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Gamla Stan in Stockholm, Sweden

The Nordic Countries Complete

Train, Cruise & Self-Drive

(28 days / 27 nights)

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The Ultimate Scandinavian Expedition

Immerse yourself in the culture of the Nordics on the trip of a lifetime. Spend a month touring not 1, not 2, but 6 countries! This way you’ll get a true taste of the region, stretching from Finland all the way to Iceland. Expect diverse landscapes, from vast fields to volcanoes, as you journey between countries. You’ll see how these nations resemble each other and also how distinct their cultures are. This is the perfect full tour of Scandinavia!

28 days / 27 nights

Price p.p. from

The amount will be charged in EUR

Approx 8695 EUR

— Why book with Nordic Visitor

  • Seamless travel experience
  • Handpicked hotels and routes crafted by Scandinavian travel experts
  • Comprehensive itinerary & Scandinavian Travel Guide
  • 24/7 helpline during your tour
  • Great customer reviews
  • Carbon offsetting included

Read more

— Cancellation Protection

  • Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
  • Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

  • Take in the highlights of the Nordics on a tour that combines 6 countries
  • Explore the grand capitals of Scandinavia: Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo
  • Hop aboard a Baltic Sea cruise and a Norwegian coastal voyage
  • Stroll through historic Tallinn in Estonia and quirky Helsinki, Finland
  • Drive the famous Ring Road around Iceland
  • Immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery, from deep fjords to volcanic peninsulas
  • Experience the famous Norway in a Nutshell train and cruise journey
  • Follow in the footsteps of Scandinavian royalty by visiting castles and palaces
  • Uncover ancient Norwegian history in Trondheim and Bergen
  • Marvel at top Iceland locations like Reykjavík, the Golden Circle and the glacier lagoon

Travel style

Independent Tours i

Interest

Active i, Classic i, Culture and History i, Fjords i

Season

May - Sep

Departure

Daily

Interest

Active i, Classic i, Culture and History i, Fjords i

Itinerary

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

  • Day 1: Welcome to Finland

    This is your first day in Scandinavia! When you arrive at Helsinki Airport, make your way to city centre. Many travellers opt to take public transportation, but we also offer direct private transfers.

    In the city, set off to discover the sights and get a taste of Finnish food. We recommend visiting Senate SquareUspenski Cathedral, and the Old Market Hall to become acquainted with Finnish history and culture.

    Spend the night in Helsinki.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day
  • Day 2: Explore the highlights of Helsinki

    You have the whole day to immerse yourself in the local culture of Helsinki. The Finnish capital is known for its creativity and, in 2012, was awarded the UNESCO “City of Design” title, boasting its very own design district and “design tram route”. Other spots to visit include Sibelius Park, Finlandia Hall, the Finnish National Opera House, and Parliament House, the seat of Parliament in Finland.

    Spend another night in Helsinki.

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  • Day 3: Sail to elegant Estonia

    This morning, head to the ferry terminal in Helsinki for a 2-hour ferry to Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. It is located straight across the Gulf of Finland.

    Leave your bags at your accommodation and take a stroll through this beautiful medieval city. Wander across the Upper Town (Toompea) and stop by the Orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Across the square, you’ll spot the pink Toompea Castle, which houses the Parliament of Estonia. For dinner, you will find many nice restaurants in the Old Town.

    Spend the night in Tallinn.

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  • Day 4: Open Day in Tallinn

    You have a full day to explore more of enchanting Estonia. In Tallinn, you could head outside the centre to discover neighbourhoods such as Kalamaja with its historic homes or Telliskivi famous for its quirky galleries. Or enjoy some time by the seaside at Port Noblessner. Here you can walk along the marina and grab a bite to eat at a local café.

    Spend another night in Tallinn.

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  • Day 5: Tallinn & Overnight Cruise to Sweden

    Spend the morning relaxing or sightseeing in the Estonian capital. Like most European cities, Tallinn is a patchwork of history and architecture, offering a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western European influences.

    For a blast from the past, take a stroll through the Kadriorg district, reminiscent of a time when Estonia was ruled by Russian tsars. This area houses several interesting sights, such as the Kadriorg Palace and the Estonian Art Museum. You could also visit the newer parts of Tallinn, such as Freedom Square, to get a glimpse of Soviet-era life.

    In the late afternoon, you will board an overnight cruise to Stockholm, Sweden.

    Spend the night on the cruise ship.

