Grand Scandinavia (Small Groups, 20 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 20-day multi-day tour through the heart of Scandinavia, where enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage await. From the vibrant streets of Copenhagen to the serene fjords of Norway, this journey promises unforgettable experiences at every turn. Discover the architectural wonders of Stockholm, the design-forward city of Helsinki, and the magical allure of Lapland. Cross the Arctic Circle, explore the picturesque towns of Norway, and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this remarkable region. With expert guides and carefully curated itineraries, this tour offers a perfect blend of guided exploration and leisure time, ensuring a truly memorable adventure. Whether you're savoring local delicacies, marveling at natural wonders, or delving into the rich history of the Vikings, this Scandinavian odyssey is designed to captivate and inspire. Join us for an extraordinary journey through the heart of Scandinavia, where every day is a new adventure waiting to be discovered.
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.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
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.
Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
RADISSON BLU SCANDINAVIA HOTEL-COPENHAGEN (CONTEMPORARY) - DENMARK
SCANDIC GRAND CENTRAL STOCKHOLM (CONTEMPORARY) - SWEDEN
SERENADE/SYMPHONY, TALLINK SILJA LINE - STOCKHOLM (OVERNIGHT CRUISING) - SWEDEN
GLO HOTEL ART-HELSINKI (HISTORIC) - FINLAND
SCANDIC ATLAS, KUOPIO.-KUOPIO (TRADITIONAL) - FINLAND
SANTA'S HOTEL SANTA CLAUS, ROVANIEMI.-ROVANIEMI (TRADITIONAL) - FINLAND
HOTEL IVALO OY-IVALO (TRADITIONAL) - FINLAND
SCANDIC HONNINGSVAG-HONNNINSVAG (TRADITIONAL) - NORWAY
SCANDIC ALTA-ALTA (TRADITIONAL) - NORWAY
SCANDIC NARVIK-NARVIK (CONTEMPORARY) - NORWAY
FRU HAUGANS HOTEL-MOSJØEN (TRADITIONAL) - NORWAY
CLARION HOTEL-TRONDHEIM (CONTEMPORARY) - NORWAY
HOTEL UNION GEIRANGER-GEIRANGER (HISTORIC) - NORWAY.
THON HOTEL OPERA-OSLO (CONTEMPORARY) - NORWAY
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. As the sun sets, join your Travel Director for a delightful dinner, followed by an enchanting visit to the iconic Tivoli Gardens, where the twinkling lights and magical atmosphere will captivate your senses.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Copenhagen
- Copenhagen
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- Københavns Rådhus
- Christiansborg Palace (2nd)
- Amalienborg
- Rosenborg Castle Gardens
- Rosenborg Castle
- The Round Tower
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Explore the charm of Denmark's capital with a Local Expert. Visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue, and marvel at the grandeur of Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, and Christiansborg Palace. Discover the neoclassical beauty of Copenhagen Cathedral. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to climb the historic Round Tower or explore the Danish Riviera's fairytale castles.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Denmark to Sweden
- Copenhagen
- Stockholm
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- Ørstedsparken
- Sophienholm
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Embark on a scenic journey from Denmark to Sweden, crossing the impressive Øresund Bridge. Travel through the lush landscapes of the Skåne region and enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Vättern. Arrive in Stockholm, the stunning Swedish capital spread across 14 islands. In the evening, savor traditional Swedish cuisine in a cozy setting.
Day 4 – Day 4: Stockholm's Splendor
- Stockholm
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- Stockholm City Hall
- Stockholm Palace
- Karlaplan
- Vasa Museum
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Join a Local Expert to explore Stockholm's City Hall, including the Golden Hall and Blue Hall. Wander through Gamla Stan, the city's medieval heart, and admire the Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral. Spend your afternoon visiting the Vasa Museum. In the evening, embark on a Baltic cruise to Finland, enjoying dinner and breathtaking views of the archipelago.
Day 5 – Day 5: Helsinki's Design and Delights
- Helsinki
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- Helsinki Market Square
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Arrive in Helsinki, a city renowned for its design and architecture. Meet your Local Expert and explore a traditional food market, sampling local delicacies like liquorice and smoked reindeer. Enjoy free time to explore the vibrant market by the harbor, where you can find unique souvenirs and taste delicious local pancakes.
Day 6 – Day 6: Scenic Finland
- Kuopio
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- Puijo tower
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Travel through Finland's breathtaking landscapes of lakes and forests. Arrive in Kuopio and ascend Puijo Tower for panoramic views that showcase Finland's natural beauty, earning it the title of the land of a thousand lakes.
