Grand Scandinavia

Explore the Grandeur of Scandinavia on a 20-Day Guided Tour of Sweden, Finland & Norway

$7,426

 

Tour Description

Cruise the Baltic Sea to Helsinki, step back in time to the reign of the Vikings in Oslo and see Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid in Copenhagen, on a grand three week tour. At North Cape, toast the midnight sun with champagne and local caviar alongside the towering cliffs of Europe’s most northern point, where the summer sun never sets. Sample local specialties like liquorice and smoked reindeer at the harborside Helsinki Food Market before arriving to the Swedish capital of Stockholm, home to the melodies of the ABBA Museum and the magnificent Vasa Galleon. After voyaging across the home territories of the nomadic Sami community in Lapland, visit the farm of Trine Lyrek where you’ll meet her Arctic dogsled racing Alta huskies. Draw your vacation to a close among Oslo’s thousand-year-old Viking ships.

 
 

HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS

Copenhagen, Denmark: Begin your Scandinavian adventure in the vibrant city of Copenhagen. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Little Mermaid statue, Amalienborg Palace, and the stunning Tivoli Gardens. Wander through the colorful Nyhavn harbor, with its charming waterfront cafés, and explore the city’s modern design and historical treasures.

Oslo, Norway: Explore the dynamic Norwegian capital, Oslo, known for its striking architecture and deep connection to nature. Visit the Viking Ship Museum to see well-preserved Viking ships, tour the Oslo Opera House, and stroll through the Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to over 200 sculptures. Enjoy the city’s blend of urban sophistication and scenic beauty.

Bergen: Travel to the picturesque coastal city of Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords. Visit Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring colorful wooden buildings dating back to the Hanseatic period. Take a scenic funicular ride to Mount Fløyen for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding fjords.

 
  • Day 1 | Welcome to Copenhagen

    Begin your Scandinavian exploration in Copenhagen. In the

    evening, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner,

    followed by a visit to the glittering lights and enchanting

    atmosphere of the world-famous Tivoli Gardens.

    Meals: Dinner

    Hotel: Radisson Blu Scandinavia, Copenhagen

    Day 2 | Wonderful Copenhagen

    Your Local Expert will reveal the charm of Denmark's capital. Meet

    Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid gazing wistfully across

    the harbour. Continue on to see Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg

    Palace, Christianborg Palace. Visit the 18th-century Copenhagen

    Cathedral designed by Christian Frederik Hansen. This is the

    cathedral where King Frederik X of Denmark married Queen Mary

    and the one known for its neoclassical architecture and for

    featuring the largest bell in Denmark. With the afternoon at your

    leisure, why not explore further and climb up the Round Tower, a

    17th century tower and the oldest functioning observatory in

    Europe or take delight in one of the fairytale-style castles on an

    optional experience along the Danish Riviera?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Radisson Blu Scandinavia, Copenhagen

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    North Zealand Castle Tour - With our Local Expert, we'll drive along the scenic coastal road of the Danish Riviera to the castles of North

    Zealand. See Fredensborg, the summer residence of the Royal Family, then visit Fredriksborg, the largest Renaissance palace in

    Scandinavia. It's now a museum, so the tour through the beautiful rooms is an encounter with the kings and queens who shaped the

    country's history. En-route, pass through picturesque villages of half-timbered houses and thatched roofs.

    Adult: 63.00 EUR

    You will be oered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:

    Copenhagen O The Beaten Track - Enjoy a casual evening, o the beaten track, as you discover the contemporary side of

    Copenhagen. First, visit the newly-opened CopenHill, the cleanest waste-to-energy power plant in the world, with its hikeable and

    skiable roof. We'll enjoy spectacular views over the city from the top. Next is Reen, the largest waterfront street food market in the

    Nordic area. Browse through an International food selection and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. You'll have reserved seating and a preloaded food card to get the meal of your choice.

    Adult: 65.00 EUR

    Traditional Danish Dinner - Home to some of the world's best restaurants, Copenhagen is currently experiencing a culinary

    renaissance. Make the most of the long summer evenings and join us for a traditional Danish meal in the heart of Copenhagen. Two

    glasses of wine, beer or soft drinks are included with your meal.

