fbpx

Peregrine Travel Centre

Complete Scandinavia

Complete Scandinavia

From $ 11,535 AUD

Book Now Request a callback
Email Us Print
,

Description

It’s fair to say, Scandinavia is having a moment. Perhaps several moments. With cutting edge minimalist design, five-star fusion cuisine, long life expectancy and a social system that runs like Danish clockwork, it seems every cafe, furniture store and political system on the planet can learn a thing or two from Europe’s latest hotspot. This is your chance to see it up close. From the inky Fjordlands of Norway’s coastline to the fish markets of Copenhagen, along with gems like Bergen, Lillehammer and the Swedish Lakes District. And like any well-plotted Danish drama, there’ll be a few surprises along the way.

Trip Name
Complete Scandinavia
Last Updated
2024-09-03
Days
21
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Norway's fjords feature some of the most stunning scenery on Earth. Cruise past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks through the narrow Naeroyfjord.
  • Follow your local guide along the narrow, winding roads through genuine villages, past the typical red painted cottages and explore unique sights around Siljan lake rural settlements. You'll even get a chance to meet and mingle with the locals living in these villages.
  • Take a ferry to Vrango Island, a stunning fishing town in the Gothenburg Archipelago, and discover this rocky nature haven by kayak (summer months only).
  • Join a local guide and cafe-hop your way around Alingsas, a town known as the Capital of Fika (Swedish cafe and food culture). Learn of the local love affair with coffee, discover the story behind the cafe culture and, of course, treat your tastebuds to sweet Swedish delicacies.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. MUSEUM VISITS & OPENING TIMES Many sites, attractions and museums are closed on Mondays (and sometimes Tuesdays). We recommend checking the opening times of anywhere you're interested to visit and making reservations where required/possible.

