Your final information to Scandinavia and the right way to e book it with Avios

A part of the allure of journey is in discovering the unknown. In a world the place most locations have been photographed, reviewed, and hashtagged into predictability, true discovery feels uncommon. However Scandinavia is totally different. It isn’t flashy, it’s not making an attempt to promote you something, and perhaps that’s the purpose; it’s simply very, excellent at being itself. When you’ve skilled it, you’ll realise it’s much less about checking off sights and extra about how the place makes you’re feeling.

So, the place do you start, and the way do you employ Avios factors to get there? Let’s break it down by metropolis and surroundings.

What are Avios? And the way do I exploit them?

Avios factors are the reward foreign money utilized by British Airways (by way of British Airways Membership) and its companion airways, resembling Iberia and Aer Lingus, in addition to Qatar Airways. They’re a part of a scheme that means that you can earn factors via flights with BA and its companions, in addition to day by day spending on devoted bank cards and thru a variety of retail companions, which might be redeemed for flights, accommodations, automotive rent, and extra. Avios collectors can e book reward seats on British Airways flights. The one money you need to pay for a reward seat is the airline tax, which might begin from as little as 50p per journey.

With that stated, let’s head to Scandinavia…

Stockholm, Sweden

The capital of Sweden and Scandinavia’s largest metropolis, Stockholm spreads throughout 14 scenic islands the place Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. There’s water in every single place, crisp design in each nook, and a rhythm that’s quick with out feeling frantic. It’s fashionable, sure, however by no means at the price of its historical past.

Listed here are our prime picks for issues to do in Stockholm:

• Get gloriously misplaced in Gamla Stan, town’s medieval outdated city residence to the Royal Palace, Storkyrkan Cathedral, and the Nobel Prize Museum. It’s one of many best-preserved historic centres in Europe.
• Swim, kayak, or simply watch the sunshine shift throughout the water; it’s throughout you.
• Take a ship to Vaxholm, Fjäderholmarna, or Grinda and luxuriate in the whole lot from kayaking to native seafood lunches. Public ferries run year-round, however summer time is the perfect season to discover.
• Go to Södermalm, town’s inventive hub stuffed with indie retailers and bars.
• Spend a day on the Vasa Museum (residence to a Seventeenth-century warship), the ABBA Museum, Skansen (an open-air museum and zoo), and the waterfront amusement park Gröna Lund, all on one lush island.
• Have fika (Swedish espresso break) at Vete-Katten or a neighborhood bakery.
• Go to Östermalms Saluhall and fill up on gourmand eats at this basic meals corridor.
• Make a day journey to Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO web site and royal residence.

In case you’re in search of Avios reward flights to take you there, off-peak Economic system flights with British Airways begin from 18,500 Avios plus £1 return. You’ll additionally earn BA loyalty tiers when reserving via British Airways, which provide help to get lounge entry and precedence examine in.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg doesn’t all the time make the entrance pages, however that’s precisely the purpose. It’s much less polished than Stockholm, extra grounded, and stuffed with character. A working port metropolis with indie power and nice seafood.

Listed here are our suggestions for issues to do in Gothenburg:

• Island-hop the Gothenburg Archipelago, a cluster of over 20 largely car-free islands. You may as well catch a ferry from Saltholmen or Lilla Varholmen and go to the close by islands of Asperö, Brännö, Styrsö, and Vargö.
• Hire a kayak at Kajakbryggan and paddle via town’s 400 km of canals. Gothenburg is greatest seen from sea degree, particularly should you’re in for a real eco-friendly expertise.
• Being a port metropolis, Gothenburg takes seafood significantly. Go upscale at Sjömagasinet or hold it informal at Feskekôrka, town’s fish market. For seasonal treats, head to Restaurant Atelier for oysters and Champagne.
• Gothenburg’s outdated city, Haga, has reinvented itself with indie boutiques and cafes tucked inside charming picket buildings. Don’t miss a espresso and cinnamon bun the scale of your face.
• Spend the night time aboard Barken Viking, a superbly restored 1907 windjammer turned
  resort. Cease in for dinner or drinks within the onboard restaurant should you’re not staying over.

