Spectacular Scandinavia & its Fjords
Revel in outstanding Scandinavian scenery as you cruise the glassy fjords and ride the Flåm Railway. In the cities, soak up the seafaring history and lively cultural scene.
Overview
Revel in outstanding Scandinavian scenery as you cruise the glassy fjords and ride the Flåm Railway. In the cities, soak up the seafaring history and lively cultural scene.
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Day 1: Your Journey Begins.
Board your overnight flight to Scandinavia (not included). -
Day 2: Welcome to Copenhagen.
On arrival at Copenhagen Airport, your transfer shuttle service will leave for your hotel at 09:00, 12:00 & 15:00. Then you will be at leisure to relax and settle in. In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Reception, drinks and a wonderful Welcome Dinner, followed by a visit to the glittering lights and enchanting atmosphere of the world-famous Tivoli Gardens.
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Day 3: Wonderful, Wonderful Copenhagen.
A Local Expert will reveal the charm of Denmark's capital. Meet Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid gazing wistfully across the harbour. See Christiansborg Palace, seat of the Danish Government, as well as the Rosenborg and Amalienborg Palaces and the Renaissance Stock Exchange. Continue to Copenhagen's cathedral, where the Crown Prince of Denmark married Princess Mary and the unusual Rundertaarn - a 17th century round tower, the oldest functioning Observatory in Europe. The afternoon is at leisure, perhaps take an optional experience into the picturesque Danish countryside to the castles of North Zealand. -
Day 4: Viking Roskilde.
Travel to the ancient city of Roskilde, dating back to the Viking age and today home to a giant rock music event, the Roskilde Festival. Visit Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first Gothic cathedral in Scandinavia. On return to Copenhagen, you are at leisure.
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Day 5: Scenic farmlands of Sweden on the way to Stockholm.
Travel from Denmark to Sweden by crossing the incredible Øresund Bridge. Spanning 8 kilometers over the Flinte channel it's the longest road and rail bridge in Europe. Pass through the artificial island of Peberholm and continue through the Skåne region, which gave its name to Scandinavia. Enjoy views of the patchwork of fertile farmlands as you journey along the shores of Lake Vättern to the Swedish capital.
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Day 6: Stockholm, City of Islands.
The charms of Sweden's capital are best seen with your Local Expert. On Gamla Stan, start with the cathedral, the coronation palace of many Swedish kings and the Old Town, with some of the narrowest streets in the world and stroll through the courtyard of the Royal Palace. 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. There's free time in the afternoon for you to explore at your own pace. Perhaps visit the fabulous Vasa Galleon, raised from Stockholm's harbor-bed in 1961 after sinking on its maiden voyage in 1628?
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Day 7: The Viking Capital Sigtuna, Uppsala and Falun.
Travel to Sigtuna on the shores of Lake Mälaren, it was once the Viking capital and now boasts Sweden's smallest City Hall. Continue to the historic city of Uppsala, seat of Scandinavia's oldest university and visit the lofty cathedral. Travel through rural Dalecarlia to Falun, an old historic mining town.
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Day 8: Lillehammer.
View the Great Pit, a vast crater caused by the enormous mine collapse that occurred in 1687. A scenic drive along the shores of Lake Siljan in the Dalarna region brings you to Nusnäs, home of the Dala horse. Meet the entertaining Olsson family who has passed the art of making wooden horses down through the generations and visit their workshop to witness a colorful wooden horse being made. Continue deep into the forested heart of Sweden to reach Sälen, Sweden's largest alpine destination. It is known as the starting point for the world's oldest and longest cross-country ski race, Vasaloppet, a 90 kilometre track that has been challenging skiers since 1922. Cross the border to Norway and pass Hamar with its Olympic ice-skating rink known as the Viking Ship. Journey along the shores of Mjøsa, Norway's largest lake, to arrive at Lillehammer, home of the 1994 Winter Olympics.
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Day 9: Geiranger, Jewel of the Fjords.
Journey northwest from Lillehammer, travelling through the countryside of 'Peer Gynt', immortalized by Ibsen. At Lom, visit the Norwegian stave church dating back to 1158. Continue along winding roads that pass waterfalls, rivers, ice fields, lakes and snow-capped peaks. End your day in spectacular fashion with an incredible cruise on the mirror-smooth waters of Geirangerfjord, with its towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. For the next two nights you will stay in the remote village of Geiranger, overlooking fjords and soaring mountains.
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Day 10: Geiranger at Leisure.
