Best of Scandinavia - 10 days

Arrive in Denmark’s vibrant capital, Copenhagen, where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern Scandinavian design. After making your way to your centrally located hotel (Scandic Copenhagen or similar), settle in and prepare for an introductory meeting with your tour leader. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to begin exploring the city’s charming streets and waterfronts at your own pace.

Begin your day with a guided exploration of Copenhagen, where you’ll marvel at the city’s architectural gems and iconic sites such as the colorful Nyhavn harbor, the regal Amalienborg Palace, and the historic Christiansborg Palace. Discover the treasures of the National Museum and admire the distinctive Børsen building. A highlight awaits at the famous Little Mermaid statue, a beloved symbol of the city. Later, embark on a scenic ferry journey from Odden, crossing the waters to reach Aarhus, Denmark’s dynamic second city, where you’ll check in to your hotel (Radisson Blu Scandinavia Aarhus or similar) and unwind after a day of discovery.

Start your morning with a panoramic tour of Aarhus, delving into its Viking heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the impressive Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral, a testament to the city’s storied past. Enjoy some leisure time to explore Aarhus at your own rhythm before traveling north to the coastal town of Hirtshals. Here, you’ll board an overnight cruise bound for Norway, enjoying comfortable accommodations and the anticipation of new adventures ahead.

Wake up to the Norwegian coastline as your cruise docks in Stavanger. Embark on a guided stroll through the city’s enchanting old town, where white wooden houses line cobbled streets. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish—perhaps opt for a scenic cruise along the Lysefjord, feeling the mist of waterfalls and gazing up at the dramatic Pulpit Rock, or choose a more active adventure with a cruise and hike to this iconic viewpoint. Return to your hotel (Clarion Hotel Stavanger or similar) for a restful evening.

Set sail on a picturesque ferry ride, arriving in the historic city of Bergen. After a leisurely lunch, join a guided tour that introduces you to Bergen’s most celebrated sights. Experience the lively atmosphere of the fish market and wander through the colorful wooden buildings of Bryggen, a UNESCO-listed Hanseatic quarter. Later, ascend Mount Floyen via the Floibanen funicular, where panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding fjords await. Enjoy a comfortable stay at your hotel (Scandic Ørnen or similar).

After breakfast, journey to Voss to begin an extraordinary train ride, ascending nearly 900 meters with breathtaking views of Norway’s fjords. Change trains at Myrdal and board the legendary Flåmsbana, one of the world’s steepest railways, winding through dramatic landscapes to the charming village of Flåm. Enjoy free time to explore Flåm before embarking on a scenic cruise along the Sognefjord, passing through the spectacular Aurlandsfjord. Arrive in tranquil Balestrand, surrounded by nature, and settle into your hotel (Kviknes Hotel or similar) for a peaceful evening.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting out through Norway’s breathtaking landscapes of mountains, valleys, and idyllic villages. Along the way, pause to admire the remarkable exterior of Borgund Stave Church, a wooden masterpiece dating back to the 12th century. Continue past the serene shores of Lake Tyrifjord before arriving in Oslo, Norway’s lively capital. Check in to your hotel (Radisson Blu Plaza Oslo or similar) and enjoy an evening at leisure in this cosmopolitan city.

Embark on a guided tour of Oslo, exploring highlights such as Frogner Park, home to the extraordinary Vigeland sculpture collection. Pass by the impressive City Hall, the stately Royal Palace, and the striking modern Opera House. After some free time for lunch, cross the border into Sweden, arriving in the picturesque city of Karlstad, nestled between the Klara River and Lake Vänern. Relax at your hotel (Elite Stadshotellet Karlstad or similar) and soak in the tranquil Scandinavian atmosphere.

Travel eastward through Sweden’s scenic landscapes, arriving in the captivating capital of Stockholm. Built across 14 islands, Stockholm dazzles with its blend of historic grandeur and modern elegance. Join a guided tour that takes you through the winding streets of Gamla Stan, the city’s medieval heart, and admire the exteriors of the Royal Palace, the grand Cathedral, and the Parliament. Enjoy your evening at a centrally located hotel (Radisson Blu Waterfront Stockholm or similar), with time to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife or relax by the waterfront.

Conclude your Scandinavian adventure with a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your departure schedule, seize the opportunity to explore Stockholm further—perhaps embark on a Royal Canal tour, gliding around Djurgården Island and through the city’s lush green spaces, taking in the stunning views of historic buildings and natural beauty. When it’s time, make your way to the airport or arrange a transfer for your onward journey.