Grand Scandinavia (Classic, 20 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 20-day journey through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures of Scandinavia. This multi-day tour takes you from the charming streets of Copenhagen to the majestic fjords of Norway, offering a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. Discover iconic landmarks, explore medieval towns, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway. With expert guides and carefully curated experiences, you'll enjoy the best of Scandinavian hospitality, cuisine, and natural beauty. From the bustling markets of Helsinki to the serene wilderness of Lapland, each day promises new discoveries and unforgettable memories. Whether you're exploring the vibrant cities or the tranquil countryside, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Scandinavia in all its glory. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime, where every moment is a new chapter in your Scandinavian story.
Included
10 Dinner (D)
19 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
Copenhagen: Savour local specialities in Denmark's capital city during dinner with your Travel Director and fellow travellers.
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.
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
Rovaniemi: Join your Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest and admire the tranquil surroundings.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
"One thing I really love about showing guests Norway is how people have lived and flourished for thousands of years in harsh and unforgiving yet stunningly beautiful landscapes."
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Copenhagen: Rising high above the city skyline, the Radisson Blu Scandanavia Hotel Copenhagen affords stunning views of the ancient City Hall, the gilded church towers of Christianshavn and the picturesque coast.
Cruising: Enjoy the additional comfort of your high-class, sea-view cabin onboard your overnight cruise from Stockholm to Helsinki.
Helsinki: GLO Hotel Art is a charming hotel, built around a century-old art nouveau castle. It is in the centre of Helsinki surrounded by the vivid Design District.
Rovaniemi Santa's Hotel Santa Claus is set right in the very centre of the town of Rovaniemi next to the main shopping areas, only a few kilometres away from the Arctic Circle and Santa Claus Village.
Ivalo: Hotel Ivalo is a meeting place for Lapland travellers who expect quality. An international atmosphere is present every part of the year in the hotel, originally built 1982 and expanded in 1990.
Honningsvag: Scandic Honningsvåg is located in central Honningsvåg, a charming village which is the most northern in Norway and the world.
Alta: Scandic Alta is located in central Alta, the gateway to the Finnmark region, and combines an arctic experience with a modern and comfortable hotel stay.
Narvik: Scandic Narvik is one of Narvik’s most modern and tallest buildings in northern Norway and offers a stunning view of central Narvik, the Ofotfjorden and the surrounding mountains.
Mosjøen: The traditional Fru Haugans Hotel is in a picturesque location. It offers all the comforts of a modern hotel and is characterised by excellent personal service.
Geiranger: For a scenic location, you won't find better than Hotel Union. Enjoy upgraded rooms set against a fabulous backdrop of breathtaking fjord scenery and mountains.
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.
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.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Copenhagen
- Copenhagen - Arrival day
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- Tivoli Gardens
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Kick off your Scandinavian adventure in the vibrant city of Copenhagen. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a delightful dinner, followed by an enchanting visit to the iconic Tivoli Gardens, where the sparkling lights and magical atmosphere set the perfect tone for your journey.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discover Copenhagen
- Copenhagen
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- Københavns Rådhus
- Christiansborg Palace (2nd)
- Amalienborg
- Rosenborg Castle Gardens
- Rosenborg Castle
- The Round Tower
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Embark on a guided exploration of Denmark's capital with a Local Expert. Visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, and explore the grandeur of Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, and Christiansborg Palace. Marvel at the neoclassical Copenhagen Cathedral, known for its historical significance. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps climbing the Round Tower for panoramic views or exploring the Danish Riviera's fairytale castles.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Stockholm
- Copenhagen
- Stockholm
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- Ørstedsparken
- Sophienholm
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Travel from Denmark to Sweden, crossing the impressive Øresund Bridge, the longest road and rail bridge in Europe. Pass through the man-made island of Peberholm, a sanctuary for wildlife, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Skåne region. Journey along the shores of Lake Vättern, arriving in Stockholm, a city spread across 14 islands. In the evening, savor local Swedish cuisine in a traditional setting.
Day 4 – Day 4: Explore Stockholm
- Stockholm
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- Stockholm City Hall
- Stockholm Palace
- Karlaplan
- Vasa Museum
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Join a Local Expert to visit Stockholm City Hall, home to the Nobel Prize banquets. Wander through Gamla Stan, the city's medieval heart, and admire the Stockholm Cathedral and Royal Palace. Spend your afternoon at leisure, with the option to visit the Vasa Museum. In the evening, embark on a Baltic cruise to Finland, enjoying dinner and the stunning views of the archipelago from your sea-view cabin.
Day 5 – Day 5: Discover Helsinki
- Helsinki
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- Helsinki Market Square
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Arrive in Helsinki, a city renowned for its design, architecture, and lush parks. Disembark your cruise and meet your Local Expert. Explore a traditional food market, sampling local delicacies like liquorice and smoked reindeer. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps enjoying lunch at the vibrant market by the harbor, where you can browse stalls offering local crafts and fresh produce.
Day 6 – Day 6: Scenic Finland
- Helsinki
- Kuopio
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- Puijo tower
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Travel through Finland's picturesque landscapes, dotted with lakes and forests. Arrive in Kuopio and ascend Puijo Tower for breathtaking views of the region's thousand lakes. Enjoy the serene beauty of Finland's natural wonders as you relax and take in the panoramic vistas.
