These Are The 12 Biggest Scandinavian Cities

When many people think of Scandinavia, it's fjords, northern lights, mountains, fishing boats and lakes that spring to mind. But the Scandinavian cities are just as distinct. Let's take a closer look.

While it's those spectacular landscapes that attract the tourists, it's the cities of Scandinavia where the majority of the population live and work.

Urban areas in Scandinavia are defined by their unique architecture, green spaces, efficient public transit systems and an overall approach to sustainability.

No one city is particularly big in world terms. In fact, international visitors to the region are often shocked at how compact and easy to get around the urban areas are. The biggest of them all barely gets to 1.5 million.

Are you a fan of Scandinavian design, historic architecture, waterfront neighbourhoods, clean streets and modern touches? If so, a Scandinavian city break could be right for you.

Population of Scandinavian Cities

It can sometimes be difficult to discuss precise population figures because of issues like students, whether to count the wider metropolitan area or the city proper, and what to do with neighbouring cities.

However, we've done our best to bring you this list of the region's biggest 12 cities. The definition we've used is the population living in the principal urban area. To be clear, we're using the usual definition of Scandinavia: Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Hopefully, this list will give you some inspiration for your next city break in the region. Happy planning!

12. Aalborg, Denmark

Population 122,360. Denmark's fourth largest city is best known for its modern waterfront district on the Limfjord, the body of water that slices through Jutland.

Aalborg stands proudly as Denmark’s fourth-largest city and a vibrant cultural hub. Nestled on the shores of the strait that slices through Jutland, Aalborg seamlessly blends its historic charm with striking modernity.

The city’s waterfront district is a testament to this fusion, featuring sleek, innovative designs that attract architecture enthusiasts from across the globe.

Highlights include the Utzon Center, designed by Jørn Utzon, the famed architect behind the Sydney Opera House, and the stunning House of Music, a futuristic cultural landmark that hosts concerts, performances, and creative workshops.

Art lovers are equally enchanted by the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art, a preserved yet reimagined masterpiece. Recently renovated, it now boasts elegant marble floors and custom-made copper lamps by renowned Finnish designer Alvar Aalto.

Foodies flock here to savour the latest trends in New Nordic cuisine, with restaurants and cafes embracing hyper-local ingredients and inventive techniques. Whether it’s fresh seafood from the Limfjord or seasonal produce from nearby farms, the city offers a true taste of Denmark's gastronomic excellence.

11. Stavanger, Norway

Population 148,682. Stavanger may be renowned as Norway’s oil capital, but this dynamic city offers much more than industry. It’s a lively destination that attracts visitors with its unique blend of history, innovation, art, and natural beauty.

A great starting point is the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, a surprisingly engaging attraction that provides an in-depth look at the offshore oil industry that helped shape modern Norway.

Far from being dry or technical, the museum features hands-on exhibits that make it particularly enjoyable for families. Kids can explore interactive displays and learn about geology, engineering, and life on oil rigs in an engaging, fun environment.

Outside the museum, creativity takes centre stage at a playground constructed from recycled offshore oil industry materials. The design cleverly incorporates the geological layers of the Troll oil field, blending education and play in a way that sparks curiosity in children and adults alike.

Stavanger’s prime location makes it a natural base for exploring the stunning natural wonders of the Lysefjord. Among the most popular activities is a day trip to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), the awe-inspiring cliff that rises 604 metres above the fjord.

The hike to the plateau is a must for adventurers, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Just be sure to bring sturdy walking boots and plenty of water to tackle the rugged trail.

Stavanger is also a global hotspot for street art, with its vibrant scene drawing artists and art enthusiasts from all corners of the world. The Nuart Festival transforms the city into an open-air gallery, with international artists creating spectacular murals and installations.

The city’s old town (Gamle Stavanger) is a delightful contrast to its modern energy, with narrow cobblestone streets lined by charming white wooden houses, many dating back to the 18th century. This picturesque district is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers plenty of photo opportunities.

10. Uppsala, Sweden

Population 166,698. Sweden's fourth-largest city, Uppsala, has long been a cornerstone of scientific and educational innovation. It is famously the birthplace of the Celsius scale for temperature, a fitting tribute to the city’s scientific legacy.

This reputation as a hub of learning and discovery dates back centuries and continues to this day, with Uppsala hosting some of the country’s most prestigious institutions.

Among these is Uppsala University, established in 1477, making it the oldest university in Sweden and one of the oldest in Scandinavia. The university has been a cradle of groundbreaking research, boasting notable alumni such as botanist Carl Linnaeus, who developed the modern system of naming organisms.

The Carolina Rediviva, the university's library, is home to the famous Silver Bible (Codex Argenteus), a priceless 6th-century manuscript.

The city is also renowned for Scandinavia's largest cathedral, the majestic Uppsala Cathedral, an awe-inspiring example of French Gothic architecture. Designed by French architects and consecrated in 1435 after nearly two centuries of construction, the cathedral is a true masterpiece.

It serves as the final resting place of King Eric IX, who reigned from 1156 to 1160 and was later canonised as Sweden’s patron saint. The cathedral also houses the tombs of other notable figures, including Carl Linnaeus and King Gustav Vasa, the founder of modern Sweden.