    Adult: 89.00 EUR

    Day 3 | Stockholm, City of Islands

    Travel from Denmark to Sweden by crossing the incredible

    Øresund Bridge. Spanning 16km over the Flinte channel it’s the

    longest road and rail bridge in Europe. Pass through the articial

    island of Peberholm which has become a haven for ora and fauna

    and continue through the Skåne region, which gave its name to

    Scandinavia. Enjoy views of the patchwork of fertile farmlands as

    you journey along the shores of Lake Vättern to the Swedish

    capital, Stockholm, which is set on 14 beautiful islands. In the

    evening, perhaps try the local cuisine served in traditional

    surroundings?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Hilton Stockholm Slussen / Scandic Continental

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Swedish Summer Dinner - This evening, we dine "Swedish Style." Savour a succulent three-course meal with beer, wine & soft drinks.

    Soak up the atmosphere of the traditional surroundings while enjoying its history.

    Adult: 75.00 EUR

    Day 4 | Stockholm and Baltic Sea Cruise

    Join a Local Expert for your visit to the City Hall's marvellous

    Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall, and the Blå hallen, the Blue Hall,

    where the Nobel Prize banquets are held. Continue to Gamla

    Stan, the medieval heart of the city. View the cathedral and walk

    through the Old Town to see the Royal Palace. With the afternoon

    at leisure, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Vasa Galleon. In

    the evening, board your Baltic cruise to Finland and voyage

    through the largest archipelago in the world. Enjoy dinner onboard

    as well as the sight of thousands of islands from the comfort of

    your A-class, sea-view cabin, while the northern sun hangs over

    the horizon, showing almost no sign of setting in mid-summer.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Serenade/Symphony - Tallink & Silja Line Ships.

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Vasa Galleon - When the Vasa was launched in 1628, it was arguably the world's most powerful warship. Bristling with 64 cannon and

    carrying some 300 men, it was built to strike the fear of God into the enemy. Unfortunately, it sank on its maiden voyage. Raised from

    Stockholm harbour in 1961, this grand galleon remains almost wholly preserved, along with 700 wooden sculptures and ornaments. Your

    visit will provide a unique insight into early shipbuilding techniques and everyday life on board a 17c naval vessel.

    Adult: 51.00 EUR

    Day 5 | Fashionable Helsinki

    Helsinki is known as a global trendsetter in design, fashion,

    stunning architecture and luscious parks. Disembark your Baltic

    cruise and meet your Local Expert. Wander through the aromatic

    stalls of a traditional food market and sample local produce, like

    liquorice or smoked reindeer. Afterwards, enjoy time to explore on

    your own. Why not stop for lunch at the colourful market located

    by the harbour and spend time browsing the vast array of stalls

    selling local souvenirs, handicrafts as well as fruits, vegetables and

    world-class pancakes?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: GLO Art, Helsinki

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Fly Over Helsinki - An exclusive chance to enjoy Helsinki from above. This three-part grand-slam tour begins with a state-of-the-art

    Cinematic Experience which takes you virtually on a ight over Helsinki. Flying Cinema Helsinki is the newest attraction in a city renowned

    for its cutting-edge technology and daring design. Afterwards, we'll savour a some local Finnish delicacies and refreshments before

    commencing our ride inside a glass pod of the Helsinki Sky Wheel, Helsinki’s answer to the London Eye! A unique and exciting

    introduction to Helsinki and to Finland.

    Adult: 54.00 EUR

    Helsinki Dinner of Finnish Flavours - As the capital city in a former Grand Duchy of the Tsar's empire, Helsinki has always been famous

    for incorporating avours from across the empire. Tonight we enjoy an evening of authentic Finnish cuisine in an atmosphere of times

    gone by.

    Adult: 82.00 EUR

    * This optional experience is subject to availability at certain times of the year.

