Your Itinerary
Welcome to Stockholm, Sweden’s elegant capital located on the south-east coast, on the Baltic Sea. Spread across 14 islands of distinctly different character and connected by 57 bridges, the city exudes charm and is just begging to be explored.
Often hailed as one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, Stockholm dazzles with its striking architecture, sparkling waterways and lush green spaces. With UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites like the majestic Royal Palace Drottningholm and the peaceful Skogskyrkogården, Stockholm perfectly blends timeless history with modern elegance.
You will meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink this evening.
This morning, after breakfast, we’ll set off on a panoramic tour to explore the best of Stockholm. Our first stop will be the impressive City Hall, where we’ll admire its stunning architecture and learn about its fascinating history. It’s one of Stockholm’s most famous landmarks, and you’ll soon see why!
Next, we’ll drive past some of the city’s main attractions, giving you a chance to take in Stockholm’s beauty from the comfort of our coach. Then, we’ll step into the heart of the city for a leisurely stroll through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old City. With its cobblestone streets and colourful buildings, this charming area is full of character. We’ll pause here for a leisurely lunch break, where you’ll have the opportunity to savour some delicious Swedish dishes with the locals.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the incredible Vasa Museum, home to the remarkable Vasa ship. This 17th century ship, which sank on its maiden voyage, has been carefully restored and now stands as one of Sweden’s most treasured artifacts.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4 - Stockholm - Helsinki
Enjoy the morning at leisure to discover more of Stockholm at your own pace. With an abundance of palaces and museums, there’s a lot to do in the city. If you’re an ABBA fan, why not visit their very own museum where the legendary Swedish pop group comes to life!
Alternatively, you can take a stroll through Hötorget or the Haymarket, two lively areas in the heart of Stockholm. These vibrant squares are known for their bustling atmosphere, historic building and thriving shopping scene. Don’t forget to explore the market stall, where you can try some local treats and unique products.
Later this afternoon, we’ll transfer to the ferry terminal to board our overnight ferry to Helsinki. As we set sail, you can relax and unwind, taking in the peaceful views across the water.
Disembarking this morning, we’ll step off the ferry and into the vibrant, charming capital of Finland, Helsinki. Known for its stunning waterfront, laid-back atmosphere and creative design, Helsinki truly blends the old with the new. With its reputation as the “City of Design,” you’ll quickly notice how beautifully modern architecture mixes with traditional buildings, making it a real treat for the eyes.
Our city tour will take us past some of Helsinki’s most famous sights. We’ll stop for photos at iconic landmarks like Senate Square, the grand Uspenski Cathedral, and Parliament House. We’ll also visit Finlandia Hall, a striking piece of modern architecture. Then, we’ll take a peaceful stroll through Sibelius Park, where you’ll see the unique monument dedicated to Finland’s beloved composer, Jean Sibelius.
Next, we’ll explore the fascinating Underground Temple, carved right into solid rock — it’s unlike any church you’ve ever seen! Thereafter, we’ll visit the impressive Temppeliaukion Church, another architectural wonder built directly into rock that you won’t forget. We’ll break for lunch at a local market, for the opportunity to sample Finnish specialties.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, a captivating slice of Finnish history. As we wander through the museum, you’ll discover traditional Finnish homes, farmsteads and even a windmill, all of which showcase life from centuries ago.
Day 6 - Helsinki – Kuusamo – Ruka
We depart Helsinki this morning and enjoy a scenic flight north into the beautiful Ruka–Kuusamo region. This part of Finland is a popular destination year-round, and Ruka is one of the country’s largest ski resorts. The area’s stunning wilderness offers a variety of outdoor experiences, from peaceful snowshoeing to relaxing by the warm fire in a cozy cabin.
Ruka’s remote location, far from the big cities and close to the Arctic Circle, makes it a fantastic spot for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
On arrival, we’ll check in and enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.
Today, we’ll venture into the stunning Oulanka National Park, located near the border with Russia. This breathtaking park is a true photographer’s paradise, bursting with diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. As we stroll through this natural wonder, we’ll be surrounded by lush forests and rushing rivers, with some of Finland’s most impressive waterfalls adding to the scene. We’ll also have the chance to pick in-season mushrooms and grill delicious sausages over an open fire — because nothing beats a meal enjoyed in the great outdoors!