For lovers of history and ancient Scandinavian culture, a visit to Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala) is a must. This historic site features royal burial mounds dating back over 2,000 years, believed to be the final resting place of historic kings.

9. Trondheim, Norway

Population 196,948. Founded in 997 by Viking leader Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim holds a special place in Norwegian heritage. The legacy of its founder endures in monuments, traditions, and the city’s enduring role as a cultural and historical hub.

The city’s picturesque downtown is a feast for the eyes, with its colourful wooden warehouses lining the banks of the Nidelva River. These charming buildings, once used for storing grain and fish, are now home to boutique shops, cafes, and galleries.

Overlooking the river, the iconic Old Town Bridge, known locally as “Gamle Bybro,” offers one of Trondheim's most photogenic views.

At the heart of the city stands Nidaros Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece and the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world. Built over the burial site of St. Olav, the Viking king who became Norway’s patron saint, the cathedral has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.

Its intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and grand rose window are a testament to the craftsmanship of medieval builders and the enduring significance of Trondheim in Norway’s spiritual life.

Modern Trondheim is known as Norway’s technology capital, driven by the presence of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). As the country's premier institution for science and engineering, NTNU attracts bright minds from across the globe, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

The city's reputation as a hub for innovation is complemented by its vibrant student culture. With students making up a significant portion of the population, Trondheim has a youthful energy that fuels its dynamic arts scene and an ever-expanding array of cultural events.

8. Odense, Denmark

Population 209,078. Odense, the birthplace of legendary storyteller Hans Christian Andersen, is a city steeped in magic and history.

This charming destination proudly celebrates its connection to Denmark’s most famous writer, offering visitors a range of attractions inspired by his life and work.

Even the pedestrian crossing lights feature Andersen’s iconic silhouette, a whimsical touch that underscores the city’s fairytale charm.

A highlight of any visit to Odense is the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, a comprehensive homage to the writer’s life and legacy.

Beyond Andersen, Odense is home to some of Denmark’s top attractions. Odense Zoo, often hailed as the country’s best, delights visitors of all ages with its impressive animal exhibits and engaging educational programs.

As one of Denmark's oldest cities, Odense is a must for history buffs. Odin's Odense is a real highlight. Here you can discover stories from Iron age history and the Viking lifestyle.

A striking feature of the city is its open green spaces, perfect for taking a relaxing break during a sightseeing trip. Kongens Have was laid out as a Baroque garden in the 1720s, while the waterside Munke Mose is a popular family destination.

7. Bergen, Norway

Population 291,940. Norway's second biggest city and former capital is best known for its historic Hanseatic history. German traders built the city up during the late Middle Ages due to the demand from continental Europe for Norwegian fish, seafood and fish oil.

These days, the city is visited by thousands of tourists every day, many arriving by cruise ship, and others on the famous Bergen Line railway from Oslo. Day-trippers spend their time in the historic Bryggen district, but there's loads more to see.

To escape the crowds and discover the area's true charms, slip into the alleyways behind. Here you'll discover beautifully restored architecture home to modern independent boutiques and galleries.

Fantoft Stave Church is another highlight. Located in a suburb, the reconstructed stave church was moved here piece by piece from a rural location to prevent its destruction.

For those staying longer, the city is also a terrific base for exploring the Norwegian fjords. Various tours are available, including a speedboat to Balestrand and Flåm in the summer months.

If you've never been to Norway before, come prepared. You don't often see it in the photos, but Bergen is one of the rainiest places in Europe, and the fjords aren't far behind.

6. Aarhus, Denmark

Population 295,688. Denmark’s second-largest city, Aarhus, offers an enticing mix of history, culture, and contemporary flair.

While it’s a thriving urban hub, its compact size makes it feel approachable, with nearly everything you might want to explore—harbour, forest, beaches, shops, restaurants, and hotels—within walking distance of the city centre.

One of Aarhus’s most iconic attractions is the Old Town (Den Gamle By), an open-air museum that transports visitors back in time. This spectacular historic quarter features meticulously restored buildings from different periods of Danish history, offering an immersive experience of life in bygone eras.

Aarhus has firmly established itself on the cultural map, thanks to its dynamic restaurant and bar scene and major annual events like the NorthSide music festival. This three-day event, held within walking distance of the city centre, attracts both local and international music fans and brings a youthful energy to Aarhus every summer.

The city’s recognition as a European Capital of Culture in 2017 has also boosted its profile. Global travel media have heaped praise on Aarhus, with outlets like CNN declaring it “primed to steal Copenhagen’s scene.”

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is one of the city’s standout attractions, featuring cutting-edge exhibitions and the unmissable Your Rainbow Panorama, a multicoloured glass walkway that offers breathtaking views of the city. The museum’s blend of thought-provoking art and interactive experiences makes it a favourite for visitors of all ages.

5. Malmö, Sweden

Population 362,133. The city itself might be small but Malmö part of a much wider urban area. Not only do almost one million people live within easy reach of the city, the wonderful Öresund bridge links the conurbation with Copenhagen.

