Central, Eastern &
Northern Europe
including Scandinavia & Iceland

Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe Tours by Region

Explore the unique regions of Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, each offering distinct attractions and experiences. Wander through medieval towns and historic cities to marvel at the architectural splendor and cultural heritage of Central and Eastern Europe. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and innovative cities of Northern Europe and Scandinavia. Looking for an incredible way to celebrate the holiday season? A winter trip to explore the holiday season’s Christmas Markets across Europe should be on every traveler's bucket list. From the bustling capitals to the serene countryside, our Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe tours ensure you experience the best of each region.

Central Europe

Prague and the Czech Republic: Dive into the heart of Central Europe in the Czech Republic and explore Prague, known for its stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, charming old town, and vibrant cultural scene. Don't miss the picturesque Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the historic town of Český Krumlov.

Vienna and Austria: Book a trip to Austria to explore classical Vienna. Known as “The City of Music” and “City of Dreamers,” Vienna boasts grand palaces, such as Schönbrunn and Hofburg, and world-renowned museums. Experience the musical richness of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, and the scenic beauty of the Austrian Alps. Austria is also a top winter vacation destination, famous for its holiday Christmas markets.

Budapest and Hungary: Take a trip to Hungary and explore Budapest, with its dramatic skyline, thermal baths, and the historic Buda Castle. Experience the lively city markets and the impressive Parliament Building. Looking for an all-inclusive vacation through Central Europe? Take a relaxing cruise on the Danube River!

Eastern Europe

Krakow and Poland: Delve into local life on a trip through Eastern Europe. Visit Poland and experience the historical depth of Krakow, from the medieval Market Square to the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial. Warsaw offers a mix of historic and modern attractions, including the Royal Castle and the Warsaw Uprising Museum. Discover the timeless charm of Gdańsk, where history meets the sea in a vibrant blend of medieval architecture, bustling markets, and scenic waterfront.

Vilnius and the Baltic States: Vilnius, in Lithuania, with its Baroque architecture and vibrant arts scene, is a gateway to exploring the lesser-known gems of the Baltic region. Visit the charming old towns of Riga in Latvia and Tallinn in Estonia, each rich in history and culture.

Northern Europe and Scandinavia

Stockholm and Sweden: Sweden is a top vacation destination for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Known for its archipelago, Stockholm blends modernity with historic charm. Wander the medieval streets of Gamla Stan and see the 13th-century cathedral. Visit the imposing City Hall to see its fabulous Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall, with its walls covered in 18 million gilded mosaic tiles, and the Blå hallen, the Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquets are held.

Copenhagen and Denmark: Denmark is a top vacation destination for its charming blend of historic castles, modern design, and picturesque coastal scenery. Copenhagen offers a mix of historic sites, such as the Rosenborg Castle, and modern attractions like the Tivoli Gardens. The picturesque Nyhavn harbor and the innovative architecture make it a vibrant destination. Don't miss the iconic statue of Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid, a symbol of Copenhagen's rich literary heritage.

Oslo and Norway: Book a trip to Norway to experience its breathtaking fjords, majestic mountains, and vibrant cultural heritage. Oslo, the country’s capital, sits surrounded by fjords and forests and is perfect for nature lovers. Explore the Viking Ship Museum, and the Royal Palace, and take a scenic train ride through the breathtaking landscapes of Norway.

Helsinki and Finland: Book a trip to Finland to immerse yourself in its pristine lakes, enchanting forests, and unique cultural experiences. Helsinki, the country's capital, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends modern design with rich history. Ivalo, a small yet important center in Finnish Lapland, 250km above the Arctic Circle is known as “The Gateway to the North,” is set on the Ivalo River, where the first Lapland Goldrush took place in the 19th century.

For those looking for a chance to see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, a trip above the Arctic Circle in Sweden, Finland, and Denmark offers the perfect opportunity. Another top destination to see this natural phenomenon is Iceland.

Iceland

Reykjavik and the Golden Circle: Book a trip to Iceland to explore Reykjavik, the country’s vibrant capital which offers a mix of modern culture, history, and natural beauty. Discover the geothermal wonders of the Golden Circle, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park. Don't miss the chance to soak in the rejuvenating waters of the Blue Lagoon, a renowned geothermal spa.

The South Coast: Explore dramatic and powerful waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, and the charming town of Vik – highlights of the Southern Coast of Iceland.

The North and Westfjords: Akureyri, the “Capital of the North,” is known for its botanical gardens and vibrant art scene. The remote Westfjords offer rugged landscapes and serene fjords, perfect for those seeking tranquility and untouched nature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scandinavia Travel Tours

• When is the best time to tour Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  The best time to visit Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe is from May to September when the weather is warm, and most attractions are open. However, the winter months offer a unique charm, especially for those interested in visiting the winter holiday markets that fill city squares throughout Europe.
• What are the best places to visit in Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  Top places to visit include Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Krakow, Vilnius, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, and Reykjavik. Each city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
• What is the currency in Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  Currencies vary by country, including the Euro (EUR) in many Central and Eastern European countries, the Czech Koruna (CZK) in the Czech Republic, the Hungarian Forint (HUF) in Hungary, the Polish Zloty (PLN) in Poland, and the Swedish Krona (SEK), Danish Krone (DKK), and Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Scandinavia. In Iceland, the currency is the Icelandic Krona (ISK).
• What is the food like in Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  The cuisine is diverse, ranging from hearty dishes like Hungarian goulash and Polish pierogi to the fresh seafood of Scandinavia and Iceland.
• Are credit cards widely accepted in Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in most places. However, it's always good to carry some local currency for smaller establishments. Learn more about using ATMs in foreign countries, exchange rates, and using credit cards abroad.
• What voltage do they use in Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  The voltage is generally 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. It's advisable to carry a universal adapter. Check out this article on using adapters and converters in Europe.
• Is English widely spoken in Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas, though learning a few basic phrases in the local language can be helpful.
• What is the weather like in Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  Weather can vary greatly. Summers are generally warm, while winters can be quite cold, especially in the north. It's best to check specific weather patterns for each country you plan to visit.
• Do I need vaccinations to travel to Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  No special vaccinations are typically required, but it's always good to check with your healthcare provider.
• Do I need a visa to visit Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  Visa requirements vary by country. Check and make sure you’re ready to go with our simple destination guide. It’s essential to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after you’re planning to return to the States and that you have any visas you’ll need to travel. Planning earlier allows you plenty of time to renew your passport if required.
• What to pack for a trip to Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  Pack layers to accommodate the variable weather, including a waterproof jacket. Don’t forget essentials like travel adapters, a reusable water bottle, and any personal medications. If you plan to visit religious sites, modest clothing is respectful. 
• How many months in advance should I plan a trip to Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe?
  We recommend you plan your trip to Central, Eastern, or Northern Europe between 4-10 months before you want to travel. Airlines don’t publish fares much further out than 10-11 months. You should look to book your vacation once you can lock in your flights. Luckily, our team takes care of all of that for you. Even so, if travelers want to go for a special anniversary or event, they’ll book years in advance so they know they are set and can let us handle it from there. 

Why You Should Visit Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe

Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, including Scandinavia and Iceland, offer an unparalleled blend of cultural richness, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. From the architectural marvels of Prague and Vienna to the scenic fjords of Norway and the geothermal wonders of Iceland, this region promises diverse and unforgettable experiences. Guided tours provide an excellent way to explore these varied landscapes and cultural treasures with ease and expertise. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more.