Everything you need to know about travelling in Scandinavia. Aside from stunning landscapes, Norway is also home to the worlds longest road tunnel in the world, and its packed full of extremely happy people. $('#metaslider_57782 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { On the other hand, Iceland is probably the most interesting country I've been to. Norway vs. Switzerland | Which is the Better Travel Destination? It can be called a perfect place for adventurous people. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. I think that Switzerland has better public transport links and is more tourist friendly. The median income in Switzerland is about 6200 CHF (6200 USD) per month. Consider the Jasper / Banff area of Canada or the fjord country in Norway. Northern Lights In Norway. Norways second biggest city has a fascinating history to uncover, before road, rail and passenger ferry links take you into the heart of the country. Switzerland is a lot smaller. Most any mountain area you are taking a chance with a May trip. itemWidth:300, Is Norway a very different experience in comparison? James COOK took possession of the east coast in the name of Great Britain (all of Australia was . } American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, initially credited with the pseudonym Nils Sjberg, wrote the song and composed with Harris, who produced with Kuk Harrell.Rihanna and Harris had previously collaborated on her . 1.43cts 5mm Vs Round Untreat Champagne Color Lab Certified Loose Sweden is a lot greener than Norway, with tons of forests and beautiful landscapes to explore. Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Finland include hiking, skiing, camping, sailing, and ice hockey. The only cost is your annual membership, making it an affordable and fulfilling way to travel. Sweden is less expensive, but it can be a little more densely populated than Norway. High School Principal. According to My Life Elsewhere cost of living index, restaurants are 75% more expensive in Norway than Sweden, groceries are 50% more expensive and transportation is 65% more expensive. Sweden is also home to locations like Malmo a beautiful city capable of attracting tourists from all over the world with modern and historical architecture. If you consider the option of choosing Norway vs Iceland in winters, Reykjavik can appear to be the best place to spend your winter. Switzerland (0 wins, 3 losses, 0 draws) welcomes Portugal (2-0-1) to Stade de Genve in Geneva, Switzerland Sunday.Kickoff for the 4th of 6 group stage games is set for 2:45 p.m. Rain. Kenny, are you based in or near Toronto, as a previous post implies? var layer = $(this); Are you planning to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? House Sitting in Regensdorf, Switzerland | TrustedHousesitters.com Iceland has vast expanses and dramatic scenery that is just as breathtaking as Switzerland. Norway vs. Alaska: A Destination Comparison - Getaway Answers Many of Icelands famous hot springs are found here. I can't say anyplace is more beautiful, but there are some that are equal. 28 Best Places To Visit In September In India This 2023 Thatll Enliven Your Soul, 54 Remarkable Places To Visit In Singapore In 2023 Where A Wandering Heart Finds Peace, 55 Best Places To Visit In Mauritius In 2023 To Surf, Dive, And Relax Under The Sun, 30 Best Places To Visit In August In India To Welcome Monsoons In 2022, 20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle, 10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Drivers Nightmare, 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2023, 35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2022 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation, 60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2023. Norway and Sweden have a lot of similarities, but Norway can be a lot more expensive when it comes to food and restaurant prices. The colorful buildings lining Stortorget in Gamla. }; It depends on what you are looking for or want to see. Amy Danise. Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. As mentioned, Norway is a lot more expensive than Sweden in a lot of ways, but it also has higher salaries, and wonderful sights to see. Norway vs Switzerland comparison: Cost of Living & Prices I think that Switzerland has better public transport links and is more tourist friendly. Sandeep Illustrates On The Best Activities For A Family Trip To Mauritius. It is well known for its raw and rocky landscapes and is often compared to the moon. Explore best destinations with our experts. The Nordic countries are known around the world for their unique history and culture. }); pauseOnHover:false, itemMargin:0 The country's total water area, summing up all inland waters: lakes, rivers, reservoirs, wetlands, etc. Switzerland is a very expensive country, but as I said to a Swiss friend, "They are not making any more Switzerlands, so I guess we just have to pay up." This will provide some idea of the scenery - https://goo.gl/images/YkvvB1 and the town - https://goo.gl/images/GX1uMN . Heres what to expect in each country along with a highlight or two to help you decide on your next Nordic travel destination. Interesting facts about Stockholm. I found Norwegians in Oslo to be pretty down to earth. I managed to upload it on google drive. This museum hosts the best-preserved 17th century ship