Scandinavia [Norway, Sweden, Finland]

[seth]

So, previously I thought that I wanted to try Iceland. But on second thoughts - and after my most recent daytrip to Helsinki - I am immensely tempted to take in the sights of Scandinavia instead, while still achieving my aim of watching the Northern Lights.

I need some help putting together a comfortable, 14-15 day itinerary, as well as transport tips. Looking at travel in either Sept or Oct 2013.

Must see sights/do things?
Northern lights
Fjords (I heard those in Norway are gorgeous)
Quaint old towns (Bergen?)
Lapland and if possible, something related to the Arctic

Optional sights?
Tallinn, Estonia
Hot tub/spa (Where's a good place to do it?)
Ikea in Stockholm.

Tentative plan is this:
Fly into Stockholm (Or should I skip Stockholm and go straight to Oslo?)
Oslo (2N)
Train to Bergen (1N)
Bergen (2N)
North Norway/Sweden/Finland?
Helsinki/Espoo, with one day trip to Tallinn?
Fly out of Helsinki

Thanks in advance for your advice.

[madamtrashheap]

Great to hear you enjoyed Helsinki, seth, and that you've been inspired to see more of Scandi. Just a few points on your notes, where I can help out:

Northern Lights - these can be illusive at the best of times, but are non-existent in the months you plan to go. They are better found in Nov-Feb as a general rule, so you won't see them in Sept or Oct.

Fjords - stunning! If you can sort some time on a boat, even the postal cruise, in Norway you won't be disappointed.

Bergen is lovely, and if you're looking to combine fjords with small villages, then look at Geiranger.

If you just want to be able to say you've been in the Arctic circle, then you could look at somewhere like Finnmark (a long way north of even Tromso, which is already in the Actic Circle), but it's a long way to go just to say you've been there, so factor that in to your time.

As for Estonia, I think we've talked about this before in your previous post. If you go, then perhaps for a full day, rather than just an overnight.

Don't get too carried away with fitting too much in to your 14 days. Rather, pick places you'd like to visit in Sweden, as you've done with Norway, and the route will show itself from there.

Good luck with the next round of planning.