Packing List
The temperature in both countries was 7-degrees but dropped down to 4-degrees at night. Apart from the bare essentials, be sure to carry thermals, long puffer jackets, beanie and shawls if you plan on travelling in April like us.
The most important thing you need is the right footwear for both these countries – boots would be the best option apart from sneakers as both places involve a lot of walking.
SWEDEN
Travel
The journey from Dubai to Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport via Istanbul was convenient. The first thing we did was to get a local Lyca sim card worth 10 Euros. Hafsana (Marvel Staff) ensured that the driver called us as soon as we landed.
Hotel
Our driver (arranged by Marvel) picked us up and dropped us off at IBIS Styles in Odenplan, a hotel close to the station with easy access. It has a cafe that serves coffee 24/7 and the choices are plenty. People get some snacks to get together for this Fika break and the value-for-money buffet breakfast is impressive.
Commute
A metro card is a must-have. We got the 72-hour metro card which costs AED 128. This card can be used on all modes of transport in the city, except cabs.
Activities
- ABBA the museum was a fun place where we could dance with the stars, get to know their lives and even sing; a place to let yourself free and just enjoy ourselves. The tickets cost AED 108 per person.
To get there, we took a train from Odenplan to T Centralen (Train 17- Platform 2) and then another train from T Centralen to Kungstradgarden (Train 11- Platform 6). From Kungstradgarden, we can take the ferry (Line 80) or tram (Line 7) or bus (Line 3) or walk along the beautiful waterway which is what we did to reach ABBA the museum. - My friend booked a free walking Old Town Tour online from Dubai before we left.
We had to arrive at Benny Fredikssons Torg for the tour- taking the train followed by a short walk. We were joined by other nationalities and the guide Ryan ensured we had a great time by explaining the history of the reign, giving names to each participant and making history easier. This is a must-do tour covering every nook and corner of old town. Ryan does this as a side hustle and relies totally on the tips given. Gamlastan has many cute cobbled pathways so ensure you wear comfortable footwear.
- There are food tours too, but definitely book in advance to ensure a place.
Everyday shopping and meals
- Pressbayan groceries are good for food shopping and chocolates.
- There are many places around Odenplan which are accessible by foot and photograph worthy.
- We got most of our souvenirs from the T Centralen area, just outside the station.
Food Recommendations
- Cinnamon bread or kanelbulle
- Herring
- Berries
- Swedish sweet buns
Budget
On an average, a decent lunch, dinner and travel per day per person would cost about AED 300 to 400.
DENMARK
Travel
We took a train that was arranged by the travel agency to arrive in Denmark. The pantry in the train is a must visit and we were lucky to be seated in the wagon next to it. The trip was a scenic tour with glimpses of vistas of both countries, so a window seat would be the way to go. We pass the ORESUND bridge which takes us to Copenhagen – this bridge ride is the highlight of the train journey. Hafsana ensured that the driver called us in time for our pick-up to depart for Dubai.
Commute
Copenhagen is a vibrant and happening city which reminded me of a city like Mumbai.
There are cyclists all around and so if you are in a cab you definitely have to look out for cyclists before you open the door of your cab. The beautiful architecture of Denmark astounds you as a tourist.
Hotel
We were put up at Profilhotels Richmond, which was also centrally located making it easy to travel around the city. The restaurant is very efficiently handled with attention to detail – we loved the touch of fresh daffodils in the jars every day. The awesome buffet spread is also worth a mention.
Commute
We got a 72-hour city card for AED 109 (small area coverage card) which offers unlimited access to public transport to and fro the city, covering all major attractions.
Activities
- We started off our trip by taking a canal cruise from Nyhavn which cost us AED 59 per person.
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The cruise takes us around all the major landmarks of the city which makes your planning easier, so we would recommend doing this first.
- From Nyhavn, we can walk down to the Little Mermaid statue. The Little Mermaid, the most famous landmark of Copenhagen, is a crowded spot. The best part of the trip is the walk to the statue from Nyhavn.
- We passed the house of Hans Christian Andersen along the way along with many installations and statues. The bridge over the water body is another place for great pictures.
- There is a beautiful Anglican church St Albans Church on the way to the little mermaid statue.
It is over 125 years old and made of greystones. In April, when we went there, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom which added to the beauty of the area.
- Tivoli gardens is an amusement park with gardens and is opposite Copenhagen Central station. We can see a giant statue of Hans Christian Anderson overlooking Tivoli in the main square. The amusement park is a place for adventurous people.
- Water planes cost AED 378 – perfect for sightseeing and covering a major part of the city.
- Ripley’s Museum is also walking distance from the hotel.
- The Botanical Gardens are just diagonally opposite Norreport station and a beautiful place with a serene ambience.
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Different species of flowers and plants and a beautiful resting place where you are encouraged to sleep on the grass.
Food
- If you are a non-vegetarian, don’t miss the seafood delicacies around the canal which boasts umpteen restaurants serving a neverending surge of people.
- Smorrebrod (sandwiches)
- Stegt Flaesk (non-halal)
- Rye bread
- Danish pastries
It was expertly planned by Marvel Tourism – within our budget (including a 30kg luggage allowance). They were willing to organise day trips for us – however, they also gave us the flexibility of planning day trips and excursions, based on our preference.
We truly enjoyed our trip – bringing suitcases full of snacks and souvenirs, a pocketful of memories and very, very sore feet.