Day 1: Depart Australia
Today, you fly out of Australia to begin your exciting adventure through Norway and Finland, exploring the best of Scandinavia. Depending on your airline’s schedule, you may need to leave a day earlier (Day 0). Sit back, relax, and enjoy your flight.
MEALS: In-Flight
OVERNIGHT: In-Flight
Day 2: Arrive Oslo, Norway
Welcome to Oslo, Norway! After landing, make your own way to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy—take a stroll through the city, relax after your flight, or grab a bite to eat at one of Oslo’s many restaurants.
MEALS: In-Flight
OVERNIGHT: Comfort Hotel Xpress Central Station, Oslo
Day 3: Oslo – Free Day
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might like to explore Oslo’s top attractions, such as Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Viking Ship Museum, or Akershus Fortress. You could also take a stroll along the harbourfront, browse local shops, or simply relax and soak up the city’s atmosphere. If you prefer a slower day, find a cosy café and enjoy some Norwegian treats.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Comfort Hotel Xpress Central Station, Oslo
Day 4: Oslo ~ Myrdal ~ Flåm
This morning, make your own way to Oslo Central Station to start your Norway in a Nutshell journey. Board the train to Myrdal, where you will transfer to the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most scenic train rides.
When you arrive in Flåm, make your own way to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to explore this picturesque fjord village—take a walk along the waterfront, visit the Flåm Railway Museum, or just relax and enjoy the stunning views.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Flåmsbrygga Hotel, Flåm
Day 5: Flåm ~ Gudvangen ~ Voss
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and make your own way to the ferry terminal. Board a ferry for a breathtaking cruise through Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO-listed fjord known for its towering cliffs and stunning scenery.
When you arrive in Gudvangen, board a bus to Voss. Upon arrival in Voss, make your own way to your hotel and check in. The evening is yours to relax or explore the town at your own pace.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Park Hotel, Voss
Day 6: Voss ~ Bergen
After breakfast, make your own way to the train station and board a scenic train to Bergen, Norway’s beautiful coastal city.
When you arrive in Bergen, make your own way to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to explore—wander through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, visit the Fish Market, or take the Fløibanen funicular for stunning views over the city.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Scandic Neptun, Bergen
Day 7: Bergen – Embark Coastal Voyage
After checking out of your hotel, spend the morning exploring Bergen before making your own way to Jektevik Terminal to begin your coastal voyage. As Norway’s second-largest city and the gateway to the fjords, Bergen is rich in history and culture. Founded in 1070 AD, the city’s architecture reflects its past as a key trading hub for the Hanseatic League, a powerful German merchant organisation in the 14th century.
If you have time before your ship departs, take a stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district, where colourful wooden wharfs line the harbour, now home to local artisans and cosy cafés. Just across the street, you’ll find the Fish Market, a great place to sample fresh Norwegian seafood. For stunning panoramic views over the city, hop on the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen. If you’re interested in extending your Norwegian experience, you might also consider adding a pre- or post-voyage tour, such as the popular Norway in a Nutshell journey.
Before boarding, take some time to relax in the comfortable guest lounge at the terminal. Once onboard, settle into your cabin and enjoy the first of many delicious meals made with fresh local ingredients. As the ship departs Bergen at 8:30 PM, you’ll sail along Hjeltefjord, following the same historic route once taken by the Vikings. Throughout your journey, the ship’s Expedition Team will be on hand to enrich your experience, organising lectures, onboard activities, and optional hikes, helping you discover the natural wonders and history of Norway’s coastline.
TIME IN PORT:
Depart Bergen: 20:30
MEALS: MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
Day 8: Ålesund
Wake up to breathtaking views as you sail through Nordfjord near Torvik in the early morning. As the journey continues, the ship passes West Cape, marking your approach to the charming coastal city of Ålesund.
Renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund is one of Norway’s most picturesque towns. The city was rebuilt in this striking style after a devastating fire in 1904, giving it a unique character. While in Ålesund, you may wish to visit Atlanterhavsparken, one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums, or simply wander the colourful streets and waterfront, soaking up the atmosphere. If you’re travelling in spring or winter, you’ll have most of the day to explore this beautiful town at your own pace.
