Complete Scandinavia
from $11548
Duration: 21 Days
With stylish minimalist design, world-renowned cuisine and dramatic landscapes, Scandinavia is ripe for exploring. On this 21-day trip, you’ll visit Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland, venturing off the beaten track in search of authentic local experiences. Be awed by the Norwegian Fjords, wander the fish markets of Copenhagen, take part in the local tradition of fika in Sweden and encounter the scenic destinations of Bergen, Lillehammer and the Swedish Lakes District. With an expert local leader to guide you and some free time to tailor your adventure, you’ll leave this trip with a treasure trove of memories.
  • Cruise past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Naeroyfjord in Norway. Be surrounded by cascading waterfalls and mountain peaks up to 1400 m tall.
  • Follow your local guide along narrow, winding roads through villages and past traditional red cottages when you explore the rural settlements around Lake Siljan. You'll also get a chance to meet and mingle with the local villagers.
  • Take a ferry to Vrango Island, a fishing town in the Gothenburg archipelago, and discover rocky landscapes, beaches and protected nature reserves. In the summer months, you’ll explore by kayak!
  • Join a local guide and cafe-hop your way around Alingsas, a town known as the capital of fika (Swedish cafe culture). Learn about the local love affair with coffee, discover the story behind the tradition of coffee and cake and, of course, treat your tastebuds to sweet Swedish delicacies.
  • Unearth a different perspective in the Swedish city of Gothenburg during a guided walking tour with Street Voices – a company with a mission to spotlight the stories of socially vulnerable people.
  • Copenhagen - bike tour
  • Copenhagen - 24h public transport pass
  • Copenhagen - Street Voices guided tour
  • Vrango Island - Island Tour with Local Guide (Oct to Apr)
  • Vrango Island - Sea Kayaking (May to Sep)
  • Gothenburg - 24h public transport pass
  • Alingsas - Guided Fika experience
  • Oslo - Leader Led Walk
  • Oslo - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Bergen - Floy Mountain Funicular round trip
  • Gudvangen - Naeroyfjord Boat Cruise to Flam (one way)
  • Lillehammer - Maihaugen Open Air Museum
  • Lake Siljan - Cultural Village tour with picnic lunch
  • Stockholm - Orientation Walk
  • Stockholm - 3 day public transport pass
  • Stockholm - Vasa Museum
  • Helsinki - Orientation Walk
  • Day 1 Location: Copenhagen
    Hej! Welcome to Denmark. Your adventure begins in Copenhagen – if you arrive early, which is highly recommended, why not visit the pastel-coloured waterfront houses in the Nyhavn area. You could drop in at an industrial-chic bar for a drink or stroll around the famous Tivoli Gardens, home to one of the world's oldest rollercoasters. Another area worth checking out is Norrebro, a residential area known for its wide range of restaurants. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and the other travellers who will be joining you for the trip. After the meeting, head out for an optional welcome dinner where you can get to know your group over some tasty Danish cuisine.
    Day 2 Location: Copenhagen
    When in Copenhagen, do as the locals do – explore the city by bike! This is undoubtedly the best way to explore the city's many hidden corners, and the bike-friendly streets make it a breeze to get to all the major sites. The afternoon is free for you to keep exploring at your own pace. Stroll along the harbor or head to the 18th-century Amalienborg Palace, which is still the main residence of the Danish royal family. Maybe pay a visit to Frederik's Church (AKA the Marble Church), the Court House on Nytorv Square or the City Hall, with its red brick facade. Alternatively, the National Museum is a must-see, as is Christiansborg Palace. In summer, you can even choose to join the locals and take a refreshing dip in the free harbor baths located in the city centre.
    Day 3 Location: Vrango Island
    See Copenhagen through a different lens this morning – join a local guide from Street Voices, a company with a mission to enhance quality of life for socially vulnerable people, aiming to give voice to their stories. You’ll hear personal stories about your local guide’s everyday struggles and gain insight into the reality of life on the streets in Copenhagen. This afternoon, take a train to Gothenburg, then board a ferry to Vrango Island, where you'll spend the night.
    Day 4 Location: Gothenburg
    Today, you’ll explore Vrango – the most southerly island of the Gothenburg archipelago, with a population of just a few hundred and a strong fishing industry. The island is known for its stunning beaches and protected nature reserves – in the summer, you'll explore the coastline in an included kayaking activity. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to stroll around the town, then return to Gothenburg for a free evening. Sweden's second largest city is known as one of the world's most sustainable destinations and is exemplary of what a responsible tourism destination should look like.
    Day 5 Location: Gothenburg
    This morning, head to Alingsas, regarded as the capital of fika – a Swedish tradition of pausing during the day for a coffee and cake break. You'll be guided by a local expert on a tour of some of the town's best traditional cafes. Learn about the local love affair with coffee and discover the story behind this town's special cafe culture. 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. Maybe visit the Gothenburg City Museum, housed in the historic East India Company building, which was built in the 18th century when Gothenburg was a major maritime trading centre. Take in the architecture at Gustav Adolfs Torg, go shopping along the main boulevard Avenyn, check out the iconic Skansen Kronan, stroll along bohemian Langgatan street or sip a coffee in the charming Haga district, known for its traditional wooden houses.
