Discover EU

DiscoverEU: 11 Days, 6 Countries, and the Arctic Circle. My Solo Expedition to the North

Project Type: Individual Mobility (DiscoverEU) Route: Czechia ➡️ Denmark ➡️ Sweden ➡️ Finland ➡️ Estonia ➡️ Latvia ➡️ Lithuania ➡️ Czechia Date: March 26 – April 5, 2026

The Courage to Go Solo: Starting the Journey

After participating in several group Erasmus+ projects, I felt it was time for a different kind of challenge. DiscoverEU gave me the opportunity to test my independence in practice. With a ticket in my pocket and a backpack on my shoulders, I set out on a route covering nearly 5,200 km. My journey began with a quick transit through Germany, which was just a prelude to the adventures awaiting me in the North.

Copenhagen: The Gateway to Scandinavia

The first major stop was Copenhagen. The picturesque harbor of Nyhavn, with its colorful houses and historic sailing ships, was exactly as you see it on postcards. I spent time soaking up the Danish "hygge" vibe, watching the hustle and bustle in the canals, and exploring the local architecture. However, the most powerful experience in Denmark was the departure itself—crossing the majestic Øresund Bridge, which connects Copenhagen to Malmö, Sweden. Seeing the sea deep below the tracks at such a height was the moment I realized: "The real North begins now."

Sweden: ABBA The Museum and the Long Road North

Traveling through Sweden was one of the highlights of the trip. In Stockholm, I couldn't miss the legendary ABBA The Museum. It’s an incredibly interactive place where you can literally dive into the band's history, try mixing songs, or even perform on a virtual stage. After this cultural experience, a tougher part of the journey followed—crossing the entire length of Sweden toward the Finnish border. As I moved further north, civilization thinned out and the snow piled up. The overnight train to Boden was long, but waking up to a pristine snowy landscape was worth every minute.

Finland: Meeting Santa and Reaching the Baltic Sea

In Lapland's Rovaniemi, a traveler's dream came true. I officially crossed the Arctic Circle. I visited Santa Claus Village, which held a magical atmosphere even in late March. From there, I headed south to Helsinki. This city won me over with its cleanliness and its deep connection to the sea. I walked through the harbor markets, admired the iconic white cathedral, and enjoyed the vibe of the "Daughter of the Baltic." Finland was about peace and rugged beauty, which I then watched from the deck of a massive ferry on the way to Tallinn.

The Baltic Mosaic: Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius

The Baltic states were one big ride through history and culture:

• Tallinn (Estonia): The Old Town looks like something out of a fairy tale. I walked along the medieval walls and enjoyed views of church spires contrasted with the modern harbor in the background.

• Riga (Latvia): Riga surprised me with its elegance and Art Nouveau boulevards. It was fascinating to see the blend of different European influences.

• Vilnius (Lithuania): The final stop. I wandered through the narrow streets of the Old Town, visited the cathedral, and soaked up the last bits of the local atmosphere before the final, nearly 15-hour trek back to Czechia.

My Tips and Advice for Travelers

• Seat Reservations are Mandatory: In Poland or on international connections, a seat reservation is an absolute must. Without one, you risk a fine or not being allowed on the train at all. Always buy them in advance directly from the carrier's websites (like PKP Intercity).

• Combine Your Transport: Ferries and long-distance buses (e.g., Lux Express) work great in the North and the Baltics. They are comfortable, have Wi-Fi, and are often more practical than trains on these specific routes.

• Plan with a Buffer: Even with a precise itinerary, you must be prepared for delays or changes. Keep offline maps, a working DiscoverEU app, and a fully charged power bank with you at all times.

Final Summary: What did I gain?

DiscoverEU wasn't just a "free vacation." It was an intense school of independence. I spent more than 78 hours on the move and had to rely entirely on my own judgment. I practiced logistics, navigating unfamiliar cities, and communicating in English during tricky situations.

This solo Discover trip confirmed that Europe is incredibly diverse and yet easily accessible. All it takes is the courage to pack a bag and go.