Scandinavian Heritage (Small Groups, 28 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 28-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. This multi-day tour offers an immersive exploration of the Nordic countries' rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. From the cosmopolitan cities of Oslo and Copenhagen to the enchanting fjords of Norway and the pristine wilderness of Finland, this tour promises a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Experience the thrill of crossing the Arctic Circle, the charm of ancient Viking settlements, the grandeur of royal palaces, and the tranquility of Europe's largest national park. Enjoy local delicacies, meet friendly locals, and create memories that will last a lifetime on this unforgettable Nordic adventure.
Included
27 nights in twin-share rooms at hand-picked hotels
4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
27 Breakfast (B)
10 Dinner (D)
1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Oslo: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at 17:30, to enjoy a Welcome Dinner with wine.
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 at your Celebration Dinner.
Alta: Meet the Lyrek family and their huskies. Hear tales about their marathon Arctic dog sled races while enjoying a hearty lunch.
Copenhagen: For your Celebration Dinner enjoy a meal at Cofoco, a restaurant leading the way in minimizing food waste and acting for a sustainable future.
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.
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.
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.
Cruise in high-class cabins with sea views.
Lyngdal: Tour the Wild Salmon Centre with a biologist guide and learn about protecting salmon populations and the local ecosystem.
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.
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: 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!
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.
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.
Kristiansand: During your orientation with your Travel Director, walk the city centre and see the Dom Kirke and Nupen Fountain.
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.
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: Welcome to Oslo
- Oslo - Arrival day
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Your Nordic adventure begins in the vibrant city of Oslo. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a delightful Welcome Dinner, where you'll have the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and discuss the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Oslo
- Oslo
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- Akershus Fortress
- Tøyen Park
- The Royal Palace
- Oslo Opera House
- Frognerparken
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Kickstart your day with a guided tour of Oslo's most iconic landmarks, including the medieval Akershus Castle, the Royal Palace, and the Opera House area. Stroll through the serene Frogner Park, home to the fascinating sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps visiting the City Hall, the prestigious venue for the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Ullensvang
- Oslo
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Today, we journey across the majestic Hardanger Plateau, Europe's largest mountain plateau and the heart of the largest national park in the Nordic countries. Revel in the breathtaking landscapes before arriving at your hotel in the charming town of Ullensvang.
Day 4 – Day 4: Ullensvang to Bergen
Day 4: Ullensvang to Bergen
- Flam Railway Museum
- Aurlandsfjord
- Viking Valley
- Nærøyfjord
- More
Travel to the stunning Nærøyfjord, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the Viking Valley. Embark on a scenic cruise on this UNESCO-listed fjord, before continuing to the coastal city of Bergen. Experience a thrilling journey on the Flåm railway, one of the world's steepest railways, offering panoramic views of rushing waterfalls, glacial rivers, and verdant scenery. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5 – Day 5: Discovering Bergen
Day 5: Discovering Bergen
- KODE 4, KODE Kunstmuseer og komponisthjem
- Fløyen
- The King Håkon's Hall
- More
Explore the ancient port city of Bergen with a Local Expert. Visit the lively Fish Market, a bustling hub of activity offering a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Discover the 13th-century Haakon’s Hall and enjoy some free time to explore the city. You might want to visit the home of composer Edvard Grieg or ascend Mount Fløyen by Scandinavia's only funicular for breathtaking views of the city.
Day 6 – Day 6: Bergen to Stavanger
- Stavanger
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- Pulpit Rock
- Lysefjord
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Travel along the stunning Norwegian coastline, sailing across fjords and passing numerous islands. Arrive in Stavanger, one of Norway's oldest cities, known for its blend of old-world charm and cosmopolitan flair. Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Lysefjord, admiring the cascading waterfalls and the towering Pulpit Rock.
Day 7 – Day 7: Stavanger to Kristiansand
- Kristiansand
- Stavanger
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- Archive Foundation
- Eikerapen Alpinsenter AS
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In Lyngdal, tour the Wild Salmon Centre with a biologist guide, learning about the preservation of salmon populations and the local ecosystem. Continue your scenic drive around the southern cape of Norway, arriving in Kristiansand. Take an orientation walk of the city centre, visiting the Dom Kirke and the Nupen Fountain. End the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 8 – Day 8: Kristiansand to Aalborg
- Kristiansand
- Aarhus
- Hjørring
- Aalborg
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Bid farewell to Norway as you sail across the Skagerrak to Hirtshals, Denmark. Continue your journey to Aalborg, Denmark's fourth-largest city, known for its vibrant culture and rich history.
Day 9 – Day 9: Aalborg to Odense via Aarhus
- Aarhus
- Aalborg
- Odense
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- The Border Museum
- ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
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Experience the youthful energy and historical charm of Aarhus. Visit the City Hall, the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, and Dokk1, the largest public library in Scandinavia. En route to Odense, stop for a tour of Jelling and visit the Home of the Viking Kings Museum. Arrive in the town of Odense, located on the island of Fyn, and enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 10 – Day 10: Exploring Odense
- Odense
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- St. Canute's Cathedral
- Danish Railway Museum
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Spend the day exploring Odense. Choose to visit the Hans Christian Andersen House, a museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous fairytale writer, or visit St Canute's Cathedral and hear tales of Canute, Denmark's first royal saint.