in the world. Sweden is a little warmer than Norway, especially if you visit at the right time of year, and its easier to see more of the country in one go. Usually, you can move between Scandinavian regions quite easily when youre there, so you can split up your days however you choose. If you're looking for the best time to visit Switzerland, then you'll be glad to know that each season has its own charm bringing in the option to indulge in a variety of activities. At the same time, a trip to Iceland wont require a visa as far as there is a valid passport for 6 months from the day of entry in Iceland. The Nordic countries can be difficult to get used to at first, but once you settle in, youre sure to fall in love with the experience. Filter to find short and long-term house sits with pets you love. }); Re: Norway or Switzerland. Country comparison: Switzerland / Norway - Worlddata.info Beyond the city centers, youll find a unique range of experiences, like Gamla Stan (old town), and Drottingholm Palace, just a short distance from Stockholm. Suggested Read: 8 Magnificent Waterfalls In Iceland Every Nature Lover Out There Must Visit. Ocean Scenery. For volcanic and otherworldly landscapes, Iceland is your best bet. Both have high mountains, lakes, trolleys and glaciers. Norwegians are perhaps more individualistic than swedes, but swedes might be more fun. You can also visit Grimsey Island in Akureyri, which is a home to one hundred people and a million seabirds. The city which is present on the island of Tromsoya has a great collection of museum and the city has a historical importance. }); $(window).resize(function(){ While much of the Nordic region is defined by mountains, glaciers and other natural features, the highest point in Denmark is just 566 feet above sea level. Sky-high peaks, glaciers and thundering falls elicit gasps of wonder wherever you go. For example, Stockholm locals often head out to the much quieter islands of the Stockholm archipelago when they need some downtime. The hiking, views, hospitality, and food are all wonderful, and less expensive than Switzerland. Welcoming locals. Prev. Why Switzerland has been ranked 'best country' in the world once again Norway Vs Iceland: A Face-off Of Two European Heavens. If these movies are not available in your region, use a reliable VPN tounblock content on Netflix. Offseason is the best period for adventure freaks to visit these places. Oslo combines the natural and urban elements of Norway into a unique experience travellers love. itemWidth:300, If public transport, then Switzerland would be better as they have very well connected train/cable car links everywhere. While you can still sometimes go whale hunting in Norway, although its becoming more of a taboo topic. Theres a lot of competition between the two countries, because Sweden is more populated than Norway. House Sitting in Seedorf, Switzerland | TrustedHousesitters.com On the other hand, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? $('#metaslider_57769').metaslider_scale_layers({ Additionally, Sweden is a little more restrictive with alcohol. Also I prefer the norwegian landscape, it feels more accessible with beautiful forests, coast lines and fjords rather than rugged tall mountains. For mountains and fjords, look to . var metaslider_57769 = function($) { When you're house and pet sitting, you provide free house and pet care. Brands from Sweden: What are the most famous Swedish brands? Country Subcontinent Continent World. var el = $(this); For some drop-dead scenery, I'd try the American Southwest in May: do a park trip of Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches & Canyonlands. Thanks. The Goldensquare is one of the most beautiful tours that Reykjavik offers. $('#metaslider_57782 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { But if one wanted to do a walk/hike at one of the more scenic higher altitude trails those would be extremely dangerous at that time of year without proper equipment (more than most tourists are prepared for and depending on the children could be unsafe for kids) ; on routes that are a relative easy walk/hike in the summer months. A trip to either place makes most sense to combine with a visit to Denmark itself given the direct flights from Copenhagen. By the way, they're also the three most expensive countries in Europe. Yet occasionally, your eyes could deceive you. Good point Lo, I missed the time of year. Switzerland, a small landlocked country, covers an area of 41,285 sq. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. var cloned = el.clone(); There's an extensive range from mountain scenery to semi-desert in the beautiful Okanagan and coastal. the five principal countries of the Nordic region. Switzerland was also ranked second best in the world for conducting business and was considered the second-most trustworthy country. Norway and Switzerland have some similarities, because of the mountains, but it's the fjords that make Norway so stunning (which Switzerland obviously doesn't have). But I am not sure how to upload it on tripadvisor. Best Time to Visit Switzerland 2023: All-Season Guide - Thrillophilia Neither of them have what Iceland has, though - the stuff that's fascinating, unique, odd, and often just plain weird. While Sweden is brimming with magical forests and lakes, Norway is packed full of sensationally beautiful fjords and icy locations. $('li:not(".flex-active-slide") .animated', slider).not('.disabled').each(function(index) { + $4.63 shipping. 