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  • Day 6: Welcome to Sweden

    Savour the maritime scenery during breakfast as the ship navigates through Stockholm’s Archipelago, a collection of over 30,000 islands and inlets. Upon your arrival in Sweden’s capital, drop your bags off and head out to explore.

    First, stroll down Drottninggatan street to discover charming shops and feel the vibe of the city. Then, wander through nearby Östermalm, an elegant neighbourhood full of high-end boutiques, tranquil parks and plenty of restaurants. It offers a perfect introduction to Swedish culture.

    Spend the night in Stockholm.

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  • Day 7: The Charms of Stockholm

    Today, enjoy more of the Swedish capital. Start the day in the Old Town (Gamla Stan), the historic heart of the city. Here you will find the Royal Palace, the nation’s parliament, ancient churches, beautiful cobblestone streets and medieval houses.

    Later, take a short ferry ride to the nearby island Djurgården. This is a cultural oasis with plenty of sights. Visit the Abba Museum, celebrating Sweden’s most famous band, the Nordic Museum, the Gröna Lund amusement park, or the Skansen open-air museum. You might also want to stop in a café to experience Swedish “fika”, a traditional tea or coffee break.

    Spend another night in Stockholm.

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  • Day 8: Travel to grand Copenhagen

    After breakfast, say goodbye to Stockholm and head to the airport to catch a short flight to Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark.

    After settling in at your hotel, set off on a walk along the enchanting old harbour area Nyhavn. This famous district is lined with colourful houses and lively restaurants beside rows of docked boats.

    Walk the narrow side streets, visit some charming shops, and try a delicious and traditional open-faced sandwich, smørrebrød.

    In the evening, head to the charming amusement park Tivoli Gardens. It’s a lovely place to admire traditional architecture and gardens and to enjoy some carnival rides.

    Spend the night in Copenhagen.

    *It’s possible to travel by train instead of by plane between Stockholm and Copenhagen. For more details, check out today’s optional extras.

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  • Day 9: A day in captivating Copenhagen

    You have the whole day to explore more of Copenhagen.

    There are many regal landmarks in Denmark’s historic capital, including Amalienborg Palace and the stately Christiansborg Palace. Later, be sure to walk past the famous Little Mermaid statue by the waterfront.

    For delightful views of the city, join an optional cruise from the harbour and admire the beauty of the city from the water. Later, stroll along Ströget street for some shopping and grab a local delicacy at Torvehallerne food hall.

    Spend another night in Copenhagen.

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  • Day 10: Set sail for Norway

    Make the most of your last few hours in Denmark. If you haven’t already, you might want to check out the observatory of The Round Tower, the most famous church in Copenhagen Church of Our Saviour, the impeccable King’s Garden, and the grand Rosenborg Castle.

    Later, it’s time to board your cruise to Oslo. The ship will sail you gently up the Kattegat Sund on its way to Norway’s capital city. Enjoy dinner in one of the on-board restaurants, check out the entertainment on board or just relax and watch the sunset from the deck.

    Spend the night on the DFDS cruise.

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  • Day 11: Explore Vibrant Oslo

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as the ship docks in Oslo. You then have the whole day to explore Norway’s capital at your leisure.

    First, take a stroll along the Karl Johans gate main street. Then make your way along the Aker Brygge marina and past the fascinating Oslo Opera House.

    You could choose to visit the beautiful Vigeland Sculpture Park, tour the Royal Palace, explore the Akershus fortress or view Oslo City Hall. See the sights at your own pace or join an optional bus tour.

    Other attractions include the Fram Museum, displaying a world-famous polar exploration ship, and the collection of works by the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch at the Munch Museum.

    Spend the night in Oslo.

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  • Day 12: Railway journey to Trondheim

    This morning, head out early to Oslo Central Station to begin your half-day (6.5-hour) journey aboard the Dovrebanen train.

    This train route passes over the Dovre mountain plateau, through historic towns and nature preservations. You’ll witness incredible variations in terrain and altitude along the way. The journey concludes with a steep, curvy descent down to the lowlands where Trondheim is located.

    Spend the afternoon discovering historic Trondheim, including Bakklandet, an idyllic neighbourhood full of culture, and Nidaros Cathedral. Other highlights of the city include Ringve Museum and its gardens, Munkholmen island, and the charming Old Town Bridge.

    Spend the night in Trondheim.

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  • Day 13: Exploring the Coastline of Norway

    Today, you embark on a spellbinding cruise, the best way to discover the epic beauty of Norway’s coast. After breakfast, head to Trondheim Harbour, where you will board either a Hurtigruten or Havila Voyages cruise ship.