Reward flights to Gothenburg begin from simply 18,500 Avios plus £1 return in off-peak Economic system. This is likely one of the greatest Avios reward flight redemptions for a laid-back, inexperienced metropolis break.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the form of place that makes you need to commerce in your automotive for a motorbike and takeaway espresso for a smørrebrød at a waterside café. It’s clear, assured, and constructed for folks, not site visitors. Public areas really feel intentional and naturally folded into every day life.

Right here’s what to do in Copenhagen:

• Your go to isn’t full and not using a journey to Tivoli Gardens. Open since 1843, it’s the second-oldest amusement park on the earth and an inspiration for Walt Disney himself.
• Take a selfie in entrance of Nyhavn’s rows of brightly colored homes and bobbing boats. This outdated industrial port is now a favorite hangout, lined with eating places and bars, jazz spilling from open doorways. Hans Christian Andersen as soon as lived at No. 20, sure, the very one who wrote The Little Mermaid.
• Be part of a guided canal cruise or hire a kayak and discover Copenhagen by yourself. Highlights embrace floating previous the Opera Home, Black Diamond Library, and the statue of The Little Mermaid.
• Step into Danish royal historical past at Rosenborg Fortress, the place you’ll discover the Crown Jewels and superbly preserved royal flats. Afterwards, stroll via the adjoining King’s Backyard, a peaceable oasis within the metropolis centre.
• Watch the altering of the guard or just admire the symmetry of Amalienborg Palace, residence to the Danish royal household. It’s one of many oldest monarchies on the earth with a lineage that goes again to Viking king, Harald Bluetooth.

In case you’re planning a multi-city break in Scandinavia, flying by way of British Airways into Copenhagen is usually probably the most cost-effective entry level. With direct off-peak flights from 18,500 Avios plus £1 return, it’s a wise method to begin your Nordic escape.

Oslo, Norway

With its inhabitants of over 700,000, Oslo could also be a capital metropolis, nevertheless it doesn’t really feel like one within the conventional sense. As an alternative of city sprawl, you’ll discover a metropolis hemmed in by thick forests, fjords, and every day life that bends towards the outside. Oslo’s largest flex is which you could go island-hopping within the morning, hike a mountain by lunch, and hit a world-class museum earlier than dinner.

Right here’s what needs to be in your Oslo itinerary:

• Take within the artwork scene that’s in every single place. Take a look at big murals in Tøyen, over 200 bare sculptures in Vigeland Park, and don’t miss the Nationwide Museum (residence to The Scream) or the revolutionary new Munch Museum.
• Fjord-hopping is a factor, and you could do it. Oslo sits on the sting of the Oslofjord, and hopping between its tiny islands by ferry is the right summer time pastime. Go to Hovedøya for monastery ruins, Lindøya for vibrant cabins, and Gresshølmen for seashore walks and contemporary seafood.
• Journey the metro up the forest and be on a climbing path in below half-hour.
• Eat your means via Oslo with reindeer stew at Dovrehallen, small plates at Katla, cocktails at Pier 42, and a lap round Mathallen’s meals stalls. For a splurge, e book Maaemo and don’t look again.

Avios reward flights, booked with British Airways, begin from 23,500 Avios plus £1 return for off-peak Economic system reward seats.

Tromsø, Norway

Positioned over 200 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is usually known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” and it lives as much as the identify. Ringed by snowy peaks and fjords, this surprisingly cosmopolitan metropolis is the right place to chase the Northern Lights, discover Sámi tradition, and get near arctic wildlife.

One of the best time to go to is determined by your bucket checklist. Winter brings the aurora borealis, canine sledging, and polar night time (November to mid-January) when the solar barely rises above the horizon. Summer time means midnight solar, golden gentle, and lengthy days for climbing, kayaking, and paragliding. Both means, it’s a visit you gained’t overlook.

Listed here are the actions we suggest:

• Chase the Northern Lights. Tromsø sits proper below the auroral oval. Go along with a information, or take a quiet electrical boat out into the fjord and wait.
• Journey the Cable Automobile to Mount Storsteinen. Take the Fjellheisen cable automotive 421 metres above sea degree and look out over sea, islands, and metropolis. If it’s darkish, you may see the aurora. If it’s daylight, lace up your boots and stroll.
• Spend time with Sámi herders and their reindeer. There’s storytelling, a sizzling meal, and a greater method to perceive this place than something you’ll learn on-line.
• Discover the Arctic Cathedral, certainly one of Tromsø’s most iconic buildings, impressed by snow and ice.
• Go Arctic Fishing within the Fjords. Be part of a neighborhood boat tour to forged your line into Tromsø’s icy waters, wealthy with cod, halibut, and herring.

