Scandinavia & Baltic Delights
- Tour ID: VOS4
Tour Info:
- Duration: 17 Days / 16 Nights
- Seasons: Summer
- Travel Style: Group Tours, Multi Country, Partially Guided Tours
- Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden
- Available: Sep: 11, 25
If you’re short of time but want to see it all in a whirlwind 17 days, this is absolutely the tour for you. You’ll visit all three of the Scandinavian countries, Finland and the Baltic states of Tallinn, Latvia and Lithuania. Experience the beauty of the fjords, explore iconic landmarks in cities where the old and new are combined in one. The Baltic States are a feast of Old Towns, beautifully preserved, just waiting to be explored. This tour is accompanied by tour escort until day 10 from when it becomes an independent tour with all services and activities pre-arranged.
The option of a shorter tour from Copenhagen to Stockholm leaving the tour on day 10, is possible.
Highlights:
- Majestic Fjords
- Beautiful Old Towns
- Quirky Baltic States
- City sightseeing tours
- Mysterious HIll of Crosses
Price Includes:
Accommodation on twin/double share basis. Single supplement applies.
- Tour Escort days 1 - 10
- 14 nights 3 & 4 star hotel accommodation
- Breakfast daily
- Dinners day 3 & 6
- Two overnight cruises
- Cruise on the Sognefjord & Aurlandsfjord from Flåm to Balestrand
- Entrance to Borgund Church
- Panoramic train from Myrdal to Flåm
- Bergen Railway train from Voss to Myrdal
- Ferries as per itinerary
- Guided sightseeing tours Copenhagen, Aarhus, Bergen, Oslo, Stockholm Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga & Vilnius
- Overnight ferry Stockholm to Helsinki in interior cabin
- Cruise Stavanger - Preikestolen - Stavanger
Price Excludes:
- Items not mentioned under 'Inclusions'
- Flights
- Travel Insurance
Itinerary:
Welcome to Copenhagen, the capital of The Kingdom of Denmark! The history of Copenhagen dates back to around the year 800, when it emerged around a small fishing village. By 1300, it had established itself as the capital city.
Make your own way to the hotel (optional transfers can be arranged for an additional charge). This evening meet your guide in hotel reception.
This morning join your local guide for a panoramic tour taking in its old architecture and the port of Nyhavn. In this thousand-year-old city, its historical charm offers everything expected of a modern metropolis: theatres, museums, restaurants and shopping. Other points of interest are the Amalienborg Palace, home to the royalty of Denmark, the Christianborg Palace, the seat of Danish Parliament and the National Museum of History. To complete your tour, say hello to the famous ‘Little Mermaid’ perched on her rock and keeping eternal watch over the sea.
In the afternoon, you will depart to Aarhus, taking the ferry in Odden.
Take in the sights of Aarhus this morning with your guide with a visit to the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral.. This second most populous in Denmark, Aarhus was named the European Capital of Culture in 2017. Its strategic location made it an important Viking city whilst later it became a flourishing commercial place. Free time to explore on your own before departing for Hirtshals, where you will board an overnight cruise to Norway.
After your tour of the Old City, enjoy a cruise to the Pulpit Rock. The 3-hour cruise on the Lysefjord takes you so close a waterfall within the fjords that you feel the spray on your face and also gives you a view of the Pulpit Rock towering above the fjord.
This morning you take a ferry from Mortavika to Årsvågen and another from Sandvikvåg to Halhjem. Once you arrive in Bergen, enjoy free time for lunch. Later, join a panoramic tour of Bergen guided by a local expert, exploring iconic sites like the renowned fish market and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hanseatic quarter. In the afternoon, consider taking a ride on the Floibanen funicular to the summit of Mount Floyen, where you can marvel at breathtaking views of the city and its picturesque surroundings.
After breakfast, you’re off to Voss to embark on a spectacular train journey that climbs almost 900 meters, offering incredible views of the fjord. The train departs from Voss and takes you to Myrdal station, a mountain railway station and junction located roughly 13 km from the village of Flåm. At Myrdal, you’ll board the renowned Flåmsbana, known as one of the steepest train lines globally. This scenic ride winds through stunning landscapes, passing the Rallar road, steep mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and traversing no less than 20 tunnels. The abundance of viewpoints along the route may even make you feel like you’re traveling between the mountain and the fjord multiple times. Upon arrival in Flåm, free time to explore the village.
The journey continues with a cruise on the Sognefjord to our accommodation in Balestrand, a rural area surrounded by nature. Sognefjord, often referred to as the King of Norway, is the longest fjord in Norway. The initial part of the fjord, known as Aurlandsfjord, stretches for 17 kilometers and is a branch of the world’s second longest fjord, the Sognefjord (204 km). It stands out as one of the most picturesque fjords in the world.
Continue your route through mountains, valleys, and breathtaking landscapes, passing numerous villages nestled in nature, while taking the necessary connecting ferries. A stop is planned at the Borgund Church, a historic wooden church dating back to 1,180 AD. In the afternoon, your journey will carry on towards Lake Tyrifjord, culminating in your arrival in Oslo.
