Grand Scandinavia - Classic Group

Oslo
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Cruise the Baltic Sea to Helsinki, step back in time to the reign of the Vikings in Oslo and see Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid in Copenhagen, on a grand three week tour. At North Cape, toast the midnight sun with champagne and local caviar alongside the towering cliffs of Europe’s most northern point, where the summer sun never sets. Sample local specialties like liquorice and smoked reindeer at the harborside Helsinki Food Market before arriving to the Swedish capital of Stockholm, home to the melodies of the ABBA Museum and the magnificent Vasa Galleon. After voyaging across the home territories of the nomadic Sami community in Lapland, visit the farm of Trine Lyrek where you’ll meet her Arctic dogsled racing Alta huskies. Draw your vacation to a close among Oslo’s thousand-year-old Viking ships.

Departure dates

From 26/05/2024 to 04/09/2024

What's included

Highlights.
3 Dinner with Wine (DW)19 Breakfast (B)7 Dinner (D)1 Lunch with Wine (LW)Choose between two carefully selected activitiesRovaniemi: Join your Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest and admire the tranquil surroundings.
Rovaniemi: Meet Santa Claus when you visit his village where it is Christmas all year round! From his post office, you can make sure that Santa sends Christmas letters to friends and family back home come December.
: Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
: Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency.
We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
: We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
: From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
: Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
: If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times.
If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Copenhagen: Get to know your fellow travellers and Travel Director over a drink at your Welcome Dinner.
Helsinki: Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market with your Local Expert and sample local produce, like liquorice or smoked reindeer.
Alta: Savour a delicious oven-baked lunch of local seasonal specialities of fresh salmon or the local's favourite, reindeer, served with fresh salads and wine.
Oslo: Scandinavian hospitality is matched with fine food and a glass of wine at your Celebration Dinner.
Alta: Meet the Lyrek family and their huskies.
Hear tales about their marathon Arctic dog sled races while enjoying a hearty lunch.
Karasjok: Visit the The Sámi Museum in Karasjok, displaying the largest cultural heritage collection of indigenous Sámi people in Norway.
Admire a big part of its 5,000 items collection, spread across indoor and outdoor exhibits.
 The Sámi Museum in Karasjok educates its guests about the resiliency of the Sámi community and endeavors to safeguard indigenous-driven processes and traditional practices.
The Sámi Museum advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities.
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.
Copenhagen: With your Local Expert, view Christiansborg Palace and the cathedral where the Crown Prince of Denmark married Princess Mary.
You'll also see Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace and the unusual Rundertaarn, which is the oldest functioning Observatory in Europe.
Copenhagen: Visit the impressive 18th century Copenhagen Cathedral, designed by Christian Frederik Hansen, known for its neoclassical architecture and for featuring the largest bell in Denmark.
Oresund Bridge: Cross this magnificent feat of engineering.
It's the longest road and rail bridge in Europe, spanning 8 kilometres.
Stockholm: With a Local Expert, step inside the City Hall where the fabulous Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall is covered by 18 million gilded mosaic tiles.
You'll also see the Blå hallen, the Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquets are held.
Stockholm: 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.
Helsinki: Admire the beautiful views from your high-class, sea-view cabin as your cruise through the largest archipelago in the world, from Stockholm to Helsinki.
Helsinki: Your Local Expert will show you the sights of the harbour city.
Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market and sample local produce like liquorice or smoked reindeer before enjoying free time to explore the harbour of this fascinating city of design.
Kuopio: Admire the spectacular panoramic views from atop Puijo Tower.
Oulu: Visit Northern Finland's oldest city.
It is also one of the most important harbour cities in all of Northern Europe.
Rovaniemi: Join your Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest and admire the tranquil surroundings.
Rovaniemi: Meet Santa Claus when you visit his village where it is Christmas all year round! From his post office, you can make sure that Santa sends Christmas letters to friends and family back home come December.
Rovaniemi: See Alvar Aalto's Town Hall and visit the cathedral.
You'll even receive an Arctic Circle Crossing certificate.
Sodankyla: Visit one of Lapland's oldest churches.
Ivalo: Enjoy an orientation as you arrive into the village.
Karasjok: See the Sami Parliament and continue on to visit the museum devoted to Sami history and culture, offering a glimpse into the old Sami lifestyle.
North Cape: Journey to mainland Europe's most northern point to see something that doesn't happen - sunset! Even at midnight, the sun clings to the horizon.
This once-in-a-lifetime unique experience is accompanied by champagne and caviar to make it even more special.
Stand near the fence of the towering cliffs, dramatically rising out of the sea and you will feel as if you are on the edge of the world, and you literally are.
Narvik: Learn more about the scenic town of Narvik and its history as you gaze upon the majestic mountains that surround the town.
Mosjoen: See the street of historic, 19th century wooden buildings and Norway's oldest octagonal church.
Trondheim: Tell all your friends you travelled through!Trondheim: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Market Square and its statue of Olav Tryggvason, the Nidaros Cathedral, the Tyholt Tower and Old Town Bridge.
Geiranger: Enjoy an orientation of Geiranger to learn more about this small village and the surrounding Fjords.
Geiranger: Cruise along the deep, blue waters of majestic Geirangerfjord, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, gushing waterfalls and lush green vegetation.
Lillehammer: Explore the town where the 1994 Winter Olympics were held.
Oslo: With your Local Expert, see Akershus Castle, Oslo Harbour and the Royal Palace.
Oslo: Take a moment to contemplate the interesting Vigeland sculptures when you visit Frogner Park.
: "One thing I really love about showing guests Norway is how people have lived and flourished for thousands of years in harsh and unforgiving yet stunningly beautiful landscapes.
": Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards.
Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
: Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
: Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.
All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
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Itinerary / more information