Day 7 – Day 7: Journey to Lapland
- Kuopio
- Rovaniemi
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- Oulu Cathedral
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Venture towards the Arctic, visiting Oulu, northern Finland's oldest city and a major port. Explore the city's center, spread across islands connected by pedestrian bridges. Continue your journey to Rovaniemi, the modern capital of Lapland, and immerse yourself in the unique culture and landscapes of this northern region.
Day 8 – Day 8: Explore Rovaniemi
- Rovaniemi
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- Rovaniemi Church
- Santa Claus Village
- Arktikum Science Museum
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Cross the Arctic Circle and explore Rovaniemi with a Local Expert. Visit the Town Hall and Rovaniemi Church, then choose to meet Santa Claus at the Santa Claus Village or enjoy a nature walk. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps visiting the Arktikum museum to learn more about Arctic life.
Day 9 – Day 9: Wildlife and Wilderness
- Rovaniemi
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- Wild Spirit Park
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Begin your day with an optional visit to Ranua Wildlife Park to see polar bears and other Arctic animals. Continue your journey north along the Four Winds Road, where you might spot reindeer roaming freely. Explore the Urho Kekkonen National Park, a vast wilderness area near the gold center of Tankavaara.
Day 10 – Day 10: Into Norway
- Rovaniemi
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Cross the tundra into Norway, stopping at Karasjok for a visit to the Sámi National Museum. Continue along the Porsanger Fjord to Honningsvåg, where you can enjoy the picturesque harbor. In the evening, journey to Nordkapp, the northernmost point of mainland Europe, to experience the midnight sun with a glass of bubbles and caviar.
Day 11 – Day 11: Explore Alta
- Kaltanėnai
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Enjoy a leisurely start before traveling through Norway's Finnmark region to Alta. Known for its fishing and mining history, Alta offers a range of activities. Visit the Northern Lights Cathedral or take a wilderness trip on the Alta River. Spend your afternoon exploring this charming town at your own pace.
Day 12 – Day 12: Cultural and Culinary Delights
- Kaltanėnai
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Start your day by exploring the Rock Art of Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit a working husky farm to meet the Lyrek family, champions of dog sledding. Enjoy a delicious oven-baked lunch featuring regional specialties like salmon and reindeer meat. Learn about Alaskan huskies and Arctic dog sled races, and spend time playing with adorable husky puppies.
Day 13 – Day 13: Journey to Narvik
- Kaltanėnai
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Travel south from Alta, passing Kåfjord and hearing tales of World War II. Marvel at the Lyngen Alps, a stunning mountain range visible throughout the year. Arrive in Narvik, surrounded by majestic mountains. Spend your evening exploring the city or join an optional experience aboard Sweden's iron-ore railway for breathtaking views.
Day 14 – Day 14: Cross Tysfjord to Mosjøen
Day 14: Cross Tysfjord to Mosjøen
Board a ferry to cross Tysfjord, then continue past the dramatic landscapes of Rago National Park. Bid farewell to the Arctic as you reach Mosjøen, a charming town on the Vefsnfjord known for its historic wooden buildings. Enjoy the town's unique atmosphere and explore its rich history.
Day 15 – Day 15: Trondheim's Rich History
- Steinkjer
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- Old Town Bridge
- Nidaros Cathedral
- Stiftsgården
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Drive through Namdalen, watching for salmon leaping at Laksfoss Falls. Continue to Trondheim, Norway's third-largest city, known for its Viking history. Visit the Market Square, Nidaros Cathedral, and Tyholttårnet. Cross the Old Town Bridge, known as the Portal of Happiness, and explore the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Day 16 – Day 16: Norwegian Fjordland
- Steinkjer
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- Dovrefjell–Sunndalsfjella National Park
- Lom Stave Church
- Geirangerfjord
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Experience one of the most scenic days of your journey as you travel through the Norwegian Fjordland. Cross the Dovre Mountains and explore Dovrefjell National Park. Visit the beautiful Lom Stave Church before arriving at Geirangerfjord. Embark on a cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, and enjoy your stay at a hotel overlooking the stunning fjord landscape.
Day 17 – Day 17: Explore Geirangerfjord
Day 17: Explore Geirangerfjord
- 精灵之路
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Enjoy a day of leisure in the breathtaking Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consider joining an optional excursion along the Trollstigen, a road renowned for its engineering and spectacular views. Spend your day exploring the fjords and mountains, taking in the natural beauty of this remarkable region.
Day 18 – Day 18: From Geiranger to Oslo
- Oslo
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- Lilleputthammer
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Travel through the landscapes that inspired Ibsen's 'Peer Gynt' and Grieg's music. Visit Lillehammer, host of the 1994 Winter Olympics, before continuing to Oslo, Norway's modern capital. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your travel companions, celebrating the adventures and friendships made during your journey.
Day 19 – Day 19: Discover Oslo
- Oslo
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- Akershus Fortress
- The Royal Palace
- Frognerparken
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Explore Oslo with a Local Expert, visiting the medieval Akershus Castle and the Royal Palace. Wander through Frogner Park, home to Gustav Vigeland's intriguing sculptures. Spend your afternoon at leisure, relaxing by the harbor or continuing your exploration of this vibrant city.
Day 20 – Day 20: Farewell to Scandinavia
- Oslo - Departure day
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Conclude your Scandinavian exploration in Oslo, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes encountered throughout your journey. Depart with cherished memories and newfound friendships, ready to share your adventures with loved ones back home.
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