? Join us on our Oslo & Fram Museum Private Walking Tour to discover Oslo and its polar history.
From
eur 182
per person
City sightseeing and a hidden gem, what more do you need? On our Oslo & City Hall Private Walking Tour, we’ll experience just that. Entertaining stories, photo stops, the gem herself, the Oslo City Hall, it’s all here!
From
eur 100
per person
Indulge yourself in a day of regal bliss at Oslo’s many royal sites! Don your nicest frock and walk in the footsteps of Norwegian royalty at Akershus Fortress, Oslo Cathedral and the Royal Palace. You’re in for a treat!
From
eur 132
per person
Want to see all that Oslo has to offer? Look no further! The Grand Oslo Private Driving Tour gives you the Fram Museum, Vigeland Park, a photo stop at Holmenkollen Ski Jump, and a city drive, all in one tour. What more could you want?
From
eur 410
per person
Iconic landmarks, stories of a bygone era and narrow lanes – welcome to our Copenhagen Old Town Private Walking Tour! From the Copenhagen City Hall to the Round Tower to the Grey Friars Square – feel the history in the air!
From
eur 118
per person
Copenhagen is full of sights and delights, including mermaids, castles, and canals. On our Copenhagen From Land to Sea, we “sea” them all. Join us on this Copenhagen city centre walking tour combined with a small-group canal cruise.
From
eur 193
per person
Get to know one of the world’s oldest monarchies, the Danish Royal Family, their history and Copenhagen while strolling between Palace and Castle. Don’t know the difference? On our Royal Copenhagen Private Walking Tour, we’ll sort you out!
From
eur 199
per person
Heard that Royal Djurgården is a must? It is! From hunting grounds to a theme park to a recreational area, we promise there’s more than meets the eye. Discover the island on our Djurgården’s Green Treasures Private Walking Tour.
From
eur 138
per person
City discovery topped with an icon site, what more do you need? On our Copenhagen’s Old Town & City Hall Private Walking Tour, we’ll give you tales of fire, politics, royalty and a visit to the Copenhagen City Hall.
From
eur 97
per person
Royal tapestries, charming squares, places of power – this is our Copenhagen & Christiansborg Palace Private Walking Tour. A tour where we give you a taste of the old, a look at the new and a bit of fun along the way.
From
eur 130
per person
Sign up for our newsletter with over 7000 subscribers!
So you don’t miss anything on your Scandinavian adventure.