After our adventure in the park, we’ll continue on to the Ruka Scenic Gondola. As we ascend to the peak of Ruka, we’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding fells and hills, offering a completely new perspective on the landscape. In autumn, the vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold paint the scenery, creating a truly magical sight.
Special Experience
Enjoy a unique hands-on experience at a cooking class of local Finnish delights with a professional chief.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 8 - Ruka – Luosto– Inari
We begin our journey early, heading further north into the heart of Lapland, where the magic of the Arctic awaits. This unique region is famous for its natural wonders, including the mesmerising northern lights in winter. Our scenic drive from Ruka to Luosto takes us through Finland's tranquil forests, offering a peaceful journey through beautiful landscapes.
Once in Luosto, we’ll visit the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine. Here, we’ll learn about the fascinating formation of amethysts and how they are mined in this stunning part of Finland. After our adventure, you might wish to grab a snack at the mine’s café — the perfect spot to savour local dishes and maybe pick up a special souvenir too.
Next, we’ll continue our drive to Inari, a small town in the heart of Lapland, known for its rich Sámi culture and breathtaking surroundings. Upon arrival at the hotel, you’ll have time to unwind and relax in your in-room Finnish sauna, an important part of Finnish culture in this region.
This morning, we visit a husky farm where we will meet arctic sled dogs. Every one of these majestic animals has a special story, which the musher will share with us.
After our visit, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through the Open-Air Museum in Inari. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditional ways of life in the Lapland region. We’ll then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savouring regional Finnish dishes made from locally sourced ingredients in a welcoming setting.
We’ll then visit the Siida Museum and Nature Centre, offering an immersive look into the lives of the Sámi people, the Indigenous inhabitants of the Lapland region. The museum features a vast collection of Sámi artefacts, including tools, artwork and displays of reindeer herding techniques passed down through generations. Through both indoor and outdoor exhibits, we’ll explore their rich culture, history and way of life, from ancient traditions to modern-day practices.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit a reindeer farm. Reindeer have been an essential part of Finnish life for centuries. Believed to have been domesticated during the Bronze and Iron Ages, these majestic creatures have long been herded by the Sámi people. Their meat, fur and antlers are still used today, continuing a centuries-old tradition.
Day 10 - Inari – Honningsvåg
We bid farewell the charming town of Inari and set off on a scenic drive as we cross into Norway and journey to the area of Karasjok, the country’s heart of Sámi culture. Driving through this picturesque region, we’ll immerse ourselves in the rich traditions and history of the Sámi people.
Our first stop will be Sápmi Park, where we’ll have the chance to learn about Sámi culture in an entertaining and informative way. The park offers a fascinating glimpse into their way of life. It’s also a great spot to pick up some traditional Sámi handicrafts, known as duodji.
Throughout the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey, making scenic photo stops along the way and taking a break at Olderfjord, as we break up our time on the road.
We’ll then head to the iconic North Cape, where cliffs rise over 300 metres above the Barents Sea, offering a truly breathtaking view. At North Cape Hall, we’ll have time to explore fascinating exhibits about this remarkable place and its history. You’ll also have the chance to mail postcards from Europe’s northernmost point, 71° North! Be sure to snap a photo by the iconic globe sculpture outside, marking your spot at the edge of the world.
Day 11 - Honningsvåg – Alta
Late this morning, we’ll set off on a scenic drive to Alta. The journey from Honningsvåg to Alta promises to be unforgettable, with stunning views of Norway’s rugged landscapes along the way. Expect to see picturesque fjords, rolling hills, and dramatic coastal beauty as we make our way through this wild and tranquil region.
Once we arrive in Alta, we’ll visit the Alta Museum, home to the famous UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock Carvings. These ancient carvings, dating back thousands of years, provide a fascinating window into the lives of early humans in this remote corner of Norway. The museum’s engaging exhibits will give us a deeper understanding of the area’s rich history and the stories these carvings tell.
We’ll thereafter check into our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure before dinner.
