Northern Norway Explorer





Explore the landscape and history of Norway's northerly reaches.
Enter a world of extremes where night looks like day, day looks like night and regardless of the season, the scenery's more than perfect. Leave the Arctic Circle behind and discover northern Norway's captivating sights and long, fabled history. Begin in the capital, Oslo, and make your way to Trondheim, the Viking city home to the Nidaros Cathedral and the remains of St Olav, Norway's patron saint. Explore the rugged, unbelievably picturesque Lofoten Islands by land and water before finishing in Tromso, a vibrant city famed for its cultural offerings despite its relative isolation.
4.2
25 reviewsStart: Oslo, Norway
End: Tromso, Norway
- Duration
- 9 days
- Group size
- 1 to 12
- Minimum age
- 15 years old
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Original
- Theme
Our themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- Explorer
- Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
- Spend three nights in the Lofoten Islands, where lucky visitors may spot sea eagles in the narrow Trollfjord landscape.
- Visit Trondheim, translating to 'a good place to live', and take a ride on the world’s northernmost tram or enjoy a forest walk and picnic just like the locals do.
- Look up at the medieval Nidaros Cathedral, a Gothic-style building that houses the remains of St Olav, Norway's patron saint.
- Hop on an e-bike in Tromso and learn about the life of people who live hundreds of kilometres north of the Arctic Circle.
- Set sail along the Norwegian coastline on Norway’s famous Hurtigruten cruise line, loved by visitors and locals for over 100 years.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2025 - 31 December 2025
Itinerary
Welcome to Norway, where you’ll discover the irresistible charm and eccentricity of Oslo. With so much to see and do in Oslo, we recommend that you arrive a few days before the trip begins, so you can see as much of the city as possible. Tonight why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare with the group?
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend the welcome meeting. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Today you'll leave Oslo behind and take the train across the stunning countryside to Trondheim. Trondheim was the first capital of Norway (although some historians would argue that) and remains the city where kings go through their coronation. Its name translates as 'a good place to live', with 'trond' meaning 'a good place' and 'heim' home, and it truly is. The city is situated on the Trondheimsfjord and colourful wooden storehouses flank the Nidelva River that runs through town, while the city's outskirts are surrounded by hilly wilderness. Ask your leader about the best places to get fresh seafood in town.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Although a global ban on commercial whaling came into effect in 1986, approximately 1,000 whales are still being killed every year, as Iceland, Norway and Japan ignore the ban. We strive not to visit places that serve whale on any of our trips, however often this is unavoidable and there is a likelihood that you will come across whale meat on a menu or at a market stand.
The forested Bymarka awaits you today – a large nature reserve in Trondheim’s west. Take an easy walk around Lianvatnet, a freshwater lake surrounded by grassy slopes and shady paths. Head back to Trondheim and embark on Norway’s famous Hurtigruten ferry towards your next stop, Bodo. Operating for over 130 years, the Hurtigruten ferries transport both visitors and locals across Norway’s waters and offer regional ingredients during their onboard experience. Enjoy a night on board the ferry, but while it’s still light, make sure to spend time looking out along the incredible Norwegian coastline.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Trondheim - Bymarka forest walk
- Trondheim - Ringve Music Museum - NOK150
- Trondheim - Rockheim National Museum of Popular Music - NOK170
- Trondheim - Kristiansten Fortress - Free
- Trondheim - Sverresborg Folk Museum - NOK200
Today's walk will take approximately 1 hour along a flat path.
Your travel today will be on an overnight ferry.
The ferry between Trondheim and Bodo is not available for select departures. Instead, you’ll take an overnight train (approximately 7 hours), then one shorter train (approximately 3 hours) to the port and a short ferry (approximately 3 hours) to Bodo. These departures are (BMSN260509, BMSN260523, BMSN260627, BMSN260711 and BMSN260808).
Arrive in Bodo sometime this morning. There's ample time for you to explore this interesting town until we leave on the afternoon ferry to Svolvaer on the Lofoten Islands. Bodø is a modern city, as it was rebuilt after essentially being destroyed by German bombers during WWII. With a dramatic backdrop of rugged ranges, Bodø has the densest population of white-tailed sea eagles in the world, so once you're done exploring, why not grab a drink or some food by the quay and take in the vista while these impressive birds circle above (just watch your food). While in Bodø, you also have the possibility to hop on a public bus taking you to Saltstraumen, the strongest tidal current in the world and see Norwegian nature in action. Board the afternoon ferry to the Lofoten Islands. After arrival, check in at a traditional Norwegian rorbu, which has a history of being the home of local fishermen, but has now been rebuilt to accommodate guests. The sunny atmosphere provides a unique experience of Lofoten's landscape. It's a short distance from the cabins to fishing spots at sea, beaches, mountains and notably the iconic Svolværgeita mountain.