Enjoy a morning guided tour of Oslo, exploring Frogner Park with the Vigeland sculpture complex, passing by the City Hall, the Royal Palace, and the modern Opera. Free time for lunch.
After lunch depart to Sweden, arriving in Karlstad. This charming city is situated in the delta formed by two of Sweden’s remarkable natural watercourses: the Klara River and the impressive Lake Vänern.
Depart towards the East until reaching the Swedish capital, which is built on 14 islands. Surrounded by Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, Stockholm boasts grand public buildings, palaces, and a rich cultural history. Its museums narrate a beautiful 700-year-old story.
Upon arriving in Stockholm, you’ll embark on a panoramic tour of the city with a local guide visting the old town, or “Gamla Stan,” with its network of small squares and cobbled streets. Also view the exteriors of the Royal Palace, the Cathedral, and the Parliament.
Free time this morning to explore the city at your own pace. Stockholm is often called the “Beauty on Water” or the “Venice of the North” due to its location on 14 islands. Take a stroll along a canal, indulge in some Swedish Fika, or perhaps do some last-minute shopping.
In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred to the Stockholm harbour to board your overnight cruise to Helsinki. Cabin upgrade can be requested at supplement. NOTE: Tour becomes self guided from this point.
Welcome to Finland and its magnificent capital city, Helsinki! Upon arrival in Helsinki, you’ll embark on a 2-hour sightseeing tour past the famous sights – Senaatintori, the Senate square, with its magnificent architectural ensemble, the harbour and Kauppatori, the picturesque market square, bustling with flowers, fruits, and lively traders. Then on to Tuomio Kirkko (cathedral), built in the 19th century, boasting an impressive copper dome and hosting regular concerts. Another notable church is Temppeliaukio Kirkko, carved into the rock for excellent acoustics. Finally, we’ll visit the Uspenski Cathedral, an Orthodox Cathedral in neo-Byzantine style, towering proudly on Katajanokka Island.
Morning departure by ferry for the 2 hour crossing to Tallinn.
After checking in, join a 3-hour sightseeing tour of the Old Town with a guide. Divided in two very distinctive parts: Toompea hill and the lower town, and centred around Raekoja plats (the Town Hall Square), the town is surrounded by a 2.5km-fortified wall. The tour, will introduce you to the beautiful Orthodox Cathedral Alexander Nevsky, the Toompea castle (home to the Estonian Parliament), The City Hall Square, the house of the Brotherhood of Blackheads, St Olaf and Niguliste churches.
Remainder of day at leisure to continue exploring the city at your own pace and visit more attractions. Tallinn is known for its cuisine so do try one of their wonderful selection of restaurants.
Enjoy some free time in the morning to explore Tallinn at your leisure!
Afternoon departure towards Riga on a long-distance coach, with a short break in Pärnu, a bustling beach retreat with early 20th-century buildings, and a beautiful promenade where you can try a local snack before continuing to Latvia.
Morning sightseeing tour Riga. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sights, including the elegant Art Nouveau district and the old town with its many medieval churches. Drive along the central boulevards of Riga, surrounded by the beautiful City Canal Park and Bastion Hill, as well as numerous parks. You’ll also see the 19th-century New Opera House, the Riga Castle built for the city’s archbishop in the 14th century, and Europe’s largest Riga Central Market, housed in reused Zeppelin hangars. During your walk along the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter impressive landmarks such as the Powder Tower, Swedish barracks, Swedish Gate, “Three Brothers” houses, the Brotherhood of Blackheads building established 600 years ago, the majestic Dome Cathedral founded in 1211 with one of Europe’s best organs, the House of Cats, Richard Wagner Street, and the theatre where he conducted in the 1830s, as well as the Great and Small Guild houses.
The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your own pace, visit more attractions, and savor the local cuisine.
Morning departure to Vilnius on a long-distance coach. Along the way, after crossing the border into Lithuania, there will be a short photo break at the impressive pilgrimage site, the Hill of Crosses, whose origins remain a mystery.
In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour Sightseeing Tour of Vilnius. The Old Town, characterized by its architectural ensemble of Central European Catholic inspiration, stands in contrast to the Germanic influence found in other Baltic capitals. It offers a labyrinth of winding streets, inner courtyards, and old churches that seem to jealously hide some mysteries. This tour notably includes Vilnius Cathedral and a visit to Saint Anne’s Church (exterior), one of Lithuania’s Gothic masterpieces.
Day at leisure to explorer the beautiful Old Town on your own and to do some last minute shopping. For a really quirky experience, visit the self-proclaimed “Republic of Užupis” is Vilnius’s bohemian and artistic district. With it’s own anthem, constitution, president, bishop, two churches, the Bernadine Cemetery, seven bridges, and guardian and the Bronze Angel of Užupis. This is one of the e of Vilnius’s oldest districts and dates back to the 16th century.
