Scandinavia Explorer
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Experience Overview
Uncover the many charms and delights of Scandinavia on this 15-day adventure through Norway, Sweden and Finland. Travel through some of Europe's most stylish capitals and be wowed by some of the world's biggest fjords. Visit Norway's uber-cool Oslo, travel to Sweden's vibrant Stockholm and explore Finland's hip Helsinki. Along the way, uncover Viking history, learn of maritime heritage and embrace the Swedish ‘lagom’ lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle in the idyllic countryside. Whether you’re walking along charming streets in Bergen or sailing through vast fjords, you'll be left with a multitude of memories from this once-in-a-lifetime Scandinavian adventure.
Highlights
- Cruise past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Naeroyfjord in Norway. Be surrounded by cascading waterfalls and mountain peaks up to 1400 m tall.
- Visit Dalarna County, nestled in middle Sweden and often referred to as ‘Sweden in miniature’ because of its abundance of lakes, forests and local traditions.
- Follow your local guide along narrow, winding roads through villages and past traditional red cottages when you explore the rural settlements around Lake Siljan. You'll also get a chance to meet and mingle with the local villagers.
- Discover Stockholm's maritime history at the Vasa Museum, which houses an original wooden war ship from 1628. This impressive vessel gives you a rare glimpse into the naval power Sweden was once famous for.
- Wind up your adventure in Helsinki, where you’ll visit highlights like Senate Square, the Old Market Hall, the sea fortress of Suomenlinna and the Design Museum.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1646
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train, Public bus, Overnight ferry, Private vehicle, Tram, Metro
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: BMSH
Starts: Oslo, Finland
Finishes: Helsinki, Finland
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (12), Lunch (1), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (9 Nights), Cabin (2 nights), Bed and Breakfast (2 nights), Overnight ferry (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $7169 ($478 /day)
Itinerary
Hei! Welcome to Norway. Your adventure begins in the charming capital of Oslo. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive in Oslo early, maybe kickstart your exploration of the city by seeking out the famous painting, The Scream, at the Munch Museum, learning about Norwegian WWII history at the Resistance Museum, sailing through the beautiful Oslofjord or strolling through the Vigeland sculpture park. After your welcome meeting, why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare for dinner with your group.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, follow your leader on an orientation walk in the city. Then, you’ll have some free time in Oslo. Maybe go island hopping on Oslofjord, browse the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art on the harbourfront, taste local flavours at the Vulkan food hall, explore the immense Akershus Fortress or check out the cool shops in the Grunerlokka district. Ask your leader for recommendations if you need some pointers for planning your day.
Included Activities:
- Oslo - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Oslo - Holmenkollen Museum (195 NOK)
- Oslo - Fram Museum (180 NOK)
- Oslo - Akershus Castle & Fortress (100 NOK)
- Oslo - Island Hopping on Oslofjord (130 NOK)
- Oslo - Museum Edvard Munch (180 NOK)
- Oslo - Resistance Museum (100 NOK)
- Oslo - 24 hour Transport and Sightseeing Pass (550 NOK)
- Oslo - The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (195 NOK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Oslo behind and take the train across the stunning countryside of the Fjell region to Bergen. No other train ride between two cities in Europe is at a higher altitude than this one, and few can match the views passing by your window. Linking Norway's two main cities, this line offers some spectacular scenery of lush valleys, idyllic villages, dramatic mountains and picturesque lakes as it crosses the Hardangervidda Plateau. Today’s trip is long and you'll arrive in Bergen quite late – but don’t worry, you’ll have time to explore tomorrow. There are some great seafood restaurants in town, so maybe head out with the group for a bite to eat this evening.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast this morning, join your leader for a ride on the Floibanen funicular. Taking you to 350 m (1050 ft) above the city in just seven minutes, this railway offers a bird’s eye view of the town and vistas of the sea. If you feel like getting active, you can continue exploring after riding the funicular by following one of the area’s hiking trails. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore however you like. Maybe visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bryggen area and wander through the reconstructed medieval homes and warehouses. Or, you could visit the beautifully preserved wooden Hanseatic Museum (a former trade building) and explore the old Hanseatic port district – the Hanseatic merchant confederation dominated Baltic maritime trade between the 13th and 15th centuries.