Enjoy a relaxed start and a day reserved for your leisure among the most breathtaking scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps join an Optional Experience for an incredible scenic drive along the amazing Troll's Road? The road itself was a masterpiece of engineering when it was built over 70 years ago and the spectacular views will leave you speechless.
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Day 11: Fjærland and Fjordland to Leikanger.
Your travels continue to the Bøya Glacier for a photo-stop. Visit the nearby Fjærland Glacier Museum to gain a deeper understanding of your surroundings and their past, present and future. Take a fascinating journey through time from the creation of the earth, to the last ice age and ahead to the year 2100. Then enjoy a scenic drive onto your hotel in Leikanger.
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Day 12: The Flåm Railway to Bergen.
Cross the serene waters of magnificent Sognefjord, the world's longest and deepest fjord. Then embark on a spectacular scenic journey on the Flåm Railway, ascending from sea level to 914m. Visit a family-run farm on the Hardangerfjord to hear all about the fruit production process and sample the apple juice and homemade cider. Enjoy a walk through the orchard, learn how eight generations have farmed the land, producing fruit, berries and various jams, jellies, traditional spreads, cake and other delicious treats. Travel on to your hotel in the historic port of Bergen.
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Day 13: The Hanseatic port of Bergen.
A Local Expert introduces you to Bergen. The ancient Hanseatic port city still largely looks to the sea for its living, as evidenced by the picturesque and lively Fish Market, set in a charming location in the heart of the city. The market also has stalls selling a colorful variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, handicrafts and souvenirs. After seeing the 13th century Haakon's Hall, there will be time to explore all that this exciting town has to offer. Perhaps you might like to visit the home of composer Edward Grieg, before ascend Mount Fløyen by the only funicular in Scandinavia?
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Day 14: Mountains and Fjords to Oslo.
Pass scenic mountains and travel through some of Norway's ski-resorts as you cross the Hardanger Plateau, Europe's greatest mountain plateau and the largest national park in the Nordic countries, to reach Oslo.
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Day 15: Cosmopolitan Oslo.
With your Local Expert, see the Royal Palace and the spires and ramparts of Akershus Castle, the 14th century fortress guarding the harbor. At Frogner Park, view the intriguing Vigeland sculptures, before enjoying a highlight visit to the Viking Ship Museum to see 9th century ships that carried Viking nobles to the afterlife. In the evening, round off your Scandinavian adventure with a Celebration Dinner. Over a glass of wine, toast your travels with your newfound friends.
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Day 16: Out of Oslo.
Departure transfers arrive at Oslo Airport at 07:15 & 10:15.
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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.
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 $1,220 p.p.
Triple Room Discount $230.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $173 per person.
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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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
14 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 4 Dinners (D) and 3 Dinners with Wine (DW) all with tea or coffee.
Signature Experiences
Copenhagen:
- Make the most of the long summer nights at the glittering Tivoli Gardens, the world-famous entertainment park, full of fantasy, fun and charm.
- Your Local Expert shows you Christiansborg Palace, Copenhagen Cathedral, Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, the Renaissance Stock Exchange and the unusual Rundertaarn which is the oldest functioning Observatory in Europe
Stockholm:
- Inside the rose-hued City Hall, the fabulous Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall is covered by 18 million gilded mosaic tiles and the Blå hallen, the Blue Hall, is the venue for the Nobel Prize banquets.
- With your Local Expert, visit Gamla Stan to see the cathedral where Swedish kings have been coronated and wander the narrow streets of the Old Town.
Roskilde:
- Visit the first Gothic cathedral in Scandinavia, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Øresund Bridge:
- Cross this magnificent feat of engineering. It's the longest road and rail bridge in Europe, spanning 16 kilometers. Pass through the man made Peberholm Island which has become a haven for flora and fauna.
Geiranger:
- Cruise along the deep, blue waters of majestic Geirangerfjord, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, gushing waterfalls and lush green vegetation.
Fjærland:
- All you ever wanted to know about ice flows and how they sculpt the landscape, fjords and mountains, awaits you at the fascinating Norwegian Glacier Museum.
Flåm Railway:
- Journey on one of the world's steepest railways through tunnels that spiral in and out of the mountainside of the narrow Flåm Valley.
Oslo:
- Stand beneath the scrolled prows and hand-cut hulls of 9th century ships that carried Viking nobles to the afterlife and learn about their traditions and culture.
- With your Local Expert, see Akershus Castle, Oslo Harbour and the Royal Palace. Take a moment to contemplate the interesting Vigeland sculptures when you visit Frogner Park.
