Overview
Itinerary
Welcome to Oslo! This evening, join your Travel Director to enjoy dinner while you meet your fellow travellers. (D) Stay: Thon Europa, Oslo
In the morning, sightseeing with a Local Expert will show you the spires and ramparts of medieval Akershus Castle guarding the harbour, as well as the Royal Palace and the area around the Opera House. Wander through Frogner Park, housing the intriguing sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. The afternoon is at your leisure, maybe explore City Hall where the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony is held? (B)
Journey across the Hardanger Plateau, Europe's greatest mountain plateau and the largest national park in the Nordic countries, before arriving at your hotel in Ullensvang. (B) Stay: Ullensvang, Lofthus
Travel to the Nærøyfjord for the opportunity to visit Viking Valley and cruise this UNESCO listed fjord on an Optional Experience. After, continue to the coastal city of Bergen by a traditional train of the Flåm railway. Journey from the shores of the Aurlandsfjord on one of the world's steepest railways through tunnels that spiral in and out of the mountainside. And breathe in the fresh mountain air while you drink in the views of the rushing waterfalls, glacial rivers and verdant scenery.
This evening join your Travel Director at a Local Restaurant for Dinner. (B/D) Stay: Thon Rosenkrantz, Bergen
A Local Expert introduces you to Bergen. The ancient Hanseatic port city still largely looks to the sea for its living, as evidenced by the picturesque and lively Fish Market, set in a charming location in the heart of the city. The market also has stalls selling a colourful variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, handicrafts and souvenirs. After seeing the 13th-century Haakon's Hall, there will be time to explore all that this exciting town has to offer. Perhaps you might like to visit the home of composer Edvard Grieg, before ascending Mount Fløyen by the only funicular in Scandinavia. (B)
Travel along this incredible coastline and sail across fjords passing an abundance of islands. Arrive in Stavanger, one of Norway's oldest cities founded almost 900 years ago. The city has continued to evolve with changing times and now is the headquarters of the Norwegian oil industry, Stavanger is a fusion of old world charm and cosmopolitan flair. Cruise the Lysefjord and admire the waterfalls and Pulpit Rock overhanging the fjord. (B) Stay: Thon Maritim, Stavanger
In Lyngdal, tour the Wild Salmon Centre with a biologist guide, learn about protecting salmon populations and the local ecosystem. Observe the majestic fish in their own environment, via a unique indoor 'staircase' and viewing area. Relax and enjoy the scenic drive around the southern cape of Norway.
Upon arrival in Kristiansand, your orientation walk of the city centre will show you the Domkirke and the Nupen Fountain. Savour a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D) Stay: Thon Parken, Kristiansand
Say farewell to Norway as you sail across the Skagerrak to Hirtshals, Denmark. Your journey continues to Aalborg, Denmark's forth largest city.
This evening, join your Travel Directors and fellow travellers for a Farm-to-Table dinner in a local restaurant. (B/D) Stay: Comwell Hvide Hus Aalborg
'A vibrant mix of youthful energy and a blast from the past makes Aarhus a city with an energetic pulse. Join your Travel Director for an orientation of the city centre. See the City Hall, ARoS Aarhus Art Museum - topped with an immense and interactive artwork - and Dokk1, the largest public library in Scandinavia. En route to Odense, you will stop for a tour of Jelling, visiting the Home of the Viking Kings Museum. Then cross the Jutland Peninsula to the town of Odense, on the island of Fyn where this evening we will join for dinner in a local restaurant.' (B) Stay: Comwell H C Andersen Odense
Visit Odense with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Hans Christian Andersen House, a museum dedicated to his life and works. Learn all about the famous fairytale writer as you follow his career, travels and love life. Alternatively, visit St Canute's Cathedral and hear tales of Canute, Denmark's first royal saint. Continue to Denmark's vibrant capital city, Copenhagen and later discover the enchanting Tivoli Gardens. (B) Stay: Radisson Blu Scandinavia, 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 and the Renaissance Stock Exchange and visit the Christianborg Palace. Visit the 18th century Copenhagen Cathedral, designed by Christian Frederik Hansen, known for its neoclassical architecture and for featuring the largest bell in Denmark. With the afternoon at your leisure, why not see the unusual Round Tower, a 17th century tower and the oldest functioning observatory in Europe and Copenhagen Cathedral, where the Crown Prince of Denmark married Princess Mary.
