5 reasons to visit the Nordics

Known for their dramatic landscapes and cosmopolitan cities, the Nordic countries - which include Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark and Iceland - offer travellers a memorable holiday.

Visit stunning Lapland and experience an outdoor adventure - choose from activities like reindeer safaris or snow sledding - and learn about local Lappish traditions. If the conditions are right you'll catch a glimpse of the incredible Aurora Borealis. Enjoy snow-covered views of frozen seas and charming island archipelagos as you cosy up in a traditional lodge with panoramic views.

Another way to enjoy the delights of the Nordics is to take a cruise through Oslofjord, visiting Oslo and its wealth of art and culture, and making a stop at Gothenburg, with its beautiful Trädgårdsföreningen park and palm house. Or cruise along the Norwegian coast, spending 5 nights above the Artic Circle, to really maximise your chances of catching a captivating Northern Lights display.

Perhaps choose a city break with a hotel stay in one of the wonderful Nordic capitals. Explore the many islands that make up Stockholm, pay a visit to the pretty old town and enjoy a leisurely fika. Or take a trip to trendy Copenhagen, hop on a bike to take a dip in the harbour pool and browse the fashionable boutiques. Alternatively spend a weekend in Reykjavík, and scale the tower of Hallgrímskirkja church for breathtaking views of the city's colourful roofs and the sea beyond.

Read on to see our five reasons why you should visit the Nordics...

Explore Norway's fjords and coastline with visits to Kristiansund, Tromsø and Trondheim on this 11-night cruise.

Seek the Aurora Borealis on this twelve-day cruise as you sail in comfort aboard your expedition ship, along Norway's coast. Or discover stunning landscapes, historic fishing villages, attractive cities and tales of ancient folklore on this six-night cruise sailing around Norway's glacial fjords.

A highlight will be crossing the Arctic Circle, and sailing Norway's northernmost waters, where your chances of spotting the Northern Lights are high, so as long as the conditions are right you'll be in for a magical experience. The Expedition Team will organise excursions, using their local knowledge to show you the most stunning locations. We recommend our Search for Norway's Northern Lights with expert astronomer Tom Kerss tour.

Scandinavian design is world-famous; spend a night or two in one of our handpicked hotels and enjoy a comfortable and stylish stay. Choose from eco-conscious boutique hotels or landmark luxury establishments in Copenhagen, Stockholm or Reykjavík for an extra special experience.

Our recommendations

• To be near the action - Nobis Hotel, Copenhagen

  This five-star hotel is a stone's throw from many of the city's cultural attractions, including the Tivoli Gardens. You can hire bikes to explore the sights further. Or unwind in the marble-clad relaxation room with sauna and plunge pool

• For relaxation and wellness - The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon

  The geothermal seawater will soothe you in this unique retreat that melds nature with minimalist design and volcanic rock vistas and enjoy a floating massage.