Scandinavian Capitals by rail & ferry - Independent

Arrive in Bergen, the gateway to the fjords. Make your own way to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time in Bergen, we recommend visiting the Hanseatic harbour ‘Bryggen', Fløibanen Funicular and the Fish & Flower market.

After breakfast you depart from Bergen by train. Today you will experience Norway's most popular round trip; Norway in a Nutshell. The excursion takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Norway's fjord region, and over the mountains to Oslo.

The Norwegian capital has a great deal to offer the discerning traveller, and you have two full days to discover the city. Uncover the true spirit of Oslo on an immersive three-hour walking tour that blends iconic sights with local secrets. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll explore highlights like the Royal Palace and the striking Oslo Opera House, while also venturing into hidden alleyways and artistic neighborhoods off the tourist trail. Along the way, you'll hear tales of Viking heritage, royal customs, contemporary architecture, and the city’s deep connection to nature and sustainability.

During your free time, we can recommend visiting some of the Oslo highlights, including the Kontiki & Fram museums, the Vigeland Sculpture Park, Ekerbergeparken and the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum. After shopping at numerous design boutiques, vintage shops and flea markets, head to the Mathallen food hall for local specialties. Lastly, visit the new National Museum of Norway down by the harbour before finding a spot in one of the local fish restaurants for dinner.

The morning and early afternoon is free in Oslo before boarding the overnight voyage to Copenhagen. Accommodation in seaside cabins with shower/WC.

Copenhagen has a long history, and many delightful attractions and sights - you will never run out of something to see or to do. The city is small and cosy, an ideal way to explore the city is by foot, and public transport.

Your guided walking tour will help you discover off-the-beaten-path sites and give you a deeper understanding of the city, country, and its people. Marvel at the quaint houses in the colourful canal-side district of Nyhavn and see highlights like the medieval square of Amagertorv, or Christiansborg Palace, home of the Danish parliament. Then, visit the Danish capital’s most recognizable sights and veer off the tourist trail to uncover tucked-away gems in the city’s lesser-known districts.

You will also have a Copenhagen Card on hand allowing you to free travel on buses and trains within the cities metropolis, as well as free entrance to over 70 museums and attractions. Be sure to visit the new Aquarium if you are interested in design and fish! This new aquarium is included in the Copenhagen card.

If Viking ships and history interests you, consider a trip out to Roskilde Viking Ship Museum. Or the Louisana Art Gallery for art lovers.

Be sure also to climb the tower of Church of our Savior - the spiral stairs were on the outside of the tower and it offers a great aerial view of the city! Not for the faint hearted though.

In the morning catch a 6-hour train ride through the Swedish countryside to Stockholm. Sweden's capital is charming, vibrant and surrounded by beauty and water - hence its nickname, Venice of the North! Stockholm offers interesting museums and castles; the city offers a warm atmosphere and the old town has charming small alleyways boasting several famous restaurants.

In the afternoons, be sure to make time for a visit to the ABBA museum with great interactive exhibits - a glass of champagne (for Dutch courage to get on stage & the pure fun of it) to accompany your tour is recommended! On the other hand, take the serious option & visit the Nobel Prize museum in the Old town.

The next morning join a small group walking Tour designed to showcase the city’s top landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture. With your guide, explore highlights like Stortorget,the city’s oldest square along with the charming medieval streets of Gamla Stan, the famous Narrowest Street, and Stockholm’s tiniest statue. Along the way, uncover lesser-known treasures, such as a real Viking rune stone hidden in plain sight.

The morning and early afternoon is free in Stockholm before boarding the overnight voyage to Helsinki through the magnificent Baltic Sea archipelago. Accommodation in seaside cabins with shower/WC.

You have two full days to explore this fabulous eastern Nordic capital. Enjoy a guided walking tour and immerse yourself in the Finnish capital’s unique blend of history, culture, and design. Start with an overview of the city’s highlights and then dive deeper into the stories behind its most iconic landmarks, along with hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
Every tour is crafted to provide a well-rounded and enjoyable experience. Highlights often include: Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral, the lively Market Square and harbor front, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, Esplanadi Park and the Design District, hidden courtyards, cafes, and art spots.

The included Helsinki card offers free entrance to almost 50 museums and use of public transportation. Need to take a break - head to the Kotiharjun Sauna, the last traditional wood-burning sauna in Helsinki.

On one of your days in Helsinki we have included return tickets for the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn and a walking tour. Your day trip to Tallinn will take the full day departing Helsinki at 07:30 in the morning and arriving back in Helsinki at 19:30. The ferry trip each way takes 2 hours and suddenly you are at the shores of this Eastern beauty. Estonia connects Eastern Europe, Central Europe, and Scandinavia, offering something altogether different in comparison to your itinerary so far.

The Tallinn walking tour offers a perfect introduction to the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Explore the enchanting medieval Old Town, admire the towering Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and soak in breathtaking views from Toompea Hill. With your knowledgeable guide, you’ll also discover Tallinn’s off-the-beaten-path gems—quaint cobblestone streets, charming courtyards, and lesser-known districts that tell a deeper story of this fascinating city.

Be sure to also check out the option of a day trip from Helsinki to Porvoo on a heritage sailing boat.

Our services end after breakfast.