A Flower Lover’s Guide to Scandinavia
Scandinavia, known for its stunning landscapes, is a haven for flower enthusiasts. Whether you’re captivated by wildflowers, lush gardens, or vibrant flower festivals, the region offers a rich variety of floral experiences. Here's a florist guide to the best places to visit in Scandinavia for flower lovers.
1. The Keukenhof Garden (Denmark)
Though Keukenhof is technically located in the Netherlands, Denmark is an excellent starting point for exploring the region’s iconic tulip displays. Denmark’s proximity to the Netherlands means you can easily explore both regions, especially if you are visiting during the peak of tulip season (April to May). Denmark is also home to numerous flower markets, such as the one in Copenhagen, where you can enjoy fresh flowers year-round.
2. The Royal Botanic Garden (Copenhagen, Denmark)
The Royal Botanic Garden in Copenhagen is a must-see for anyone passionate about plants and flowers. Established in the 19th century, it features over 13,000 species of plants and flowers from around the world. The garden boasts seasonal displays, a historic glasshouse, and numerous themed sections, including tropical and alpine plants. Visit during spring and summer for an explosion of color, with magnolias, rhododendrons, and tulips in full bloom.
3. The Swedish Lapland (Sweden)
For flower lovers seeking a more rugged experience, the Swedish Lapland is a fantastic destination. While it's often associated with northern lights and winter activities, summer in this far northern region brings a surprising abundance of flowers. Mountain tundra flowers like Arctic poppies, alpine orchids, and moss campion cover the landscape. You’ll find them in the mountains around Abisko National Park, a prime location for trekking and floral exploration.
4. The Island of Gotland (Sweden)
Gotland, an island off the coast of Sweden, is a flower paradise, especially during late spring and early summer. The island is known for its wildflowers and medieval landscapes, with over 2,000 different plant species. The warm climate and rich soil create an ideal environment for orchids, daisies, and poppies. Fårös island, just off Gotland, is another great spot for wildflower lovers, where you can experience coastal flowers like sea thrift and other hardy species.
5. The Botanic Garden of Oslo (Norway)
Norway’s capital, Oslo, features a beautiful Botanic Garden, located within the University of Oslo. The garden showcases thousands of plant species, including Scandinavian wildflowers, alpine plants, and rare species from temperate zones. The botanical garden's rock garden is particularly famous, featuring flowers from both the Arctic and mountainous regions. Spring brings a stunning display of crocuses, primroses, and lilies of the valley.
6. Flower Festivals in Bergen (Norway)
Bergen, often called the “Gateway to the Fjords,” is famous for its flower festivals. During late spring and summer, the city’s flower markets burst with color, and various flower-themed events and exhibitions take place. Visit during the Bergen International Festival in June, which often features floral installations, garden tours, and other horticultural delights. Bergen’s charming old town, Bryggen, is also a picturesque place to stroll and enjoy the surrounding flowers and greenery.
7. Lofoten Islands (Norway)
The Lofoten Islands, known for their stunning fjords and rugged mountains, are home to a diverse range of wildflowers. From sea buckthorn and wild orchids to bluebells and heather, these islands offer a natural floral wonderland, particularly in the late spring and early summer. You can find vibrant wildflowers along the coastline and in the sheltered valleys. The islands' remote beauty offers an intimate and serene flower-watching experience.
8. The Tulip Festival in Skåne (Sweden)
Every spring, the southern region of Skåne in Sweden celebrates its annual Tulip Festival. With expansive fields filled with colorful tulips, this event attracts flower lovers from all over Scandinavia. The Apotekarens Trädgård in Kristianstad and the Nordiska Trädgårdar event in Malmö are perfect spots for tulip enthusiasts. The festival lasts from April to May, offering an explosion of color with over 100,000 tulips blooming.
9. The Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden (Norway)
If you’re drawn to rare and unique flowers, the Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden is an exceptional destination. Located above the Arctic Circle, this garden is home to over 2,000 plant species, including a stunning collection of Arctic and alpine flowers. It's an awe-inspiring place to see native Scandinavian plants alongside species from across the world’s cold regions. The garden is open year-round, though summer is when it truly comes alive.
10. The Norwegian Fjords
No trip to Scandinavia would be complete without experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Norwegian fjords, where wildflowers flourish along the steep hillsides. From June to August, the Aurlandsfjord and Sognefjord regions bloom with a variety of alpine flowers, such as gentians, anemones, and heathers. The Geirangerfjord is another scenic area where flowers thrive among the towering cliffs and lush valleys.
Scandinavia offers an incredible array of destinations for flower lovers. From the rugged beauty of the Arctic Circle to the cultivated splendor of royal gardens, this region provides floral experiences for every taste. Whether you’re touring well-known gardens, attending a festival, or hiking through untouched wilderness, Scandinavia promises unforgettable moments for those with a love for flowers.
