Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen – which city is the best?
Did you know that Scandinavia actually is home to some of the best European cities? When it comes to outstanding city trips in Europe, the Scandinavian cities are high up on the list and promise all you need for an unforgettable experience. The most popular cities are for sure Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo – all three capitals of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. And all three offer a completely different experience. But which one is actually the best? Which city is most worth a visit and fits best into your dreams of a perfect city trip? Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen – which city is the best? This guide compares the three destinations and helps you make your choice.
Introducing Stockholm
Welcome to Sweden´s capital. Stockholm is known as a lively city and the perfect mixture of the big city life and nature. It is Scandinavia´s second biggest city and built on 14 islands, which is also the reason why it is known as the “Venice of the North”. The Stockholm archipelago is your gateway to stunning nature and sea views.
Your time in Stockholm can be filled with museum visits, a visit to the Royal Palace and of course a stroll through Gamla Stan, the historical old town of the city. Stockholm is more laid-back and time for a traditional Swedish fika is an absolute must – the motto during this city trip: take time for a break.
Click here to get a full list of the best things to do in Stockholm.
Vibe check Stockholm and what to expect:
Introducing Oslo
Oslo is Norway´s capital and located in the very south of the country. With a special combination of urban lifestyle, modern architecture and stunning fjord views, Oslo is on almost any traveller´s list who plans a trip through Norway. Compared to Stockholm or Copenhagen, the city is much more modern and less characterized by picturesque old buildings. But that might be exactly what makes Oslo so special. The modern opera house is somehow the face of the city and offers some of the best views. Enjoy a walk through the city, visit the Royal Palace, go shopping or hop on a boat cruise through the impressive Oslo Fjord. The city will already give you a short glimpse of the country´s beauty and for sure creates the desire to explore more.
Click here to get a full list of the best things to do in Oslo.
Vibe check Oslo and what to expect:
Introducing Copenhagen
And last but not least: welcome to Copenhagen, the heart of Denmark! For some travellers, Copenhagen is high up on the list of favorite cities in Europe. And with a good reason: Copenhagen really is a place to fall in love with. Not only the city center is worth a visit, but basically every street is full of stunning houses. Stroll through the streets, visit Nyhavn and the Amalienborg Palace and taste the Danish specialties in the cute cafés and bakeries. Places like Christiania, the riverside and the famous mermaid statue are must-dos for any trip to Copenhagen. Shopping and fashion lovers will have a blast with the unique street style and the countless fashion boutiques.
Click here to get a full list of the best things to do in Copenhagen
Vibe check Copenhagen and what to expect:
Why Stockholm could be your best choice
Stockholm is for the ABBA fans, the royal fans and those travellers who love the Swedish lifestyle. Have a fika at least twice a day and stroll along the riverside. The Stockholm archipelago is also a must do on your visit and will give you more insights into the beauty of the country. If you love museums, this is your place to be. Visit the ABBA museum or the Vasa museum and hop on the SL boats to experience a different kind of transportation.
Stockholm is a great destination if you plan to visit Sweden anyways. You can fly into the capital and spend a day or two walking around and diving into the city life.
Why Oslo could be your best choice
As already mentioned, Oslo is the more modern city of the three. If you cannot get enough of architecture and love to stroll around and admire the different building styles. Concerning that, Oslo really has it all. From historic buildings to modern houses.
Also, if you are a nightlife lover, Oslo might be your best choice. The city is an absolute party hotspot for the Norwegians and during the summertime you can already enjoy a beer during the afternoon hours by the waterfront. Or actually, why not start with a glass of wine at midday? You will slowly discover the very laid-back lifestyle of the locals and that is exactly what makes Oslo so special.
Oslo is your best choice if you like to combine a city trip with some moments in nature. You feel like getting out of the city rush quite fast? Olso has your back. The fjord is not far and some quiet and green places can easily be reached from the city center. When you book a boat trip out on the fjord, it feels like entering a whole different world and the city is far away. Norway´s nature is just a step away which is why a city trip to Oslo gives you a bit of everything.
And not to forget: Oslo is the best choice for all travellers who love the winter sports. The city is home to the Holmenkollen and skiing areas are actually not far away.
Why Copenhagen could be your best choice
Copenhagen is for the young travellers. It is full of life and has this young vibrant atmosphere. The city is all about streetstyle, having fun and living in the moment. If you love the aesthetics of a city, Copenhagen is your best shot. Basically, every street is worth a picture and you will ask yourself one question at least four times a day: should I move here? (yes, promise that is actually going to happen).
Among all three cities, Copenhagen offers the biggest variety of things to do. From walking around, shopping and having a drink on the river to seeing a different perspective in Christiania or enjoying the delicious foods in cafés and restaurants. In Copenhagen, boredom is simply not existing and any kind of traveller will find its very own highlight.
Also, Copenhagen is close to Sweden and if you are planning to travel the South of Sweden you can plan some exciting day trips. Click here to learn more about it.
Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen: which is the best choice?
In the end, this is a personal recommendation. You might disagree and fall in love with a different city. But to sum it up, the by comparing Stockholm vs. Olso vs. Copenhagen, Copenhagen really stands out. It is the city with the most positive atmosphere, the best things to do and the highest potential for an unforgettable city trip. Followed by Olso which offers quite a diverse experience and allows you to explore some Norwegian landscapes in the fjord. And last but not least, Stockholm. The Swedish capital ends the list of Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen. But make sure to not miss out on it.
Which city was your favorite in the end?