Reward seats to Tromsø, booked with Avios reward factors, begin from 23,500 Avios plus £1
return in Economic system (off-peak).

Past the cities

Scandinavia’s cities are nice, however they’re simply the beginning. When you head out, you’ll discover deep forests, rocky islands, and landscapes that really feel untouched. What comes subsequent is a shortlist of unmissable nature experiences that exhibit Scandinavia at its wildest and most unforgettable.

Norwegian fjords

There’s a quieter facet to Scandinavia that doesn’t present up in postcards, till you’re standing on the fringe of a fjord in western Norway, questioning how this sort of silence nonetheless exists.

Listed here are some epic fjord adventures we extremely suggest including to your itinerary:

• Geirangerfjord: UNESCO-listed and endlessly photogenic, Geirangerfjord earns its status. Cruise previous sheer cliffs and waterfalls, cease on the Ørnesvingen lookout for sweeping views, or tackle the Geiranger Skywalk should you’re not afraid of heights. The close by Fjord Centre offers a strong overview with out the vacationer rush.
• Sognefjord: In case you’re solely seeing one fjord, make it this one. Referred to as the “King of the Fjords” for a purpose, Sognefjord is big and full of highlights. Hop on the Flåm Railway, hike throughout Jostedalsbreen glacier, or detour to Urnes Stave Church, certainly one of Norway’s oldest picket buildings.
• Aurlandsfjord & Nærøyfjord: Two arms of Sognefjord that punch nicely above their measurement. Base your self in Flåm, take the practice as much as Myrdal, then trip a ferry via Nærøyfjord’s slim, steep-sided channel to Gudvangen. It’s a basic for a purpose, and in some way nonetheless feels wild.
• Hardangerfjord: Trolltunga is the headline act (sure, that cliff you’ve seen on Instagram) however there’s extra right here. Keep in Odda or Rosendal for entry to glacier hikes and quiet walks throughout the Hardangervidda plateau. Bonus: this space blooms with apple and cherry orchards in spring.
• Lysefjord: Simply outdoors Stavanger, Lysefjord delivers huge views with minimal journey. Climb to Pulpit Rock, take the 4,444 steps up Flørli, or hop on a fjord cruise for a front-row seat. It’s widespread, however nonetheless price it and certainly one of Norway’s few licensed Sustainable Locations.

Getting there with Avios

You may fly to Bergen, Oslo, Trondheim, or Tromsø utilizing Avios reward flights and plan your fjord tour. Not all locations have a 12 months spherical schedule nevertheless, so make sure to examine. For instance:

• Bergen might be your launch pad for Sognefjord, Aurlandsfjord, Nærøyfjord, and
  Hardangerfjord.
• Oslo connects nicely to Geirangerfjord and the scenic railway to Flåm.
• Trondheim presents fast entry to Trondheimsfjord and northern fjords.

Greatest Avios reward flight tip

Fly into Bergen by way of Oslo utilizing your Avios, then choose up a rental automotive or join by way of practice or ferry to the fjords. A number of scenic combo buses, ferries, and practice excursions function from right here between Might and September.

Scandinavian mountains

The Scandinavian mountains (locals name them Scandes) stretch throughout Norway, Sweden, and a slice of Finland, forming the area’s backbone. Although not very excessive in altitude, these mountains are among the many steepest on the earth and are far bigger in space than the Alps and the Pyrenees mixed.

The vary has been round for about 400 million years, which explains the weathered cliffs, deep valleys, and the sense that nature’s been at work right here for a very long time. They run from the southern tip of Norway, via Sweden’s Dalarna, all the way in which to Treriksröset, the assembly level of Norway, Sweden, and Finland, earlier than lastly dropping into the Arctic Ocean. The Scandes change utterly all year long: in winter, they’re quiet, white, and virtually otherworldly. Come summer time, the identical slopes are inexperienced, alive, and dotted with hikers as an alternative of reindeer.