Day 1 - Copenhagen
Welcome to Copenhagen. If you arrive early, which is highly recommended, why not visit the pastel-coloured waterfront houses in the Nyhavn area. Drop in at an industrial-chic bar for a drink or stroll around the famous Tivoli Gardens, home to the world's oldest rollercoaster. Another area worth checking out is Norrebro, a residential area known for its wide range of restaurants. Meet your group at 6 pm then head out for an optional group dinner if it takes your fancy.
Day 2 - Copenhagen
Today see Copenhagen through a different lens. Join a local guide from Street Voices, a socially responsible company, with a mission to enhance life quality for socially vulnerable people and be led to the unlit corners of Copenhagen. You will hear different tales from lives on the edge and get insight into the life of a homeless person, their everyday struggles, and how to follow the unwritten rules of the streets. The afternoon is free for you to further explore this Scandinavian city. Venture into the Freetown of Christiania, self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood south-east of the city center. It is regulated by a special law, the Christiania Law of 1989, and has been a source of controversy since 1971 when squatters took over a former military area. Stroll along the harbor or head out to the classicist palaces of 18th century Amalienborg, to this day the main residence of the Danish Royal family. Perhaps pay a visit to Frederik's Church, also known as Marble Church, the Court House on Nytorv Square or check out the facade of the red brick town hall. Alternatively, the National Museum is not to be missed, nor is the Christiansborg Palace in the very center of Copenhagen.
Day 3 - Malmo / Gothenburg
A morning train ride will get us to Malmo in Sweden, via the famous Oresund Bridge that spans the strait separating Denmark and the Scandinavian Peninsula. Malmo has gone through somewhat of a transformation, or should we say revival, over the past twenty years thanks to the construction of the Oresund Bridge and the opening of Malmo University. Now, a city once reliant mainly on shipbuilding is growing steadily with architecture firms, IT companies, students and start-ups. Just under half of Malmo's population is under the age of 35, so it really now is a progressive city that knows how to have fun. Spend some time checking out the Old Town, the castle or perhaps have a glance inside Apoteket Lejonet, a 1896 pharmacy in Neo-Renaissance style. Then continue on to Gothenburg (by train or bus depending on availability at the time of booking), where you'll spend the night.
Day 4 - Vrango Island / Gothenburg
Catch an early-ish ferry from Gothenburg to Vrango Island. Vrango is the most southerly island of the Gothenburg Archipelago, with a permanent population in the low hundreds and a strong fishing industry. The island is known for its stunning beaches and protected nature reserves and you'll explore the coastline in an included kayaking activity (summer only). In the afternoon, enjoy some free time strolling around the town or maybe try an optional floating sauna, before returning to Gothenburg for a free evening. Sweden's second largest city is known as the world's most sustainable destination and is exemplary example of what a responsible tourism destination should look like.
Day 5 - Gothenburg
This morning you'll head to Alingsas, regarded as the Capital of Fika, a Swedish cafe and food culture. You'll be accompanied by a local expert to tour some of the town's best traditional cafes. You'll learn of the local love affair with coffee and discover the story behind this town's special cafe culture. And, of course, you'll also get a chance to sample Swedish cinnamon buns, biscuits, chocolate truffles, pastries and sandwiches. You'll return to Gothenburg in the late afternoon and have a little time to explore at your leisure. Perhaps visit the Göteborg City Museum, housed in the former East India Company House and built during the time when Gothenburg's role was that of a major maritime trading centre. Take in the architectural ensemble on Gustav Adolfs Torg, go shopping along the main boulevard Avenyn, check out the iconic Skansen Kronan, stroll along bohemian Långgatan street or sip a coffee in the charming Haga quarter, known for its picturesque wooden houses.
Day 6 - Oslo
Catch a morning bus across the border to Norway's capital Oslo. Your leader will take you on an initial orientation walk so you get a first taste of this quirky, colourful city. It's definitely worthwhile to spend the afternoon perusing delicacies at Maschmanns Food Market, admiring the handiwork of glass blowers at the Hadeland Glassverk, or simply strolling along Karl Johans Gate, the main shopping strip of the city. Perhaps head to the Munch Museum to glimpse Edvard Munch's famous 19th-century painting, The Scream. In the evening say 'skal' ('cheers') to the group over dinner. Why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare based around cod and mackerel dishes.
Day 7 - Oslo
Today is a free day for you to enjoy all this city has to offer. You may like to roam the roof of the Olso Opera House, stroll the avenues of Vigeland Park or catch a ferry to the Viking Ship Museum. Meet your new group in the evening and perhaps head out for a drink or dinner and get to know any new travellers joining you.
Day 8 - Oslo
This morning, follow your leader on an orientation walk in the city. Then enjoy some free time in Oslo. Maybe embark on some island hopping on Oslofjord, browse the harbour-front Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, taste local flavours at the food hall Vulkan, explore the immense Akershus Castle & Fortress, or check out the cool shops in the Grunerløkka district. There's so much to get stuck into.
Day 9 - Bergen