Day 11 – Day 11: Odense to Copenhagen
- Copenhagen
- Odense
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- Tivoli Gardens
- Københavns Rådhus
- Christiansborg Palace (2nd)
- Amalienborg
- Store Dyrehave
- Rosenborg Castle
- The Round Tower
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Travel to Denmark's capital, Copenhagen. With a Local Expert, visit iconic landmarks such as the Little Mermaid, Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, the Stock Exchange, and Christianborg Palace. Explore the 18th-century Copenhagen Cathedral and the Round Tower, Europe's oldest functioning observatory. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Celebration Dinner of sustainable ingredients at the Cofoco restaurant.
Day 12 – Day 12: Copenhagen to Stockholm
- Stockholm
- Copenhagen
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- Øresund Bridge
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Travel from Denmark to Sweden by crossing the incredible Øresund Bridge, the longest road and rail bridge in Europe. Pass through the artificial island of Peberholm, a haven for flora and fauna, and continue through the Skåne region, the birthplace of Scandinavia. Arrive in Stockholm, the Swedish capital, set on 14 beautiful islands. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps trying the local cuisine.
Day 13 – Day 13: Exploring Stockholm and Voyage to Finland
- Stockholm
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- Stockholm City Hall
- Stockholm Palace
- Karlaplan
- Vasa Museum
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Join a Local Expert for a visit to the City Hall's Golden Hall and Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquets are held. Continue to Gamla Stan, the medieval heart of the city, and visit the Royal Palace. In the afternoon, consider visiting the Vasa Galleon, a 17th-century naval vessel. In the evening, board a Baltic cruise to Finland, enjoying dinner onboard as you voyage through the world's largest archipelago.
Day 14 – Day 14: Arrival in Helsinki
- Helsinki
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Arrive in Helsinki, a city known for its design, fashion, stunning architecture, and lush parks. Disembark your Baltic cruise and meet your Local Expert. Wander through a traditional food market, sampling local produce like liquorice or smoked reindeer. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your own pace.
Day 15 – Day 15: Helsinki to Kuopio
- Kuopio
- Helsinki
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- Puijo tower
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Travel to Kuopio, a city nestled in the heart of Finland's beautiful lake district. Ascend Puijo Tower for a panoramic view that reveals why Finland is known as the land of a thousand lakes.
Day 16 – Day 16: Kuopio to Rovaniemi via Oulu
- Rovaniemi
- Kuopio
- Oulu
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Journey towards the Arctic, travelling to Lapland, the native home of the nomadic Sami people. Visit Oulu, northern Finland's oldest city, and enjoy some free time to explore the city centre. Continue to Rovaniemi, the modern capital of the region.
Day 17 – Day 17: Exploring Rovaniemi
- Rovaniemi
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- Santa Claus Village
- Arktikum Science Museum
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Cross the Arctic Circle, a highlight for many travellers. Explore Rovaniemi and choose to meet Santa Claus or join a nature walk in the forest with a Local Expert. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps visiting the open-air museum and Arktikum.
Day 18 – Day 18: Rovaniemi to Tankavaara
- Ivalo
- Rovaniemi
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- Wild Spirit Park
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In the morning, consider joining an Optional Experience to visit Ranua Wildlife Park. Continue north along the Four Winds Road, passing through Europe’s last great wilderness to see the Urho Kekkonen National Park near the gold centre of Tankavaara.
Day 19 – Day 19: Tankavaara to Honningsvåg
Day 19: Tankavaara to Honningsvåg
- Honningsvåg Church
- Nordkappmuseet
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Cross nature reserves into Norway and stop at Karasjok for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Visit a Sami National Museum and see the Sami Parliament before continuing along the beautiful Porsanger Fjord to reach the quaint settlement of Honningsvåg. In the evening, journey to Nordkapp, the northernmost point of mainland Europe, where you will enjoy a glass of bubbles and caviar.
Day 20 – Day 20: Honningsvåg to Alta
- Alta
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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.
Day 21 – Day 21: Exploring Alta
- Alta
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With a leisurely morning start, 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. Delight in a wonderful oven-baked Highlight Lunch with seasonal specialities from the region.
Day 22 – Day 22: Alta to Narvik
- Narvik
- Kaltanėnai
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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. The evening is free for you to explore on your own.
Day 23 – Day 23: Narvik to Mosjøen
- Mosjøen
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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.
Day 24 – Day 24: Mosjøen to Trondheim
- Trondheim
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- Tyholttårnet
- Nidaros Cathedral
- Kristiansten Fortress
- Museet Kystens Arv
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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.
Day 25 – Day 25: Trondheim to Geiranger
- Steinkjer
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- Rondane National Park
- Lom Stave Church
- Geirangerfjord
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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.
Day 26 – Day 26: Exploring Geiranger
Day 26: Exploring Geiranger
- The Trolls Path Viewpoint
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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.
Day 27 – Day 27: Geiranger to Oslo via Lillehammer
- Oslo
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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 Celebration Dinner, and raise your glass to toast to your adventures.
Day 28 – Day 28: Farewell Oslo
- Oslo - Departure day
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It's time to say goodbye to your new friends and the unforgettable Nordic landscapes as your trip comes to an end. Safe travels!
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