Tonight, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Cofoco restaurant and enjoy a delicious dinner of sustainable ingredients. (B/D)
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 artificial island of Peberholm which has become a haven for flora 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? (B) Stay: Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel, Stockholm.
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, a marvellous impression of life on board a 17th century naval vessel.
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. (B/D) Stay: Serenade/Symphony - Tallink & Silja Line Ships
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? (B) Stay: GLO Art, Helsinki
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. (B/D) Stay: Scandic Atlas, Kuopio
As you journey towards the Arctic, travel to Lapland, native home to the nomadic Sami people. 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. (B/D) Stay: Santa's Santa Claus, Rovaniemi
Cross the Arctic Circle today, a highlight for many travellers. 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? (B)
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. (B/D) Stay: Ivalo
Cross nature reserves into Norway and stop at Karasjok for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Visit a Sami National Museum, devoted to preserving the Sami history and culture, and see the Sami 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 Puffins, 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. (B/D) Stay: Scandic Honningsvåg.
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 fishing and mining history. Why not visit the Northern Lights Cathedral or consider taking a wilderness trip on the Alta River itself? (B) Stay: Scandic 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. Learn about their Alaskan huskies and the challenges of competing in marathon 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.
Afterwards, delight in a wonderful oven-baked Highlight Lunch with seasonal specialities from the region, such as salmon or the nutritious local game, reindeer, served with fresh salads and wine. (B/L)
Pass Kåfjord where the German battleship Tirpitz was once stationed and hear tales of one of the first 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. 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. The evening is free for you to explore on your own. (B) Stay: Scandic Narvik
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. (B/D) Stay: Fru Haugans, Mosjoen
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 reflected 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. (B) Stay: Scandic Bakklandet, Trondheim.
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 snow-capped 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 cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Your hotel is in a superb setting overlooking the beautiful Norwegian Fjord landscape. (B/D) Stay: Union Geiranger
Enjoy a relaxed start and a day reserved for your leisure amongst the most breathtaking scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps join an Optional Experience for an incredible scenic drive along the amazing 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. (B/D)
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 off your travels with a dinner, and raise your glass to toast to your adventures. (B/D) Stay: Thon Opera, Oslo
Time to say goodbye to your new friends, your trip ends this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Oslo: With your Local Expert, see Akershus Castle, Oslo Harbour and the Royal Palace.
- Oslo: Take a moment to contemplate the interesting Vigeland sculptures when you visit Frogner Park.
- Hardangervidda: Pass through the National Park known for its beautiful arctic tundra.
- Bergen: With your Local Expert, see the many colourful stalls of the lively Fish Market and marvel at the 13th-century Haakon's Hall.
- Flam Railway: Journey on one of the world's steepest railways through tunnels that spiral in and out of the mountainside of the narrow Flåm Valley.
- Stavanger: Fjord hop from Bergen to Stavanger.
- Kristiansand: During your orientation with your Travel Director, walk the city centre and see the Dom Kirke and Nupen Fountain.
- Kristiansand: Sail across the Skagerrak as you cross from Kristiansand to Hirsthals.
- Odense: Kongernes Jelling - Home of the Viking Kings visit uses lighting, sound and imaginative special effects bringing to life Viking adventure stories from 1000 years ago.
- Copenhagen: Make the most of the long summer nights at the glittering Tivoli Gardens, the world-famous entertainment park, full of fantasy, fun and charm.
- Copenhagen: With your Local Expert, view Christiansborg Palace and the cathedral where the Crown Prince of Denmark married Princess Mary. You'll also see Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace and the unusual Rundertaarn, which is the oldest functioning Observatory in Europe.
- Copenhagen: Visit the impressive 18th century Copenhagen Cathedral, designed by Christian Frederik Hansen, known for its neoclassical architecture and for featuring the largest bell in Denmark.
- Oresund Bridge: Cross this magnificent feat of engineering. It's the longest road and rail bridge in Europe, spanning 8 kilometres.
- Stockholm: With a Local Expert, step inside the City Hall where the fabulous Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall is covered by 18 million gilded mosaic tiles. You'll also see the Blå hallen, the Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquets are held.
