A Hyyge Thanksgiving: Scandinavia & The Baltics

Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen

Our Scandinavian adventure began in the Danish capital, Copenhagen, where we stayed at the luxurious Villa Copenhagen which is super conveniently located in front of the train station. It’s only about 25 minutes from the airport.

This historic hotel effortlessly blends timeless elegance with modern design. The rooftop pool, heated year-round, provided the perfect place to unwind while enjoying views of the city.

Day 2: Explore the Hygge Capital

• Nyhavn: This postcard-perfect harbor lined with colorful 17th-century townhouses was the ideal spot for a morning coffee.
• Tivoli Gardens: Dressed in its holiday finest, Tivoli was a winter wonderland of lights, festive markets, and thrilling rides. Did you know Walt Disney was inspired by Tivoli to create Disneyland?
• Rosenborg Castle: We marveled at the Danish crown jewels and strolled through the surrounding King’s Garden. We even got super lucky that November is when the royal family stays in the castle and the changing of the guards is extra special!

Don’t forget to embrace the Danish concept of “hygge” (coziness) with a warm cinnamon roll and hot chocolate at a local café.

Day 3: Riga – Art Nouveau Elegance

Next, we flew to Riga, Latvia’s capital, where we stayed in the heart of the Old Town. The city welcomed us with its distinctive blend of Gothic spires and Art Nouveau facades.

• Art Nouveau District: Alberta Street felt like stepping into an open-air museum. Every building was a masterpiece.
• Central Market: Housed in former Zeppelin hangars, this market was a sensory delight of local delicacies, from smoked fish to decadent pastries.
• St. Peter’s Church: The panoramic views from the church tower were a breathtaking way to see the city’s skyline.

Pro Tip: Try a glass of Riga Black Balsam, a traditional herbal liqueur, to warm up after exploring the city.

Day 4-5: Tallinn – A Medieval Dream

From Riga, we traveled to Tallinn, Estonia, a city that feels like stepping back in time. Staying at the charming Schlössle Hotel, we enjoyed a blend of medieval ambiance and modern luxury.

• Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cobblestone streets, and ancient walls of Tallinn’s Old Town were straight out of a fairy tale.
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: This iconic onion-domed church added a touch of Russian opulence to the medieval skyline.
• Christmas Market: The market in Town Hall Square was magical, with stalls selling handmade crafts, mulled wine, and festive treats.

Tallinn’s charm lies in its authenticity. Be sure to dine at a medieval-style restaurant like Olde Hansa for a truly unique experience.

Day 6-7: Helsinki – Nordic Cool

Our journey concluded in Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital. We stayed at the newly opened Hotel Maria, a boutique gem that exemplified Nordic minimalism with a luxurious twist.

Highlights:

• Design District: This area was a treasure trove of Finnish design, from sleek furniture to artisan ceramics.
• Temppeliaukio Church: Known as the “Rock Church,” its unique architecture carved into natural rock left us in awe.
• Suomenlinna Fortress: A short ferry ride took us to this UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of exploring.

No visit to Helsinki is complete without experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna. Combine it with a dip in the icy Baltic Sea for the full experience!

This week-long adventure through Scandinavia and the Baltics was a perfect blend of history, culture, and seasonal magic. Each city offered its own unique charm, from Copenhagen’s cozy vibes to Helsinki’s Nordic cool. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable getaway, this region is a must-visit.

So, why settle for a traditional Thanksgiving when you can feast on the wonders of Scandinavia and the Baltics? Let this be your sign to plan your next adventure.