Welcome to Western Europe & Scandinavia: A Traveller’s Treasure Map
So, you’re dreaming of European adventures? You’ve come to the right place! This corner of my blog is your ultimate guide to the incredible diversity of Western Europe and the breathtaking beauty of Scandinavia. From the sun-drenched rivieras to the dramatic fjords, this is a region that promises unforgettable journeys.
Ready to explore? I’ve penned travel tales and insider tips from the following countries:
For the sun-soaked coasts of the Mediterranean or the fascinating cultures further east, don’t forget to check out my separate sections on Southern and Eastern Europe.
A Region of Epic Scale & Stunning Contrasts
Ever wondered how big this part of the world really is? Western Europe is a compact yet mighty collection of nations, home to around 252 million people across a landmass of 1.7 million square kilometres.
To put that in perspective, its total area is larger than Mongolia and almost the exact size of the US state of Alaska! In terms of population, it’s a vibrant hub slightly smaller than Indonesia.
The powerhouses of Germany, France, and Spain dominate the map, accounting for over three-quarters of the territory and more than 80% of the people. France wears the crown for the largest territory, while Germany boasts the highest population.
But here’s where it gets fascinating if you venture north to Scandinavia. While Sweden and Norway have territories larger than Germany, they are lands of wild, open space. Imagine this – Germany has a population density of 240 people per square kilometre, while Norway has just 14. This is your destination for epic road trips where you can truly find yourself surrounded by nothing but nature.
More Than Just Facts: The Pulse of the Region
Majestic Landscapes:
The mighty Alps are the continent’s spectacular spine, carving through eight countries. They are home to Europe’s rooftop, where you’ll find legendary peaks like Mont Blanc (France/Italy), Dufourspitze (Switzerland), and Grossglockner (Austria). Whether you’re an avid hiker or a scenic train enthusiast, the Alps will leave you awestruck.
Seamless Travel:
One of the greatest joys of travelling here is the ease of movement. Thanks to the Schengen Area (which includes 29 countries as of 2025), you can often wander from France to Germany to Switzerland without a single passport check. It’s a traveller’s dream! While not all countries use the Euro, the single currency across much of the region makes budgeting a breeze.
A Continent of History in the Making:
This is where modern Europe was shaped. The European Union began with the Treaty of Rome in 1957 and was formally established by the Maastricht Treaty in 1992. Though the UK left the EU in 2020, the spirit of cooperation makes this a fascinating region to explore.
Kings, Queens & Capitals:
Prepare to be captivated by history and glamour. France is the world’s most visited country, and its iconic capital, Paris, is Europe’s number one city destination. Not far behind is the charming canal-laced capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam. And for a touch of fairy-tale royalty, look to Scandinavia, where Denmark, Norway, and Sweden remain constitutional monarchies.
Your Adventure Starts Here
Inspired to start planning? Dive deeper into my personal travel stories, practical guides, and hidden gems by exploring the countries below. Your next great adventure is just a click away.
Browse my travel articles by country:
adventures attractions Belgium Bulgaria city break Croatia Czech Republic day out England Estonia France Germany Greece heritage hiking holidays Iceland islands Italy Latvia Lithuania London Montenegro nature Norway Poland recipes Rome Scotland Spain Switzerland