Celebrating My Birthday Across Scandinavia: Where I Stayed and What I Did in Oslo, Stockholm & Copenhagen
If you’re planning a trip to Scandinavia and wondering where to stay in Oslo, Stockholm, or Copenhagen — this post has you covered.
This March, I decided to celebrate my birthday by hopping through the stylish capitals of Scandinavia. My journey took me to Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, where I checked into thoughtfully designed hotels, explored like a local, and yes — managed to squeeze in a boat ride in every city. From fjord cruising to archipelago sailing and canal hopping, it was a true Nordic "hat trick" of seafaring, scenery, and sauna culture.
From fjord cruises and vintage shopping to floating saunas and cozy hotels, here’s everything I did — and loved — in each destination.
Oslo, Norway: Where Nordic Heritage Meets Modern Hospitality
Stayed at: Sommerro House
Best for: Art Deco design lovers, spa seekers, and travelers who want to stay where locals hang out.
Located in Oslo’s elegant Frogner neighborhood near the Royal Palace, Sommerro House is one of the most exciting hotel openings in Norway. The restored 1930s building blends Art Deco charm with modern Norwegian style — plus a rooftop pool, year-round sauna, and seven in-house bars and restaurants. The main dining room has this amazing mural and design that is definitely a draw, especially when the musicians are playing.
My favorite features:
A rooftop view and spa-like amenities
Live music and jazz in the lounge
Spacious, cozy rooms with vintage details
Frequented by locals — always a good sign
What I did in Oslo:
Walked the city from the Royal Palace to the waterfront
Took a fjord sailing tour (a must!)
Visited the quirky Mini Bottle Gallery Museum
Ate at the local food hall and explored Oslo’s microbrewery scene
Met a friend for drinks at the Radisson Blu rooftop bar overlooking the skyline
If you're looking for the best hotel in Oslo with a rooftop pool, Sommerro House is your answer.
Stockholm, Sweden: Sleek Design and Island Adventures
Stayed at: At Six Hotel
Best for: Urban explorers, architecture buffs, and travelers wanting to be in the heart of Stockholm.
At Six Hotel is a chic, contemporary stay right in central Stockholm. It’s part of the Nordic Hotels & Resorts collection and offers bold interiors, a vibrant art collection, and easy access to the city’s best neighborhoods.
What I loved:
Spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows
Modern art installations and creative lighting
Central location perfect for day trips and island hopping
What I did in Stockholm:
Explored the hip Södermalm district full of vintage shops and indie boutiques
Took a sailing cruise through the archipelago for a couple of hours
Walked through Gamla Stan (Old Town) and admired the city’s architecture
This is one of the top picks for design hotels in Stockholm and a great base for exploring the Stockholm archipelago.
Copenhagen, Denmark: Cozy Canal Life and Sauna Culture
Stayed at: Admiral Hotel
Best for: Travelers who love maritime history, canal views, and hygge vibes.
Admiral Hotel is a charming, nautical-inspired property set in a former 18th-century warehouse right on the Copenhagen waterfront. The exposed wooden beams and harbor views make it feel like you’re on a luxury ship. It was very cozy in my opinion in the Deluxe Waterfront room is the way to go.
Top highlights:
Historic architecture with modern touches
A cozy, nautical aesthetic
The hotel’s private canal boat for scenic rides
A new on-site restaurant post-renovation
What I did in Copenhagen:
Walked the harbor to see the Little Mermaid statue
Enjoyed a canal tour by boat, which is a great way to get your bearings and see the city from the water vantage point
Joined a Copenhagen sauna experience on “social day” — think hot tubs, cold plunges, and meeting locals at CopenHot
Sat on a docked boat drinking a beer in the sunshine
Stopped by microbreweries and beer bars around town
For travelers searching where to stay in Copenhagen with canal access — Admiral Hotel is a fantastic choice.
Also if you have Priority Pass, you can get into the Carlsberg Aviator Lounge at CPH on your way out. It’s a pretty simplistic setup but the free flowing Carlsberg made me happy.
A Scandinavian Sailing Hat Trick
One fun fact from this trip: I managed to go sailing in all three cities — a personal travel hat trick! From the fjords of Oslo to the Stockholm archipelago and Copenhagen’s colorful canals, each boat ride offered a different perspective on these beautiful cities.
Why Scandinavia Is Perfect for a Birthday Trip or a Coolcation this summer
Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or just chasing the clean air, design, and cozy culture of the north, Scandinavia knows how to do hospitality. Each of these cities is incredibly walkable, full of friendly locals, and rich with experiences — especially when you base yourself in hotels that reflect the spirit of the destination.
Planning your own trip to Oslo, Stockholm, or Copenhagen? I help travelers find the perfect hotel match, insider experiences, and VIP perks through my expert travel planning services. Contact me to start planning your Scandinavian escape.