    Get settled into your cabin, then head to the lounge or viewing deck to enjoy views. The ship will sail along the Trondheim Fjord and past Hitra island.

    This evening, you’ll dock at the city of Kristiansund and the town of Molde. The final port of the day is a brief stop in Ålesund after midnight.

    Spend the night aboard the coastal cruise.

    Want to know which cruise you will be joining? Check out sailing departures per tour.

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  • Day 14: Sail to Historic Bergen

    During the night, your cruise will call at the towns of Torvik, Maløy and Florø as the route weaves through islets and stunning landscapes.

    Finally, you’ll dock at your destination, Bergen. Spend the rest of the day enjoying leisure time in the “Capital of the Fjords”.

    While being an international city, Bergen also has all the charms of a small town. Don’t miss Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with remarkably preserved old houses. Then take a stroll through the lively fish and flower market.

    Spend the night in Bergen.

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  • Day 15: The Capital of the Fjords

    You have a full day to enjoy beautiful and historic Bergen. First, you won’t want to miss a ride on the Fløibanen Funicular to the peak of Mount Fløyen. Or board a cable car up even higher to Mount Ulriken. From here, you’ll discover winding hiking trails leading you across Bergen’s 7 surrounding mountains.

    Down at city level, Bergen is also known for its museums showcasing the city’s history, architecture, music and art. Some of the most popular include Troldhaugen, a living museum dedicated to composer Edvard Grieg, and KODE, Scandinavia’s largest museum of art, craft, design and music.

    Another option for the day is to head back to the harbour for an optional cruise on the glittering fjords.

    Spend another night in Bergen.

    Attractions See Activities for this day
  • Day 16: Norway in a Nutshell by Land and Sea

    Today, you embark on yet another thrilling adventure. Say goodbye to Bergen and catch the early Bergensbanen train, travelling past majestic mountains and plunging valleys to the town of Voss.

    At Voss, change to a bus journey to Gudvangen harbour. Here, you will board a spellbinding 2-hour fjord cruise to Flåm, sailing through Nærøyfjord, the narrowest fjord in all of Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is part of Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Prepare to be awe-struck by mighty peaks, tumbling waterfalls and small farms dotting the mountainsides.

    Finally, the boat sails up Aurlandsfjord to Flåm, a charming village, where you will spend the evening.

    Spend the night in Flåm.

    For a more comfortable experience, we recommend booking a luggage transfer between Bergen and Oslo.

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  • Day 17: Explore Scenic Flåm

    Spend the day taking in the beauty of Flåm village and its picturesque surroundings. There are many well-maintained hiking paths through the mountains here if you’d like to explore by foot.

    Visit the Flåm Railway Museum to learn about the construction of this world-famous train route, renowned for being one of the world’s steepest.

    For some mesmerising views, make your way up to the Stegastein viewing platform. The structure is suspended over the cliffside 650 metres (2,132 feet) above Aurlandsfjord.

    If you’d like to see more of the fjords up close, you could join an optional fjord safari or kayaking tour.

    Spend another night in Flåm.

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  • Day 18: The Flåm Railway Experience

    Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring more of Flåm. In the afternoon, it’s time for you to experience the famous Flåm Railway firsthand. Settle into your seat and enjoy spectacular scenery as the train climbs 900 metres (2,952 feet) in just 20 kilometres (12 miles).

    During the journey, there will be photo stops for you to capture some images of your breathtaking surroundings. The winding train track leads to Myrdal Station, where you’ll disembark. You’ll switch to the Bergensbanen train, which will carry you over the mountainous rooftop of Norway, past charming villages like Geilo and Gol.

    Spend the night in Oslo.

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  • Day 19: Beautiful Oslo to idyllic Iceland

    This morning, enjoy some last-minute shopping, visit one of Oslo’s many museums or relax at a café. Then head to the airport for the flight to your next Nordic destination, Iceland.

    On arrival to Keflavík International Airport, you will be greeted by a driver who will take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík, the Icelandic capital. After settling in, spend the rest of the day exploring the highlights of the city. There are plenty of museums and charming streets to discover. And don’t miss the landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja and the Sun Voyager.

    Spend the night in Reykjavík.

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  • Day 20: The Classic Golden Circle

    Kick off the self-drive part of your tour and collect your rental car in the morning. Begin your journey on the classic “Golden Circle” route, home to some of Iceland’s most popular attractions.