- Rorbu (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Bodø - Leader-led orientation walk
- Bodø - Public Bus to Saltstraumen Maelstrom - NOK84
The Lofoten Islands are known for picturesque fishing villages, pristine nature and, of course, the Midnight Sun. This is viking country, and the beauty of the area is unparalleled and near-impossible to convey in words. Svolvaer, one of the main towns on the islands, relies heavily on fishing and an ever-growing tourism industry as it's used as a primary base to explore the other islands. This morning head out on an excursion by RIB (rigid inflatable boat) to the narrow and steep-sided Trollfjord. On this exhilarating trip around the small islands and skerries of the Raftsundet Strait, you'll also get the chance to see sea eagles, it’s a special experience when one circles just a few metres above your head. The afternoon is free to explore as you wish and there are several optional activities for you to choose from. Perhaps enjoy a sea kayaking trip around Svolvaer's picture-perfect harbour (subject to availability) or hike through the dramatic granite peaks jutting out of the ocean.
- Rorbu (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Svolvær - Trollfjord Cruise & Sea Eagle Safari
- Svolvær - Sea Kayaking Excursion Day - NOK1095
- Svolvær - Traditional Fishing Trip - NOK1195
- Svolvær - Lofoten War Museum - NOK120
- Svolvær - Bike Hire - NOK450
- Svolvær - Sea Kayaking Excursion Evening - NOK1395
Today, after breakfast, enjoy a hike to Linken peak (105 m above the sea level). This is a picturesque and easy hike (approximately 2 hours) that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. For those who are up for a further challenge and exercise your leader can additionally take you for Tjeldbergtinden hike to enjoy a spectacular view over the sea and fjords and Svolvær city below. Those feeling less energetic can return to Svolvaer after the Linken Peak hike and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
- Rorbu (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Svolvær - Leader-led hike to Linken Peak
There are plenty of interesting places around Svolvaer that can be reached by public bus – you can travel 1000 years back in time and experience the Viking Age in an active and vibrant environment or wander around fishing village of Henningsvær, famous for craft shops and pleasant atmosphere. Please ask your leader for further recommendations and help with logistics.
Depart the Lofoten Islands on a long but scenic travel day to Tromsø. Start with a local bus ride to Harstad, you'll have some free time here so perhaps take your time for lunch or explore the little town. Later on continue by local ferry past stunning scenery, plenty of fjords and even a maelstrom to Tromsø. Located far above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is northern Norway's major cultural centre thanks to a range of music and arts festivals and an increasing student population courtesy of the University of Tromsø. Enjoy a free evening on arrival in town.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Today's travel time is approximately 8 hours.
This morning, start exploring Tromsø on an e-bike tour with a local guide and learn about life north of the Arctic Circle. You'll stop at some of the local's favourite city sites like MS Polstjerna, an extremely well-preserved vessel that took part in seal hunting (entry not included), an old farmstead from the 19th century, Prestvannet, the biggest lake on the island and more. Then, explore Tromsø at your leisure. Perhaps learn about the region's fascinating history at the Polar Museum and Tromsø Museum, check out the many art galleries or take a boat cruise in the surrounding waters (the city is actually built on an island). No visit to Tromsø would be complete without a beer at the city's oldest pub, Olhallen, part of the Mack Brewery that is even older than the pub. It was founded by Ludwig Mack, a baker who cared not for the drunkenness of the townsfolk. Mack started brewing beer in 1877 as a less alcoholic alternative to the spirits drunk by most. The brewery is still family-owned and frequented by young and old, traveller and local, student and teacher. Perhaps meet in the evening for an optional final group dinner together.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Tromsø - E-bike city tour
- Tromsø - Tromsø Museum - NOK120
- Tromsø - The Polar Museum - NOK120
- Tromsø - Cable Car to Fjellheisen - NOK350
Today’s e-bike tour is approximately 3 hours (15kms) along mostly flat paths. You do need to be moderately competent in riding a bike as good balance and manoeuvring is still required on an e-bike.