Today you'll leave Oslo behind and take the train across the stunning countryside of the Fjell region to Bergen. No other train ride between two cities in Europe is at a higher altitude than this one, and few can match the views passing by your window. Linking Norway's two main cities, this line takes in some spectacular scenery of lush valleys, idyllic villages, dramatic mountains and picturesque lakes as it crosses the Hardangervidda Plateau. As the trip is long and you'll arrive quite late into quirky city of Bergen, there won't be too much time to explore today (don't worry, you'll have time to explore here tomorrow). There are some great seafood restaurants in town, so possibly venture out with the group for a bite to eat this evening.
Day 10 - Bergen
After breakfast this morning, join your leader for a ride by Fløibanen funicular. Taking you to 1.050 feet above the city in just seven minutes, it offers a bird eye prospective of the town and vistas of the deep blues of the sea. Those who want to get active can also continue following its multiple hiking trails. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore however you like. Perhaps visit World Heritage Bryggen area and wander through the reconstructed medieval homes and warehouses or visit the beautifully preserved wooden Hanseatic Museum (a former trade building), and explore the old Hanseatic port area – the Hanseatic merchant confederation dominated Baltic maritime trade for 400 years from the 15th century.
Day 11 - Norwegian Fjords
Leave Bergen after breakfast and travel by bus to the fjord region. The journey will take you through epic landscapes and remote regions, so have your camera at the ready. The typical Norwegian huts that you’ll stay in tonight are located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by steep cliff walls with a perfect view of the spectacular crystal clear Kjelsfossen waterfall falling from the top of the fjords. It's humbling to look up and consider these giant and ancient geological formations. Your accommodation is located near the village of Gudvangen.
Day 12 - Norwegian Fjords
Today, take a boat trip and be captivated by the sight of crisp mountain peaks reflected in the glassy waters of Naeroyfjord, a World Heritage site. The name Naeroyfjord takes its origins from the Norse god of seafarers and the sea, Njord. The fjord itself, formed by glacial erosion of the surrounding bedrock, is 18 kilometres long and only 250 metres wide at its narrowest point, but its depth reaches up to 500 metres. Surrounding mountain peaks rise up to 1400 metres and waterfalls crash down sheer cliff faces. The boat cruise will finish in fishing village of Flam, where you can ride the famous railway up to Myrdal (at extra cost). This is one of the most picturesque (and steepest) railway journeys in the country. Alternatively, explore on foot and discover nearby waterfalls and ancient moraines. Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunity to throw a line in the crystal waters, sit back and soak up the serenity (a fishing license is required and costs around NOK 150). In afternoon, catch the bus back to Gudvangen and spend the rest of the day as you please.
Day 13 - Lillehammer
There will be another long bus journey ahead of us after breakfast today, as you journey to the town Alpine playground of Lillehammer. Cross vast high plains, and remote valleys, and drive through the Lærdal Tunnel, the world's longest road tunnel at 24.5 km. The tunnel is divided into four sections, broken up by ‘mountain caves’. These caves are 6 kilometres apart and equipped with special lighting to help drivers concentrate by giving off the illusion of driving into daylight. Lillehammer, which held the Winter Olympics in 1994, is picturesquely situated on Lake Mjøsa. When you arrive, head out for a brief orientation walk to find your bearings in the laid-back 19th-century town centre, along the main pedestrian street of Storgata (Big Street), lined with wooden houses, boutiques and restaurants.
Day 14 - Lillehammer
Join an orientation walk this morning and get to know Lillehammer. Your leader will take you on an included visit to the Maihaugen Open Air Museum, home of the Garmo Stave Church, which tells the story of people in the Gudbrandsdalen Valley over the last 300 years. This brilliant museum includes timber-built farms, a town and a big residential area that gives you an insight into various eras of Norway's history. The afternoon is free for you to further explore. Perhaps conquer misty mountains on a hike. As a town famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer has a great Olympic Museum where you can hear tales of heroic feats and is also an ideal spot for many outdoor activities.
Day 15 - Swedish Lakes
Travel for around five hours by private bus today and cross the border into Sweden. Head to the lakeside town Rättvik, a laidback place that encapsulates the most Swedish of Swedish landscapes, and which sits right in the middle of the Swedish lakes. Rättvik is a location steeped in history and culture that's ready to be discovered. Dalarna county is in the heart of the Sweden and is famous for the national symbol of the wooden Dala horse. Tonight, you will stay at in a peaceful setting of local B&B located 7 km outside of Rattvik.
Day 16 - Swedish Lakes
This morning you'll get a chance to get under the surface of this region with a special guided village safari with local experts. You'll get to know the history behind the villages here and learn about the traditions of the area around Lake Siljan. A truly memorable experience, you'll visit a variety of villages, discover the traditional way of life and mingle with the locals. The rest of the day is free to explore the local area and its lakes. Perhaps take a leisurely historic boat trip across the lake, sink a line to partake in a little fishing, hike around the gentle rolling surrounds or enjoy local artisan shopping.
Day 17 - Stockholm
