When it comes to scenery, Scandinavia really sets a high bar. But if you want to extend your trip and visit Germany for a few days without lingering in the same place, the Rhine Gorge should be at the top of your list. As far as extra stops go, you can’t really get better than this.
The natural environments are different enough to feel new and fresh, but similar enough to feel familiar. Plus, the two regions connect much more easily than you might realise.
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Planning Your Trip
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Two Sides of Europe’s Dramatic Scenery
Both Scandinavia and the Rhine Gorge have beautifully dramatic scenery, but they look quite different when you compare them side-by-side.
Norway’s Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord are absolutely massive, and the rocks drop for miles until they reach the water. These areas are raw and breathtaking, and they’re largely untouched by human history.
When you’re packing for your trip, you’ll want to make sure your camera gets a spot in your suitcase. These are views you won’t want to forget!
On the other hand, the piece of the Rhine between Koblenz and Bingen is much softer. The slopes aren’t as steep, and the river is a little wider. The hillsides are draped in vineyard terraces, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot a medieval castle on top of one.
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The History of the Rhine Gorge
If you’re interested in history, you’ll love the Rhine Gorge.
The Nordic fjords show you what Europe looked like before people arrived and started taking over the land, but the Rhine shows you what happened after. The UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine Valley is a living testament to the trade and conflict that goes all the way back to Roman times.
Lorelei Rock is also associated with one of Germany’s most well-known legends. Rumor has it that sirens used to lure sailors to their death on the rocks below. And whether you believe it or not, the rock has a genuinely eerie feeling.
The Slow Travel Advantage of River Cruising
Although the fjords and the Rhine Gorge may look different, they have one important thing in common: both are perfect for slow, intentional travel.
A Rhine river cruise is the ideal way to take it all in. You’re never too far from the shore, and there’s always something new to look at. It’s exactly what makes cruising through the fjords so satisfying.
Pairing Scandinavia and the Rhine in One European Trip
You can easily add both of these regions to your itinerary without a logistical nightmare on your hands.
The best way to see both is to fly into Oslo or Bergen first, and then fly to Frankfurt. The Rhine Valley is a little less than an hour away from there by train. It’s really as simple as coordinating your flights correctly and giving yourself enough time in each place to really enjoy your vacation.
When to Visit for the Best Contrast
The best time for your visit is somewhere between August and October.
In these months, Scandinavia is warmer and the weather is clear, so the fjords are perfectly visible. The Rhine Gorge is also perfect in September when the crowds are a little thinner.
So, with good timing and a little luck, you can hit the sweet spot for both regions on your trip.
The Trip You Didn’t Know You Were Planning
A lot of travellers treat Scandinavia as the highlight of their trip, as they should, but just know that the Rhine Gorge is anything but a disappointment. Your trip will end on the perfect note, leaving you with one last stretch of scenery that you’ll remember long after you’ve flown home.
