Planning a family holiday can be tricky—especially when you’re looking for something that’s exciting, relaxing, educational, and suitable for everyone from toddlers to teens. But if you’re after clean air, friendly locals, safe cities, and nature that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, Scandinavia is calling your name. Norway and Sweden are two of the most welcoming countries in the world—and they happen to be packed with unforgettable family experiences.
Why Norway is a Family Favourite
Let’s start with Norway, a country where fjords slice through the mountains, waterfalls tumble from great heights, and charming towns sit nestled beside glistening lakes. It’s the sort of place that takes your breath away—and the kids won’t be bored either.
There are plenty of Norway vacation packages that cater specifically to families, so you won’t be spending hours googling what to do or where to stay. These often include scenic cruises, family-friendly rail journeys (like the famous Flåm Railway), and even the chance to go husky sledding or whale watching, depending on the season.
Oslo makes a brilliant first stop. It’s compact, easy to get around, and full of museums that actually appeal to little ones. At the Fram Museum, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore a life-sized polar exploration ship, while the Norwegian Folk Museum showcases a fascinating collection, including ancient stave churches and charming old-fashioned sweet shops.
Further north, towns like Tromsø offer incredible winter experiences. Think: spotting the Northern Lights while snuggled under a blanket, riding in a reindeer sleigh, or building snowmen in the endless Arctic daylight of summer. Norway’s emphasis on outdoor life means there’s always something active (and kid-friendly) to do.
Sweden’s Quiet Magic
Then there’s Sweden—a country that gently wins you over with its storybook towns, peaceful forests, and effortless style. It’s a great choice if your idea of the perfect holiday includes relaxed strolls, cosy cafés, and space for the kids to run wild.
There’s a brilliant range of Sweden tour packages available, whether you’re looking to base yourself in the city or venture out into the countryside. Stockholm is often the first stop, and what a place it is. The city stretches across 14 islands, linked by an array of bridges and ferries, offering a wealth of attractions suitable for visitors of all ages. Families often find delight in the Vasa Museum, where a stunning 17th-century warship is preserved, as well as in the zoo and historic farmhouses at Skansen, and the enchanting Junibacken museum, which honours the stories of a cherished children’s author..
But don’t stop there—Sweden’s countryside is full of hidden treasures. In regions like Sörmland or Dalarna, you can rent a red wooden cottage by a lake, cook your own food, and explore nature trails by foot or bike. Foraging is a fun family activity here in late summer and autumn, with blueberries and mushrooms ripe for the picking.
Adventures Big and Small
One of the best things about Scandinavia is that the adventures aren’t all big, expensive excursions. Some of the most memorable moments are also the simplest—like paddling in a clear lake, picnicking in the forest, or spotting reindeer from the car.
Still, if your little ones dream of meeting animals up close, you’re in for a treat. In Norway, families can go whale-watching or visit reindeer farms, while Sweden offers forest safaris where you might see elk or bears (from a safe distance, of course). Winter also brings dog-sledding, snowshoeing, and snow-covered landscapes that feel like something out of Frozen.
Charming Coasts and Island Days
If your family prefers sea air to mountain hikes, both countries have stunning coastlines to explore. Sweden’s west coast is lined with picture-perfect fishing villages like Smögen and Fjällbacka, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and ice cream by the harbour. In summer, families love hopping around the Gothenburg archipelago—many islands are car-free and easy to reach by ferry.
Norway’s southern coast is equally delightful, with towns like Kristiansand offering gentle beaches, boat rides, and even a zoo that’s designed with families in mind. And yes, the seafood is excellent here too—don’t miss the waffles topped with jam and cream!
Scandi Food That Kids Will Actually Eat
Food can be a sticking point when travelling with children, but in Scandinavia, it’s surprisingly easy. The cuisine is simple, healthy, and full of family favourites—grilled salmon, meatballs, mashed potatoes, berry jams, and delicious baked treats.
In Sweden, fika (the art of taking a break with coffee and a pastry) is part of daily life, and there are always plenty of cinnamon buns to go around. Norway has its own take on comfort food, with warm waffles, creamy fish soups, and fresh bread served with brown cheese—a local delicacy worth trying at least once.
Most restaurants have children’s menus and high chairs, and no one will bat an eyelid if your toddler throws a tantrum mid-meal. Scandinavian countries are extremely family-friendly, and that shows in everything from dining to public transport.
Getting Around Without Stress
Speaking of transport—this might just be the most relaxing part of your Scandinavian adventure. Trains are spacious and clean, often with special play areas for children. Buses run on time. Ferries are fun, not stressful. And with so many locals speaking excellent English, asking for directions is a breeze.
Accommodation ranges from cosy city hotels to lakeside cabins and traditional lodges. In summer, camping is also popular, and many campgrounds offer playgrounds, cooking facilities, and even swimming areas. It’s all designed to make family life on the road easier.
Eco-Conscious and Safe
Another big bonus? Scandinavia is one of the most environmentally friendly regions in the world. Families can travel more sustainably without even trying—electric trains, eco-labelled hotels, organic food, and protected natural areas are all just part of the way things are done here.
And for peace of mind, both Norway and Sweden consistently rank as some of the safest countries to visit. Whether you’re wandering through a city park or exploring the backroads of a national park, there’s a real sense of calm and comfort that parents will appreciate.
Time to Start Planning?
If you’re looking for a holiday that entertains your kids, lets you relax, and leaves you all with stories to tell long after you’re home, Norway and Sweden are perfect picks. Between the fjords, forests, islands, and incredible cities, there’s a family adventure waiting around every corner. These two countries prove that a holiday with kids doesn’t have to mean compromise—it can mean discovering the magic of the world together.
So go ahead: pack your wellies, your appetite, and your sense of wonder. Scandinavia’s waiting to welcome you with open arms—and you’ll be so glad you said yes.
Speak Your Mind