DAY 1: Depart Australia
Today, you will leave Australia for your flight to Norway. Depending on the flight schedule, departure may occur on DAY 0.
MEALS: In-Flight
OVERNIGHT: In-Flight
DAY 2: Arrive Oslo, Norway
Upon arrival in Oslo, proceed to your hotel at your own convenience. Enjoy the day exploring the diverse attractions of this cosmopolitan capital. Venture to the city center to capture snapshots of the distinct Rådhuset town hall, Royal Palace, and Oslo Cathedral. Along the waterfront, discover Aker Brygge, a bustling area known for its dining options, as well as the imposing Akershus Fortress and the contemporary architecture of the Bjørvika waterfront, home to modern landmarks like the new Edvard Munch museum. In the evening, join your tour group and guide for a welcome dinner.
MEALS: In-Flight, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Oslo
Day 3: Oslo (Discover Norway)
After breakfast, join a fantastic Oslo city tour that explores both well-known sights and hidden gems.
First, visit the stunning Oslo Opera House, resembling a glacier on the water. Its sleek design and white marble against the Oslofjord backdrop are truly captivating. Next, head to Frogner Park to see the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park, boasting over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, including the impressive monolith. Then, venture outside Oslo to see the historic Holmenkollen Ski Jump, offering panoramic views of the city. Explore the world’s oldest ski museum and learn about skiing’s rich history.
After a day of discovery, return to your hotel in Oslo to relax and cherish the memories of the day. Get ready for more adventures in Norway ahead!
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Oslo
Day 4: Oslo ~ Mydral ~ Flåm (Norway In a Nutshell)
After breakfast, we embark on a scenic train journey from Oslo to Myrdal station, nestled high in the mountains. There, we board the Flåm Mountain Railway, a vintage train offering breathtaking views. As the train descends through the valley, enjoy panoramic views of Norway’s wilderness. We stop briefly at Kjosfossen Waterfall, where you can capture stunning photos. Interestingly, the nearby power station fuels the railway itself.
Arriving in the charming village of Flåm, settle into cosy accommodations for the night. Explore the Flåm Railway Museum to learn about its fascinating history and engineering.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel, savouring Norwegian cuisine. As evening falls, embrace the tranquillity of Flåm, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT:4 Star Hotel, Flam
Day 5: Flåm – Voss – Bergen (Trainride to Bergen)
After breakfast and saying goodbye to your hotel, get ready for an amazing journey through Norway’s stunning fjords. Enjoy a relaxing two-hour boat cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, known for their majestic cliffs, waterfalls, and serene waters. Arrive in Gudvangen and take a short bus ride through Nærøydalen valley to Voss.
From Voss, board a train to Bergen, a charming coastal city famous for its maritime history and colourful wooden houses. Check in to your hotel and take some time to relax. Then, explore Bergen at your own pace. Consider taking the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the city and fjords.
Take a leisurely stroll through Bergen’s streets, filled with shops, cafes, and cultural sites. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or simply soaking up the city’s atmosphere, Bergen has something for everyone. Enjoy your time exploring this coastal gem and creating unforgettable memories.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Bergen
Day 6: Bergen (Gateway to the Fjords)
After a relaxed morning, we embark on a captivating walking tour of Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords. Our journey includes visits to iconic landmarks like St Mary’s Church, Håkon’s Hall, and the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district. Bryggen’s historic wooden wharves, now home to boutique shops, offer a glimpse into Bergen’s maritime history.
At the lively Fish Market, visitors can watch fresh seafood being cooked on the spot. Our tour also takes us to Troldhaugen, once the home of composer Edvard Grieg, providing insight into his life and music. Finally, we head to Bergen pier to board our Coastal Express ship, ready for an adventure along Norway’s stunning coast.
TIME IN PORT:
Depart Bergen: 20:30
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
Day 7: Ålesund (Iconic Architecture)
Start your day with a peaceful morning by Nordfjord near Torvik, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. As we cruise past the striking cliffs of West Cape, we eagerly anticipate our arrival in the picturesque coastal town of Ålesund.
Famous for its charming Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund is a delightful mix of old-world allure and scenic landscapes. Wander through streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings adorned with unique details like rounded towers and elegant windows, creating a fairy-tale ambiance.