    Day 6 | Lakes and Forests to Kuopio

    Finland is a land of beautiful lakes and enchanting forests. Sit back

    and relax as you take in the spectacular scenery. On arrival in

    Kuopio, ascend Puijo Tower for a splendid panorama that will reveal

    why Finland is called the land of a thousand lakes.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Original Sokos Puijonsarvi, Kuopio

    Day 7 | The Road to Rovaniemi

    As you journey towards the Arctic, travel to Lapland, native home

    to the nomadic Sami community. Visit Oulu, northern Finland's

    oldest city. It is also the largest general port in the Bothnian Bay,

    made up of 3 harbours. Enjoy time to explore the centre of the

    city that is spread across several islands, connected by pedestrian

    bridges and cycleways, considered one of the best in Europe. Your

    travels continue to Rovaniemi, the modern capital of the region.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Santa's Santa Claus, Rovaniemi

    Day 8 | Rovaniemi and Lapland

    Cross the Arctic Circle today, a highlight for many travellers. With

    your Local Expert, see the Town Hall designed by Aalvar Aalto and

    visit Rovaniemi Church. Explore Rovaniemi with Insight Choice.

    Choose to meet Santa Claus and embrace the spirit of

    Christmas. Alternatively, join your Local Expert for a nature walk in

    the forest. With the afternoon at leisure perhaps you may want to

    visit the open-air museum and Arktikum?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Santa's Santa Claus, Rovaniemi

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    The Arctic Centre & Pioneer Farm - With our Local Expert, visit a pioneer farm, now converted into a museum for a fascinating glimpse

    into rural life and traditions from the 19th Century. Continue to the tubular glass frame of the Arktikum, a one-stop cultural centre for all

    things Arctic. This is the world's rst museum dedicated to the demanding conditions and challenge of coping with life in the dark, cold

    and barren Arctic.

    Adult: 59.00 EUR

    Traditional Lapland Dinner at a Family Reindeer Farm - Leave the 20th century behind and join a family from Lapland at their farm

    situated on the Arctic Circle. Meet Rudolf and his brothers and learn all about reindeer husbandry. During the evening you are initiated

    into the local culture with a traditional dinner.

    Adult: 75.00 EUR

    Day 9 | Across the Arctic to Ivalo

    In the morning enjoy a relaxed start or perhaps join an Optional

    Experience to visit Ranua Wildlife Park, for the chance to see polar

    bears, lynxes or even a wolverine. Continue north along the Four

    Winds Road, where you may see herds of reindeer roaming freely

    as you journey for one of the oldest churches in Lapland. Travel

    through Europe’s last great wilderness to see the Urho Kekkonen

    National Park near the gold centre of Tankavaara.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Ivalo

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Ranua Wildlife Park - Join us on a visit to the Arctic Wildlife Park, where more than fty species of Nordic animals live in their natural

    habitat. Our Local Expert will introduce us to the unique wildlife of Northern Scandinavia.

    Adult: 70.00 EUR

    Day 10 | The North Cape

    Cross the rolling tundra into Norway and stop at Karasjok for a

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Visit a Sámi National

    Museum, devoted to preserving the Sámi history and culture, and

    see the Sámii Parliament, before continuing along the beautiful

    Porsanger Fjord to reach the quaint settlement of Honningsvag.

    Enjoy the picturesque harbour at your leisure or perhaps set out

    on a sea bird and arctic cruise adventure? This Optional

    Experience includes a cruise around the Gjesværstappen, a

    necklace of islands that's a protected nesting area for millions of

    Puns, Kittiwakes, Gannets, Guillemots, White Tailed Eagles and

    even a chance of a Grey Seal or Porpoise. Tonight we journey in

    search of the midnight sun on your included experience of

    Nordkapp, the northernmost point of mainland Europe, where

    you will enjoy a glass of bubbles and caviar in one of the most

    special places on Earth.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Scandic Nordkapp

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    The Ultimate Arctic Experience – Sea Birds and Arctic Cruise - Embark upon a journey across an almost 'lunar' landscape to reach one

    of the most northerly shing villages in the world. From here we'll set sail upon a 90-minute Arctic Adventure around the

    Gjesværstappen, a necklace of islands that's a protected nesting area for Puns, Kittiwakes, Gannets, Guillemots and White Tailed

    Eagles! Other potential fauna sightings include Grey Seal and Porpoise. Transportation and wind suits are provided.