    Start with a visit to the fascinating Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can walk on a path in the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

    Next on the route is the Haukadalur geothermal area. This is where the original geyser “Geysir” lies dormant. But it’s neighbour “Strokkur” spouts water every few minutes. Complete the circle with visits to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall.

    Spend the night in the Hvolsvöllur area.

    Average driving distance: 230 km / 143 miles

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  • Day 21: Waterfalls & Volcanic Beaches

    This morning, you head along the south coast of Iceland. Your first stop is the fairytale-like Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk right behind the misty cascade. Nearby, get your fill of cascades at the gorgeous 60-metre-high (197 feet) Skógafoss waterfall.

    Further ahead at Vík, you can go for a walk along its black volcanic beach. From here you can view the rock formations Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar. Then make sure not to miss the stunning Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. You also have a chance today to join an exciting guided excursion by foot or snowmobile on a glacier.

    Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur / Skaftafell area.

    Average driving distance: 157 km / 97 miles

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  • Day 22: Glaciers & Icebergs

    On today’s drive you can expect even more impressive sights. Enjoy time in Skaftafell, part of the immense Vatnajökull National Park and a place of great natural beauty. This is the ideal spot for hiking, including a short path to the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall. You could also take part in adventurous pursuits, such as guided glacier-walking or ice-climbing excursions.

    Later, head to the jewel of the south coast, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Here you’ll see icebergs floating on the icy waters. You could join an optional boat tour if you want.

    Spend the night in the Höfn or Djúpivogur area.

    Average driving distance: 208 km / 129 miles

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  • Day 23: Fjords & Fishing villages

    Continue your road trip up the east coast, which is characterised by spectacular fjords, tranquil fishing villages, rugged tundra and sweeping coastal landscapes.

    In North Iceland, you’ll head for the otherworldly Lake Mývatn. Here there is an abundance of unusual natural wonders to explore, including the Krafla volcanic caldera, the curiously coloured Námaskarð pass, the massive crater of Hverfell and the lunar-like pseudo-craters at Skútustaðir.

    Spend the night in the Lake Mývatn area.

    Average driving distance: 430 km / 267 miles

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  • Day 24: Lunar landscapes of Lake Mývatn

    You have a full day to relax or take in more of the Lake Mývatn area. Why not start the day with an optional whale-watching trip from the village of Húsavík? It is the “Whale-Watching Capital of Europe” after all!

    Then visit more natural highlights like the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon and the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss. We recommend you end the day by bathing in the relaxing geothermal waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths.

    Spend another night in the Lake Mývatn area.

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  • Day 25: Across North Iceland

    Spend the first half of the day around Lake Mývatn. We recommend a visit to Goðafoss (“Waterfall of the Gods”) on your way to the charming town of Akureyri.

    This afternoon, you can either head straight to Skagafjörður or take a detour via Tröllaskagi (“Peninsula of the Trolls”). On this route, you can expect more incredible scenery with sea cliffs and fjords.

    Next, continue through Siglufjörður, which was once the centre of Iceland’s herring fleet. Make a stop at Hofsós to relax in the thermal pool (optional) before arriving at Skagafjörður, an area known for its abundance of purebred Icelandic horses.

    Spend the night in northwest Iceland.

    Average driving distance: 301 km / 187 miles

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  • Day 26: Journey to Snæfellsnes

    Prepare for another striking region of Iceland as you head to the Snæfellsnes peninsula. On your drive, you will pass sweeping farmlands of the northwest, dotted with Icelandic horses. Potential stops along the way include the beautiful Þingeyrakirkja church, the living museum at Eiríksstaðir, home of famous Viking Erik the Red, and the hot geothermal pool of Guðrúnarlaug.

    Later, pay a visit to Stykkishólmur, a picture-perfect fishing village overlooking Breiðafjörður bay. Wander up to the small hill overlooking the harbour for a panoramic view over the town, sea and surrounding mountains. 

    Spend the night in the Snæfellsnes / Borgarfjörður area.

    Average driving distance: 335 km / 208 miles

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  • Day 27: Spectacular Snæfellsjökull National Park

    Immerse yourself in the unique landscape of the Snæfellsjökull National Park, with its amazing birdlife, lush valleys and lava fields. Around the peninsula you’ll find Dritvík cove, Lóndrangar cliffs as well as Hellnar and Arnarstapi cliffs. You might also wish to test your strength at the large stones of the black volcanic beach of Djúpalónssandur.

    Later, make your way back to the capital for your last night in Iceland.