For a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings, head up to Mount Askla and take in the breathtaking vistas. Alternatively, explore the captivating underwater world at Atlanterhavsparken, one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums, where a fascinating array of marine life awaits.
As our time in Ålesund draws to a close, we set sail for our next destination, Molde. Nestled by the fjord, Molde offers a spectacular vista known as ‘the Molde Panorama,’ boasting an awe-inspiring view of 222 majestic mountain peaks. Take in the natural beauty before we bid farewell to Ålesund and continue our journey along Norway’s mesmerizing coast.
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 8: Trondheim (City of Kings and Palaces)
As the sun rises over Trondheim, we’re welcomed by the lively atmosphere of Norway’s capital of technology. With a full day ahead, there’s plenty of time to dive into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, whether exploring on your own or joining an optional excursion.
Trondheim’s roots trace back to Viking times when it was founded by King Olav Tryggvason in 997, becoming Norway’s first capital. Today, it stands as the country’s third largest city, blending historic charm with the lively vibe of its student population.
A must-see is the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, often called “Norway’s Notre Dame” for its stunning Gothic architecture. This sacred landmark reflects the city’s deep religious heritage and is a symbol of Trondheim’s significance.
Nearby, you’ll find the charming Gamle Bybro, an old city bridge over the peaceful Nid River. Crossing it leads to the quaint Hanseatic district of Bakklandet, where colourful wooden buildings house cosy cafes and shops. Don’t miss the panoramic views from Kristiansten Fort, offering a breathtaking outlook of Trondheim.
As the day progresses, we continue our journey along the scenic coastline, passing landmarks like the Kjeungskjær Lighthouse, before reaching the picturesque coastal town of Rørvik. Here, you can explore charming harbors and streets, rounding off our day of discovery in Trondheim.
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 9: Bodo (Into the Arctic)
At dawn, we embark on an Arctic adventure, crossing the renowned Arctic Circle. To mark this special moment, we participate in a traditional ceremony, awakening our senses to the wonders ahead.
During autumn, winter, or spring, our excitement for witnessing the Northern Lights grows as we journey above the Arctic Circle. With each moment, the chance of experiencing this natural phenomenon becomes more promising, adding to the allure of our Arctic journey.
At 10 am, we arrive at Ørnes near Norway’s stunning Svartisen glacier, where we continue our exploration before heading to Bodø, a lively city in Northern Norway surrounded by impressive peaks. As the day unfolds, we venture into the captivating Lofoten archipelago, known for its towering peaks, including the striking Lofoten Wall.
In Stamsund, we observe the local fishing fleet catching Arctic cod called skrei, a traditional practice amidst the beauty of the Lofoten archipelago. As evening approaches, we reach Svolvær, a charming village with iconic fisherman’s huts on stilts, offering a serene setting to immerse ourselves in the Arctic’s natural beauty and timeless allure.
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 10: Tromsø (Capital of the Arctic)
We arrive in Harstad around 7 am, where the tranquil morning invites a leisurely stroll through town, setting the tone for the day’s adventures.
Next, we head to Finnsnes, a charming town linked to the scenic Senja island by the impressive Gisund Bridge. As we sail, Norway’s stunning landscapes unfold, promising a journey filled with natural beauty.
Our destination is Tromsø, known as the historic capital of Arctic exploration. Here, you’ll have four hours to explore the vibrant city or join an optional excursion. Along the waterfront, Polaria offers insights into Arctic research, while downtown boasts shops, restaurants, and attractions like Mack Brewery and Ølhallen pub.
Don’t miss the chance to savour cinnamon buns at cosy cafés, where expert baristas create delightful coffee art. Across the fjord, the Arctic Cathedral stands tall, showcasing Tromsø’s cultural heritage with its beautiful stained-glass mosaic.
As evening falls, we depart Tromsø for Skjervøy, a historic trading post. En route, we pass the majestic Lyngen Alps, their peaks towering above the sea, providing a mesmerizing backdrop to our Arctic journey. Get ready to be enchanted by the Arctic’s natural splendour as we continue our voyage.