This morning, we’ll set off on a spectacular drive through Norway’s breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, we’ll stop in Gildetun for a coffee break and photo opportunity, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing our journey.
In the afternoon, we’ll board a ferry from Olderdalen to Lyngseidet, with more stunning vistas across the fjords. Then, we’ll hop on another ferry from Svensby to Breivikeidet, gliding smoothly over the water while taking in the awe-inspiring landscapes around us.
Once we arrive in Tromsø, the Arctic Capital, we’ll check into our hotel and have some time to relax. Tromsø, located 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, is known for its unique blend of centuries-old wooden buildings and modern architecture, all surrounded by fjords and snow-capped peaks. It’s also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and during the summer months, the Midnight Sun lights up the skies.
If the weather allows this evening, we’ll take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Storsteinen to enjoy the magnificent vistas over the city and the surrounding islands.
Our morning sightseeing tour of Tromsø will introduce you to the charm of this Arctic city. We’ll begin at the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural gem that mirrors the stark, majestic beauty of the Arctic landscape. From there, we’ll head to the Tromsø Museum, where you can dive into the region’s fascinating history, from the Indigenous Sámi people to its pivotal role in Arctic exploration. After that, we’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Botanic Garden, home to a remarkable collection of Arctic and alpine plants.
Next, we’ll visit the Cod Museum, where we’ll discover how cod fishing has shaped Norway’s history and culture. This museum is a tribute to the fish that has nourished the nation for centuries, and you’ll have the chance to indulge in a delicious cod-tasting experience. It’s a treat for the taste buds and a great way to explore Norwegian food traditions.
This afternoon will be yours to relax and explore Tromsø at your own pace.
In the evening, we’ll visit the northernmost Magic Ice-art Gallery, where incredible ice sculptures are on display in a chilled and magical setting.
Special Experience
Enjoy a drink at an ice bar and gallery where everything, including the glasses, is made of crystal-clear ice from Norway.
This morning, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital. While Oslo dates back to around 1000 AD, it’s still considered quite young compared to other European cities. Over the centuries, the city has faced its share of challenges, including several fires that destroyed much of it. In fact, Oslo wasn’t named the capital of Norway until the 1800s, which means many of its iconic landmarks, like the Royal Palace and Stortinget (the Parliament), were built relatively recently.
Oslo is known for its exceptional quality of life and is often ranked as one of Europe’s most desirable places to live. Nestled at the northernmost point of the Oslofjord and surrounded by lush hills and mountains, the city offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Oslo is also famous for its expansive parks and green spaces, which give the city a refreshing, airy feel.
We arrive in Oslo in the afternoon, with the rest of the day free to enjoy at leisure. You might like to relax at the Oslofjord Promenade or explore the Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen waterfront areas, soaking in the beauty of the Oslofjord.
This morning, we begin our city tour outside the award-winning Oslo Opera House. Completed in 2007 this impressive piece of modern architecture is home to the Norwegian Opera and Ballet. Its surrounding terraces offer some fantastic viewing platforms from which to take in Oslo and its surrounding fjord.
We then pass by the Royal Palace to the main street, Karl Johan’s gate. Named after King Charles III John, it stretches a kilometre from Oslo Central Station to the Royal Palace, lined with shops, cafes and historic buildings.
Continuing, we’ll head to Holmenkollbakken, the legendary ski jumping arena that’s been hosting competitions since the late 1800s. A great opportunity to soak in the views and learn all about Norway’s ski culture. We’ll continue to Bygdøy and explore the Fram Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to Norwegian polar exploration and the famous polar ship, Fram.
Our last stop will be a visit to Vigeland Park, the world's largest sculpture park by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. There are more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite and cast iron on display here.
Day 16 - Oslo – Sognefjord
Our day starts as we embark on a scenic drive from Oslo to Gol, taking us through Norway’s breathtaking countryside. As we wind through rolling hills and lush greenery, we’ll stop in Hemsedalen, a stunning mountain plateau where you’ll feel on top of the world, surrounded by dramatic peaks and crisp alpine air.