- Stockholm: With your Local Expert, visit Gamla Stan to see the cathedral where Swedish kings have been coronated and wander the narrow streets of the Old Town.
- Helsinki: Admire the beautiful views from your high-class, sea-view cabin as your cruise through the largest archipelago in the world, from Stockholm to Helsinki.
- Helsinki: Your Local Expert will show you the sights of the harbour city. Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market and sample local produce like liquorice or smoked reindeer before enjoying free time to explore the harbour of this fascinating city of design.
- Kuopio: Admire the spectacular panoramic views from atop Puijo Tower.
- Oulu: Visit Northern Finland's oldest city. It is also one of the most important harbour cities in all of Northern Europe.
- Rovaniemi: See Alvar Aalto's Town Hall and visit the cathedral. You'll even receive an Arctic Circle Crossing certificate.
- Sodankyla: Visit one of Lapland's oldest churches.
- Ivalo: Enjoy an orientation as you arrive into the village.
- Karasjok: See the Sami Parliament and continue on to visit the museum devoted to Sami history and culture, offering a glimpse into the old Sami lifestyle.
- North Cape: Journey to mainland Europe's most northern point to see something that doesn't happen - sunset! Even at midnight, the sun clings to the horizon. This once-in-a-lifetime unique experience is accompanied by champagne and caviar to make it even more special. Stand near the fence of the towering cliffs, dramatically rising out of the sea and you will feel as if you are on the edge of the world, and you literally are.
- Narvik: Learn more about the scenic town of Narvik and its history as you gaze upon the majestic mountains that surround the town.
- Mosjoen: See the street of historic, 19th century wooden buildings and Norway's oldest octagonal church.
- Trondheim: Tell all your friends you travelled through!
- Trondheim: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Market Square and its statue of Olav Tryggvason, the Nidaros Cathedral, the Tyholt Tower and Old Town Bridge.
- Geiranger: Enjoy an orientation of Geiranger to learn more about this small village and the surrounding Fjords.
- Geiranger: Cruise along the deep, blue waters of majestic Geirangerfjord, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, gushing waterfalls and lush green vegetation.
- Lillehammer: Explore the town where the 1994 Winter Olympics were held.
- Lyngdal: Tour the Wild Salmon Centre with a biologist guide and learn about protecting salmon populations and the local ecosystem.
- Alta: Meet the Lyrek family and their huskies. Hear tales about their marathon Arctic dog sled races while enjoying a hearty lunch.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Odense: Be enchanted by the tales of Hans Christian Andersen's life when you visit the museum dedicated to his life and works.
- Odense: Visit St Canute's Cathedral and hear tales of Canute, Denmark's last Viking king and royal saint.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Rovaniemi: Meet Santa Claus when you visit his village where it is Christmas all year round! From his post office, you can make sure that Santa sends Christmas letters to friends and family back home come December.
- Rovaniemi: Join your Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest and admire the tranquil surroundings.
- Copenhagen: Dine at Cofoco, a restaurant leading the way in minimising food waste and promoting a sustainable future. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 12: Affordable and Clean Energy & Responsible Consumption and Production.
- Karasjok: Visit the The Sámi Museum in Karasjok, displaying the largest cultural heritage collection of indigenous Sámi people in Norway. Admire a big part of its 5,000 items collection, spread across indoor and outdoor exhibits. The Sámi Museum in Karasjok educates its guests about the resiliency of the Sámi community and endeavors to safeguard indigenous-driven processes and traditional practices. The Sámi Museum advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
- Cruise in high-class cabins with sea views.
- Oslo: Savour local specialities with your Travel Director and fellow travellers during dinner.
- Aalborg: Savour a delightful dinner prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients at a local restaurant.
- Helsinki: Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market with your Local Expert and sample local produce, like liquorice or smoked reindeer.
- Alta: Savour a delicious oven-baked lunch of local seasonal specialities of fresh salmon or the local's favourite, reindeer, served with fresh salads and wine.
- Oslo: Scandinavian hospitality is matched with fine food and a glass of wine during dinner at a local restaurant.
- Dining Summary: 14 Dinners (D), 27 Breakfasts (B), 1 Lunch (L)
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Brochure
Insight Vacations Europe, Britain & the World (2025-26)
Availability
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Insight Vacations. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Insight Vacations. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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