Included Activities:
- Bergen - Floy Mountain Funicular round trip
Optional Activities:
- Bergen - Mt Ulriken Cable Car & Shuttle (310 NOK)
- Bergen - Vidden Trail Hike - Free
- Bergen - Bergenhus Fortress - Free
- Bergen - Aquarium (370 NOK)
- Bergen - Rosenkrantz Tower (170 NOK)
- Bergen - Hakons Hall (120 NOK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Bergen after breakfast and travel by bus to the fjord region. The journey will take you through epic landscapes and remote regions, so have your camera at the ready. The typical Norwegian huts that you’ll stay in tonight are set in a beautiful landscape, surrounded by steep cliffs with an excellent view of the Kjelsfossen waterfall cascading from the top of the fjords. Gaze up at the sight of these giant, ancient geological formations. Your accommodation for the next two nights is located near the village of Gudvangen.
Accommodation:
- Cabin (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, take a boat trip and be captivated by the sight of mountain peaks reflected in the glassy waters of Naeroyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The name Naeroyfjord takes its origins from the Norse god of seafarers and the sea, Njord. The fjord itself, formed by glacial erosion of the surrounding bedrock, is 18 km long and only 250 m wide at its narrowest point, with its depth reaching up to 500 m. Surrounding mountain peaks rise up to 1400 m and waterfalls crash down sheer cliff faces. The boat cruise will finish in the fishing village of Flam, where you can ride the famous railway up to Myrdal (at extra cost). This is one of the most picturesque (and steepest) railway journeys in the country. Alternatively, you could explore on foot to discover nearby waterfalls and ancient moraines. Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunity to throw a line in the crystal waters, sit back and soak up the serenity (a fishing licence is required and costs around 150 NOK). In the afternoon, catch the bus back to Gudvangen and spend the rest of the day as you please.
Included Activities:
- Gudvangen - Naeroyfjord Boat Cruise to Flam (one way)
Optional Activities:
- Gudvangen - Bike Hire (350 NOK)
- Gudvangen - Kayak Hire - Half Day (650 NOK)
- Flam - Gauge Railway (730 NOK)
- Flam - Stegastein Lookout (470 NOK)
- Flam - Railway Museum - Free
- Gudvangen - Hiking Options - Free
Accommodation:
- Cabin (Number of Nights: 1)
You have another long bus journey ahead of you after breakfast today, as you travel to the Alpine playground of Lillehammer. Cross vast plains and remote valleys and drive through the Laerrdal Tunnel – the world's longest road tunnel at 24.5 km. The tunnel is divided into four sections, broken up by ‘mountain caves’. These caves are 6 km apart and are equipped with special lighting to help drivers concentrate by giving off the illusion of driving into daylight. Lillehammer, which held the Winter Olympics in 1994, is situated on Lake Mjøsa. When you arrive, head out for a brief orientation walk to get your bearings in the laidback 19th-century town centre. Explore the main pedestrian street of Storgata, lined with wooden houses, boutiques and restaurants.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll visit the Maihaugen Open Air Museum, home of the Garmo Stave Church, which tells the story of people in the Gudbrandsdalen Valley over the last 300 years. This museum includes farms, a town and a large residential area that gives you an insight into various periods of Norway's history. The afternoon is free for you to keep exploring. Consider conquering the misty mountains on a hike or visiting the Olympic Museum. Otherwise, Lillehammer is an ideal spot for many outdoor activities, which your leader can help you organise if you’re interested.
Included Activities:
- Lillehammer - Maihaugen Open Air Museum
Optional Activities:
- Lillehammer - Sigrid Undset's Home at Bjerkebæk (160 NOK)
- Lillehammer - Hiking Options - Free
- Lillehammer - Olympic Museum (225 NOK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Board a private bus today and cross the border into Sweden. Head to the lakeside town of Rattvik – a laidback spot that sits on the shores of Lake Siljan. Rattvik is steeped in history and culture – it’s situated in Dalarna County in the heart of Sweden and is famous for the Dala wooden horse, which has become a Swedish national symbol. Tonight, you’ll stay in a peaceful spot located 7 km outside of Rattvik.
Accommodation:
- Bed and Breakfast (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you'll get a chance to get under the surface of this region with a special guided village safari led by local experts. You'll get to know the history behind the villages and learn about the traditions of the area surrounding Lake Siljan. Discover the traditional local way of life and mingle with the villagers. Then, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the local area and its lakes. Maybe take a leisurely boat trip across the lake, do some fishing, go for a hike or browse the local shops selling artisanal wares.