5. downscale_only: false, You need to get your rupee notes converted into Kroner before you get into this nation. I had prepared an excel sheet with train timings and connections for Switzerland. Oslo is the capital city of Norway and is a hub for various tourist destinations. Norway is 10 times wider and less people, Switzerland sits in the middle of Europe surrounded by big countries, Norway is on the northern edge surrounded by ocean (and Sweden) 6. It is a great nesting spot for the 30 species of birds who squat there every spring. Stay tuned and well bring the essence of Scandinavia to you. Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500, Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499, Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199. We will also call you back in 24 hrs. https://www.banfflakelouise.com/trip-planning/getting-here, Is Jasper / Banff area of Canada is good and worth to visit. Norway is 10 times wider and less people, Switzerland sits in the middle of Europe surrounded by big countries, Norway is on the northern edge surrounded by ocean (and Sweden). I think Norway is better for watching fjords, adventure hiking in the mountains, and getting out of the world experience (see Atlantic Road, Pulpit Rock, Northern Lights at Tromso etc). Bangkok. more. Copenhagen red light district: Where is it, and is it safe? Suggested Read: The 7 Best Water Parks In Iceland For A Great Weekend Out. Start by checking out the amazing capital city of Oslo, where youll find some forward-thinking architecture and even heated roads to tackle the snow. All Rights Reserved. after spending many weeks in these areas , over previous trips, we never cease to be impressed with alp areas, and they all offer similar experiences. A fire in 1904 destroyed most of the city and after the renovation and reconstruction, it has become a wonderful picturesque in the present day. }); 2023 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy, The Dolomites (Italy) and Alpi di Siusi - as others have suggested there are some incredibly scenic places there -, Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut (Austria) - the village of Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful places I've seen in Europe. Back. The median income in Switzerland is significantly higher than in most countries. the BIG difference is price. If you just want to visit the best destination in Scandinavia, wed recommend planning to go to all of the regions whenever you can. Seriously??". When youre deciding whether to live in Norway or Sweden, its worth noting both countries give you an excellent opportunity to absorb the best experiences in nature. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. In Norway, there are approximately 12.2 babies per 1,000 people as of 2020. (It should really go in Switzerland forum instead).. Hi the best thing is to do both if not in one trip then on two different times. The most attractive feature of this city is its botanical garden. Norway travel takes longer as it's a long country. From home comforts to the calming company of pets, house sitting offers so much more. ( only some cable cars etc working) but the scenery was spectacular!!! Also considered part of the Nordic region and worth considering are two constituent countries within the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Greenland. Aren't you located either in or near Toronto? window.open(layer.attr('data-link'), layer.attr('data-target')); Glenn, ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-91202434', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Iceland a lot, I prefer Norway. The fjords, mountains, and Sami culture were fascinating and blew my mind. Average temperature: -1 to 10 degree Celsius. You can even take a trip to Gothenburg and check out the bohemian Haga district. Iceland versus Norway - A Luxury Travel Blog When it comes to choosing between Sweden or Norway, its worth checking out some of the wonderful things you can do in each region. In Switzerland, on the other hand, 3.6 children do as of 2022. have 15.1% fewer children. Everything in Sweden is universally accessible thanks to a wonderful public transportation system. Season: Mixed (Late-winter and early-spring) Daylight: 8 to 13 hours in Oslo, 10 to 14 hours in Tromso. Many Finns love nature and are fond of physical activity. Whichever country you pick, you are guaranteed breathtaking scenery. Is Norway prettier than Sweden? - 2023 Eating at a restaurant in Norway will cost around 35% than it does in Sweden. And is traveling by public transit a necessity (previous mention of loving the trains)? It depends on what you are looking for or want to see. The natural attractions of Icelandlava fields, hot springs, geysers and blue ice glacier cavesare seemingly endless, yet theres a new destination that everyones talking about in 2022. You must opt for Norway if you are looking vibrancy in places and a colorful aura. . animationSpeed:600, Both countries are gorgeous so either way you will enjoy! I love both countries and since I was not able to decide, I made. score for Swiss. