Grand Scandinavia - Small Group
Grand Scandinavia - Small Group
$9675
Grand Scandinavia - Small Group
20 Days Starting in Copenhagen, Denmark and ending in Oslo, Norway
Visiting: Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Kuopio, Rovaniemi, Ivalo, North Cape, Alta, Narvik, Mosjøen, Trondheim, Geiranger, Oslo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE940ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Scandinavia with the "Grand Scandinavia - Small Group" tour. This cultural adventure takes you through Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway, offering a blend of historical landmarks, breathtaking natural beauty, and authentic local experiences. Begin in Copenhagen, exploring iconic sites like Tivoli Gardens and Christiansborg Palace, before crossing the impressive Øresund Bridge to Stockholm. Cruise the Baltic Sea to Helsinki, savoring local delicacies and exploring vibrant markets. Venture into the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa Claus or enjoy a serene nature walk. Discover the rich Sami culture in Karasjok, and marvel at the midnight sun at the North Cape. With luxurious accommodations, expert local guides, and a comfortable coach, this tour promises a seamless and enriching exploration of Scandinavia's most captivating destinations.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Copenhagen
Location: Copenhagen
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Copenhagen.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Scandinavia, Copenhagen
Meals Included: Dinner
Begin your Scandinavian exploration in Copenhagen. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, followed by a visit to the glittering lights and enchanting atmosphere of the world-famous Tivoli Gardens.
Day 2: Wonderful Copenhagen
Location: Copenhagen
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Copenhagen.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Scandinavia, Copenhagen
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Local Expert will reveal the charm of Denmark's capital. Meet Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid gazing wistfully across the harbor. 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: Stockholm, City Of Islands
Location: Stockholm
Accommodation: Hilton Stockholm Slussen., Scandic Continental
Accommodation Name: Hilton Stockholm Slussen, Scandic Continental, Stockholm
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel from Denmark to Sweden by crossing the incredible Øresund 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 Skåne region, which gave its name to Scandinavia. Enjoy views of the patchwork of fertile farmlands as you journey along the shores of Lake Vättern 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: Stockholm And Baltic Sea Cruise
Location: Stockholm
Accommodation: Serenade/Symphony—Tallink & Silja Line Ships.
Accommodation Name: Serenade/Symphony - Tallink & Silja Line Ships
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join a Local Expert for your visit to the City Hall's marvelous Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall, and the Blå 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: Fashionable Helsinki Relaxed Start
Location: Helsinki
Accommodation: GLO Hotel Art, Helsinki.
Accommodation Name: GLO Art, Helsinki
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 colorful market located by the harbor and spend time browsing the vast array of stalls selling local souvenirs, handicrafts as well as fruits, vegetables and world-class pancakes?
Day 6: Lakes And Forests To Kuopio
Location: Kuopio
Accommodation: Scandic Atlas, Kuopio.
Accommodation Name: Original Sokos Puijonsarvi, Kuopio
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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: The Road To Rovaniemi
Location: Rovaniemi
Accommodation: Santa's Hotel Santa Claus, Rovaniemi.
Accommodation Name: Santa's Santa Claus, Rovaniemi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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 harbors. Enjoy time to explore the center 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: Rovaniemi And Lapland Relaxed Start
Location: Rovaniemi
Accommodation: Santa's Hotel Santa Claus, Rovaniemi.
Accommodation Name: Santa's Santa Claus, Rovaniemi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Arctic Circle today, a highlight for many travelers. 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: Across The Arctic To Ivalo Relaxed Start
Location: Ivalo
Accommodation: Hotel Ivalo.
Accommodation Name: Ivalo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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 center of Tankavaara.
Day 10: The North Cape
Location: North Cape
Accommodation: Scandic Nordkapp
Accommodation Name: Scandic Nordkapp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the rolling tundra into Norway and stop at Karasjok for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Visit a Sámi National Museum, devoted to preserving the Sámi history and culture, and see the Sámii Parliament, before continuing along the beautiful Porsanger Fjord to reach the quaint settlement of Honningsvag. Enjoy the picturesque harbor at your leisure or perhaps set out on a sea bird and arctic cruise adventure? This Optional Experience includes a cruise around the Gjesværstappen, 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: Through Finnmark To Alta Relaxed Start
Location: Alta
Accommodation: Scandic Alta.
Accommodation Name: Scandic Alta
Meals Included: Breakfast
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: A World Of Adventure In Alta Relaxed Start
Location: Alta
Accommodation: Scandic Alta.
