Northern Lights of Scandinavia
10 Days from $3,639 per person
One for nature lovers, this captivating trip offers a bewitching journey across Scandinavia's breath-taking mountains, rivers, cities and fjords. Hunt for the Northern Lights in Nordcapp as you sip on bubbles with your fellow travelers and delve further into this fascinating part of the world. You'll find out more about reindeer, from Sámi, the indigenous people of Scandinavia, who have been working with “the true hero of the Arctic” for centuries. From the grand architecture of vibrant Helsinki to meeting adorable four-legged locals in Alta, adventure and intrigue await you on our Northern Lights of Scandinavia trip
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Overview
One for nature lovers, this captivating trip offers a bewitching journey across Scandinavia's breath-taking mountains, rivers, cities and fjords. Hunt for the Northern Lights in Nordcapp as you sip on bubbles with your fellow travelers and delve further into this fascinating part of the world. You'll find out more about reindeer, from Sámi, the indigenous people of Scandinavia, who have been working with “the true hero of the Arctic” for centuries. From the grand architecture of vibrant Helsinki to meeting adorable four-legged locals in Alta, adventure and intrigue await you on our Northern Lights of Scandinavia trip
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
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Day 1: Welcome to Helsinki
Welcome to Helsinki. With its lush parks and pretty seaside buildings, this beautiful city is set to be your home for the night. At Helsinki airport, transfers depart at 10 am, 2 pm and 4 pm for the grand GLO Hotel Art. Meet your Travel Director at 6 pm for a drinks reception. Decorated in a distinctive Art Nouveau style, this charming 4-star hotel is the ideal place to sit back and get to know your fellow travelers before your Scandinavian adventure begins.
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Day 2: The gateway to Saariselkä
Today you'll take a scenic flight to Ivalo. Known as the gateway to Saariselkä, Ivalo is a picturesque village set on the Ivalo River. Situated close to Urho Kekkonen National Park you'll find views of the Aurora Borealis and the striking mountain Korvatunturi, also known as the home of Santa. You'll enjoy a Welcome Dinner at your boutique hotel, Aurora Village, famed for its cabins with a glass roof, offering sweeping views of the night sky. Look out for the dancing northern lights as you gaze through the glass ceiling from the comfort of your room.
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Day 3: Ivalo to Honningsvåg
Enjoy a sunrise view of Ivalo as you take in the picturesque scenery of its surrounding areas over your morning coffee and prepare yourself for your scenic day ahead. Today you'll be driven from Ivalo to Honningsvåg, the northernmost city in Norway. Take in the lush drive before exploring the quaint city itself, with its colorful architecture and nautical homeliness, it's the ideal place to stock up on souvenirs to mark your travels. Retire to the traditional Scandic Bryggen Honningsvag, situated on the sea shore.
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Day 4: Northern Lights in Nordcapp
You simply can't visit Norway without heading to Nordcapp. Dubbed the northernmost point in continental Europe, you'll go in search of the iconic Northern Lights as you sip on bubbles and delight in exquisite caviar with your fellow travelers. End your day back at your charming hotel, where you'll rest up ahead of tomorrow's adventures.
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Day 5: North Cape to Alta
Enjoy a spectacular drive from North Cape to Alta, taking in the country's magnificent fjords and surroundings along the way. Once you've arrived in this northern coast town you'll be taken aback by its quaint natural beauty. It boasts a UNESCO listed museum and a World Heritage Rock Art Center, which features an open-air rock carving exhibit. Head to an ice bar with your fellow travelers for a chilled beverage as you discuss the day's events. Home for the next couple of nights is Scandic Alta, a traditional, relaxing hotel, situated in the heart of Alta.
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Day 6: Sled riding in Alta
A day for dog lovers, today is a true high point of the trip. Visit a working Husky farm to meet Trine Lyrek, a champion dog sledder. Learn about her Alaskan Huskies and the challenges she faces competing in marathon Arctic dog sled races. Perhaps enjoy an optional Husky dog sled ride in the heart of Norway. Indulge in a delectable oven-baked Highlight Dinner of local specialties, including seasonal salmon or reindeer, before heading back for a cozy night at your hotel.