    Adult: 135.00 EUR

    * A supplement will apply when there are fewer than 15 guests on this optional.

    Day 11 | Through Finnmark to Alta

    Enjoy a relaxed start before continuing through Norway’s most

    Northern County of ‘Finnmark’, covered in unique topography of

    rolling tundra and isolated dwellings. This afternoon experience

    the town of Alta at your leisure, made famous for its shing and

    mining history. Why not visit the Northern Lights Cathedral or

    consider taking a wilderness trip on the Alta River itself?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Scandic Alta

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Arctic King Crab Experience - In the remote shing village of Sarnes we visit a local king crab shing centre to taste the Arctic king crab

    of the Barents Sea and learn all about this very important catch for the local shermen. Arctic king crab claws are treasured as a unique

    and very expensive delicacy all over the world.

    Adult: 105.00 EUR

    Wilderness River Adventure - Enjoy warm drinks and Norwegian waes by the campre at Sorrisniva, the site of the world-famous

    Igloo Hotel. Then, an exciting ride up the Alta River in a traditional river boat for scenery and thrills! A true north outdoor experience!

    Adult: 88.00 EUR

    Day 12 | A World of Adventure in Alta

    With a leisurely morning start, why not explore the town centre or

    check out the Rock Art of Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of

    prehistoric rock carvings. Later, visit a working husky farm to meet

    the champion dog sledding Lyrek family. Delight in a wonderful

    oven-baked lunch with seasonal specialities from the region, such

    as salmon or the nutritious reindeer meat, served with fresh

    salads and wine. Afterwards, learn about their Alaskan huskies and

    Arctic dog sled races. Meet Husky puppies that may grow to be

    the best racing dogs in the country. If you wish, spend time

    playing with these adorable pups.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Hotel: Scandic Alta

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Between a Rock and a Hard Place - First a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Alta Museum to see world-famous rock carvings.

    Continue with a stunning stroll along the beautiful shore of the Alta Fjord where you'll learn about life here six-thousand years ago. Meet a

    local artisan and slate cutter who'll share stories about his craft, a rst-hand and and charming experience!

    Adult: 60.00 EUR

    Day 13 | Narvik

    Pass Kåfjord where the German battleship Tirpitz was once

    stationed and hear tales of one of the rst large-scale battles of

    World War II. As you travel south, see the marvellous Lyngen Alps

    in the distance. They're 90 kilometers of mountains and glaciers

    that really are stunning all year round. Continue to Narvik,

    surrounded by majestic mountains. With the evening free for you

    to explore on your own, perhaps join an Optional Experience and

    take in stunning views aboard neighbouring Sweden's iron-ore

    railway. Pass surrounding fjords as the Ofot Railway clings to the

    mountainside - constructed over 100 years ago, it's an incredible

    feat of engineering.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Scandic Narvik

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Narvik War Musuem - After Hours - Delve into the history of WW2 in North Norway with a guided after hours visit to the Narvik War

    Museum. Learn about the Battles of Narvik on land and sea, and gain insight into the strategic importance of the area.

    Adult: 38.00 EUR

    Day 14 | Across Tysfjord to Mosjøen

    Board a ferry to cross Tysfjord, then continue past Rago National

    Park, its fjords cut deep into the landscape. Bid farewell to the

    Arctic before reaching Mosjøen, a pleasant town on the Vefsnfjord

    that has a large concentration of historic, 19th century wooden

    buildings.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Fru Haugans, Mosjoen

    Day 15 | Laksfoss Falls to Trondheim

    Drive through Namdalen then watch for salmon leaping upstream

    as they travel to their spawning-grounds at the mighty Laksfoss

    Falls. Continue past the village of Hell to Trondheim, once the seat

    of the ancient Viking kings and Norway's third largest city.

    Trondheim has always reected the changing fortunes of Norway

    and is full of interest. See the Market Square dominated by its

    statue of Olav Tryggvason and the Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s

    national shrine. Tyholttårnet, or Tyholt Tower rises high above the

    city and the Old Town Bridge is locally known as Lykkens Portal,

    which means Portal of Happiness.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Scandic Lerkendal, Trondheim

    Day 16 | Geiranger, Jewel of the Fjords

    Begin one of the most scenic days you will ever experience.

