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Discover the style, natural beauty and charm of Scandinavia

From beautiful cities that seamlessly blend historic architecture and modern design to sprawling landscapes of pristine natural beauty, Scandinavia has a lot going for it. This 15-day journey through Sweden, Denmark and Norway begins in stylish Copenhagen, where the streets are made for cycling, the boutiques are plentiful and the cuisine is world-class. Discover the neoclassical architecture, leafy boulevards and delicious hagabullen (giant cinnamon buns) of Gothenburg before escaping to the serene beaches and nature reserves of the Gothenburg archipelago. Have your curiosity piqued at Oslo’s eccentric museums and discover endless photo opportunities in Trondheim, one of Norway’s prettiest town. Explore the majestic mountains, deep fjords and untamed beauty of Norway’s north while hiking and kayaking around the Lofoten Islands. Then wrap up the adventure above the Arctic Circle in Tromso, a town famed for its Northern Lights displays.

Start
Copenhagen, Denmark
Finish
Tromso, Norway
Destinations
Denmark, Norway, Sweden
Style
Original
Theme
Explorer
Code
AMSSC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • Explore Copenhagen like a local and hop on a bike. There is no better way to see the major sites, as well as explore hidden corners of this beautiful city.

  • Don't miss Gothenburg's Haga district, with its picturesque wooden houses and the iconic Skansen Kronan, as well as laid-back Langgatan street.

  • Take a ferry to Vrango Island, a stunning fishing town in the Gothenburg Archipelago, and discover this rocky nature haven by kayak.

  • Visit Trondheim, which translates as 'a good place to live', and stroll past the colourful wooden storehouses flanking the river.

  • Explore the long-adored Lofoten Islands, a patchwork of fishing villages, by land and sea and take in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the entire world.

  • Finish in Tromso, hundreds of kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, where the arts and culture scene is thriving despite its isolated, northerly location.

Is this trip right for you?

  • 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 you think may be applicable.

  • Scandinavia can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to optional activities, but especially in terms of eating out. Please bear this in mind when booking this trip. Your leader will be at hand to advise on how to save money.

  • As accommodation on this trip is twin share, single travellers will share a room with another traveller of the same gender. The exception is the overnight train from Trondheim to Bodo which is twin share on mixed gender basis. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it while you can. However, if you’d prefer not to share, a single room supplement is available at an additional charge (some exception nights are applicable). Please ask your booking agent for more details. Also, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Some accommodation on this trip may also have shared bathroom facilities.

  • This trip is quite fast paced to make the most of your time. We will take you on regular orientation walks, so you'll be on your feet quite a lot. While this may be tiring for some, it’s the best way to get your head around a place and to set yourself up for further discoveries.

  • As this is a combination of 2 trips, your leader and the composition of your group may change in Oslo. Please see Day 7 in the daily itinerary for more details.

Map of Copenhagen to Northern Norway including Denmark, Norway and Sweden
Intrepid Travel sweden vrango islands little cottage
Intrepid Travel denmark copenhagen street bicycles house

Itinerary
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Welcome to Copenhagen. If you arrive early, which is highly recommended, why not visit the pastel-coloured waterfront houses in the Nyhavn area. Drop in at an industrial-chic bar for a drink or stroll around the famous Tivoli Gardens, home to the world's oldest rollercoaster. Another area worth checking out is Norrebro, a residential area known for its wide range of restaurants. Meet your group at 6 pm then head out for an optional group dinner if it takes your fancy.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Copenhagen - Glyptotek Art Museum - DKK115
  • Copenhagen - National Museum of Denmark - DKK95
  • Copenhagen - The Round Tower - DKK25
  • Copenhagen - Amalienborg Palace - DKK95
  • Copenhagen - Christiansborg Palace - DKK160
  • Copenhagen - Tivoli Gardens - DKK130
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
The 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).

When in Copenhagen, do as the locals do and explore the city by bike, undoubtedly the best way to explore the city's many hidden corners. The bike-friendly streets mean cycling to the city's major sites are a breeze. Venture into the Freetown of Christiania with a local guide, a self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood south-east of the city centre. It is regulated by a special law, the Christiania Law of 1989, and has been a source of controversy since 1971 when squatters took over a former military area. The afternoon is free for you to further explore this Scandinavian city. Stroll along the harbour or head out to the classicist palaces of 18th century Amalienborg, to this day the main residence of the Danish Royal family. Perhaps pay a visit to Frederik's Church, also known as Marble Church, the Court House on Nytorv Square or check out the facade of the red brick town hall. Alternatively, the National Museum is not to be missed, nor is the Christiansborg Palace in the very centre of Copenhagen.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Copenhagen - Visit to Freetown Christiania with Local Guide
  • Copenhagen - Bike Tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that rooms in hotels in Scandinavia can often be smaller and more basic in comparison to accommodations in other parts of Europe.