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Day 7: Norway’s gateway to the Arctic
Today you'll head to the small but mighty town of Tromsø, located on the island of Tromsøya. Known as Norway's gateway to the Arctic, you'll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains and ethereal water views. Once here you'll head to the Radisson Blu Hotel, your home for the night. This traditional venue boasts stunning views of the Arctic Cathedral, Tromso Fjord and mountains.
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Day 8: Delve into Scandinavian history
Delve into the history of this glorious country with a meeting with the Sami people, the indigenous people of Scandinavia. You'll wrap up in provided extra warm clothing, as you're led around the Sami camp with a knowledgeable, English-speaking Sami guide. You'll feed the Reindeer herd before enjoying your Celebration Dinner, a hot traditional Sami meal with hot drinks.
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Day 9: A merry finale in Oslo
On your final day, you'll fly from Tromsø to Oslo, for a merry finale in Norway's capital. This modern city is surrounded by magnificent mountains offering panoramic views of the city beneath. On your orientation, see the medieval Akershus Castle and the Royal Palace. History buffs can delve further into Norway's impressive history at the Viking Ship Museum or for outdoorsy types, take a pretty walk through Frogner Park. Your hotel for the evening is the contemporary Thon Hotel Opera which offers delicious dining options in its modern Scala Restaurant.
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Day 10: Farewell Oslo
It's time to say farewell to your fellow travelers as a transfer takes you to the local airport at 7:15 am or 10:15 am.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
- Festive Celebrations
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
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| 30 Oct 19 | 8 Nov 19 | $3,975$3,639pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 31 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 27 Nov 19 | 6 Dec 19 | $4,095$3,747pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 31 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
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Festive Celebrations
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25 Dec 19 | 3 Jan 20 | $4,650$4,247pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 31 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 22 Jan 20 | 31 Jan 20 | $4,095$3,747pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 31 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 19 Feb 20 | 28 Feb 20 | $4,095$3,747pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 31 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 18 Mar 20 | 27 Mar 20 | $4,095$3,747pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 31 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 15 Apr 20 | 24 Apr 20 | $3,975$3,639pp | Early PaymentPay by Jan 31 | Request Quote Book Now |
- Festive Celebrations: Christmas and/or New Year Celebrations have been arranged for these departures.
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $520 per person
Triple Room Discount: $90 per person
Airport Transfers: On arrival at Helsinki airport, transfers operate at 10 am, 2 pm and 4 pm. Return transfers on the last travel day arrive at Oslo airport at 7:15 am and 10:15 am.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Personal Flight Options
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Most Meals
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Hotel Tips
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
Included Quality Dining
9 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners, 3 Dinners with Wine, all with tea and coffee.
Signature Experiences
- Visit the Sami People, Indigenous Scandinavians in Tromso.
- Tromso: Delve into the fascinating history of Scandinavia as you meet its indigenous people, the Sami. You'll be given a tour of their camp and get to feed the reindeer. Before sitting down to a scrumptious traditional meal served with hot drinks.
- Alta: Meet Trine Lyrek at her working husky farm. Gain an insight to the challenges Trine and her Alaskan Huskies face when competing in marathon Arctic dog sled races.
Top Rated Highlights
- See North Cape and search for the Northern Lights.
- North Cape: What better way to search for the Northern Lights than by toasting to your adventure with bubbles with your fellow travelers?
- Oslo: On your orientation of Oslo city, see the medieval Akershus Castle and the Royal Palace.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Scandinavian countries – Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland –must have a current passport valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. No visa is required for U.S. citizens entering Scandinavia.
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Currency
Scandinavian countries do not share a common currency. Here are the currencies used by country.
Sweden – Swedish Krona
Norway – Norwegian Krone
Denmark – Danish Kroner
Finland – Euro
Iceland – Icelandic Krona
While it’s a good idea to have some money on you while you travel, you’ll usually find better exchange rates in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in the country you’re visiting. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
Scandinavian cuisine is rich and hearty. Try a traditional ‘smørgasbord’ with a selection of meat, fish, salads, hot dishes, puddings and cheeses. Sample dishes prepared with a variety of seafood including smoked salmon, cod, herring, sardines and mackerel. Popular meats include reindeer, lamb and fowl. Coffee and milk are very popular, along with lager. Aquavit is the local spirit, and is usually served chilled. Wines and other spirits are imported products and are very expensive.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
When dining out it is appropriate to leave 5-10 percent gratuity if a service charge has not already been added to your bill.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend the equivalent of €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