    Spend the night in Reykjavík.

    Average driving distance: 219 km / 136 miles

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  • Day 28: Departure From Iceland

    It's time to say goodbye to Iceland, putting an end to your Nordic trip of a lifetime! In time for your departure flight, a shuttle bus will collect you from your accommodation in Reykjavík and drive you to Keflavík Airport.

    If your flight is later in the day, you could fit in a relaxing visit to the Blue Lagoon on the way to the airport.

    Attractions See Activities for this day

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Map

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

28 days / 27 nights

Price p.p. from

The amount will be charged in EUR

Approx 8695 EUR

Essential information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this independent tour of Scandinavia. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Scandinavia Travel Guide.

We recommend you wait to book flights to Scandinavia, and other parts of your travels, until we can confirm your desired travel dates for this tour. This is due to varying availability for this package. Contact us for more details.

On this Nordic adventure, you’ll combine an independent tour of Scandinavia with a road trip in Iceland.

The first part of your trip will see you travelling across the Scandinavian region, from country to country. We’ll book your accommodation and transport across the region, as per the itinerary. You’ll explore independently in each destination.

Then, catch a flight to the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland. Here you’ll pick up a rental vehicle and drive the top spots of this gem. We’ll book your flight to Iceland, your airport transfers, accommodation and rental car for a smooth travel experience.

The transfers between your hotel and train stations, cruise ports or airports are not included with this package.

Usually your accommodation will be within short walking distance from train stations or cruise ports. When travelling to airports for flights between destinations, we recommend taking the convenient local public transport. But you could also get a taxi from your accommodation if you prefer.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect when you land in Finland?

After picking up your luggage, you’ll make your way to your accommodation. Public transport is easy to access and convenient in Helsinki. Or you could catch a taxi.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2–4 PM.

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel until check-in. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your trip if you’d like an early check-in.

After your stay in Helsinki, you’ll travel to Stockholm on an overnight cruise. You’ll depart in the late afternoon and arrive in Sweden the following morning.

We’ll book you cabin accommodation (Comfort Plus or Superior cabin with windows) with private facilities. Breakfast will be included in the morning before docking.

There are 2 ships operating the route, Cinderella or Gabriella. On board both, you will find restaurants, bars and guest activities.

Yes, you’ll enjoy a flight to travel from Stockholm in Sweden to Copenhagen in Denmark. The direct journey takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes.

Most flights will depart around midday, but in some cases you may be booked on a morning or evening flight. Your travel consultant will book the best flight time for you in light of your travel dates.

Each traveller in your party will be able to bring 1 checked bag, with a weight limit of 23 kilograms (50 pounds). Your carry-on bag weight limit will be 8 kilograms (17 pounds).

Please note that transfers from your hotel to Stockholm Arlanda Airport and from Copenhagen Airport to your accommodation are not included.

If you prefer to travel from Stockholm to Copenhagen by train instead of by plane, we would be happy to arrange this for you. Simply select the “train” option during the online booking steps.

It’s good to note that in the summer months, train companies conduct track maintenance, so there might be changes to the route. The length of your journey may vary.

Train tickets can often only be booked 30 days prior to your travel date. While your travel consultant waits for train tickets to become available, they will plan the rest of your tour. As soon as your tickets have been booked, your travel consultant will let you know all the details.

After your stay in Copenhagen, you’ll travel to Oslo on an overnight cruise. You’ll depart in the mid-afternoon and arrive in Norway the following morning.

We’ll book you a private cabin with ensuite facilities and a small window. In the morning before docking in Oslo, your breakfast is included.

There are 2 ships operating the route, Pearl Seaways and Crown Seaways. On board both, you will find facilities such as lounges, restaurants, bars and a viewing deck. There are also daily activities and entertainment to enjoy. 

This tour includes the famous Norway in a Nutshell tour from Bergen to Oslo. This is one of Norway’s most iconic journeys. You’ll travel by train, bus and ferry, seeing beautiful landscapes of steep mountains, shimmering fjords, charming villages and scenic coastline.

The first leg of the journey is from Bergen to Flåm. Then you’ll travel from Flåm to Oslo. The duration of both days will be around 6 hours. 

The connections will be announced and clearly explained in your travel documents. You will receive a ticket with all the information about transfer points and timings with your final travel documents.

On this tour, you will hop aboard a coastal cruise, provided by either Hurtigruten or Havila Voyages, along the Norwegian west coast. You’ll be staying in your own cabin with private facilities.

Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages operate along the same route on different days. Your personal travel consultant will book the cruise on your behalf in light of your tour’s start date and the rest of your itinerary.

If you are travelling on a Hurtigruten cruise:
Hurtigruten ships offer a classic Norwegian experience, with cosy cabins furnished with either twin or double beds. Your room will be between 8-11 square metres (86-118 square feet) and will always include a port hole, but please note that a view from the window cannot be guaranteed.

Instead, Hurtigruten ships all offer comfortable viewing decks, dining areas and lounges. This way, you can spend your mornings and evenings relaxing with incredible views of the passing Norwegian coastline.

If you are travelling on a Havila Voyages cruise:
Havila Voyages ships are the newer cruise liners on the block. Their modern cabins are furnished with either twin or double beds and are all around 15 square metres (161 feet). Your room will have a port hole and a small sofa so you can watch the views of ocean or coastline go past. Or, head up to the lounge, restaurant or viewing deck to see more of the passing fjords.

For the Norway portion of your Scandinavian adventure, your travel consultant will arrange the details of your cruise departure in light of your tour’s start date. They’ll then include all the information in your personal itinerary.

If you have a specific cruise in mind, check out our list of Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages sailing dates in 2024 and 2025.

Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages are shipping companies which transport travellers along the Norwegian coastline. Both offer incredible views of spectacular fjords and charming coastal villages as they journey towards Norway’s north or south.

That said, both companies have their own histories and distinct characters. Your cruise experience will vary depending on which company you’re travelling with. We’ve broken down the key differences below so you know what to expect on your seafaring adventure.

Hurtigruten dates back to 1893, and many of its ships were originally used to transport post. Due to the historic nature of these cruises, each one differs in size and your room’s port hole window may not have a view. Instead, you can expect a cosy cabin stay, with access to charming lounges and restaurant areas that have floor-to-ceiling windows.

Havila Voyages are a newer company, with a focus on eco-friendly and sustainable travel. Their rooms are slightly larger and have views of either the ocean or the coastline from their port holes. Just like Hurtigruten, they offer on-board facilities such as relaxing lounges, restaurants and viewing decks.

Whichever company you travel with, you’ll enjoy a private cabin with either a double or twin beds and ensuite facilities. Please bear in mind that we cannot guarantee your cabin number for coastal voyages shorter than 5 nights.

When your ship is in port for longer than 30 minutes, you’ll have the option to disembark. Optional shore excursions will also be available on your journey, so make sure to pre-book any activities that interest you.

After your stay in Scandinavia, you’ll fly to Iceland to continue your Nordic adventure. Flights from Norway usually take 2.5-3 hours.

Each traveller in your party will be able to bring 1 checked bag, with a weight limit of 23 kilograms (50 pounds). Your carry-on bag weight limit will be 10 kilograms (17 pounds).

The flight schedule varies, and your travel consultant will book the best option for your travel dates.

Please note that transfers from your hotel to the airport in Norway are not included. You’ll have to make your own way by public transport or taxi.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect upon landing in Keflavík?

After picking up your luggage, you will be greeted by a driver holding a sign with your name in the arrivals hall. The driver will hand over your welcome package with hard copies of your travel documents. You’ll then be driven to your hotel in Reykjavík.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2 PM and 4 PM. 

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel so you can start exploring before check-in. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.

Driving in Iceland during the summer months might be slightly different than what you’re used to. For this reason, you’ll want to make yourself aware of local driving laws and potential road hazards, such as:

  • We drive on the right-hand side of the road
  • Sheep sometimes roam onto the roads
  • Most roads and motorways are single carriageways
  • The first car to arrive at a single-lane bridge has right of way
  • Iceland has quite a few tunnels, including one of the longest underwater road tunnels in the world
     

And finally, with all the beautiful scenery, you’ll want to take it slow and enjoy the drive!

For more information, we strongly recommend taking a few minutes to read through our guide to driving in Iceland. Additionally, when you arrive on your tour, you’ll receive a brochure telling you more about driving in Iceland.

Children must be at least 2 years old to visit the Blue Lagoon. And it’s mandatory for children aged 2 to 8 to wear inflatable armbands while in the lagoon. These are provided free of charge. 

Please note that only 2 children under the age of 10 can be admitted into the lagoon per guardian.

Your scheduled journey to the Blue Lagoon is by bus, with up to 70 travellers. When you arrive in Iceland, you’ll receive vouchers with all your transfer details.