    Norwegian Fjordland is a dream world of soaring mountains, icy

    glaciers and rivers which cascade hundreds of metres into the

    green valleys below. Cross the Dovre Mountains, as you journey

    through Dovrefjell National Park. Travel via lakes and snowcapped

    peaks to Lom, home to one of Norway’s most beautiful stave

    churches. Arrive at the mirror-smooth waters of Geirangerfjord to

    embark on a spectacular cruise beneath towering clis and

    cascading waterfalls. Your hotel is in a superb setting overlooking

    the beautiful Norwegian Fjord landscape.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Union Geiranger

    Day 17 | Geiranger at Leisure

    Enjoy a relaxed start and a whole day free for you to explore the

    fjords and mountains of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Perhaps join an Optional Experience and take an incredible scenic

    drive along the amazing Trollstigen, or Troll's Road. The road itself

    was a masterpiece of engineering when it was built over 70 years

    ago and the spectacular views will leave you speechless.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Union Geiranger

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    The Troll's Road - Your tour of Geiranger includes a scenic drive up the Eagle’s Road, oering amazing views of the Geiranger Fjord and

    the stunning Seven Sisters Waterfall. At the small village of Eidsdal, cross the fjord by ferry and climb up through the abundant fruit

    growing valleys. Leave civilisation behind as you venture high above the tree line for some of the most breathtaking scenery. Now on to

    the Troll’s Road, a masterpiece of engineering built over 70 years ago.

    Adult: 61.00 EUR

    * This optional is seasonal.

    Europe's Highest Fjord at Dalsnibba - In the comfort of your coach, climb 1500 metres to the highest possible fjord view in Europe at

    Dalsnibba mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the famous Geiranger fjord and the surrounding glacier topped mountains. For the bold,

    test your nerve on the Geiranger Skywalk suspended over a 500 metre drop.

    Adult: 39.00 EUR

    * This optional is weather permitting and seasonal.

    Day 18 | Oslo, the Capital

    Journey through the countryside immortalised by Ibsen in 'Peer

    Gynt' and inspiration for Edvard Grieg. Continue to Lillehammer,

    host of the 1994 Winter Olympics, for an orientation with your

    Travel Director. Then it’s on to the modern Norwegian capital of

    Oslo. Round o your travels with a dinner and raise your glass to

    toast your adventures with your newfound friends.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Hotel: Thon Opera, Oslo

    Day 19 | Cosmopolitan Oslo

    Your Local Expert will show you the spires and ramparts of the

    medieval Akershus Castle guarding the harbour. See the Royal

    Palace and explore Frogner Park, housing the intriguing sculptures

    by Gustav Vigeland. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax by the

    harbour or continue exploring as you wish.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Thon Opera, Oslo

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Arctic Explorers and the Polar Ship Fram - Step aboard the polar ship Fram, the strongest wooden ship ever built, to experience the life

    and work of Norway's famous Arctic explorers. The expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen come to life in the interactive

    exhibitions of this museum, which also houses the Gjøa, the rst ship to navigate the entire Northwest Passage.

    Adult: 43.00 EUR

    Day 20 | Out of Oslo

    Your Scandinavian exploration has come to an end.

    Meals: Breakfast

  • Handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels in great locations

    Superior dining in top rated restaurants

    Daily breakfasts & many relaxed morning starts after 9am

    24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert Driver

    ‘Business Class’ style coaches with extended legroom*

    Insider Access, Insightful Encounters and Insight Choice experiences

    Local discovery led by Local Experts

    All porterage, gratuities and tips

  • Booking and Payments

    • Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.

    • Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.

    Cancellations and Refunds

    • Cancellation by Client:

    • More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.

    • 30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.

    • Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.

    • Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.

    • Changes to Itinerary

    • Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.

    • Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.

    Travel Insurance

    • Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.

    • Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.

    Health and Safety

    • Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.

    • Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

    Liability

    • Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.

    • Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.

    Visas and Documentation

    • Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.

    • Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.

    Conduct

    • Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.

    • Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.

    Complaints

    • Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.

    • Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.

    By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.

 

Travellers photos