A morning train ride will get us to Malmo in Sweden, via the famous Oresund Bridge that spans the strait separating Denmark and the Scandinavian Peninsula (approx. 1 hour). Malmo has gone through somewhat of a transformation, or should we say revival, over the past twenty years thanks to the construction of the Oresund Bridge and the opening of Malmo University. Now, a city once reliant mainly on shipbuilding is growing steadily with architecture firms, IT companies, students and start-ups. Just under half of Malmo's population is under the age of 35, so it really now is a progressive city that knows how to have fun. Spend some time checking out the Old Town, the castle and the harbour, then continue on to Gothenburg (approximately 3 hours), where you'll spend the night.
Accommodation
  • Pension (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that our accommodation in Gothenburg has shared facilities. As Gothenburg has topped the Global Destination Sustainability Index for a number of years now, the city is considered one of the greenest hotel cities in the world. Our hotel is no exception and holds an official eco-certification.

Today is a free day for you to enjoy all that Gothenburg has to offer. Perhaps embark on a cruise this morning through Gothenburg's many waterways, passing the opera house, the famous fish market Feskekörka (literally Fish Church), and the old docks. Or visit the Göteborg City Museum, housed in the former East India Company House and built during the time when Gothenburg's role was that of a major maritime trading centre. Take in the architectural ensemble on Gustav Adolfs Torg, go shopping along the main boulevard Avenyn, check out the iconic Skansen Kronan, stroll along bohemian Långgatan street or sip a coffee in the charming Haga quarter, known for its picturesque wooden houses, 19th century atmosphere and the so-called hagabulle, a cinnamon pastry similar to kanelbulle.
Accommodation
  • Pension (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Gothenburg - Paddan Boat Tour - SEK195
  • Gothenburg - Fish Market Feskekörka - Free
  • Gothenburg - Göteborg City Museum - SEK60
  • Gothenburg - Volvo Museum - SEK100
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Catch an early-ish ferry from Gothenburg to Vrango Island, approximately one hour and 20 minutes away. Vrango is the most southerly island of the Gothenburg Archipelago, with a permanent population in the low hundreds and a strong fishing industry. The island is known for its stunning beaches and protected nature reserves and you'll explore the coastline in an included kayaking activity (summer only). In the afternoon, enjoy some free time strolling around the town or maybe try an optional floating sauna, before returning to Gothenburg for a free evening. Sweden's second city is known as the world's mot sustainable destination and is exemplary of what a responsible tourism destination should look like.
Accommodation
  • Pension (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Vrango Island - Day Trip
  • Vrango Island - Island Tour with Local Guide (Oct to Apr)
  • Vrango Island - Sea Kayaking (May to Sep)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that today's kayaking activity takes place only during the summer months from May to September, and is subject to weather conditions. During the winter months from October to April you will explore the island on a guided island tour instead.

Catch a morning bus across the border to Norway's capital Oslo (approx 4 hours). Your leader will take you on an initial orientation walk so you get a first taste of this quirky, colourful city. It's definitely worthwhile to spend the day perusing delicacies at Maschmanns Food Market, admiring the handiwork of glass blowers at the Hadeland Glassverk, or simply strolling along Karl Johans Gate, the main shopping strip of the city, or head to the National Gallery of Art to glimpse Edvard Munch's famous 19th century painting, The Scream. In the evening say 'skal' ('cheers') to the group over dinner. Why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare based around cod and mackerel dishes.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Perhaps use your free day for island hopping on Oslofjord, putting the hammer down at the Viking Museum, tasting local flavours at the Mathallen food hall, exploring the immense Akershus Castle & Fortress, or checking out the cool shops in the Grunerløkka district. There's so much to get stuck in to.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
As this trip is a combination trip your leader and group composition may change at this location. There will be a welcome meeting at 6pm tonight. You are welcome to attend so you can meet your new fellow travellers.

Today is another free day to explore Oslo. Perhaps travel to the nearby area of Holmenkollen for a visit to the Ski Museum, housed inside the famous monumental Holmenkollbakken (ski jump), which looks more like a work of art than a sports venue. Highlights in the museum include the history of skiing over the past 4,000 years, of Norwegian polar expeditions, and lesser known glimpses from the Winter Olympics at Oslo and Lillehammer. At the top of the jump tower there are 360 degree views of the city, its fjords and forests. Alternatively stay in town and browse the harbour-front Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art or a host of other worthwhile museums.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Oslo - Holmenkollen Museum - NOK140
  • Oslo - Island Hopping on Oslofjord - NOK90
  • Oslo - Fram Museum - NOK120
  • Oslo - Viking Ship Museum - NOK100
  • Oslo - Museum Edvard Munch - NOK120
  • Oslo - Resistance Museum - NOK60
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today you'll leave Oslo behind and take the train across the stunning countryside to Trondheim (approximately 7 hours). Trondheim was the first capital of Norway 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. There are some great seafood restaurants in town, so why not venture out with the group for a bite to eat in the evening.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
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.