  • Day 1 Begin your Scandinavian exploration in Copenhagen. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner, followed by a visit to the glittering lights and enchanting atmosphere of the world-famous Tivoli Gardens.
  • Day 2 Your Local Expert will reveal the charm of Denmark's capital. Meet Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid gazing wistfully across the harbour. Continue on to see Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, Christianborg Palace. Visit the 18th-century Copenhagen Cathedral designed by Christian Frederik Hansen. This is the cathedral where King Frederik X of Denmark married Queen Mary and the one known for its neoclassical architecture and for featuring the largest bell in Denmark. With the afternoon at your leisure, why not explore further and climb up the Round Tower, a 17th century tower and the oldest functioning observatory in Europe or take delight in one of the fairytale-style castles on an Optional Experience along the Danish Riviera?
  • Day 3 Travel from Denmark to Sweden by crossing the incredible ?resund Bridge. Spanning 16km over the Flinte channel it's the longest road and rail bridge in Europe. Pass through the artificial island of Peberholm which has become a haven for flora and fauna and continue through the Sk?ne region, which gave its name to Scandinavia. Enjoy views of the patchwork of fertile farmlands as you journey along the shores of Lake V?ttern to the Swedish capital, Stockholm, which is set on 14 beautiful islands. In the evening, perhaps try the local cuisine served in traditional surroundings?
  • Day 4 Join a Local Expert for your visit to the City Hall's marvellous Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall, and the Bl? hallen, the Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquets are held. Continue to Gamla Stan, the medieval heart of the city. View the cathedral and walk through the Old Town to see the Royal Palace. With the afternoon at leisure, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Vasa Galleon. In the evening, board your Baltic cruise to Finland and voyage through the largest archipelago in the world. Enjoy dinner onboard as well as the sight of thousands of islands from the comfort of your A-class, sea-view cabin, while the northern sun hangs over the horizon, showing almost no sign of setting in mid-summer.
  • Day 5 Helsinki is known as a global trendsetter in design, fashion, stunning architecture and luscious parks. Disembark your Baltic cruise and meet your Local Expert. Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market and sample local produce, like liquorice or smoked reindeer. Afterwards, enjoy time to explore on your own. Why not stop for lunch at the colourful market located by the harbour and spend time browsing the vast array of stalls selling local souvenirs, handicrafts as well as fruits, vegetables and world-class pancakes?
  • Day 6 Finland is a land of beautiful lakes and enchanting forests. Sit back and relax as you take in the spectacular scenery. On arrival in Kuopio, ascend Puijo Tower for a splendid panorama that will reveal why Finland is called the land of a thousand lakes.
  • Day 7 As you journey towards the Arctic, travel to Lapland, native home to the nomadic Sami community. Visit Oulu, northern Finland's oldest city. It is also the largest general port in the Bothnian Bay, made up of 3 harbours. Enjoy time to explore the centre of the city that is spread across several islands, connected by pedestrian bridges and cycleways, considered one of the best in Europe. Your travels continue to Rovaniemi, the modern capital of the region.
  • Day 8 Cross the Arctic Circle today, a highlight for many travellers. With your Local Expert, see the Town Hall designed by Aalvar Aalto and visit Rovaniemi Church. Explore Rovaniemi with Insight Choice. Choose to meet Santa Claus and embrace the spirit of Christmas. Alternatively, join your Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest. With the afternoon at leisure perhaps you may want to visit the open-air museum and Arktikum?
  • Day 9 In the morning enjoy a relaxed start or perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit Ranua Wildlife Park, for the chance to see polar bears, lynxes or even a wolverine. Continue north along the Four Winds Road, where you may see herds of reindeer roaming freely as you journey for one of the oldest churches in Lapland. Travel through Europe's last great wilderness to see the Urho Kekkonen National Park near the gold centre of Tankavaara.
  • Day 10 Cross the rolling tundra into Norway and stop at Karasjok for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER(R) Experience. Visit a Sami National Museum, devoted to preserving the Sami history and culture, and see the Sami Parliament, before continuing along the beautiful Porsanger Fjord to reach the quaint settlement of Honningsvag. Enjoy the picturesque harbour at your leisure or perhaps set out on a sea bird and arctic cruise adventure? This Optional Experience includes a cruise around the Gjesvaerstappen, a necklace of islands that's a protected nesting area for millions of Puffins, Kittiwakes, Gannets, Guillemots, White Tailed Eagles and even a chance of a Grey Seal or Porpoise. Tonight we journey in search of the midnight sun on your included experience of Nordkapp, the northernmost point of mainland Europe, where you will enjoy a glass of bubbles and caviar in one of the most special places on Earth.