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 11: Honningsvåg (Norway’s Northern Frontier)
As the sun rises, our ship sets off with stops in Hammerfest and Havøysund, then heads to Honningsvåg by mid-morning.
Honningsvåg is the gateway to the North Cape, where a globe monument marks the northernmost point of continental Europe. You can join an optional excursion to the North Cape from Honningsvåg by bus, passing reindeer herds along the way.
Next, we sail to Kjøllefjord village, home to the striking rock formation Finnkirka, once a sacred site for the indigenous Sámi people.
In Mehamn, the air is filled with the scent of drying cod, a traditional method of preservation. If you’re here in February or March, you might see tons of cod drying on outdoor wooden racks, known as hjell.
Our journey continues to Berlevåg, passing by the impressive Slettnes Lighthouse. Perched on the northernmost mainland, it guides travellers through the Arctic landscape. Get ready to be enchanted by the untamed beauty of the Arctic as we sail on.
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 12: Kirkenes – Saariselkä (The Sámi Capital)
In the morning, we arrive at the scenic port town of Vardø, where we’re greeted by breathtaking coastal views. Continuing south, we head to Kirkenes, a bustling town right on the border.
As we near Kirkenes, the coastal scenery becomes even more stunning, adding to the beauty of our journey. Upon arrival, we leave our ship behind and continue by land into Finland.
We hop on a comfortable coach and enjoy a scenic drive through Kirkenes and its surrounding countryside.
Crossing into Finland, we descend through Lapland’s picturesque landscapes.
Our first stop is Inari, a charming village known for its vibrant Sámi culture. At the newly renovated Siida Sámi museum, we explore exhibits and artifacts that showcase the rich traditions of the Sámi people.
After a tasty lunch at a local restaurant, we head to Saariselkä, a cosy skiing village nestled in the wilderness of Finnish Lapland. Here, surrounded by snowy peaks and lush forests, we settle in for the night, eager to explore more of Lapland’s wonders tomorrow.
TIME IN PORT:
Båtsfjord: 00:00 – 00:30
Vardø: 03:30 – 03:45
Vadsø: 06:55 – 07:10
Arrive Kirkenes: 09:00
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Saariselka
Day 13: Saariselkä (Reindeer Safari)
Wake up to the magical winter scenery of Saariselkä, ready for another day of fun in Finland’s snowy wonderland.
Today, you have plenty of options to explore the village and its surroundings. You might try an exciting toboggan ride near the hotel, speeding down snowy slopes for a thrill. Or you could join one of the many optional excursions available, each offering its own special adventure in the wilderness.
As evening approaches, get ready for an enchanting Reindeer Safari, where you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. A short trip takes you to a local reindeer farm, where you’ll meet a traditional Sámi family. Here, you can feed the majestic reindeer and learn about their care.
With the help of your guide, test your skills at the Lappish lasso, a traditional technique used by the Sámi people. Then, step inside a cosy Lappish hut, where you can enjoy a warm drink and chat about reindeer and Sámi traditions.
If the weather is clear, hop on a reindeer sleigh for a magical ride through the snowy landscape under the starry sky. Experience the peaceful beauty of Lapland as you glide through the snow.
After the safari, return to your hotel in Saariselkä for a restful night, filled with memories of your unforgettable day in Finland’s snowy paradise.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Saariselka
Day 14: Saariselka – Rovaniemi – Sinetta (Santa Claus Village)
Today, we journey to the lively centre of Lapland, Rovaniemi, with a charming stop at the historic Sodankylä Old Church along the route.
Upon arrival in Rovaniemi, get ready for an enchanting visit to Santa Claus Village, where the festive spirit fills the air all year round. Encounter herds of majestic reindeer and, if luck is on your side, catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of this Christmas-themed Park, where joy knows no bounds. And if you’re fortunate, witness the captivating Northern Lights dancing in the sky above, adding to the enchantment.
As night falls, retreat to the peaceful setting of an Arctic snow hotel in Sinettä. Relax at the hotel’s luxurious spa and sauna facilities before enjoying a delicious dinner. Then, retire to your cosy glass igloo for the night. With its 360-degree glass roof, you can keep watch for the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis painting the night sky with its vibrant colours. It’s sure to be an unforgettable evening under Lapland’s starry canopy.