On your Scandinavian and Icelandic adventure, you’ll stay in accommodation that’s been hand-picked by our travel experts.

We’ve partnered with local businesses in all countries as well as selected hotels and guesthouses so you can always expect a comfortable night’s stay. All accommodation is booked based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

During the booking process, you can select whether you want Comfort Plus or Superior accommodation. Comfort Plus usually consists of standard rooms in good quality and comfortable 3-star hotels. Superior is standard rooms in 4-star hotels combined with superior rooms in premium 3-star hotels.

You will also be able to choose between single, double or triple rooms. Please note that in the Nordic countries room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.

For example, a double bed often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. Twin rooms are 2 separate single beds. Triple rooms include a double bed along with an extra single bed, rollaway or sofa bed. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

If you have anything specific in mind, please contact us to discuss customising your accommodation options.

Please wait to book flights to Scandinavia until we can confirm your desired travel dates for this tour. This is due to varying availabilities on services included in this package. 

After making a booking with Nordic Visitor, it might take a few weeks to confirm your travel arrangements. We recommend booking your flights once your personal travel consultant gets in touch to confirm your itinerary.

If you have any questions about your flights and itinerary, please contact us for more details.

If you’re arriving from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa to visit Iceland. 

Visiting from another country? You can find the complete list of countries whose nationals require a visa to enter Iceland on the website of Iceland’s Directorate of Immigration. If you do require a visa, they maintain a list of local embassies that can assist you with the process. 

Your passport must also be valid for at least 3 months from your departure from Iceland. It’s good to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it. 

Read more about visas, airports and airlines in the getting to Iceland section of our travel guide.

If you have a passport from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa to visit Scandinavia. This visa-free entry is valid for up to 90 days.

Visiting from another country? You might need to apply for a Schengen visa. You can find out whether you require a visa to enter on the Sweden Government website or the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland. You’ll need to apply to the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time, or the first country you will visit.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your departure from the region. It’s good to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it.

Scandinavia is a beautiful destination all year long. But it’s good to be aware of a few things before picking the best time to visit for you.

During the summer months, June to August, you’ll have the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours of the year. This is ideal for outdoor excursions and taking full advantage of your days for sightseeing.

If you’d like to experience the top attractions with fewer visitors around, then you could book a summer itinerary in May or September. These shoulder season months generally have more tour and attraction availability.

Independent tours of Scandinavia are also available during the rest of the year. But please be advised that if you are travelling in late March, April, late September or October, the weather is much milder, especially in Sweden and Norway. That said, there will still be more sunlight at this time of year than in winter.

Choose to travel in winter, November to February, and you’ll benefit from an itinerary of quieter towns and attractions. You can also expect fewer daylight hours, and the addition of snow-dusted mountains as a backdrop. It’s good to remember that in Scandinavia, northern lights can only really be seen from Northern Norway, Iceland, and Lapland.

Christmastime is another magical time of year to visit Scandinavia, with Christmas markets galore. But please note that there are limited opening hours during the holiday season.

The capitals of Scandinavia are located quite far north in Europe so you can expect long daylight hours in summer.

In Helsinki, Finland, and Stockholm, Sweden, you can expect between 16 and 19 hours of daylight depending on how close you are to the solstice. Copenhagen in Denmark is slightly more south, so you’ll enjoy 14-17 daylight hours.

In Norway, Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger are relatively south, so you’ll experience 15–20 hours of daylight. If you visit the north, including locations such as Tromsø and Kirkenes, you can expect 20–24 hours of daylight.

The region’s long summer days give you plenty of time to explore. That said, you may want to pack a sleeping mask if you are a light sleeper or tend to wake up at dawn.

Find out more about time zones and daylight in this guide to time and daylight in Scandinavia.

During the summer months, you can expect fairly stable weather across Scandinavia.

The months of June, July and August boast the warmest weather of the year. In Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo you can expect average temperatures between 17–20°C (61–68°F). This gets cooler in Bergen and then up the north coast of Norway. For example, Tromsø has average summer temperatures around 10°C (41–50°F).

In May and September, you can also expect milder conditions. Pack for temperatures closer to 11–14°C (52–57°F).

All that said, it’s good to know that weather conditions are often changeable in Northern Europe, so you should come ready for sun, rain and wind. For more information on the local climate, read the page Scandinavian weather conditions.

Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. This means that your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit.

Summer has most stable weather of the year across Scandinavia, especially in the south of the region. That said, you should still be ready to experience all seasons in one day. Especially if you will be spending a lot of time outdoors, you’ll want to pack for a combination of weather conditions.