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Re: Norway or Switzerland. Of cource both are very expensive to travel in . Scranton, PA (18503) Today. before: function(slider) { Norway and Australia living comparison. Not Adventure Lovers? At the time of writing, $1 = 9.72 Swedish krona and costs overall are less than Norway. While the scenery is far more impressive in Norway for most people, youre going to need more time and money to get around all the best attractions, as its not as easy to explore this unique landscape. Does Norway use the Euro? Daytime temperatures: 15.3 C. orig_width: 300 So as much as we love the Swiss Alps (and hope to be back many times), we still are drawn to the American and Canadian West while we're still able to complete longer, more strenuous hikes (and enjoy the search for moose, bear, elk, eagles, etc.). U.S. travelers now have an easier time of visiting Iceland thanks to the launch of several new routes to/from Reykjavik operated by PLAY, a low-cost airlinelaunched last year that is quickly expanding. }); Switzerland vs. Portugal odds, picks and predictions Help Wanted. Despite their similarities, each of the five main Nordic countriesDenmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Swedenoffers something different to travelers. If car, then Norway could be better. Nearly half of the inhabitants of the country live in the far south, in the region around Oslo, the capital. 23 Apr 2023 - 04 May 2023. These places in Norway should definitely be on your checklist: It is located on the western coast of Norway. While saunas are popular throughout the region, Finland is the undisputed home. The country is famous across the world for its picturesque landscapes. $('#metaslider_57769 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { 80%. The 510-mile Baltic Sea Route is the pick of the bunch. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for 1.43CTS 5MM VS ROUND UNTREAT CHAMPAGNE COLOR LAB CERTIFIED LOOSE NATURAL DIAMOND at the best online prices at eBay! While youre in Sweden, its definitely worth checking out some of the local food, like the incredible smorgasbord, and local seafood. So to keep this even, I will compare the biggest cities, medium ones, and the smallest towns. I also visited the Paris but it was "just OK" for me but I liked Switzerland due to best unforgettable scenic views. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland's most beautiful Village - YouTube The city was rebuilt with stone and brick in the architectural style of the time. If youre planning on going to just one destination, then wed recommend checking out Norway if youre interested in dramatic sights and incredible experiences. $('#metaslider_57782').metaslider_scale_layers({ we had a car, so getting around was no problem. I've been to almost all of the places mentioned, and while many areas have spectacular mountains, what makes Switzerland unique (in the world, in my experience) is the easy access to amazing views via the myriad cable cars/trains, etc (which in part is what you're paying those exhorbitant prices for). }); Having been to all three countries, I'll throw in my two cents. Switzerland is a tiny Country where you can easly move from one place to the other within a single day, that is totally impossible in Norway, where just a few People live on a giant area. Switzerland Maps & Facts - World Atlas last year we toured switzerland ( lauterbrunnen area etc) , also ramsau am dachstein, ramsau bei berchtesgaden, and alta badia italy ( dolomites) - we have previously been to the french alps eg: chamonix Switzerland. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Scandification explores and celebrates the magic of Scandinavia. Is Switzerland Really So Expensive In 2023? - The Poor Swiss ", Switzerland is "No? Stein am Rhein is a European town that is so idyllic that it looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. While Sweden is brimming with magical forests and lakes, Norway is packed full of sensationally beautiful fjords and icy locations.. Norway and Switzerland have some similarities, because of the mountains, but it's the fjords that make Norway so stunning (which Switzerland obviously doesn't have). reverse:false, Scandinavian countries are known for their amazing quality of life. $('#metaslider_57769 .msHtmlOverlay').each(function() { For an interesting perspective on the beauty of Switzerland in comparison to British Columbia, I recently spoke with a Swiss couple in Bella Coola, B.C. In addition, both countries have fantastic alpine regions, which attract countless tourists every year. Boundless Journeys is an award . ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-68706850', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');rent a car or doing trip by public transport? prevText:"<", Winds E at 15 to 25 mph. Nighttime temperatures: 6.5 C. var layer = $(this); Support local journalism. Steve is a part-time Suecophile and full-time wanderlust. Should we plan our trip in some different order ? Truly inspiring DIY set design, and a beautiful musical score that you'll find yourself humming long after the film has ended." --Bailey Hart (filmmaker) 4. bgwalthermart. It is a storehouse of art and culture. Are you ready to discover the most famous landmarks in Norway? Saurabh's Family Trip Proves Hong Kong To Still Be Full Of Fun. While Iceland has unique sights that not many other places offer (geothermal water, glaciers/icebergs, volcanoes, etc). There are some