We have all heard mesmerizing stories of the courageous Norsemen dominating the cold Scandinavian waters and villages. The Vikings left a clear imprint on our history, and there is plenty of evidence still left to explore if you wish to know a bit more. So, look through our guide of places and activities to check in Iceland, Norway, and, unsurprisingly, Scotland. Let’s go!
Jarlshof, Scotland
Nordic historical events had a clear and strong influence on what we now know as one of the most beautiful parts of the UK, and there are some great tours to Scotland that perfectly explain their relationship and the basis that Vikings set in the past. So, let’s start with Jarlshof!
Located in Shetland, Jarlshof is best known as a prehistorical archeological site, one of the most popular in the UK, at that. After a groundbreaking storm in the 19th century, scientists discovered a land that was buried as a part of the shore. As a result, many ancient buildings appeared, and upon further investigation, it was made clear that these were Viking sites, rich with wheelhouses, huts, and even numerous artifacts.
Visit the scenic surroundings and the Visitor’s Center that will immensely increase your knowledge of Vikings in Scotland.
Viking World, Iceland
Now Iceland, on the other hand, is very well-known for being home to Vikings. So, naturally, there are plenty of sites and museums dedicated to explaining their lifestyle and culture, and Viking World near Reykjavik is one of them!
In this impressive historical museum, you will get to see an exact replica of the Gokstad Viking ship, the Icelander. Known for their intricate and complicated architecture, Vikings had many traditional establishments that are recognizable to this day. So, if you wish to see them and learn more about styling, building, and usage – Viking World is for you!
Viking House, Norway
Even more than Iceland, Norway was once home to Vikings, and nowadays, every Norwegian grows up with the tails and stories of the seafaring people of Scandinavia. Speaking of, if you are planning a thorough Scandinavia trip yourself, make sure to include some places made for you history buffs wishing to know what the Viking life felt like!
While there are plenty of Viking museums in Norway, nothing can compare to the detailing and attention put into the Viking House in Stavanger. The museum uses VR technology to recreate the exciting everyday life of the Norsemen that once settled in the region of Stavanger. You can see everything in very real-like shapes and forms, inquire about their culture during guided tours, and engage in a history lesson prepared in the funniest of ways!
Also, only a few kilometers away from the Viking House is the famous Swords in Stone monument, a significant heritage site for the Norwegians and Vikings. Make sure you check that out!
The Skitblander, Scotland
Initially, the Gotskad ship, the Skitblander, was built in Sweden but was quickly brought to the UK, where it settled in Shetland, Scotland. See a pattern here, yet?
Yes, Viking ships were once an impressive structure that had a strong influence on the architectural world afterward, not to mention that it was their main signature mark and only transportation during their many voyages.
The Skitblander is a real-life size replica of the ship found in a Viking burial mound in Norway back in the 19th century. The original was built around 890 AD, the Viking Age. So, seeing its replica that looks detail-to-detail like the mighty Gotskad is impressive, to say the least. You can inspect it quite closely and learn all about it as the means for general travel, trading, and warfare.
Stiklestad, Norway
Once you are all caught up with the ships, you might want to learn a bit more about Viking history and dramatic events throughout the years. For this, let’s travel to Trondelag, Norway!
Stiklestad is a highly famous site where the Battle of Stiklestad took place in 1030. During the battle, the Christian Viking King Olav Haraldsson fell at the hands of the local chieftains, which marked an important turn for Norway. The struggle still symbolizes the consolidation of the country and a significant breakthrough for Christianity.
You should also see the Folk Museum, which offers many exhibitions explaining different patterns of events during the time Vikings were closely connected to Trondelag!
While it is unlikely you will visit the three countries all in one take, make sure to explore Scandinavia first, then head to a continuation holiday in Scotland. Learn all there is to know about Vikings and enjoy the perfectly preserved historical sites. Good luck, and have fun!