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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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.
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.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Copenhagen
North Zealand Castle Tour
Adult Price: € 51.00
Drive along the scenic coastal road of the Danish Riviera to the castles of North Zealand. See Fredensborg, the summer residence of the Royal Family, then visit Fredriksborg, the largest Renaissance palace in Scandinavia. It's now a museum, so the tour through the beautiful rooms is an encounter with the kings and queens who shaped the country's history. En-route, pass through picturesque villages of half-timbered houses and thatched roofs.
Copenhagen
Traditional Danish Dinner
Adult Price: € 65.00
Home to some of the world's best restaurants, Copenhagen is currently experiencing a culinary renaissance. Make the most of the long summer evenings and join us for dinner Danish style in the heart of Copenhagen. Two glasses of wine, beer or soft drinks are included with your meal.
Copenhagen
Canal Cruise and Visit to a Small Fishing Village
Adult Price: € 47.00
Today we’ll explore Copenhagen through a cruise on its narrow canals and inner harbour. Then we’ll stroll around the streets of an old fishing village and stop at a local cafe for light refreshments.
Stockholm
Swedish Summer Dinner + Cruise
Adult Price: € 85.00
Experience a Swedish summer evening at its best! Enjoy a half-hour cruise in the largest archipelago in the world, followed by authentic local cuisine served in a peaceful forested setting on the shores of the Baltic Sea.
Stockholm
Vasa Galleon
Adult Price: € 38.00
When the Vasa was launched in 1628, it was arguably the world's most powerful warship. Bristling with 64 cannon and carrying some 300 men, it was built to strike the fear of God into the enemy. Unfortunately, it sank on its maiden voyage. Raised from Stockholm harbour in 1961, this grand galleon remains almost wholly preserved, along with 700 wooden sculptures and ornaments. Your visit will provide a unique insight into early shipbuilding techniques and everyday life on board a 17c naval vessel.
Falun
Carl Larsson's Farm
Adult Price: € 37.00
Sweden’s world famous painter, Carl Larsson, lived and worked in his traditional country home which is today a constant source of inspiration for modern designers. This remarkably intact time capsule showcases the art and family life of a beloved artist.
Lillehammer
Lillehammer Ski Jump and Brewery Experience
Adult Price: € 72.00
Be transported back in time to the 1994 Winter Olympics. First a drive to the Lillehammer Ski Jump where we'll marvel at the incredible views overlooking Lillehammer and Lake Mjosa. Later, we'll meet a local storyteller at the historic Lillehammer Brewery where we'll hear about the local brewing techniques and receive a guided tasting of their speciality craft beer. Then, we'll enjoy a casual dinner made from locally-sourced produce.
Geiranger
The Troll's Road
Adult Price: € 48.00
Your tour of Geiranger includes a scenic drive up the Eagle’s Road, offering amazing views of the Geiranger Fjord and the stunning Seven Sisters Waterfall. At the small village of Eidsdal, cross the fjord by ferry and climb up through the abundant fruit growing valleys. Leave civilisation behind as you venture high above the tree line for some of the most breathtaking scenery. Now on to the Troll’s Road, a masterpiece of engineering built over 70 years ago. (This optional is seasonal)
Geiranger
Europe's Highest Fjord at Dalsnibba
Adult Price: € 31.00
In the comfort of your coach, climb 1500 metres to the highest possible fjord view in Europe at Dalsnibba mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the famous Geiranger fjord and the surrounding glacier topped mountains. For the bold, test your nerve on the Geiranger Skywalk suspended over a 500 metre drop. (Weather permitting and Seasonal)
Bergen
Edvard Grieg's Home & Funicular
Adult Price: € 43.00
"Visit Troldhaugen, the idyllic summer home of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s national composer. Situated on a promontory jutting into Lake Nordaas with outstanding views over the water, it offered the composer total tranquillity and inspiration for his music. More scenic grandeur awaits as you ascend to the summit of Mount Fløyen aboard Scandinavia's only funicular railway. At 320 metres above sea level enjoy a bird's-eye view over Bergen, with its seaward approach, and the surrounding fjords and islands. Occasionally this optional will be offered with a piano concert for €58."
Oslo
Arctic Explorers And The Polar Ship Fram
Adult Price: € 38.00
Step aboard the polar ship Fram, the strongest wooden ship ever built, to experience the life and work of Norway's famous Arctic explorers. The expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen come to life in the interactive exhibitions of this museum, which also houses the Gjøa, the first ship to navigate the entire Northwest Passage.
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.