significant discrepancies between cities and states and also between jobs. Theres something here to suit almost every type of tourist and plenty of places to stay, so Norway is great for entire families to visit. Jasper/Banff/Assinboine/Glacier ; all near Calgary, Canada It is a geothermal spa, filled with seawater and has healing powers. Ireland. $(this).css('display', 'block'); Norway is much more beautiful for me, more peaceful, less commercialized, and with much friendlier and smiling people. This place is excellent if you are into outdoor sports like horse riding, golf, hiking, and birdwatching. Norway is 10 times wider and less people, Switzerland sits in the middle of Europe surrounded by big countries, Norway is on the northern edge surrounded by ocean (and Sweden) 6. Finland's capital city Helsinki is a must for, Iceland Expects One Million Tourists In 2022, Norway's glaciers hide magnificent blue ice caves. Also depends on what type of walks/hikes you enjoy. Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000. easily rivals jungfrau area. Choosing which stunning Scandinavian location to explore isnt easy. Fjords, beaches and NL and so Norway is better for these things. Norway is good for steep hikes up high-drama peaks, where you can get your winning Insta pose - the trek up to Pulpit Rock is the classic example of this.. Sweden, meanwhile, has some amazing long-distance hikes, such as the Kingsleden, that wend their way through national parks . Get answers to your questions about Iceland, Wild camping with a vehicle is illegal in Iceland, What ,,not to do when traveling in Iceland", Taxi/Bus costs from KEF Airport to Reykjavik. 1 280 km. easing:"linear", In addition to that, Tromso is a great location for Northern Lights. So, is Sweden better than Norway for things to do? Make sure you do your research before you plan your transition. After 6,000 years of silence, the Geldingadalir volcano burst into life in March 2021 in an eruption that would ultimately last for six months. I managed to upload it on google drive. And as May is an unusual month to travel with children unless they're not school-aged, it might also be helpful to know how young they are? nextText:">", Although Hsavk has plenty of exploration sites and probably is one of the finest places of picturesque beauty, it is a smaller town and has certain amenities, such as restaurants in the off-season. If you want natural beauty but not necessarily Alpine mountains, then Iceland. Stream Switzerland vs. Norway on Watch ESPN. If so, Banff/Jasper would be a no-brainer: fly to Calgary or Vancouver and rent a car. both places have at least this in common: they are most probably the most expensive places for tourists in Europe ! But I am not sure how to upload it on tripadvisor. Head over to Bergen as the gateway to the fjords and grab a guided tour to check out the scenery. You can check out cities like Oslo or break away from the rest of the world on a walk around some of the most beautiful natural environments in the world. On the plus side, if you do live in Norway or Sweden, youll benefit from things like excellent healthcare coverage, fantastic schooling opportunities for your children, and a wonderful environmental protection strategy. total water area. el.before(cloned); Norway is best known for its unforgettable fjords, and its also a wonderful place to check out natural phenomenon like the Northern Lights. Norway or Sweden: What to expect from Norway. On the other hand, Iceland has a weaker currency unit, known as Icelandic Krna that values for around 0.57 Indian rupees. Hi, [3] The festival opened with Franois Ozon 's drama film Peter von Kant. init: function(slider) { Both countries share similar cultures, with magical traditions to explore, and breath-taking sights to enjoy. If youre looking for an outdoor adventure, both Sweden and Norway have a lot to offer, though each will give you a vastly different view. Here, youll learn what you can expect when you visit each of these countries, as well as what you might need to consider when migrating. timer_metaslider_57769(); It is also one of the worlds northernmost inhabited areas. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-91199697', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Renting a car, and exploring at our own pace, is what we prefer usually, but because Switzerland has such fantastic public transport we'll use that mostly. Norway is a great destination for hikers and those in search of a challenge. Key Facts. Or, you can also explore a Medieval trading place preserved in time. It is believed to have cured diseases of many. Many, if not most, of the mountainous areas of the northern hemisphere could be at least partially inaccessible due to snow in May. When youre deciding whether to visit Norway or Sweden, make sure you think about your outdoor options. Both have high mountains, lakes, trolleys and glaciers. I was there back in May of 2015 for about 2.5 weeks. Is there anything else that we should consider ? The best mountains, public transport system esp trains and gondolas, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? the other area that we very much enjoyed was surrounding the der dachstein , we stayed in ramsau, but there are other quaint villages nearby. At their "wilderness home", there's no electricity, running water or plumbing, no communications etc.