Once we arrive in Gol, we’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch and explore the charming village. From there, we’ll head to Borgund, a place brimming with history and natural beauty. Known for its traditional wooden buildings and picturesque views, Borgund is perfect for a few memorable photos.
Next, we’ll visit the iconic Borgund Stave Church, a 12th-century masterpiece showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of Norway’s medieval past. Its stunning wooden carvings and unique design reflect the Viking influence on architecture and woodworking.
Finally, we’ll make our way to Lærdal, a picturesque town nestled at the end of the magnificent Sognefjord. We’ll pass through the Lærdal Tunnel, one of the world’s longest road tunnels, before reaching this peaceful fjord-side town, surrounded by the wild beauty of Norway’s longest fjord.
After our journey, we’ll settle in and later enjoy a delightful group dinner at the hotel.
This morning, we’ll drive to the village of Flåm, passing through the famous Lærdal Tunnel. As we make our way through, you’ll notice the tunnel walls lit up beautifully, giving the illusion of gliding through a sparkling iceberg.
Here, we’ll board the famous Flåmsbana train for a breathtaking ride up to Myrdal. This scenic journey is one of the steepest in the world, offering views of lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and towering mountains. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience, and we’ll all have our cameras ready for the stunning vistas! On the return journey, we’ll get the opportunity to relive the stunning scenery from a different perspective.
Special Experience
Ride the famous Flåm Railway, enjoying some of Norway’s most dramatic scenery as you wind your way through mountains and past fjords.
Returning to Flam, we’ll drive to Gudvangen, where a Viking-inspired lunch awaits. Picture hearty, mouthwatering dishes served in a cozy, rustic setting that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the days of the Norse.
Next, we’ll board a first-class electric vessel for a serene, ‘silent’ cruise along the Nærøyfjord. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed fjord is pure magic, with its towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful places in the world!
In the afternoon, we’ll head back to the hotel to unwind before dinner.
Day 18 - Sognefjord - Bergen
This morning we make our way to Bergen via the cascading Tvindefossen Waterfall. Norway’s second-largest city Bergen is uniquely positioned on the Byfjorden, one of the many fjords in Norway. The city is surrounded by mountains, lending it the moniker of the ‘City of Seven Mountains’.
Here we’ll take a walking tour through the beautiful Bryggen quarter, famous for its colourful wooden buildings, narrow alleyways and the old Hanseatic quayside that is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll see St Mary’s Church, visit the fish markets, and tour Troldhaugen, home to the composer Edvard Grieg.
A funicular railway ride will then take us up one of the seven mountains that surround Bergen, Mt Fløyen. Enjoy the spectacular views over the city and landscape beyond from the top.
Day 19 - Bergen – Copenhagen
Today we fly south to Denmark’s cosmopolitan capital, Copenhagen – also known as one of the happiest cities in the world! From the impressive mix of ancient and modern architecture to the lively and delicious food scene (there are 14 Michelin star restaurants here), there is plenty to see and do in liveable Copenhagen.
On arrival we’ll enjoy a cruise on Stromma Canal, allowing us to see Copenhagen from a different perspective.
To complete our day of sightseeing we’ll take a panoramic city tour that includes City Hall Square, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, the National Museum, the Old Stock Exchange, the Naval Church, Kings New Square and the picturesque canal area of Nyhavn. We also see Gefion Fountain and stop for a photo opportunity at the Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish Royal Family. Next, we visit one of Copenhagen’s most loved monuments, the statue of the little mermaid.
Tonight, we enjoy a unique experience as we ‘Dine with a Dane’. We’ll split into groups, visiting homes of local Danish families who will host us for a home-cooked dinner.
With an exciting day ahead, we first visit the Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. This place is bursting with charm, from thrilling rides to stunning gardens, spectacular shows and fun performances.
Next, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of Christiansborg Palace. This grand palace was once home to kings and queens and is now the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. As we explore, we’ll walk through 800 years of history, taking in the impressive Great Hall and the Royal Stables.
Tonight, we have our group farewell dinner, where we’ll delight in the cuisine at a local restaurant.
Day 21 - Depart Copenhagen
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 22 - Arrive Australia
Day 22 - Arrive Australia