As the evening approaches, the ship makes its final stop of the day in Molde, a town famous for its stunning natural scenery. On a clear summer evening, you may be lucky enough to witness the Molde Panorama, an awe-inspiring view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord. From mid-June to late August, the town truly lives up to its nickname, “The City of Roses,” as its streets and gardens burst into full bloom with vibrant roses of every shade, filling the air with their sweet fragrance.
TIME IN PORT:
Florø: 02:45 – 03:00
Måløy: 05:15 – 05:30
Torvik: 08:20 – 08:30
Ålesund: 09:45 – 20:00
Molde: 22:35 – 23:05
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
Day 9: Trondheim
Today, you’ll sail into the Trøndelag region, a picturesque part of Norway characterised by rolling hills, farmland, and small coastal villages.
Founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim is now Norway’s third-largest city, blending medieval history with a lively student atmosphere. You’ll have three hours to explore Trondheim at your own pace or join one of the optional excursions on offer.
A highlight of the city is Nidaros Cathedral, often called “Norway’s Notre Dame” due to its striking Gothic architecture. This is Norway’s most sacred building, and right next door, you’ll find the Archbishop’s Palace, home to Norway’s crown jewels.
A short walk away, the old city bridge, Gamle Bybro, spans the Nid River and marks the entrance to the historic Bakklandet district. This charming neighbourhood is lined with colourful wooden wharves, originally built as merchant houses but now home to cosy cafés and restaurants. For a fantastic panoramic view of the city and fjord, head up to Kristiansten Fort, perched on a hill above Bakklandet.
In the afternoon, return to the ship as it sails northwest, passing the ochre-coloured Kjeungskjær Lighthouse, along with scattered islets and rocky reefs. Later in the day, you’ll reach the charming coastal town of Rørvik, where your journey along Norway’s scenic coastline continues.
TIME IN PORT:
Kristiansund: 02:45 – 03:00
Trondheim: 09:45 – 12:45
Rørvik: 21:40 – 22:00
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
Day 10: Bodø ~ Svolvær (Lofoten Islands)
Early this morning, you will cross the Arctic Circle, marking the start of your Arctic adventure in Norway. To celebrate, the crew will hold a traditional ceremony, a fun and lively way to mark this special moment. Once north of the Arctic Circle, you’ll experience the unique phenomena of the Midnight Sun in summer and have higher chances of seeing the Northern Lights in winter.
At 10:00 AM, the ship stops in Ørnes, a small coastal town near Svartisen, Norway’s second-largest glacier. Here, you’ll find the Love Bench, where couples leave padlocks as a symbol of their enduring love.
The journey then continues to Bodø, Northern Norway’s second-largest city, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Børvass peaks. While in Bodø, you can admire impressive street art, stroll along the waterfront, or join an optional boat excursion to Saltstraumen, home to the world’s strongest tidal currents.
In the afternoon, you’ll enter the spectacular Lofoten archipelago. The approach is marked by the Lofoten Wall, a series of 1,000-metre-high mountains rising dramatically from the sea, creating an unforgettable sight on the horizon.
Your next stop is Stamsund, home to one of Lofoten’s largest fishing fleets. This area is busiest between January and April, when Arctic cod (skrei) migrate south from the Barents Sea to Vestfjord to spawn, creating a hub of fishing activity.
By evening, you’ll arrive in Svolvær, the main town of the Lofoten Islands. As you sail into the harbour, you’ll see rows of traditional red fishermen’s huts on stilts, known as rorbuer, nestled along the shoreline. This picturesque fishing town is the perfect place to soak up the charm of Lofoten and end another incredible day on your journey.
TIME IN PORT:
Brønnøysund: 01:35 – 01:45
Sandnessjøen: 04:35 – 04:50
Nesna: 06:00 – 06:10
Ørnes: 10:00 – 10:10
Bodø: 13:05 – 15:20
Stamsund: 19:15 – 19:40
Svolvær: 21:20 – 22:15
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
Day 11: Tromsø
This morning, the ship docks in Harstad just after 7:00 AM. If you’re up early, take a peaceful morning stroll around town and enjoy the fresh Arctic air.
