Scandinavia Explorer
Experience Overview
Tour Scandinavia and discover the many charms and delights on this two-week 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 a Viking past, learn of maritime heritage and get swept up in Olympic fever and embrace the Swedish “lagom” lifestyle away from hustle and bustle in the idyllic countryside. Whether it's walking along charming streets in Bergen or sailing through vast fjords, you'll undoubtedly be left with a multitude of memories from this once-in-a-lifetime Scandinavian adventure.
Highlights
- Norway's fjords feature some of the most stunning scenery on Earth. Cruise past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks through the narrow Naeroyfjord.
- Visit Dalarna County, nestled in middle Sweden and often referred as “Sweden in miniature” for the abundance of lakes, forests, and local traditions.
- Follow your local guide along the narrow, winding roads through genuine villages, past the typical red painted cottages and explore unique sights around Siljan lake rural settlements. You'll even get a chance to meet and mingle with the locals living in these villages.
- 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 for a Scandinavian culture binge. Senate Square, the market hall, the sea fortress of Suomenlinna and the Design Museum are just some of the highlights of this amazing city
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1646
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train,Public bus,Overnight ferry,Private vehicle,Tram,Metro
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: BMSH
Starts: Oslo, Finland
Finishes: Helsinki, Finland
Duration: 15 days
Departures: 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 $7,495 ($500 /day)
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 plan to arrive a few days before the trip begins, so you can see as much of the city as possible. This lovely capital has much to offer: experience legendary art and the famous painting, The Scream, at the Munch Museum, learn about the fascinating Norwegian WW2 history at the Resistance Museum, or sail through the beautiful fjord or stroll the Vigeland sculpture park. Your adventure begins with a important welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you'll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. Afterwards, why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare with the group.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, follow your leader on an orientation walk in the city. Then enjoy some free time in Oslo. Maybe embark on some island hopping on Oslofjord, browse the harbour-front Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, taste local flavours at the food hall Vulkan, explore the immense Akershus Castle & Fortress, or check out the cool shops in the Grunerløkka district. There's so much to get stuck into.
Included Activities:
- Oslo - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Oslo - Holmenkollen Museum (190 NOK)
- Oslo - Fram Museum (140 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 (520 NOK)
- Oslo - The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (180 NOK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll 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 takes in some spectacular scenery of lush valleys, idyllic villages, dramatic mountains and picturesque lakes as it crosses the Hardangervidda Plateau. As the trip is long and you'll arrive quite late into quirky city of Bergen, there won't be too much time to explore today (don't worry, you'll have time to explore here tomorrow). There are some great seafood restaurants in town, so possibly venture 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 by Fløibanen funicular. Taking you to 1.050 feet above the city in just seven minutes, it offers a bird eye prospective of the town and vistas of the deep blues of the sea. Those who want to get active can also continue following its multiple hiking trails.
You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore however you like. Perhaps visit World Heritage Bryggen area and wander through the reconstructed medieval homes and warehouses or visit the beautifully preserved wooden Hanseatic Museum (a former trade building), and explore the old Hanseatic port area – the Hanseatic merchant confederation dominated Baltic maritime trade for 400 years from the 15th century.
Included Activities:
- Bergen - Floy Mountain Funicular round trip
Optional Activities:
- Bergen - Mt Ulriken Cable Car & Shuttle (250 NOK)
- Bergen - Vidden Trail Hike - Free
- Bergen - Bergenhus Fortress - Free
- Bergen - Aquarium (365 NOK)
- Bergen - Rosenkrantz Tower (150 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 located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by steep cliff walls with a perfect view of the spectacular crystal clear Kjelsfossen waterfall falling from the top of the fjords. It's humbling to look up and consider these giant and ancient geological formations. Your accommodation 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 crisp mountain peaks reflected in the glassy waters of Naeroyfjord, a 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 kilometres long and only 250 metres wide at its narrowest point, but its depth reaches up to 500 metres. Surrounding mountain peaks rise up to 1400 metres and waterfalls crash down sheer cliff faces. The boat cruise will finish in 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, explore on foot and 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 license is required and costs around NOK 150). In 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 (600 NOK)
- Flam - Gauge Railway (680 NOK)
- Flam - Stegastein Lookout (380 NOK)
- Flam - Railway Museum - Free
- Gudvangen - Hiking Options - Free
Accommodation:
- Cabin (Number of Nights: 1)
There will be another long bus journey ahead of us after breakfast today, as you journey to the Alpine playground of Lillehammer. Cross vast high plains, and remote valleys, and drive through the Lærdal 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 kilometres apart and 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 picturesquely situated on Lake Mjøsa. When you arrive, head out for a brief orientation walk to find your bearings in the laid-back 19th-century town centre, along the main pedestrian street of Storgata (Big Street), lined with wooden houses, boutiques and restaurants.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, your leader will take you on an included visit to 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 brilliant museum includes timber-built farms, a town and a big residential area that gives you an insight into various eras of Norway's history. The afternoon is free for you to further explore. Perhaps conquer misty mountains on a hike. As a town famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer has a great Olympic Museum where you can hear tales of heroic feats and is also an ideal spot for many outdoor activities.