Accommodation Name: Scandic Alta
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
With a leisurely morning start, why not explore the town center 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 lunch with seasonal specialties 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: Narvik
Location: Narvik
Accommodation: Scandic Narvik .
Accommodation Name: Scandic Narvik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pass Kåfjord 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 marvelous 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: Across Tysfjord To Mosjøen
Location: Mosjøen
Accommodation: Fru Haugans Hotel, Mosjoen.
Accommodation Name: Fru Haugans, Mosjoen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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 Mosjøen, a pleasant town on the Vefsnfjord that has a large concentration of historic, 19th century wooden buildings.
Day 15: Laksfoss Falls To Trondheim
Location: Trondheim
Accommodation: Scandic Nidelven Hotel [Trondheim, Norway]
Accommodation Name: Scandic Lerkendal, Trondheim
Meals Included: Breakfast
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. Tyholttårnet, 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: Geiranger, Jewel Of The Fjords
Location: Geiranger
Accommodation: Hotel Union Geiranger.
Accommodation Name: Union Geiranger
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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 meters 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: Geiranger At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Geiranger
Accommodation: Hotel Union Geiranger.
Accommodation Name: Union Geiranger
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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: Oslo, The Capital
Location: Oslo
Accommodation: Thon Hotel Opera, Oslo.
Accommodation Name: Thon Opera, Oslo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey through the countryside immortalized 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 dinner and raise your glass to toast your adventures with your newfound friends.
Day 19: Cosmopolitan Oslo Relaxed Start
Location: Oslo
Accommodation: Thon Hotel Opera, Oslo.
Accommodation Name: Thon Opera, Oslo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Local Expert will show you the spires and ramparts of the medieval Akershus Castle guarding the harbor. 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 harbor or continue exploring as you wish.
Day 20: Out Of Oslo
Location: Oslo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Scandinavian exploration has come to an end.
What's Included
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Meals
10 dinners, 19 breakfasts, and 1 lunch are included.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Rovaniemi.
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Local Expert
Join your Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest in Rovaniemi.
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Santa Claus Village
Meet Santa Claus in his village in Rovaniemi.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided for visits to famous highlights.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included.
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Porterage
Porterage charges at hotels are included.
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Baggage Handling
Bags are carried and delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
Travel Director will provide local specialties representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi is provided (where available).
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as visiting the Vasa Galleon, Ranua Wildlife Park, and sea bird and arctic cruise adventure are not included.
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Additional Transfers
Transfers outside the scheduled times or for additional nights' accommodation are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
Dining Summary
10 Dinner (D)19 Breakfast (B)1 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
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.
Insight Experiences
Alta: Meet the Lyrek family and their huskies. Hear tales about their marathon Arctic dog sled races while enjoying a hearty lunch.
Travel Director
"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."
Well-being
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.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience can I expect at the North Cape?
At the North Cape, you will journey to mainland Europe's most northern point and experience the midnight sun, where even at midnight, the sun clings to the horizon. This unique experience is accompanied by champagne and caviar, making it a once-in-a-lifetime event.
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What activities are available in Rovaniemi?
In Rovaniemi, you have the option to meet Santa Claus in his village, where it is Christmas all year round, or join a Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest to admire the tranquil surroundings.
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What can I expect during the Baltic Sea cruise?
During the Baltic Sea cruise, you will travel from Stockholm to Helsinki through the largest archipelago in the world. You will enjoy dinner onboard and stay in an A-class, sea-view cabin, with the opportunity to see thousands of islands as the northern sun hangs over the horizon.
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What is the significance of the Sámii Museum in Karasjok?
The Sámii Museum in Karasjok is devoted to preserving the history and culture of the Sámii people. It educates guests about the resiliency of the Sámii community and showcases a large collection of cultural heritage items, supporting UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities.
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What dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of dining experiences such as savoring local specialties during dinner in Copenhagen, sampling local produce at a traditional food market in Helsinki, enjoying an oven-baked lunch of local seasonal specialties in Alta, and experiencing Scandinavian hospitality with fine food and wine during dinner in Oslo.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
You will stay in luxurious accommodations such as the Radisson Blu Scandinavia in Copenhagen, Hilton Stockholm Slussen, GLO Art in Helsinki, and Santa's Hotel Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, all offering comfort and top-notch amenities throughout your journey.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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