Included Activities:
- Lake Siljan - Cultural Village tour with picnic lunch
Optional Activities:
- Lake Siljan – Historic boat trip (250 SEK)
- Lake Siljan – Canoe or SUP rental (150 SEK)
Accommodation:
- Bed & Breakfast (Number of Nights: 1)
Leaving the Swedish lakes behind, head to the country's capital of Stockholm by train. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the North', Stockholm is full of impressive architecture, pristine parks and clear waters. After an introductory orientation walk, use the rest of your day to settle into your accommodation and explore the area around you. You could head underground for the world’s longest art exhibition – connecting the 14 islands of the city, the subway (Tunnelbana) system's 100 stations are like the longest modern art exhibition in the world, featuring artwork from more than 140 artists. Or, you could simply wander the narrow cobblestone streets and the colourful merchant houses. Why not soak up the culture and try a cinnamon roll in Stockholm’s oldest cafe – Sundbergs Konditori, located in Jarntorget square.
Included Activities:
- Stockholm - Orientation Walk
- Stockholm - 3 day public transport pass
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, visit the Vasa Museum on the inner-city island of Djurgarden. The 17th-century warship, Vasa, sank in Stockholm Harbour in 1628 on its first voyage. Its wreckage was recovered in 1961. One of the most visited sites in Sweden, the Vasa Museum collection consists of the Vasa itself and all the objects that were found within the ship. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish, so why not leave the city behind for a few hours and see the waterways of Stockholm on a cruise past tiny islets and along narrow waterways? Or consider taking a self-guided Millennium Trilogy Walking Tour or a visit to the Abba Museum. Alternatively, you could take a trip to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish royal family. Tonight, maybe head to Stockholm's Sodermalm district – the inner-city island with the best nightlife, full of cool shops, bars and cafes. You might like to have dinner at one of the city’s renowned restaurants on the cobblestoned islet of Gamla Stan or on Kungsholmen.
Included Activities:
- Stockholm - Vasa Museum
Optional Activities:
- Stockholm - Millennium Books Tour (450 SEK)
- Stockholm - Drottningholm Palace (150 SEK)
- Stockholm - Skansen Open Air Museum (285 SEK)
- Stockholm - Abba Museum (299 SEK)
- Stockholm - Fotografiska (Photography Museum) (220 SEK)
- Stockholm - City Hall (150 SEK)
- Stockholm - Nobel Prize Museum (150 SEK)
- Stockholm - Nordic Museum (170 SEK)
- Stockholm - Gröna Lund Amusement Park (130 SEK)
- Stockholm - The Royal Palace (200 SEK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is free for you to enjoy your last day in Sweden, so get out and about to explore any of the sites you haven’t gotten around to yet. In the evening, you'll board an overnight ferry for Helsinki, Finland.
Accommodation:
- Overnight boat (Number of Nights: 1)
Arrive at Helsinki's port in the morning, then take public transport to your hotel. Join your leader for a short orientation walk to get to know the historical sites and gastronomic wonders of Helsinki, then the rest of today is free for you to explore the city however you like. You might like to visit the city's cathedral, the Design Museum, the waterfront market or the Old Market Hall for local delicacies. You could also take a short ferry ride to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna sea fortress. Throughout its 450-year history, Helsinki has often been the buffer between the east and the west. This is shown in the local cuisine, with a mix of root vegetables, berries and fresh fish featuring heavily in many dishes. Consider heading out in the evening to try some traditional dishes at dinner with your group.