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Arctic Snowhotel Sinetta – Glass Igloo
Day 15: Sinetta – Rovaniemi (Canine Companions)
Today, we journey to Rovaniemi, where your hotel awaits amidst the enchanting Arctic landscape. This captivating city has a rich history dating back to the 19th century Lapland gold rush. Despite facing extensive destruction during World War II, Rovaniemi has transformed into a symbol of resilience and reinvention. Intriguingly, the city’s layout was redesigned in the distinctive shape of a reindeer’s head, honouring its connection to Lapland’s iconic wildlife.
Upon arrival, get ready for an unforgettable encounter with another beloved symbol of Lapland: the husky. In the afternoon, visit a husky dog kennel, where you’ll meet these charming, furry companions. Enjoy a delightful lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the kennel, learning about the unique bond between these dogs and the local community. Discover the rigorous training that prepares them to thrive in Lapland’s rugged terrain.
Afterward, embark on an exhilarating adventure through the Lapland wilderness aboard a husky-drawn cart or sled. Feel the rush of excitement as you glide through the snowy landscape, guided by the strength and agility of these magnificent animals. Then, gather around a crackling fire to enjoy a well-deserved snack and hot drink, savouring the warmth and camaraderie of your husky-driven escapade. It’s sure to be an unforgettable day of exploration in Lapland’s pristine wilderness.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Rovaniemi
Day 16: Rovaniemi (Capital of Lapland)
After breakfast, the day is yours to explore Rovaniemi further, with your tour guide ready to suggest exciting excursions and attractions to enhance your Arctic adventure.
Consider visiting the iconic Jätkänkynttilä bridge, a testament to Finland’s engineering prowess. Its suspension design, adorned with striking lamps atop towering pillars, offers breathtaking views of the Kemijoki River below.
Explore Finland’s architectural heritage at the Aalto Centre, designed by the renowned architect Alvar Aalto. Each building pays homage to Finnish culture and nature, with roads resembling reindeer antlers.
Discover science and culture at the Pilke Science Centre and Korundi House of Culture, with interactive exhibits and captivating displays. Or visit Ranua Zoo to encounter Arctic wildlife, including polar bears and Finnish brown bears, in their natural habitat.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Rovaniemi
Day 17: Rovaniemi – Helsinki (Finland’s Capital)
Today, we begin our journey from Rovaniemi to Helsinki, Finland’s lively capital. A comfortable train ride awaits, offering scenic views as we travel to this bustling metropolis, known for its liveability worldwide.
Upon our arrival in late afternoon, Helsinki welcomes us with its captivating blend of old-world charm and modern flair. From majestic landmarks to quaint streets, the city invites exploration.
With daylight still on our side, we can explore the city centre’s hidden treasures. Wander through bustling streets lined with diverse dining options, cafes, and bars, each offering a taste of Helsinki’s culinary delights.
For nature lovers, Helsinki’s abundance of green spaces and waterfronts provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether strolling along the waterfront or exploring nearby parks, the city’s natural beauty is sure to impress.
As the sun sets, soak in the enchanting atmosphere of Helsinki’s streets, where hospitality and adventure await. With its rich culture and modern vibe, Helsinki promises an unforgettable experience for all who roam its vibrant streets.
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Helsinki
Day 18: Depart Helsinki (The Adventure Ends)
As we bid farewell to Helsinki, we reflect on the remarkable journey from the southern reaches of Norway to the untamed landscapes of Finnish Lapland. From exploring the Polar Night to witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, it has been an extraordinary adventure. As you check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport, cherish the memories we’ve created together. From discovering new destinations to forming connections with fellow travellers, each moment has been meaningful.
To our fellow adventurers and the fantastic crew, thank you for the shared laughter and camaraderie. Until we reunite, may your journeys be filled with exploration and happiness. Farewell, and may you travel safely until our paths cross again.
MEALS: Breakfast, In-Flight
Day 19: Arrive Home
Today you will arrive back to Australia. Due to flight scheduling, you may arrive home on Day 20.
MEALS: In-Flight
