From frozen rivers to bustling city rinks, it's time to lace up your skates. Below, discover the best ice skating destinations across Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland this winter
With a wealth of bays, lakes, and inlets, Scandinavia offers endless breathtaking ice skating spots — and that’s not even counting the charming urban rinks that pop up in towns and cities all winter long. Whether you’re perfecting your triple axel or just hoping to make it around the rink without a tumble, we’ve gathered our favourite spots to skate this season.
Related: The top 5 winter hikes in Sweden
The best places to go ice skating in Iceland
Lake Tjörnin
Once a lagoon and now a lake connected to the ocean by a river, Tjörnin is an iconic landmark in Reykjavik, offering panoramic views of the city. In winter, this beloved spot transforms into a natural ice rink, attracting locals and tourists alike. Its shallow waters, only 80cm at the deepest points, make it one of the safest locations for wild skating — though always check for at least 10cm of ice thickness before heading out. Fun fact: Tjörnin was also where the Reykjavik Ice Skating Association was first founded back in 1892.
Photo: @visitreykjavik
Ingóldstorg Square
For a picture-perfect Christmas experience, look no further than downtown Reykjavik’s ice skating rink. During Advent, Ingólfstorg Square turns into a festive wonderland with a charming market where local designers and craftsmen set up booths, and Icelandic Yule Lads make delightful appearances. At the heart of this winter scene is a cosy, beautifully decorated rink with skate rentals available. Bring your own skates for free entry, and after gliding around, warm up with a steaming cup of hot cocoa to complete the experience.
The best places to go ice skating in Denmark
Photo: @skoejtebanenfrederiksberg
Each winter, the entrance to Frederiksberg Gardens in Copenhagen transforms into a picturesque ice rink, drawing locals and visitors alike to this popular spot in the Danish capital. The rink is free to enter and is expected to be open this year from 2nd December until the last Sunday of February. You can bring your own skates or rent a pair on-site for DKK60, then finish off your day with holiday shopping in the nearby city centre.
Broens Ice Rink
At Copenhagen’s newest rink, start your day by gliding across the ice with breathtaking views of the harbour—all for just DKK20. Once you’ve had your fill of skating, head over to Broens Street Kitchen to indulge in a delicious array of food stalls.
Photo: @tivolicph
Tivoli Gardens
Nestled inside Copenhagen's iconic amusement park, this skating rink will transport you to a winter wonderland. Set in front of the Tivoli Concert Hall with a sparkling Christmas tree at its center, the artificial rink is the perfect destination for a family outing. The best part? Entrance to the rink is included with your park admission.
Related: 5 ways to win at winter in Denmark
The best places to go ice skating in Finland
Photo: @lahdennosturi
Lake Vesijärvi
During the winter months, Lake Vesijärvi in Lahti (just north of Helsinki) becomes a true skating haven. Whether you're using it as a scenic shortcut, sledging, or simply enjoying a skate, this frozen lake is a must-visit attraction. Head to Nosturi, a nearby restaurant, where you can borrow touring skates or kick sledges free of charge, and take to the ice for an unforgettable winter experience.
Lake Tohloppijärvi
Established in 2016, the skating track on Lake Tohloppijärvi offers an unforgettable winter experience. Just outside Tampere, this three-kilometre trail hugs the lake’s shoreline, inviting skaters to enjoy its breathtaking scenery at no cost — simply glide away! For those without skates, rentals are available nearby, making it easy to take in the panoramic views.
Photo: Hello Kuopio
Lake Kallavesi
Lake Kallavesi, home of the Finnish Ice Marathon, offers a range of unforgettable winter experiences. Join the marathon to skate an eight-kilometre lap alongside competitors from over 15 countries, or enjoy a magical moonlit skate on the lake’s rink. With Finnish log fires crackling nearby and stars twinkling above, it’s a photo opportunity not to be missed.
The best places to go ice skating in Sweden
Every year, Gothenburg’s famous amusement park, Liseberg, undergoes a spectacular holiday transformation, becoming Sweden’s very own winter wonderland. Even the most Grinch-like visitors can’t help but be charmed by the festive spirit that fills the park from late November through December. The ice rink, framed by thousands of twinkling lights and holiday decorations, is open daily, offering enchanting shows for both children and adults. Warm up with hot food and drinks from nearby stalls — no need to take off your skates!
Photo: Visit Sweden
Tour skating, also known as Nordic or long-distance skating, originated in Sweden, and few places are more iconic for it than the frozen lake in Fjällnora, located in Uppsala just north of Stockholm. The lake features several tracks along the shoreline, with the longest stretching 11km. Many families from Stockholm escape here in winter, renting skates from nearby shops and making a day of it — often stopping midway for a picnic to enjoy the snowy surroundings.
Photo: @hotelkungstradgarden
Kungsträdgården
Experience skating in the heart of Stockholm at this centrally located rink. Free to enter and open to all, it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the capital between November and March. Bring your own skates or rent a pair on-site, then head over to NK for a dose of Scandi shopping.
The best places to go ice skating in Norway
Photo: Visit Oslo
In the heart of Oslo, this picturesque rink opens from late November to March, offering a cosy ice skating experience. Nestled between the National Theatre and Parliament, it’s an ideal spot to indulge any sudden urge to practice your pirouettes. Afterward, unwind with a leisurely stroll and some shopping along nearby Karl Johans Street.
Photo: Nordfjord
Nordfjord
Once winter’s freezing temperatures settle in, many lakes in inner Nordfjord — including Langesetvatnet, Oppstrynsvatnet, and Lovatnet — freeze over, creating ideal natural skating rinks. For the best and safest spots, it’s wise to consult locals and stay closer to the lake edges.
Photo: @visittrondheim
Bymaka Nature Reserve
Discover the enchanting side of ice skating on the frozen lakes of Bymarka Nature Reserve, just outside historic Trondheim. Surrounded by snow-laden trees and breathtaking views, with trails suited to all levels, this spot offers some of the most scenic skating experiences around.