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!

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Stockholm’s Old Town & Royal Palace

Stockholm 3h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

Hoping to see narrow alleys and charming squares? Or to catch a glimpse of the Prince? We can help with both wishes! Join us for our Stockholm’s Old Town & Royal Palace Private Walking Tour as we share truths about the Swedish Royal Family.

From
eur 178
per person

Oslo On Wheels

Oslo 2h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

Beep, beep! Your private vehicle is here to show you the Norwegian capital on our Oslo on Wheels Private Driving Tour. Oslo city centre, astonishing parks, unique museums and photo stops are waiting… are you ready? We sure are!

From
eur 163
per person

Stockholm Old Town

Stockholm 2h 0m 1 - 20 On a date I select Multiple languages

Small group tour & private tour options available

Step back in time to medieval Stockholm. Journey along cobblestone streets to see, hear and taste history on our Stockholm Old Town Walk. What are you waiting for? Come let the city’s living history unfold around you!

From
eur 138
per person

Drottningholm Palace

Stockholm 4h 0m- 5h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

What does a well-preserved 1600s palace, theatre and pavilion give you? A UNESCO World Heritage Site. On our Drottningholm Palace Private Walking Tour, we’ll travel by steamer to explore Drottningholm Palace and its gardens.

From
eur 305
per person

Stockholm Syndrome

Stockholm 3h 0m 1 - 20 Multiple languages

First time in Stockholm? Then an overview of the city centre, Old Town and Södermalm on our Stockholm Syndrome Private Walking Tour is in order. With a stop for a sweet treat and photo ops, what’s not to be captivated by?

From
eur 170
per person

Stockholm & Skansen Open-Air Museum

Stockholm 4h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

Hoping to see all of Sweden on your Stockholm trip? Sure thing! Visit Skansen, a miniature Sweden of the past, on our Stockholm & Skansen Open-Air Museum Private Walking Tour. Immerse yourself in the Swedes’ history, culture, and customs.

From
eur 251
per person

Sigtuna & Drottningholm Palace

Stockholm 6h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

Stockholm on Wheels

Stockholm 2h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

Vain Vikings of Runriket

Stockholm 4h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

Oslo From Coastline to City

Oslo 5h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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 & Norsk Folkmuseum

Oslo 4h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

Maritime Oslo

Oslo 4h 0m- 5h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

Oslo & Fram Museum

Oslo 3h 0m- 4h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

Oslo & City Hall

Oslo 3h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

Copenhagen & Frilandsmuseet

Copenhagen 4h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

Travel from the city to the countryside, all in one day. Why? To explore the cultural heritage of the Danes, their culture and customs, including the term Hygge, on this Copenhagen & Frilandsmuseet Private Driving Tour.

From
eur 344
per person

Copenhagen Old Town

Copenhagen 2h 0m 1 - 20 Multiple languages

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 & City Hall

Copenhagen 3h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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 118
per person

Copenhagen from Land to Sea

Copenhagen 4h 0m 1 - 30 Multiple languages

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

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