Day 7 – Day 7: Journey to Lapland
- Oulu
- Rovaniemi
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- Oulu Cathedral
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Venture into the Arctic, visiting Oulu, Finland's oldest city in the north. Explore its charming center, spread across islands connected by bridges. Continue to Rovaniemi, the vibrant capital of Lapland, known for its unique culture and natural beauty.
Day 8 – Day 8: Crossing the Arctic Circle
- Rovaniemi
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- Rovaniemi Church
- Santa Claus Village
- Arktikum Science Museum
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Cross the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, a memorable highlight of your journey. Visit the Town Hall and Rovaniemi Church with a Local Expert. Choose to meet Santa Claus at his village or enjoy a nature walk in the forest. In the afternoon, explore the Arktikum museum or the open-air museum at your leisure.
Day 9 – Day 9: Wilderness and Wildlife
- Rovaniemi
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- Wild Spirit Park
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Begin your day with a visit to Ranua Wildlife Park, where you can see polar bears and other Arctic animals. Continue your journey along the Four Winds Road, spotting reindeer and exploring the pristine wilderness of Urho Kekkonen National Park.
Day 10 – Day 10: Cultural Insights and Northern Wonders
Day 10: Cultural Insights and Northern Wonders
- Nordkappmuseet
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Cross into Norway and visit Karasjok, home to the Sámi National Museum. Learn about the rich Sámi culture and history. Continue to Honningsvåg, where you can enjoy the picturesque harbor or embark on an Arctic cruise. In the evening, experience the magic of the midnight sun at Nordkapp, the northernmost point of mainland Europe.
Day 11 – Day 11: Exploring Alta
- Kaltanėnai
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- Cathedral Of The Northern Lights
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Enjoy a leisurely morning in Alta, known for its rich history in fishing and mining. Visit the Northern Lights Cathedral or take a wilderness trip on the Alta River. Spend your afternoon exploring the town at your own pace.
Day 12 – Day 12: Cultural Heritage and Canine Companions
- Kaltanėnai
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Discover the prehistoric Rock Art of Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit a working husky farm, meet the champion dog sledding family, and enjoy a delicious oven-baked lunch. Learn about the Alaskan huskies and Arctic dog sled races, and spend time playing with adorable husky puppies.
Day 13 – Day 13: Narvik and the Lyngen Alps
- Kaltanėnai
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Travel south, passing the stunning Lyngen Alps. Arrive in Narvik, surrounded by majestic mountains. Spend your evening exploring the city or take an optional experience on the Ofot Railway, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords.
Day 14 – Day 14: Crossing Tysfjord to Mosjøen
Day 14: Crossing Tysfjord to Mosjøen
Board a ferry to cross Tysfjord, then continue past the dramatic landscapes of Rago National Park. Arrive in Mosjøen, a charming town on the Vefsnfjord, known for its historic wooden buildings.
Day 15 – Day 15: Trondheim's Viking Heritage
- 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. Arrive in Trondheim, once the seat of Viking kings. Explore the Market Square, Nidaros Cathedral, and Tyholttårnet. Cross the Old Town Bridge, known as the Portal of Happiness, and immerse yourself in the city's rich history.
Day 16 – Day 16: Norwegian Fjordland
- Steinkjer
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- Dovrefjell–Sunndalsfjella National Park
- Lom Stave Church
- Geirangerfjord
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Norwegian Fjordland. Cross the Dovre Mountains and journey through Dovrefjell National Park. Visit Lom, home to a stunning stave church, before arriving at Geirangerfjord. Embark on a spectacular cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, surrounded by the serene fjord landscape.
Day 17 – Day 17: Exploring the Fjords
Day 17: Exploring the Fjords
- 精灵之路
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Enjoy a day of leisure to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord. Consider an optional scenic drive along Trollstigen, a masterpiece of engineering offering breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the fjords and mountains.
Day 18 – Day 18: From Lillehammer to Oslo
- Oslo
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Travel through the landscapes that inspired Ibsen and Grieg. Visit Lillehammer, host of the 1994 Winter Olympics, before continuing to Oslo, Norway's modern capital. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner, toasting to the unforgettable experiences shared with newfound friends.
Day 19 – Day 19: Oslo's Cultural Treasures
- Oslo
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- Akershus Fortress
- The Royal Palace
- Frognerparken
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Discover Oslo's rich history with a visit to Akershus Castle, the Royal Palace, and Frogner Park, home to Gustav Vigeland's intriguing sculptures. Spend your afternoon exploring the city at your leisure, relaxing by the harbor or uncovering more of Oslo's cultural gems.
Day 20 – Day 20: Farewell to Scandinavia
- Oslo - Departure day
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Conclude your Scandinavian journey in Oslo, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories made throughout this multi-day tour. Depart with a heart full of adventure and a camera full of stunning photographs.
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