When it comes to tourism, Malmö inevitably lives in the shadow of its more famous neighbour across the water, but the Swedish city offers a lot to tempt travellers across the bridge. The city's population skews young, with almost half under the age of 35.

Originally built as a minor citadel in 1436, Malmöhus Castle is Sweden's oldest renaissance castle. Its lively history is a must for anyone interested in Scandinavian history.

But there's modern architecture too. The most notable building is the quirky Turning Torso. The neo-futurist residential skyscraper is the tallest building in Scandinavia.

Malmö is also a green city, boasting numerous parks and a commitment to sustainability, making it a modern and inviting urban escape.

4. Gothenburg, Sweden

Population 608,462. Gothenburg is the biggest of the Scandinavian cities that is not a national capital.

But despite its relatively large size, Sweden's second biggest city has a different feel from the capital, Stockholm. The city's look and feel is best known for its Dutch-style canals and leafy boulevards.

The reason? Gothenburg was built by the Dutch during the 1600s, as they were considered the best at building on marshland. The original city was built inside a large zigzag-shaped city wall, a feature that characterised the city for centuries.

The gardens and amusement park at Liseberg draw tourists in great numbers. While its generally open during the summer months, its special events around Halloween and Christmas are well worth attending if you're in the town.

Yet the city has a more chilled-out vibe than you might expect, with plenty of green space to relax. Check out the riverside walk that's perfect for people watching.

But don't get the impression that this is a lazy city! The big student population means there's plenty of events year-round, such as the film festival every January.

Gothenburg Archipelago offers a serene escape with over 20 picturesque islands just a short ferry ride from the city. Known for their quaint fishing villages, rugged landscapes, and car-free tranquility, the islands are perfect for kayaking, hiking, or simply unwinding amidst nature.

Finally, back in the city, don't miss the 19th-century atmosphere of the old town, Haga. The area has undergone gentrification although some of the original wooden houses remain. It's a great spot for a coffee and a bite to eat.

3. Oslo, Norway

Population 709,037. Norway's capital city, Oslo has grown remarkably in recent years, drawing immigrants from all around the world and from other parts of Norway.

The city itself has a population of more than 700,000, but the entire metropolitan area around the inner Oslofjord swells that figure to well over a million.

Oslo is best known for its access to nature. That's a bit of theme in this article! Top choices to discover include the Oslofjord islands just a few minutes boat ride away from the City Hall. If you want to stay on dry land, head instead to the forest that almost encircles the city.

Holmenkollen ski jump is the centrepiece of a world-class ski arena. Getting there on the metro is half the fun, and the views back across the city make the trip worthwhile. Continue on the metro all the way to Frognerseteren to reach the Nordmarka forest.

The central area is undergoing something of a revolution, with new buildings aplenty. Since the opening of the new National Gallery and Munch Museum, Oslo has one of the hottest art scenes in Scandinavia.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Population 1,378,649. Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital, effortlessly combines historic charm with cutting-edge design and sustainability.

Iconic landmarks like Christiansborg Palace and the Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle offer a glimpse into the city’s royal past, while the colourful Nyhavn quay invites visitors to relax at pavement cafes overlooking the picturesque harbour.

A global hub for design enthusiasts, Copenhagen boasts a renowned design district and world-class shopping, attracting style aficionados from across the globe.

Tradition also thrives here, with Tivoli Gardens, a historic theme park, providing year-round delight and serving as the cultural heartbeat of the city. It’s a must-visit for families.

Copenhagen is a cyclist’s paradise, with outstanding infrastructure that prioritises bikes over cars, making cycling the best way to explore. For those on foot, the city’s compact layout is easily navigable, complemented by an efficient public transport system.

1. Stockholm, Sweden

Population 1,515,017. Sweden’s capital city, Stockholm, is the largest city in Scandinavia and the Nordic countries, offering an alluring mix of history, modernity, and natural beauty.

Spanning 14 islands, the city’s waterways and green spaces make it feel more like a serene oasis than a bustling metropolis. Each district has its own personality, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

In the historic heart of Stockholm, Gamla Stan (Old Town) enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and landmarks like the Royal Palace and Storkyrkan Cathedral. Meanwhile, across the water, the Södermalm district appeals to trendsetters with its vibrant arts scene, vintage shops, and chic cafes.

While Stockholm is a thriving urban centre, its true magic lies just beyond the city limits in the Stockholm Archipelago, a breathtaking collection of some 25,000 islands.

These islands range from tiny rocky outcrops to larger, forested islands dotted with charming red cottages. In summer, this area offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking, hiking, and relaxing in pristine nature.

A boat trip through the archipelago is an unforgettable experience, showcasing Sweden’s deep connection to the outdoors. Ferries and boat tours operate year-round, but the summer months bring an explosion of activity.

Getting around Stockholm is a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transport system and walkable city centre. For a more local experience, hop on a ferry or rent a bike to explore the city’s waterfront and parks.

What's your favourite Scandinavian city? Has this post has inspired you to plan a trip? Or perhaps just to find out more about this fascinating region of the world? If so, why not share your find on Pinterest? Just hit the social sharing buttons.