Sweden vs. Norway: A Geographical Comparison

Comparison Table

Category	Sweden	Norway
Location	Northern Europe, Scandinavian Peninsula	Northern Europe, Scandinavian Peninsula
Size	450,295 km²	385,207 km²
Climate	Temperate in south, subarctic in north	Coastal temperate, colder inland
Natural Resources	Iron ore, timber, hydropower	Petroleum, hydropower, fish
Urban Development	Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö	Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim
Transportation	Extensive rail and road networks	Famous for fjords, ferries, and tunnels

Description

Sweden

Sweden, the largest country in Scandinavia, is known for its vast forests, thousands of lakes, and a highly developed welfare state. Historically, it was a major European power during the 17th century. Culturally, Sweden is famous for its contributions to music (ABBA, Avicii), design (IKEA), and literature (Astrid Lindgren). The economy is export-oriented, with key industries including automotive (Volvo), telecommunications (Ericsson), and pharmaceuticals.

Norway

Norway, renowned for its dramatic fjords and rugged coastline, is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe. It has a rich Viking history and was once part of the Kalmar Union with Sweden and Denmark. Norway's culture emphasizes outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, and it is a global leader in environmental sustainability. The economy is heavily reliant on oil and gas exports, but it also has strong maritime and fishing industries. Norway consistently ranks high in quality of life indices.

Both countries share a deep connection to nature, with strong traditions of outdoor life and environmental conservation. While Sweden has a more diversified economy, Norway's wealth is closely tied to its natural resources. Their geographical similarities and differences make them fascinating neighbors in Scandinavia.