The countries of Northern Europe have much to offer travelers. The Northern Lights, thick forests, and medieval charms are a few of the destinations that attract tourists and nature lovers.
An Oslo to Bergen train ride or itinerary in Norway is one of the best journeys to embark on in Northern Europe. Picturesque landscapes, fjords, parks, waterfalls, and lakes will fill your windows on this ride.
A Belfast to Dublin train, also in Northern Europe, graces you with Neolithic settlement sites, the highest point in Northern Ireland, and castles.
Northern Europe is rich in history. Spring and summer are the peak seasons when temperatures moderate, though winter travel could save you money. Here are five bucket list destinations in Northern Europe to consider.
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Northern Europe
1. Stonehenge - Wiltshire, United Kingdom
Stonehenge is a stone circle monument, a cemetery, a renowned archaeological site, and a mystery. This prehistoric monument was built in six phases between 3000 and 1520 BC. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, along with surrounding henges, monuments, and a temple complex at Avebury.
Stonehenge's specific use and relevance have always been speculated about, but scholars have not reached a consensus. The only activity that has resulted in evidence around the monument is burials, as human bones and ashes have been excavated.
Various hypotheses included that it was a place of gathering among prehistoric kingdoms, a construction to guide the ancestors in their death, and a way to predict lunar and solar eclipses; however, experts have rejected most of these perceptions.
Stonehenge does not stand as a whole today, as the original sarsens were either removed or destroyed during archeological digs. The people who built this impressive monument remain unknown.
2. Suomenlinna - Helsinki, Finland
A sea fortress proudly stands along the coast of Helsinki. This impressive mid-18th-century military structure defended the Kingdom of Sweden, the Russian Empire, and Finland. The fortress was initially named Sveaborg ("Castle of the Swedes") but, after Finland gained independence, was changed to Suomenlinna ("Castle of Finland") in 1918 for patriotic reasons.
The fortress, which consisted of 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) of defensive walls and 200 buildings on six islands, was converted from military to civilian use in 1973. Presently, Suomenlinna is Finland's most popular tourist attraction and a popular picnic area for locals.
Museums are also present. An original Russian Orthodox church, now Lutheran, also serves as a lighthouse, and tourists can see the last surviving submarine of the Finnish navy. Home to about a thousand residents, the Castle of Finland was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1991.
3. Cliffs of Moher - Ireland
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most magnificent features along the coast of Ireland. They're over 300 million years old, a popular movie shooting location, and full of wildlife. The photogenic and fierce beauty of the cliffs has earned them a steady stream of tourist visits as far back as the 16th century.
The Cliffs of Moher's native wildlife (including endangered species) led them to be recognized as a Refuge for Fauna by ministerial order under the Irish Wildlife Act in 1988.
The cliffs span 8.7 miles (14 kilometers) and rise 702 feet (214 meters) at their highest point. When observed from the north, the most southerly section resembles a woman's head looking at the sea.
Called Hag's Head and thought to be named after her, legends tell of an ugly older woman named Mal who fell to her death on the cliffs when chasing after the Irish hero Cu Chulainn to force him to return her affections towards him.
Bird-watching at the cliffs is enjoyable during nesting season; grasses and wildflowers grow during summer and spring, and whales, seals, and dolphins can be spotted from the top of the cliff.
4. Blue Lagoon - Iceland
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa and a must-visit in Iceland. Although not a natural spring, the pool is shaped by lava. The lagoon's water is runoff from a geothermal power plant that uses the country's volcanic activity to produce electricity.
Although it is the busiest and most expensive season in Iceland, planning your trip to the Blue Lagoon will be exciting during summer as you'll also experience the long days and midnight sun. On the other hand, visiting during the winter can save you money, is quieter, and offers opportunities to catch the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).
The Blue Lagoon is always pleasantly warm. You can rest assured about hygiene; everyone must shower naked before entering the pool. However, keeping your hair up in the lagoon is advised, as the silica in the water can stiffen it for a few days after your visit.
5. Sognefjord - Norway
The Sognefjord is Norway's deepest, largest, and longest fjord. It is dotted with waterfalls, blue glaciers, and impressive mountain peaks along its length. The villages around the fjord and their small farms allow visitors to experience and dwell in the cultural heritage of Sognefjord and learn about the Vikings.
Hiking along the fjord is most enjoyable during autumn. You can walk the glaciers with guides, cruise the fjord, or visit iconic sites like the Jotunheimen National Park, Aurlandsdalen Valley, and UNESCO-protected Urnes Stave Church.
Board a train to get the most out of your trip to Northern Europe. This region has excellent and reliable railway systems that allow you to enjoy the scenery on your way to your ultimate destination.
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This story is brought to you in partnership with Rail Ninja.