Check out after breakfast and depart with your onward departure arrangements
Map:
Important Info:
An itinerary and quotation will be prepared for your consideration. Once accepted, a deposit is required to secure the booking.
For each traveller, we require:
- Full name exactly as shown on passport
- Date of birth
- Contact phone number
- Dietary, medical or other special requirements
No services are held at quotation stage and remain subject to availability until booked and confirmed. If a quoted service becomes unavailable, we will offer a suitable alternative where possible.
Deposit amounts vary by tour and supplier and will be advised before booking. Some accommodation, cruises, Christmas/New Year arrangements and special services may require higher deposits, full payment or non-refundable payment at booking.
Final payment is generally due 90 days before travel, unless an earlier date is required by a supplier. Your booking invoice will confirm the applicable payment schedule.
Where final supplier rates have not yet been released, provisional pricing may be provided. Any applicable conditions will be explained before booking.
Your confirmed itinerary will specify all inclusions. Unless stated otherwise, prices generally exclude:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not listed
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
- Services not specifically listed
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended as soon as the deposit is paid, particularly where components are non-refundable.
Clients receive a 20% discount with GO Insurance. Please request a quotation.
Traveller names must exactly match the passport used for travel, including all given names and surnames. Incorrect details may result in fees or difficulties with travel arrangements.
Travellers are responsible for ensuring passports meet the validity and entry requirements of all countries visited. For the Schengen Area, Australian passports generally must:
-
- Be valid for at least 3 months after departure from the Schengen Area
- Have been issued within the previous 10 years
We recommend having at least 6 months’ passport validity remaining wherever possible. Travellers are responsible for obtaining required visas, travel authorisations and other entry documents. Requirements should be checked with relevant government authorities before travel.
Nordic itineraries may involve walking on snow/ice, uneven surfaces, stairs, boats, snowmobiles, carrying luggage and extended periods outdoors in cold weather. Activities may have age, height, health, mobility or licensing requirements.
Medical conditions, mobility limitations and accessibility needs should be advised at booking so suitable arrangements can be considered.
Dietary requirements and allergies should be advised at booking. We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate them, but cannot guarantee this, particularly in remote or wilderness locations. Travellers with serious allergies should also confirm requirements directly with meal providers.
Travellers on self-drive itineraries are responsible for holding the appropriate licence for the destination and rental provider. A valid physical licence may also be required for activities such as snowmobiling.
Accommodation will be booked in the room category shown on your confirmed itinerary. Scandinavian rooms may be smaller than Australian equivalents and configurations can differ.
Twin rooms commonly have two single beds, sometimes positioned together. Additional beds may be sofa or rollaway beds. Double rooms may also use two single beds together, with separate doonas.
If accommodation must change due to circumstances outside our control, we will seek a similar or higher standard wherever possible.
Porterage is generally not included. Travellers should be comfortable managing their own luggage.
Some trains, flights, coaches, ferries, transfers and vehicles have luggage limits. Any applicable restrictions will be advised in your travel documents. One manageable suitcase per person is recommended. Excess luggage charges are the traveller’s responsibility.
Scandinavian and Lapland travel can involve very cold temperatures, snow, ice and rapidly changing weather. Appropriate thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats and suitable footwear are essential. Summer weather can also change quickly, so rain protection is recommended.
Weather, road conditions or operational issues may require activities or transport to be delayed, modified, rescheduled or replaced. Safety takes priority, and suitable alternatives will be arranged where reasonably possible.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. Sightings depend on solar activity, weather, cloud cover and darkness. Tours are designed to maximise viewing opportunities but cannot guarantee a sighting.
Weather, transport schedules, supplier operations and other circumstances may require changes to accommodation, transport, activities or itinerary order. Where possible, comparable alternatives will be arranged and significant changes communicated.
Changes and cancellations are subject to supplier conditions and may incur fees. Some services are non-refundable from booking, with Christmas/New Year arrangements often having stricter conditions.
Please refer to the full Terms & Conditions and quotation for applicable cancellation conditions.
Unused services are generally non-refundable, including those missed due to late arrival, early departure or choosing not to participate. Where services are missed due to circumstances outside the traveller’s control, we will assist where reasonably possible, subject to supplier conditions.
A live digital itinerary will be provided before departure with confirmed arrangements, important information, contacts and relevant documents/vouchers. It may be updated in real time if arrangements change.
We recommend it is kept accessible and checked regularly. If an issue occurs during travel, contact the relevant supplier and our team as soon as possible so we have the best opportunity to resolve it. Delayed reporting may limit what can be done.
Travellers should provide a mobile number that will remain active while overseas. Suppliers such as hotels, transfer companies and activity providers may use this number to contact you.
WhatsApp may not be available with all suppliers, so travellers may sometimes need to make a direct local or international call. Before departure, check roaming, international calling, SIM and eSIM options with your mobile provider.
All phone, roaming, SIM and international calling costs are the traveller’s responsibility.
Price Includes:
Based on 3* twin share. Request pricing for other categories.
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