The e-bike tour is weather dependent in early season (May). If roads are not ridable because of snow/ice, the group will experience a short snowshoe hike just outside of Tromso, through a forest and slightly hilly terrain with a great view of the city in the background.
Your trip comes to an end today. There are no activities planned for this final day. If you want to extend your stay in Tromsø we are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.
- Breakfast
Inclusions and activities
8 breakfasts, 1 lunch
Train, Public bus, Plane, Overnight Ferry, Tram, E-bike
Hotel (4 Nights), Overnight ferry (1 night), Rorbu (3 nights)
- Trondheim - Bymarka forest walk
- Bodø - Leader-led orientation walk
- Svolvær - Trollfjord Cruise & Sea Eagle Safari
- Svolvær - Leader-led hike to Linken Peak
- Tromsø - E-bike city tour
- Trondheim - Ringve Music Museum - NOK150
- Trondheim - Rockheim National Museum of Popular Music - NOK170
- Trondheim - Kristiansten Fortress - Free
- Trondheim - Sverresborg Folk Museum - NOK200
- Bodø - Public Bus to Saltstraumen Maelstrom - NOK84
- Svolvær - Sea Kayaking Excursion Day - NOK1095
- Svolvær - Traditional Fishing Trip - NOK1195
- Svolvær - Lofoten War Museum - NOK120
- Svolvær - Bike Hire - NOK450
- Svolvær - Sea Kayaking Excursion Evening - NOK1395
- Tromsø - Tromsø Museum - NOK120
- Tromsø - The Polar Museum - NOK120
- Tromsø - Cable Car to Fjellheisen - NOK350
This trip generates 26 kg of CO2-e per person per day
Learn more about our climate commitment.
When you travel with us, The Intrepid Foundation gives you more opportunities to support important causes in destinations you visit.
Before you book you should know
- The areas visited on this trip can be very cold at night throughout the year, especially at the start and end of the season. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions, including base layers, hat, gloves, scarf, coat and anything else that will keep you cosy.
- Scandinavia can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to optional activities, but especially in terms of eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to have the best value holiday in Scandinavia.
- Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. Occasionally bathrooms will be shared with other guests.
- We recommend packing light and smart for this trip as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between train stations, ferry ports and hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs and across cobblestones. Train stations often don’t have lifts available.
- This trip covers a lot of ground and the majority of travel is done by trains, ferries and public buses. It's a good time to sit back, relax and let the scenery roll past your window. Please read the Itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
- This itinerary includes several mild activities such as walking, e-biking and RIB boating. Please be aware you can always opt out from those if you do not feel comfortable joining.
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
Anker Hotel
Storgata 55
Oslo
NORWAY
Phone: +47 22997500
Description
Anker hotel is located in the city centre, a few minutes walk away from Akerselva and Grünerløkka where you can discover numerous little cafés, restaurants and bars. Grünerløkka is also a popular shopping district, with original design shops and many vintage and second-hand stores. Hotel facilities include a hotel bar and a spacious Lobby with free Wi-Fi. All rooms have private bathrooms, wireless Internet access, telephone, TV, hair dryer and working desk.
Instructions
The airport express train runs from Oslo Gardermoen Airport (airport code OSL) to Oslo S (Central Station) every 10 minutes. The journey time is 20 minutes. From Oslo Sandefjord Airport (airport code TRF) take a bus to the town of Torp. From Torp there are hourly trains to Oslo S (approx 1,5 hours). Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly to the hotel. Check-in time is after 2:00pm.
Once at the central station it is an easy 15 minute walk to the hotel. Exit the train station via the front exit, walk down the stairs, then turn right and follow the tram tracks along Fred Olsens Gade. Cross the intersection and continue to follow the tram tracks. The road makes a slight left turn and becomes Nygata. Turn right into Storgata at the next intersection, then continue straight for about 600 metres. Anker Hotel will be on the left hand side just before the bridge.
If you have pre booked an arrival transfer, drivers will be waiting for guests at the Airport Arrival Hall holding an Intrepid sign. In case of flight cancellations, changes, if you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly: +47 94 00 34 34.
Dates and prices
Important notes
1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trips except on the overnight ferry on day 3 and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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