  • Day 11 Enjoy a relaxed start before continuing through Norway's most Northern County of 'Finnmark', covered in unique topography of rolling tundra and isolated dwellings. This afternoon experience the town of Alta at your leisure, made famous for its fishing and mining history. Why not visit the Northern Lights Cathedral or consider taking a wilderness trip on the Alta River itself?
  • Day 12 With a leisurely morning start, why not explore the town centre or check out the Rock Art of Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of prehistoric rock carvings. Later, visit a working husky farm to meet the champion dog sledding Lyrek family. Delight in a wonderful oven-baked Highlight Lunch with seasonal specialities from the region, such as salmon or the nutritious reindeer meat, served with fresh salads and wine. Afterwards, learn about their Alaskan huskies and Arctic dog sled races. Meet Husky puppies that may grow to be the best racing dogs in the country. If you wish, spend time playing with these adorable pups.
  • Day 13 Pass K?fjord where the German battleship Tirpitz was once stationed and hear tales of one of the first large-scale battles of World War II. As you travel south, see the marvellous Lyngen Alps in the distance. They're 90 kilometers of mountains and glaciers that really are stunning all year round. Continue to Narvik, surrounded by majestic mountains. With the evening free for you to explore on your own, perhaps join an Optional Experience and take in stunning views aboard neighbouring Sweden's iron-ore railway. Pass surrounding fjords as the Ofot Railway clings to the mountainside - constructed over 100 years ago, it's an incredible feat of engineering.
  • Day 14 Board a ferry to cross Tysfjord, then continue past Rago National Park, its fjords cut deep into the landscape. Bid farewell to the Arctic before reaching Mosj?en, a pleasant town on the Vefsnfjord that has a large concentration of historic, 19th century wooden buildings.
  • Day 15 Drive through Namdalen then watch for salmon leaping upstream as they travel to their spawning-grounds at the mighty Laksfoss Falls. Continue past the village of Hell to Trondheim, once the seat of the ancient Viking kings and Norway's third largest city. Trondheim has always reflected the changing fortunes of Norway and is full of interest. See the Market Square dominated by its statue of Olav Tryggvason and the Nidaros Cathedral, Norway's national shrine. Tyholtt?rnet, or Tyholt Tower rises high above the city and the Old Town Bridge is locally known as Lykkens Portal, which means Portal of Happiness.
  • Day 16 Begin one of the most scenic days you will ever experience. Norwegian Fjordland is a dream world of soaring mountains, icy glaciers and rivers which cascade hundreds of metres into the green valleys below. Cross the Dovre Mountains, as you journey through Dovrefjell National Park. Travel via lakes and snowcapped peaks to Lom, home to one of Norway's most beautiful stave churches. Arrive at the mirror-smooth waters of Geirangerfjord to embark on a spectacular cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Your hotel is in a superb setting overlooking the beautiful Norwegian Fjord landscape.
  • Day 17 Enjoy a relaxed start and a whole day free for you to explore the fjords and mountains of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps join an Optional Experience and take an incredible scenic drive along the amazing Trollstigen, or 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.
  • Day 18 Journey through the countryside immortalised by Ibsen in 'Peer Gynt' and inspiration for Edvard Grieg. Continue to Lillehammer, host of the 1994 Winter Olympics, for an orientation with your Travel Director. Then it's on to the modern Norwegian capital of Oslo. Round off your travels with a Celebration Dinner. During a delicious meal with wine, raise your glass to toast your adventures with your newfound friends.
  • Day 19 Your Local Expert will show you the spires and ramparts of the medieval Akershus Castle guarding the harbour. See the Royal Palace and explore Frogner Park, housing the intriguing sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax by the harbour or continue exploring as you wish.
  • Day 20 Your Scandinavian exploration has come to and end.
  • Prices quoted valid for sale until 23 May 2024 unless otherwise stated or sold out prior.
  • Price is per person and subject to availability. Accommodation (if included) is based on twin share unless otherwise stated.
  • Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated.
  • Local payments, "trip kittys" or food funds may apply and may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel agent prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted.
  • Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated.
  • Additional conditions and travel restrictions may apply. Please enquire for further details.
  • Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies and government charges current at time of publication.
  • Additional levies, government charges and other applicable fees may apply and are beyond our control.
  • Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel.
  • Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.
  • Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store or Bpay.
  • These prices are a guide to the best price. Prices are correct as at 18 May 2024 and are subject to change without notice, due to matters outside our control, such as adverse currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, taxes and airfare increases. Please enquire for further details.

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