The journey continues to Finnsnes, where the impressive Gisund Bridge connects the mainland to Senja, one of Norway’s most beautiful islands. Keep an eye out for seabirds, including puffins, as there are several colonies in the area.
By midday, you’ll arrive in Tromsø, often called the Gateway to the Arctic. This historic city was a centre for Arctic exploration, and today, it blends cultural charm with a vibrant city atmosphere. You’ll have four hours to explore Tromsø at your own pace or join an optional excursion.
Along the waterfront, you’ll find Polaria, an Arctic-themed centre with exhibits on environmental research and a small aquarium. In the city centre, you can browse shops and restaurants, or stop by Mack Brewery, one of the world’s northernmost breweries. For a more local experience, visit Ølhallen pub, a popular spot among residents. If you’re craving something sweet, many of Tromsø’s cafés serve delicious cinnamon buns, with some baristas creating innovative coffee art.
Across the fjord from where the ship docks, you’ll see the striking Arctic Cathedral, famous for its dramatic stained-glass mosaic.
In the early evening, the ship sets sail again, heading north towards the historic trading post of Skjervøy, founded in 1622. Along the way, you’ll pass the Lyngen Alps, which rise majestically from the sea, creating one of the most spectacular landscapes in northern Norway.
TIME IN PORT:
Stokmarknes: 01:30 – 01:40
Sortland: 02:55 – 03:10
Risøyhamn: 04:35 – 04:50
Harstad: 07:10 – 07:45
Finnsnes: 11:00 – 11:30
Tromsø: 14:15 – 18:15
Skjervøy: 22:10 – 22:25
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
Day 12: Honningsvåg
Early this morning, the ship arrives in Hammerfest, located on the island of Kvaløya. If you’re travelling in summer, you may spot thousands of migrating reindeer making their way across the island.
As the journey continues, you’ll pass through Havøysund, where you’ll see the Havøygavlen wind farm, a landmark with wind turbines that generate enough electricity to power 6,000 local homes.
By mid-morning, you’ll arrive in Honningsvåg, the gateway to North Cape, the northernmost point of continental Europe. Here, a globe monument marks this famous spot. You can join an optional excursion to North Cape, travelling by bus through stunning Arctic landscapes, with a chance to see herds of reindeer along the way, depending on the season.
As the ship approaches Kjøllefjord, keep an eye out for Finnkirka, an impressive rock formation that resembles a building. This site was once used by the Sámi people for ancient sacrificial rituals. In summer, you can join an optional excursion to meet local Sámi, learn about their traditional reindeer herding lifestyle, and listen to joik folk songs, a unique form of Sámi music.
By evening, the ship reaches its northernmost port of call, Mehamn. If you’re travelling in February or March, you might notice racks of cod drying outdoors on traditional wooden frames called hjell, a key part of Norway’s fishing heritage.
The journey continues as the ship sets sail for Berlevåg, passing by Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost mainland lighthouse on Earth, standing tall as a beacon in the remote Arctic landscape.
TIME IN PORT:
Øksfjord: 01:50 – 02:00
Hammerfest: 05:05 – 05:45
Havøysund: 08:30 – 08:45
Honningsvåg: 10:55 – 14:30
Kjøllefjord: 16:40 – 17:00
Mehamn: 18:55 – 19:15
Berlevåg: 22:00 – 22:10
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
Day 13: Kirkenes – Disembark Ship
This morning, the ship arrives in Kirkenes, marking the end of your coastal voyage. After disembarking, make your own way to your hotel. Take some time to explore the town or relax while you wait for hotel check-in from 3:00 PM.
TIME IN PORT:
Båtsfjord: 00:00 – 00:30
Vardø: 03:30 – 03:45
Vadsø: 06:55 – 07:10
Kirkenes: 09:00
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Thon Hotel Kirkenes
Day 14: Kirkenes ~ Ivalo, Finland
After breakfast, check out of your hotel, make your own way to the bus station, and board the shared shuttle bus from Kirkenes to Ivalo, Finland. As you travel, enjoy the scenic drive through the Arctic wilderness, passing snow-covered forests and remote landscapes before crossing the border into Finland.