Included Activities:
- Lillehammer - Maihaugen Open Air Museum
Optional Activities:
- Lillehammer - Sigrid Undset's Home at Bjerkebæk (140 NOK)
- Lillehammer - Hiking Options - Free
- Lillehammer - Olympic Museum (140 NOK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel for around five hours by private bus today and cross the border into Sweden. Head to the lakeside town Rättvik, a laidback place that encapsulates the most Swedish of Swedish landscapes, and which sits right in the middle of the Swedish lakes. Rättvik is a location steeped in history and culture that's ready to be discovered. Dalarna county is in the heart of the Sweden and is famous for the national symbol of the wooden Dala horse. Tonight, you will stay in a peaceful setting of local B&B 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 with local experts. You'll get to know the history behind the villages here and learn about the traditions of the area around Lake Siljan. A truly memorable experience, you'll visit a variety of villages, discover the traditional way of life and mingle with the locals. The rest of the day is free to explore the local area and its lakes. Perhaps take a leisurely historic boat trip across the lake, sink a line to partake in a little fishing, hike around the gentle rolling surrounds or enjoy local artisan shopping.
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 cultural, political and economic capital of Stockholm by train. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the North' and arguably Scandinavia 's most beautiful city, Stockholm is packed full of amazing 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 can perhaps head underground for the world’s longest art exhibition. Connecting the fourteen islands of the city and blasted through hard rocky ground, the subway (Tunnelbana) system's 100 stations are like the longest modern art exhibition in the world, featuring artwork from over 140 different artists. Enjoy the narrow cobble stone streets and the colourful merchant houses. Why not soak up the culture and try a cinnamon roll in Stockholm’s oldest café Sundbergs Konditori located on Jarntorget square, and dating from 1785.
Included Activities:
- Stockholm - Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, go on an included visit to the Vasa Museum on the inner-city island of Djurgarden. The 17th-century warship, Vasa, sank in 1628 on her maiden voyage in the harbour of Stockholm and was salvaged only in 1961. As one of the most visited sights in Sweden, the Vasa Museum collection consists of the Vasa itself and all of the objects that were found within the ship. The rest of the afternoon is all yours 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? Consider taking a self-guided Millennium Walking Tour of Stockholm or visit the Abba Museum. Alternatively, you can take a trip to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish royal family. There are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy here in this great Scandinavian city, so plan your activities wisely. Tonight perhaps head to Stockholm's Sodermalm district, the inner-city island with the best nightlife, full of hip shops, bars and cafes. Or maybe sit down at one of the city’s top-notch restaurants, such as the latest venues opened on the cobblestoned islet of Gamla Stan, or in the cool fusion restaurants of Kungsholmen.
Included Activities:
- Stockholm - Vasa Museum
Optional Activities:
- Stockholm - Millennium Books Tour (450 SEK)
- Stockholm - Drottningholm Palace (150 SEK)
- Stockholm - Skansen Open Air Museum (265 SEK)
- Stockholm - Abba Museum (299 SEK)
- Stockholm - Fotografiska (Photography Museum) (220 SEK)
- Stockholm - City Hall (130 SEK)
- Stockholm - Nobel Prize Museum (140 SEK)
- Stockholm - Nordic Museum (170 SEK)
- Stockholm - Gröna Lund Amusement Park (130 SEK)
- Stockholm - The Royal Palace (180 SEK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is free for you to enjoy your last day in Sweden. In the evening, you'll be boarding an overnight ferry for Helsinki, Finland.
Accommodation:
- Overnight boat (Number of Nights: 1)
After your morning arrival into Helsinki's port you will take a public transport to your hotel. Discover a wealth of historical sights and gastronomic wonders in Helsinki. Apart from a short orientation walk, today is completely free and you'll be able to explore Helsinki in your own time. A few options to consider during your time here are a visit to the city's cathedral or the interesting Design Museum. Don't miss the harbour-side market and market hall from 1889 for local oddities, and make sure you take a short ferry ride to the magnificent Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, sometimes referred to as the Gibraltar of the North, a World Heritage-listed site that was once an important point of defence for the city. Surrounded by the sea, Helsinki is a modern European city that offers an endless array of options. Throughout its 450-year history, the city has often been the buffer between the east and west. This is shown in their cuisine, with a mix of root vegetables, berries and fresh fish. Perhaps head out in the evening to sample some traditional dishes at dinner with your group.
Included Activities:
- Helsinki - Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. There are no more activities planned and you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you would like to extend your stay in Helsinki we are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Please speak to your travel consultant at the time of booking.
Optional Activities:
- Helsinki - National Museum of Finland (20 EUR)
- Helsinki - Cathedral - Free
- Helsinki - City Museum - Free
- Helsinki - Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (7 EUR)
- Helsinki - Design Museum (20 EUR)
- Helsinki - Open-Air Museum Seurasaari (12 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
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