Must-see entertainment in Scandinavia
Helsinki
In the Tennispalatsi complex, this cinema screens new releases. Most films are in English.
Tampere
Tampere's two ice-hockey teams – Ilves and Tappara – are among Finland's best; the city is generally regarded as the Finnish home of the sport. Hakametsä…
Ærø
Claiming to be Denmark's smallest cinema, this sweet little 50-seater is beneath the Andelen Guesthouse, whose guests get complimentary tickets. It is…
Akureyri
The only professional theatre company outside the Reykjavík area performs drama, musicals, dance and opera, with its main season running from September to…
Funen
By day this pleasant if unremarkable restaurant serves good-value international food. But after the kitchen closes at 9pm, anyone is welcome to get up and…
Helsinki
Year-round, independent, two-screen cinema showing art-house and Finnish indie films. In the warmer months it also mounts open-air kesäkino (summer cinema…
Bergen
Pretty much the only gay club in Bergen, which ensures it's nearly always packed out at weekends. It's a happy, upbeat place, with a varied music line-up…
Skåne
The extraordinary Ystads Teater dates back to 1894; its repertoire spans operas, musicals, tango and big-band gigs. Guided tours (usually in Swedish) of…
Stavanger
Despite what the rest of Norway thinks, Stavanger has a thriving cultural scene. Check out the Stavanger Konserthus program online or at the tourist…
Bergen
This little shopfront cafe just up from the lake spills over onto the cobblestones and draws a fun, alternative crowd with live music and, later, resident…
Bergen
Part of the Logen theatre, this 3rd-floor bar has a loyal local following for its concerts on most Sunday and Monday nights from September to June. For…
Trondheim
Constructed in 1816 and handsomely refurbished despite the hotch-potch of architectural styles on the outside, this theatre stages large-scale dance and…
Tampere
This cavernous place, near the train station, is Tampere’s main indoor live-music venue; there are usually several bands playing every week, and big…
Reykjavík
Iceland’s biggest cinema, in Smáralind shopping centre. In summer a free shuttle connects Smáralind with Reykjavík's Main Tourist Office.
Oulu
Oulu's beloved ice-hockey team, the Kärpät (Stoats), play at Oulun Energia Areena in Raksila east of the city centre. Book tickets through Ticketmaster …
Central Jutland
A slick indoor sporting arena and concert venue hosting big-name international touring acts. It's south of the city, off Hwy 15 (take the train to Herning…
Turku & Finland's South Coast
An art nouveau beauty overlooking the beach, Hanko's twin-turreted, mint-green-and-white casino is an atmospheric setting for live music, drinking and…
Turku
This music hall is the home of the illustrious Turku Philharmonic Orchestra. It's been playing since 1790, when the Musical Society of Turku was founded.
Central Norway
For five weeks from early July to early August, the church hosts organ recitals, sometimes accompanied by orchestral musicians from across Europe.
Oslo
The six-screen Saga Kino cinema shows first-run movies, including Hollywood fare, in their original language; the entrance is on Olav V's gate.
Sofienberg, Grønland & Tøyen
Gloria Flames is a popular rock bar with frequent gigs (including some big-name performers), and a roof-terrace bar during daylight hours.
The Finnish Lakeland
This downstairs venue hosts live acts towards the end of each week. Expect tribute bands and soft rock. Check the website for details.
Aarhus
Inside Bruun’s Galleri shopping centre (connected to the train station); screens blockbusters alongside smaller local films.
Turku
There's something for everyone at this nightlife complex, including live music, danceable grooves and karaoke.
Bergen
Performances by the respected Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra take place inside this striking glass hall.
Turku
Local DJs vie with national bands for a spot on the bill at this central venue. Great outdoor terrace.
Kuopio
Bands play here several times a week, most at the heavier end of the rock/metal spectrum.
Oslo
One of the city's largest concert venues hosts a range of big-name international stars.
Helsinki
Booking agency Tiketti sells tickets to a variety of live events throughout Helsinki.
Football Association of Iceland
Reykjavík
Iceland's national football association provides information on fixtures and results.
Odense
Mainstream and art-house flicks, upstairs within the train station complex.
