Driving through the Scandinavian countryside should be on everyone’s bucket list. Some of the most scenic roads in the world snake through the Scandes and most of the highways are well maintained and easy to use. Here’s what to know when driving the Scandinavian landscape.
However, before you buckle up, you need to learn about some of the local laws. Each country has its own regulations for foreign drivers and different regions will require a different approach to driving.
You’ll also have to learn about the customs of driving in Scandinavia. Scandinavians take their cars seriously and are renowned for being courteous behind the wheel. This is particularly good news if you’re a motorcyclist and want to take in the sights while riding safely.
Laws
You should be able to use your foreign license while on holiday in Scandinavia. However, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland all have different laws and rules of the road. As a tourist, it’s your job to educate yourself with the relevant rules before you get behind the wheel. In general, you should know and follow basic laws like:
- On Freeways, Overtake on the Left: Unlike in the U.S., Scandinavian drivers can only legally overtake when passing on the left — even on the freeways and highways. This reduces the risk of collisions and improves traffic flow.
- Low-Beam Lights: Setting your car’s headlights to low beams helps other drivers see your vehicle. This is particularly important during the shorter days when you’ll be driving in a state of semi-permanent dusk.
- Accidents: Drivers are legally obliged to help other road users in the event of an accident. For that reason, you should always carry a warning triangle to alert oncoming traffic.
- Horns: Can only be used to prevent an imminent accident.
Check with the relevant government websites before renting a vehicle and keep a driver’s guide at close hand. If you plan on staying for more than three months, you may need to complete a driving test within the country where you’re vacationing.
Image: The Porsche Sprint Challenge Scandinavia welcomeed Aksel Lund Svindal and Ingemar Stenmark to the 2022 championship. The legends of alpine skiing swapped mountains for racetracks and were teammates for the upcoming racing season.
Customs
Scandinavians are world-renowned for their skills behind the wheel. Some of the world’s greatest drivers, like Kimmi Raikkonen, Tommi Makinen, and Mika Hakkinen, all hail from Finland. The Scandinavian passion for racing translates into well-mannered road users who are courteous to other cars.
Start by acquainting yourself with your indicators and mirrors — you’ll be using them a lot! Unlike in other countries, Scandinavians try their best to use clear indications when on the road. This will prevent plenty of collisions and will ensure that you don’t get rear-ended when turning off a fast road. Failing to indicate may even result in a fine that will undermine your ability to rent cars in the future.
Drunk driving is illegal around the world, but is considered particularly unethical in Scandinavian countries. If you do drive drunk, expect to wake up with an extremely hefty fine. Stick to soft drinks and skip the spirits, as you’ll need full use of your faculties when negotiating scenic roads.
Using your phone is also illegal on Scandinavian roads. Distracted driving is a risk to your health and may put other road users in harm’s way. Do not text when behind the wheel and avoid the temptation to do things like eating or drinking while driving. These manual distractions cause their fair share of accidents and will bring the good times to a sharp end.
Scenic Routes
Few things in life can top the enjoyment of driving a sports car through the Scandes. The scenic roads that cover the Scandinavian region are world-renowned for being well-maintained, too. This means you see all that the region has to offer from the comfort of your own car.
If it’s your first time in Sweden, consider starting with the Flatruetvägen and Road 535. This trail will take you over the mountain pass of Flatruet and sports a stunning view on clear days. If you really want to immerse yourself, consider bringing your motorbike with you for the journey. Riding a motorbike is good for your health, as you’ll use your whole body when negotiating windy roads and mountain passes.
Varanger in Northern Norway not only offers a physical experience. On this Norwegian national tourist route leading to the Arctic Ocean, you will also find serenity as you drive through the long lines in the landscape. The route also reveals the long lines of history.
Click the image below to learn more.
If you’re visiting Scandinavia during the winter months, you should drive the Northern Lights Road. This road stretches from Tornio-Haparanda in Finland to Tromsø in Norway. If you’re lucky, the clouds will part and the winter skies will reveal the dancing waves of the aurora borealis.
Driving in the winter does offer the opportunity to see the northern lights, but comes with serious hazards. Acquaint yourself with the basics of car maintenance when driving during the colder months, as you can’t afford to get stuck on a rural road when temperatures plunge below freezing. Swap regular tires for snow tires, too, as this will prevent sliding should conditions change.
What to Know When Driving the Scandinavian Landscape – Conclusion
Driving in Scandinavia is a delight. The roads are well maintained, other drivers are conscientious, and the sights are unmatched. However, before you rent out a vehicle, you need to get up to speed with the relevant laws and customs. This will keep you safe on the road and help you avoid needless fines for things like poor indicating or missing your warning triangle.
What to Know When Driving the Scandinavian Landscape, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Ainsley Lawrence. Ainsley is a regular contributor to Daily Scandinavian. She is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest. Ainsley is interested in better living. through technology and education. She is frequently lost in a good book.
Feature image (on top): © Niklas Veenhuis/Unsplash