The article is describing the growing development of pilgrim routes in the Scandinavian countries, especially to the city of Trondheim in Norway and to the city of Vadstena in Sweden. In Trondheim pilgrims are visiting the medieval Nidaros Cathedral, the burial place of the martyr king Saint Olav. In Vadstena pilgrims are visiting the medieval Monastery Church, the place of the shrine of Holy Birgitta, Saint Bridget of Sweden. The article gives the historical background to the pilgrimage traditions of these places, the cult of the saints, history, narrative and art, and their significance in tourism today. The revival of the pilgrimage movement in contemporary society is also discussed from personal pilgrim accounts.

New research is presented that deals with management of the pilgrim routes, pilgrim and heritage tourism today in Norway and Sweden, and how the local organisations provide information and accomodation for visitors. New research in visitors studies regarding the motivations given by the pilgrims and heritage tourists is presented. This new research is discussed from a view of critical heritage studies. The results show that spiritual journeys and pilgrimages have been journeys of hope for good physical and mental health. The contemporary pilgrim and heritage tourist show  individualistic motifs concerning the enjoyment of walking and travelling, but also a deep concern for the natural environment and for protecting the cultural heritage of the places they visit.