Upon arrival in Ivalo, make your own way to your hotel and settle in for the night. This small town is known as the gateway to Lapland, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re visiting in winter, you may have the chance to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.
ESTIMATED TRAVEL TIME:
Depart Kirkenes: 11:45 AM (Norwegian time)
Arrive in Ivalo: 5:00 – 5:30 PM (Finnish time)
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Hotel Ivalo Oy
Day 15: Ivalo – Free Day
Today, enjoy a full day at leisure in Ivalo, the northernmost town in Finland. This is the perfect place to experience the beauty of Lapland and immerse yourself in local traditions.
Depending on the season, you might choose to visit a traditional reindeer farm, where you can learn about the indigenous Sámi culture and their way of life. For a truly Finnish experience, unwind in a Finnish sauna, a must-try tradition that locals swear by for relaxation and wellbeing.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Hotel Ivalo Oy
Day 16: Ivalo ~ Rovaniemi
After breakfast, make your own way to the bus station and board a public shuttle bus to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland. This four-hour journey takes you through stunning Arctic landscapes, passing dense forests, winding rivers, and small northern villages along the way.
Upon arrival in Rovaniemi, make your own way to your hotel and check in. The evening is yours to explore the town at your own pace—you might like to take a walk along the river, visit a local restaurant, or simply relax after your journey.
ESTIMATED TRAVEL TIME:
Depart Ivalo: 4:00 PM
Arrive in Rovaniemi: 8:10 PM
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Scandic Rovaniemi City
Day 17: Rovaniemi – Free Day
Today, enjoy a full day at leisure in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus! Take the opportunity to explore the town, visit Santa Claus Village, or discover Lapland’s beautiful nature. Whether you choose to explore the Arktikum Museum, relax in a Finnish sauna, or take a stroll along the Ounasjoki River, the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Scandic Rovaniemi City
Day 18: Rovaniemi ~ Helsinki
After breakfast, make your way to the train station and board your train to Helsinki, travelling through the beautiful Finnish countryside. Sit back and enjoy the changing landscapes as you head south to the capital.
Upon arrival in Helsinki, make your own way to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to relax or start exploring the city at your own pace.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Clarion Hotel Helsinki
Day 19: Helsinki – Free Day
Today, enjoy a full day at leisure in Helsinki, exploring the city’s sights at your own pace. You might like to visit Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral, wander through the market stalls at Market Square, or take a short ferry ride to Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you’re interested in Finnish design, the Design District is full of stylish boutiques and galleries. The day is yours to discover Helsinki in your own way.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Clarion Hotel Helsinki
Day 20: Helsinki ~ Tallinn, Estonia ~ Helsinki, Finland
This morning, make your own way to the ferry terminal and board a Tallink Silja Line ferry for a comfortable cruise across the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn, Estonia. Enjoy the scenic two-hour journey, passing through the calm waters of the Baltic Sea.
Upon arrival in Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, take the day to explore at your own pace. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit Toompea Castle, or admire the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Stop at a local café for traditional Estonian cuisine or browse the boutique shops for souvenirs.
In the evening, return to the ferry terminal and board your ferry back to Helsinki. Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing night after your day trip.
FERRY DEPARTURE OPTIONS:
Helsinki to Tallinn: 07:30–09:30 AM / 10:30–12:30 PM
Tallinn to Helsinki: 16:30–18:30 PM / 19:30–21:30 PM
Confirm your preferred departure times in advance.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Clarion Hotel Helsinki
Day 21: Depart Helsinki
This morning, check out of your hotel and make your own way to Helsinki Airport for your return flight home. Depending on your flight schedule, you may arrive back in Australia on
Day 22 or 23.
Safe travels and thank you for exploring Scandinavia with MyHoliday2
MEALS: Breakfast, In-Flight
OVERNIGHT: In-Flight
Polar Inside cabins are situated on the lower and middle decks and all have bathrooms with shower/WC. The cabins have separated single beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside cabins are situated on all decks and all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins have separated single beds, one of which converts into a sofa, or upper and lower berths. A few of the cabins have double beds. The cabins may have portholes, with limited or no view. All the cabins have individual specifications.
