We’ll venture deep into the heart of Scandinavia to discover the countries of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. The Nordic region’s natural beauty is truly something to behold and its rugged landscapes are arguably some of the most scenic on earth. During our exploration of Scandinavia, we’ll visit historic towns, taste Scandinavian cuisine, and most importantly, meet the warm-hearted Nordic people.
DAYS 1/2—WELCOME TO SWEDEN!
After arriving in the beautiful harbor city of Stockholm, enjoy a city tour to experience this metropolitan area that is a perfect blend of medieval and modern. Our tour will feature views of the Royal Palace from Old Town where you’ll have free time to explore and enjoy lunch on your own. Our last stop of the day is the famous Vasa Museum which highlights the Vasa warship from 1628. Later, we’ll enjoy a welcome dinner together as we make new friends. D
DAY 3—STOCKHOLM/DROTTNINGHOLM
This morning, embark on a delightful lunch cruise that includes a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Drottningholm Palace, where you will enjoy a guided tour. Our visit to the Queen and King’s residence offers an immersive journey through Sweden’s rich royal history, showcasing the opulent staterooms, beautifully preserved interiors, and stunning Baroque gardens. Cruising back to Stockholm, you’ll have time to dine at a local restaurant and take a stroll through the charming city streets. B, L
DAY 4—MARIEFRED/GRYTHYTTAN
We will depart this morning and travel west to Mariefred, a charming small town located on the shores of Lake Mälaren. This town offers a serene atmosphere with beautiful landscapes and is home to Gripsholm Castle, a stunning Renaissance fortress that houses the Swedish National Portrait Gallery. Next, have a locally grown lunch with a beautiful view over the local lake. We will continue on to Grythyttan for the night, known for its natural mineral springs. B, L, D
DAY 5—OSLO
We begin our journey to Oslo, Norway, with a stop for lunch along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy a narrated tour of the capital and see the world famous Vigeland Park, Oslo Opera House, and more. Visit the Fram Museum, which tells the story of Norwegian polar exploration, with a focus on the Arctic and Antarctic regions. After a day of sightseeing, we’ll enjoy dinner together at our hotel. B, L, D
DAY 6—STALHEIM
Today, we journey along charming country roads to a traditional Norwegian mountain farm on our way to Stalheim. Here, you’ll discover how mountain farm life has evolved over the years, blending old traditions with modern practices. We’ll also visit one of the beautiful Stave churches in Norway before continuing to Stalheim, located high on the mountain with sweeping views of the Nærøy valley. B, L, D
DAY 7—FLAM/AURLAND FJORD CRUISE
This morning we venture on the Flam Railway! With twisting tunnels that spiral in and out of the Nordic mountains, the Flam Railway reflects the most daring and skillful engineering in railway history. This afternoon, we’ll cruise from Flam to Gudvangen amid the spectacular scenery of Aurland and Næroy Fjords. B, D
DAY 8—HARDANGER/BERGEN
Today we travel to the Hardanger Fjord area, known as “Norway’s Garden,” for the temperate climate and rich soil that produces an amazing array of fruit trees. We’ll stop at the Hardanger Juice and Cider factory for a guided tour of the farm and some tasty samples. On our way to Bergen, we’ll take the funicular to Mount Fløien for amazing and delicious dinner. B, D
DAY 9—BERGEN
This morning explore Bryggen, one of Norway’s main attractions known for its colorful wooden houses. The pier “Bryggen” was built after the great fire in 1702 and is included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. We will also see the local Fish Market before we visit the famous Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg’s home, Troldhaugen, for a guided tour. Afterward, we return to Bergen for an afternoon at our leisure before a delectable dinner. B, D
DAY 10—COPENHAGEN
We depart Bergen in the morning for a short flight to Copenhagen, Denmark. This afternoon, meet our guide for a city tour to visit the Little Mermaid sculpture, the Gefion Fountain, the palace of the Danish Royal Family, the National Library, and more. Afterward, we’ll settle into our hotel and enjoy dinner together. B, D
DAY 11—KRONBORG CASTLE/FARM VISIT
Today, we visit the 16th century Kronborg Castle — the UNESCO World Heritage Site made famous by Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Continuing our drive, we’ll stop to meet a wonderful farm family. Next, we’ll return to Copenhagen for dinner. B, D
DAY 12—ROSKILDE
Today, we continue our travels to Roskilde for a visit to the famous Viking Ship Museum, where you’ll explore their exhibitions and living workshops. Enjoy time on your own this afternoon to explore the National Museum of Denmark, stroll along the harbor area, or peruse the area’s quaint shops for last minute souvenirs. Tonight, enjoy one last dinner together with your newfound friends. B, D
DAY 13—RETURN HOME
After fond farewells, return home with memories of our scenic adventures through Scandinavia. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 2-3: Clarion Hotel Sign, Stockholm
Night 4: Loka Brunn, Grythyttan
Night 5: Comfort Hotel Børsparken, Copenhagen
Nights 6-7: Stalheim Hotel, Vossestrand
Nights 8-9: Clarion Hotel Havnekontoret, Bergen
Nights 10-12: Scandic Hotel, Copenhagen
Dates:
Sep 1-13, 2025
Price Per Person:
Double $5,897
Single $6,845
Pre-/Post Tour Hotel:
$218/night
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Reception and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Available about 10 months before departure.
Departure Time
Available about 10 months before departure.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our pre and post hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Free parking is offered during the tour at our hotel in Chicago with a pre or post night booked.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your CTD vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved on our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for a mile at a time for a total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate. Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, you should know that you may be required to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law often does not allow travelers to remain on the motorcoach while it is parked for a scheduled stop.
Average Temps
High of 65°, low of 50°
Currency
Norwegian & Danish Krone (Norway and Denmark), Swedish Krona (Sweden)
Time Zone
GMT-5 (6 hours ahead of New York)
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer and complimentary Wi-Fi. Most hotels also offer a fitness room.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Land Tours begin one day later. Airport transfers are not included with Land Only Tours.
Dress on tour is casual. Comfortable walking shoes are needed.
Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