So, what do you have to do while you’re there? Listed here are a few of our prime picks:

Sweden

• Sarek Nationwide Park: A UNESCO-listed wilderness crammed with glaciers, excessive peaks, and roaming moose.
• Kungsleden (King’s Path): Sweden’s most iconic 440 km climbing route via 4 nationwide parks.
• The Jämtland Triangle: An amazing newbie hike with cosy huts and jaw-dropping views.
• Kebnekaise: Sweden’s tallest mountain with trails for all ranges.
• Padjelantaleden Path: A scenic stroll via Sweden’s largest nationwide park.

Finland

• Halti Fell & Käsivarsi Wilderness Space: Deal with Finland’s highest peak or observe the Nordkalottleden Path.
• Lemmenjoki Nationwide Park: Finland’s largest, the place you possibly can pan for gold or catch the Northern Lights.

Norway

• Jotunheimen Nationwide Park & Besseggen Ridge: Norway’s prime climbing area with unforgettable views.
• Gaustabanen: A Chilly Warfare-era funicular practice hidden inside a mountain.
• Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen): A 604-metre-high flat rock overlooking the Lysefjord.
• Aurora Spirit Distillery: Sip whisky the place the mountains meet the fjord, the world’s northernmost distillery.

But it surely’s not all climbing boots and heavy backpacks, there’s loads of different enjoyable available, irrespective of
the season. Listed here are a few of our different favorite mountain actions that convey the Scandes to
life:

• Snowmobile safari within the Lyngen Alps: Drive your snowmobile via one of the crucial picturesque areas of the Scandes. Finish the trip with a hearty campfire meal within the snow.
• Snowshoe as much as Trolltunga: Climb to certainly one of Scandinavia’s most iconic ledges to view Ringedalen Lake and the Folgefonna glacier with a information. It’s difficult however unforgettable.
• Kayak round Lysefjorden: Paddle previous sheer rock faces, waterfalls, and maybe even curious seals on a kayak journey beneath towering cliffs reaching 400 metres excessive.
• Husky sledding in Kiruna: Meet the canine, study to drive, after which sprint via the Swedish Arctic on an exhilarating dogsled journey.
• Hike Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen): As seen in Mission Unattainable: Fallout, this dramatic 4–6 hour guided hike delivers unbeatable views over Lysefjorden and severe bragging rights.

The Northern Lights

No person will consider you’ve been on a Scandinavian journey till you give them conclusive proof of getting seen the Northern Lights. Often known as the Aurora Borealis, this pure gentle present lights up the skies above northern Scandinavia in dazzling waves of inexperienced, crimson, and purple. The phenomenon is mostly seen from September to March, particularly close to the equinoxes.

And the perfect half? A few of the most dependable Northern Lights locations are accessible by way of British Airways Avios reward flights.

That can assist you plan the right aurora escape, listed here are our prime advisable locations to expertise
them in Sweden:

• Abisko Nationwide Park: Because of a climate phenomenon over Lake Torneträsk known as the “Blue Gap,” the skies above Abisko stay clearer right here than virtually wherever else in Sweden. You may take a chairlift to the Aurora Sky Station or trek and camp within the park.
• Jukkasjärvi and the Torne Valley: Sleep within the world-famous ICEHOTEL, carved contemporary each winter from blocks of the Torne River. Guided snowmobile and dogsled excursions take you deep into the wild, or you possibly can dine below the celebrities close to Esrange Area Centre. Different glorious spots embrace Lake Poustijarvi, Nikkaluokta, and Vittangi.
• Porjus and Laponia: This tiny village of 400 folks sits on the sting of the Laponia World Heritage Space, close to nationwide parks like Muddus and Stora Sjöfallet. Clear skies, low gentle air pollution, and constantly chilly temperatures make Porjus one of many nation’s most beloved aurora viewing spots.
• Lulea, Jokkmokk and Gallivare: Head into the Brändö forests for aurora chasing in Lulea. In Gallivare, trip a snowmobile to the highest of Dundret Mountain and luxuriate in a personal gentle present.
• Tromsø, Norway: Tromsø is likely one of the most accessible and dependable locations to witness the lights. Take pleasure in whale watching, reindeer safaris, or the Polar Museum whereas ready for the sky to bop.