Leaving the Swedish lakes behind, head to the country's cultural, political and economic capital of Stockholm by train. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the North' and arguably Scandinavia 's most beautiful city, Stockholm is packed full of amazing architecture, pristine parks and clear waters. After an introductory orientation walk, use the rest of your day to settle into your accommodation and explore the area around you. You can perhaps head underground for the world’s longest art exhibition. Connecting the fourteen islands of the city and blasted through hard rocky ground, the subway (Tunnelbana) system's 100 stations are like the longest modern art exhibition in the world, featuring artwork from over 140 different artists. Enjoy the narrow cobble stone streets and the colourful merchant houses. Why not soak up the culture and try a cinnamon roll in Stockholm’s oldest café Sundbergs Konditori located on Jarntorget square, and dating from 1785.
Day 18 - Stockholm
After breakfast, go on an included visit to the Vasa Museum on the inner-city island of Djurgarden. The 17th-century warship, Vasa, sank in 1628 on her maiden voyage in the harbour of Stockholm and was salvaged only in 1961. As one of the most visited sights in Sweden, the Vasa Museum collection consists of the Vasa itself and all of the objects that were found within the ship. The rest of the afternoon is all yours to explore as you wish, so why not leave the city behind for a few hours and see the waterways of Stockholm on a cruise past tiny islets and along narrow waterways? Consider taking a self-guided Millennium Walking Tour of Stockholm or visit the Abba Museum. Alternatively, you can take a trip to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish royal family. There are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy here in this great Scandinavian city, so plan your activities wisely. Tonight perhaps head to Stockholm's Sodermalm district, the inner-city island with the best nightlife, full of hip shops, bars and cafes. Or maybe sit down at one of the city’s top-notch restaurants, such as the latest venues opened on the cobblestoned islet of Gamla Stan, or in the cool fusion restaurants of Kungsholmen.
Day 19 - Stockholm / Overnight Ferry
Today is free for you to enjoy your last day in Sweden. In the evening, you'll be boarding an overnight ferry for Helsinki, Finland.
Day 20 - Helsinki
After your morning arrival into Helsinki's port you will take a public transport to your hotel. Discover a wealth of historical sights and gastronomic wonders in Helsinki. Apart from a short orientation walk, today is completely free and you'll be able to explore Helsinki in your own time. A few options to consider during your time here are a visit to the city's cathedral or the interesting Design Museum. Don't miss the harbour-side market and market hall from 1889 for local oddities, and make sure you take a short ferry ride to the magnificent Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, sometimes referred to as the Gibraltar of the North, a World Heritage-listed site that was once an important point of defence for the city. Surrounded by the sea, Helsinki is a modern European city that offers an endless array of options. Throughout its 450-year history, the city has often been the buffer between the east and west. This is shown in their cuisine, with a mix of root vegetables, berries and fresh fish. Perhaps head out in the evening to sample some traditional dishes at dinner with your group.
Day 21 - Helsinki
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. There are no more activities planned and you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you would like to extend your stay in Helsinki we are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Please speak to your travel consultant at the time of booking.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
27-04-202517-05-2025AUD $ 11,535-
04-05-202524-05-2025AUD $ 11,535-
11-05-202531-05-2025AUD $ 11,650-
15-05-202504-06-2025AUD $ 11,535-
18-05-202507-06-2025AUD $ 11,535-
25-05-202514-06-2025AUD $ 11,535-
01-06-202521-06-2025AUD $ 12,235-
08-06-202528-06-2025AUD $ 11,995-
12-06-202502-07-2025AUD $ 11,995-
15-06-202505-07-2025AUD $ 11,995-
22-06-202512-07-2025AUD $ 12,455-
29-06-202519-07-2025AUD $ 12,455-
03-07-202523-07-2025AUD $ 12,455-
17-07-202506-08-2025AUD $ 12,455-
20-07-202509-08-2025AUD $ 12,455-
24-07-202513-08-2025AUD $ 12,455-
27-07-202516-08-2025AUD $ 12,455-
03-08-202523-08-2025AUD $ 12,455-
07-08-202527-08-2025AUD $ 11,995-
10-08-202530-08-2025AUD $ 11,995-
14-08-202503-09-2025AUD $ 11,995-
17-08-202506-09-2025AUD $ 11,995-
21-08-202510-09-2025AUD $ 11,535-
24-08-202513-09-2025AUD $ 11,535-
31-08-202520-09-2025AUD $ 11,535-
26-04-202616-05-2026AUD $ 12,110-
03-05-202623-05-2026AUD $ 12,110-
10-05-202630-05-2026AUD $ 12,110-
14-05-202603-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
17-05-202606-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
21-05-202610-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
24-05-202613-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
28-05-202617-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
31-05-202620-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
04-06-202624-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
07-06-202627-06-2026AUD $ 12,110-
11-06-202601-07-2026AUD $ 12,110-
14-06-202604-07-2026AUD $ 12,110-
21-06-202611-07-2026AUD $ 12,110-
25-06-202615-07-2026AUD $ 12,110-
28-06-202618-07-2026AUD $ 12,110-
02-07-202622-07-2026AUD $ 12,110-
09-07-202629-07-2026AUD $ 12,110-
12-07-202601-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
16-07-202605-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
19-07-202608-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
23-07-202612-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
26-07-202615-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
02-08-202622-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
06-08-202626-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
09-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 12,110-
13-08-202602-09-2026AUD $ 12,110-
16-08-202605-09-2026AUD $ 12,110-
20-08-202609-09-2026AUD $ 12,110-
23-08-202612-09-2026AUD $ 12,110-
30-08-202619-09-2026AUD $ 12,110-

Accommodation

Hotel (14 nights),Cabin (2 nights),Pension (3 night),Overnight ferry (1 night)

Transport

Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Overnight ferry,Bicycle,Metro,Tram,Boat

Map

Related products

Recent Blog Posts

Browse Trips in

Intrepid Sweden
More of activity:
Walking & Trekking