Spend a day exploring Trondheim at your own pace. An absolute must see is the Nidaros Cathedral, an immense Gothic cathedral built from 1070 on, which remains the northernmost Gothic structure in Europe. Quite simply, it's incredible. Trondheim is a great city to explore on foot thanks to a bunch of lovely cafes and the Nordre Gate pedestrian-only area. There are several museums to visit including the Archbishop's Palace, which contains the real Crown Jewels, and the Rockheim Museum, providing a history of Norwegian pop music since the 1950s. Transfer in the evening to the station for an overnight train to Bodo, departing just before midnight.
Accommodation
  • Overnight train (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Trondheim - Ringve Music Museum - NOK130
  • Trondheim - Rockheim National Museum of Popular Music - NOK140
  • Trondheim - Kristiansten Fortress - Free
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Norwegian overnight trains are very comfortable, with 2 passengers per cabin, and all bedding provided. Please note that the check-out time at our hotel is at around noon, so you will store your luggage at reception until tonight's departure to the train station.

Wake up just north of the Arctic Circle as we pull into the town of Bodø 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 essentially 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). Board the afternoon ferry to the Lofoten Islands (approx 3.5 hours). Arrival will be at around 9 pm. Upon arrival settle into your comfortable accommodation in the town of Svolvaer.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Bodø - Nordland Museum - NOK100
  • Bodø - Public Bus to Saltstraumen Maelstrom - NOK50
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Please note that you will have all day to explore Bodø, from our arrival on the overnight train in the morning (around 9 am) until our departure on the ferry to Svolvaer in the afternoon (around 5 pm). Your luggage will be stored at the train station for this duration, which is also where you will find toilet facilities.

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. Sea eagles have the largest a wing span of any eagle, reaching up to 2.65 metres. It’s a special experience when one circles just a few metres above your head. The afternoon is free and there are several optional activities for you to choose from, so why not enjoy a sea kayaking trip around Svolvaer's picture-perfect harbour or hike through the dramatic granite peaks jutting out of the ocean. Whatever you decide, you're guaranteed a pristine environment and scenery.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Svolvær - Trollfjord Cruise & Sea Eagle Safari
Optional Activities
  • Svolvær - Sea Kayaking Excursion - NOK895
  • Svolvær - Traditional Fishing Trip - NOK995
  • Svolvær - Lofoten War Museum - NOK100
  • Svolvær - Bike Hire - NOK450
  • Svolvær - Hike to Tjeldbergtind - Free
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Depart the Lofoten Islands on a long but scenic travel day to Tromsø. Start with a local bus ride to Harstad (approx 3.5 hours). 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 (approx 3 hours). 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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today you're free to explore Tromsø at your leisure. Learn about the region's fascinating history at the Polar Museum and Tromsø Museum, check out the many art galleries or perhaps 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, and the brewery is still family owned and frequented by young and old, traveller and local, student and teacher.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Tromsø - Tromsø Museum - NOK70
  • Tromsø - The Polar Museum - NOK70
  • Tromsø - MS Polstjerna - NOK60
  • Tromsø - Cable Car to Fjellheisen - NOK230
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Your trip comes to an end today. There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. 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.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

13 breakfasts

Transport

Train, Public bus, Overnight Train, Ferry, Private vehicle, Boat, Bicycle

Accommodation

Hotel (10 nights), Pension (3 nights), overnight train (1 night)

Included activities

  • Copenhagen - Visit to Freetown Christiania with Local Guide
  • Copenhagen - Bike Tour
  • Vrango Island - Day Trip
  • Vrango Island - Island Tour with Local Guide (Oct to Apr)
  • Vrango Island - Sea Kayaking (May to Sep)
  • Svolvær - Trollfjord Cruise & Sea Eagle Safari

Dates & availability

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Important notes

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
A Single Supplement is bookable on this trip, subject to availability at the time of booking. The price of the single supplement does not include the following nights, where a single room does not form part of the package. In this case you will be matched up with another traveller of the same gender. If a single room becomes available at check-in for these nights, there may be the option for you to upgrade to a single room and pay the surcharge locally for that night:
- Day 10: Overnight Train
Please also note that due to the small properties we use in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. If you would like to book a single supplement and enquire about availability please speak to your booking agent.

COMBINATION TRIP
As this is a combination of 2 trips, your leader and the composition of your group may change in Oslo. Please see Day 7 in the daily itinerary for more details.

Essential trip 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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