Included Activities:
- Helsinki - Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to extend your stay in Helsinki, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
Optional Activities:
- Helsinki - National Museum of Finland (20 EUR)
- Helsinki - Cathedral (10 EUR)
- Helsinki - City Museum - Free
- Helsinki - Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (7 EUR)
- Helsinki - Design Museum (20 EUR)
- Helsinki - Open-Air Museum Seurasaari (18 EUR)
- Helsinki - Mannerheim Museum (14 EUR)
- Helsinki - Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum (22 EUR)
- Helsinki - Rock Church (8 EUR)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Nicola - Traveled, August 2023
Aino, our wonderful tour leader, guided us around Scandinavia for an unforgettable two weeks that gave us a taste of Norway, Sweden and Finland. It was a good mix of cities and nature. I loved that the logistics were taken care of, but that it was otherwise pretty self-directed. It’s great for single people and couples.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/02/2023
Jacqueline - Traveled, August 2023
Absolutely stellar itinerary sharing majestic Scandinavian scenes of nature and beautiful cities. The architecture of the Oslo opera house and Helsinki Oodi library are must sees.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2023
Jana - Traveled, August 2022
I would go on Intrepid tours over and over again - especially when the leader is Johanna! I got to know Scandinavia in a way I never thought I would and had the best experience in every aspect!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2022
Sophorn - Traveled, August 2022
Great introduction to Scandanavia. Norwegian Fjords are the highlight of this tour, but also enjoyed the larger cities and small towns visited. The pace is quite relaxed with most days starting around 10am, giving you plenty of time to sleep in and enjoy the amazing buffet breakfasts. You can choose whether to make the trip more physical by going for a hike.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/16/2022
Mark - Traveled, August 2022
This was the first time I have traveled with people who I didn’t know. They were wonderful. Small groups of ten or less work very well.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2022
John - Traveled, August 2022
As always INTREPID ( I’ve been on many intrepid trips ( 10+) is very complete , organized , adventurous and personal with information n help !!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/21/2022
Mark - Traveled, July 2024
This trip was brilliant. Most interesting history in stunningly beautiful and lively locations. Truly memorable and highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/28/2024
Katrina - Traveled, June 2024
This trip had a great mix of city, history and wilderness experiences. There was lots of free time to explore and also relax in the Norwegian and Swedish countryside.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/16/2024
Adrian - Traveled, June 2024
Our Intrepid experience was fantastic, great variety of places and activities and local places. Great trip buddies and fantastic knowledgeable tour leader!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/23/2024
Carroll - Traveled, June 2024
A great experience for 2 adults in their mid 70 s. Was everything we expected, tiring but fulfilling. Just remember this is not a packaged tour. You make your own way with leadership guidance. Backpack compulsory.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/16/2024
Jen - Traveled, May 2024
Had such a great time on this trip. The itinerary was a great mix of cities and scenic countryside. Also, it was not as expensive as I thought it would be. Definitely try a sauna and a dip in the water.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/17/2024
Johann - Traveled, May 2024
This was a wonderful trip thru beautiful vistas across Scandinavia. Tons of activities to do if you plan ahead of your trip. Our Intrepid group leader, Shane, was great and so was Karlijn, who was shadowing on this trip. The destinations are stunning and the memories will last a lifetime. This is my fifth Intrepid trip and it was as memorable as all my trips. Can't recommend enough, especially if you need to clear your head like I did. Go for it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/13/2024
Emily - Traveled, June 2024
A great trip through the northern Nordic countries. With a good mix of city and countryside locations you really get a good feel of the culture of each country you visit. From amazing views to delicious authentic food, this trip has been a wonderful adventure!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2024
Geoffrey - Traveled, August 2023
I would recommend this trip to anyone. Fantastic scenery, friendly and helpful local people. I now have a far better understanding of the Scandinavian countries and people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/20/2023
Jonty - Traveled, July 2023
Nicely varied trip with time in the capitals and smaller towns. Highly recommend adding on more time to your travels to do justice to Oslo and Helsinki. Scandinavian hotels have excellent breakfasts but usually lack air conditioning so it can be hot in the summer months (though you’re as likely to have rain). The transfers by bus, train and ferry were comfortable and scenic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/30/2023
Craig - Traveled, July 2023
Was an excellent trip to get a taste of Scandinavia.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2023
Trevor - Traveled, June 2023
Very well organized trip that was catered to everyone's abilities. With the guides knowledge we saw a lot of sites that I would have missed if I traveled alone. Accommodation was great. Would highly recommend
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/02/2023
Roger - Traveled, June 2023
The Complete Scandinavia trip overall was most enjoyable. For me there was a good balance between included activities and free time. All the destinations were very enjoyable. The accommodation was mostly very good. Tour leaders were very helpful. I will remember this trip forever!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/13/2023
Peter - Traveled, June 2023
This trip is fantastic and is a good balance between experiencing the history and culture if the major cities like Oslo, Stockholm and Helsinki, but also experiencing natural habitats and the rural countryside
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/17/2023
Judy - Traveled, June 2023
Tick this one of my bucket list. Amazing itinerary. Loved the bike ride through the Swedish countryside. Pack lightly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/11/2023