Bring lighter clothes for the warmer, sunny days. And don’t forget extra layers for chilly nights in the mountains or for taking in the view from cruise ship decks.

Here is an essential summer packing list for your trip to Scandinavia:

  • Shorts and trousers
  • T-shirts and long sleeve tops
  • At least one warm jumper or fleece
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Light gloves, hat and scarf
  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
  • Sunglasses, sun hat and sunscreen
  • Eye mask to sleep despite the long daylight hours
  • Electronic gear such as smartphone, external powerpack, and travel adapters
  • A backpack for easy access to daily essentials
  • and don’t forget your camera!

An umbrella can also come in handy. If you are a wildlife watcher, you may wish to bring binoculars.

For more information, check out this Scandinavian packing list.

In most major Scandinavian cities and towns you will be able to find coin-operated launderettes, with self-service facilities, and dry cleaners. Most hotels on your trip will also offer a laundry or dry cleaning service for an additional cost.

When you travel with Nordic Visitor, breakfast at your accommodation is always included. For the rest of your meals, the amount of spending money you need will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to.

In Sweden, we recommend budgeting between 150-300 SEK for lunch per person, each day. Dinner at casual restaurants might cost between 250-500 SEK. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you might expect to spend at least 800 SEK per person.

In Denmark, these numbers will be closer to 100-200 DKK for lunch, 200-400 DKK for casual dinners and upwards of 600 DKK for upscale dining.

For Norway, you’ll want to budget 150–350 NOK per person per lunch. Dinners will be between 350-600 NOK and upscale restaurants might charge upwards of 1,000 NOK per person.

During your time in Iceland, you can expect to spend between 2,000–3,000 ISK at lunch. Casual dinners might cost between 3,000–6,000 ISK and 7,000 ISK or more for upscale dining.

These general budgeting tips do not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. 

If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

We aim to complete bookings within a few weeks. During this time we take care of booking your accommodation, activities, and transport, confirming all parts of your journey. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. 

When we get back to you might depend slightly on how far ahead you’ve booked your travels and other tours running at the time. 

If you have any questions before your trip, you can get in touch with our Scandinavian travel experts based in Stockholm. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Scandinavia Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

This tour requires a non-refundable deposit payment of 50% of the total price at the time of booking. You can view more about the deposit and cancellation fees here.

All bookings are billed in Euro (EUR). Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. This means conversions from EUR to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline. 

During your tour, there will always be a travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

After you have booked your tour, it will take a few weeks to confirm its availability. Then we will start the booking process to create your itinerary.

Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll send you e-copies of your travel documents. This will include your personalised itinerary, our Scandinavia Travel Guide and your service vouchers. We recommend printing your tickets and vouchers to bring with you to Scandinavia.

No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.

Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund. 

Reviews

We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.

Great tour

Great tour, from the itinerary to accommodation and transport - including transport adjustments required during the tour due to unforeseen extreme weather events. Everything was well considered and well taken care of. Much appreciated.

Accommodation

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Comfort Plus

Standard rooms in good quality and comfortable three-star hotels in combination with charming country hotels.

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Superior

Standard rooms in four-star hotels in combination with Superior rooms in premium three-star hotels.

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Rental car

Two Drivers Free GPS

Toyota Yaris
(Manual)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x2
  • M

Toyota Yaris
(Manual)
or similar

  • Description: Economy
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 2
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Manual*
  • *upgrade to automatic available upon request

Volkswagen Golf (Automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x2
  • A

Volkswagen Golf (Automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Compact
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 2
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic

Toyota Corolla Sedan (Automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x3
  • A

Toyota Corolla Sedan (Automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Intermediate
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 3
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic

Hyundai Tucson AWD (Automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x3
  • A

Hyundai Tucson AWD (Automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Intermediate SUV
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 3
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic

Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 (Automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x5
  • A

Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 (Automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Premium SUV, 4WD
  • Passengers: 5
  • Suitcases: 5
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic

Land Rover Discovery 4x4 (Automatic)
or similar
limited availability

  • x5
  • x5
  • x4
  • A

Land Rover Discovery 4x4 (Automatic)
or similar
limited availability

  • Description: Luxury SUV, AWD
  • Passengers: 5
  • Suitcases: 4
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic

Price per person from

The amount will be charged in EUR

Approx 8695 EUR

Monthly price comparison

Our best price per person when booking for two.

2025
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