    Day 6 Location: Oslo
    Catch a bus across the border to Norway's capital, Oslo. Your leader will take you on an orientation walk so you get to know this quirky, colourful city. It's highly recommended you spend the afternoon perusing delicacies at Maschmanns Food Market, admiring the handiwork of glass blowers at Hadeland Glassverk or simply strolling along Karl Johans Gate, the main shopping strip of the city. Maybe head to the Munch Museum to glimpse Edvard Munch's famous 19th-century painting, The Scream. In the evening, say 'skal' ('cheers') over dinner with your group. Why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare – cod and mackerel are very typical menu staples.
    Day 7 Location: Oslo
    Today is a free day for you to enjoy all this city has to offer. You might like to roam the roof of the Olso Opera House, stroll through Vigeland Sculpture Park to see the 200 or so sculptures by Gustav Vigeland or catch a ferry to the Viking Ship Museum. You’ll have a second welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your new group and local leader. After the meeting, maybe head out for a drink or dinner and get to know the new travellers joining your group.
    Day 8 Location: Oslo
    This morning, follow your leader on an orientation walk in the city. Then, you’ll have some free time in Oslo. Maybe go island hopping on Oslofjord, browse the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art on the harbourfront, taste local flavours at the Vulkan food hall, explore the immense Akershus Fortress or check out the cool shops in the Grunerlokka district. Ask your leader for recommendations if you need some pointers for planning your day.
    Day 9 Location: Bergen
    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 offers some spectacular scenery of lush valleys, idyllic villages, dramatic mountains and picturesque lakes as it crosses the Hardangervidda Plateau. Today’s trip is long and you'll arrive in Bergen quite late – but don’t worry, you’ll have time to explore tomorrow. There are some great seafood restaurants in town, so maybe head out with the group for a bite to eat this evening.
    Day 10 Location: Bergen
    After breakfast this morning, join your leader for a ride on the Floibanen funicular. Taking you to 350 m (1050 ft) above the city in just seven minutes, this railway offers a bird’s eye view of the town and vistas of the sea. If you feel like getting active, you can continue exploring after riding the funicular by following one of the area’s hiking trails. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore however you like. Maybe visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bryggen area and wander through the reconstructed medieval homes and warehouses. Or, you could visit the beautifully preserved wooden Hanseatic Museum (a former trade building) and explore the old Hanseatic port district – the Hanseatic merchant confederation dominated Baltic maritime trade between the 13th and 15th centuries.
    Day 11 Location: 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 set in a beautiful landscape, surrounded by steep cliffs with an excellent view of the Kjelsfossen waterfall cascading from the top of the fjords. Gaze up at the sight of these giant, ancient geological formations. Your accommodation for the next two nights is located near the village of Gudvangen.
    Day 12 Location: Norwegian Fjords
    Today, take a boat trip and be captivated by the sight of mountain peaks reflected in the glassy waters of Naeroyfjord, a UNESCO 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 km long and only 250 m wide at its narrowest point, with its depth reaching up to 500 m. Surrounding mountain peaks rise up to 1400 m and waterfalls crash down sheer cliff faces. The boat cruise will finish in the 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, you could explore on foot to 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 licence is required and costs around 150 NOK). In the afternoon, catch the bus back to Gudvangen and spend the rest of the day as you please.
    Day 13 Location: Lillehammer
    You have another long bus journey ahead of you after breakfast today, as you travel to the Alpine playground of Lillehammer. Cross vast plains and remote valleys and drive through the Laerrdal 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 km apart and are 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 situated on Lake Mjøsa. When you arrive, head out for a brief orientation walk to get your bearings in the laidback 19th-century town centre. Explore the main pedestrian street of Storgata, lined with wooden houses, boutiques and restaurants.
    Day 14 Location: Lillehammer
    This morning, you’ll visit 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 museum includes farms, a town and a large residential area that gives you an insight into various periods of Norway's history. The afternoon is free for you to keep exploring. Consider conquering the misty mountains on a hike or visiting the Olympic Museum. Otherwise, Lillehammer is an ideal spot for many outdoor activities, which your leader can help you organise if you’re interested.
    Day 15 Location: Vikarbyn
    Board a private bus today and cross the border into Sweden. Head to the lakeside town of Rattvik – a laidback spot that sits on the shores of Lake Siljan. Rattvik is steeped in history and culture – it’s situated in Dalarna County in the heart of Sweden and is famous for the Dala wooden horse, which has become a Swedish national symbol. Tonight, you’ll stay in a peaceful spot located 7 km outside of Rattvik.
    Day 16 Location: Vikarbyn
    This morning, you'll get a chance to get under the surface of this region with a special guided village safari led by local experts. You'll get to know the history behind the villages and learn about the traditions of the area surrounding Lake Siljan. Discover the traditional local way of life and mingle with the villagers. Then, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the local area and its lakes. Maybe take a leisurely boat trip across the lake, do some fishing, go for a hike or browse the local shops selling artisanal wares.
    Day 17 Location: Stockholm
    Leaving the Swedish lakes behind, head to the country's capital of Stockholm by train. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the North', Stockholm is full of impressive 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 could head underground for the world’s longest art exhibition – connecting the 14 islands of the city, the subway (Tunnelbana) system's 100 stations are like the longest modern art exhibition in the world, featuring artwork from more than 140 artists. Or, you could simply wander the narrow cobblestone streets and the colourful merchant houses. Why not soak up the culture and try a cinnamon roll in Stockholm’s oldest cafe – Sundbergs Konditori, located in Jarntorget square.
    Day 18 Location: Stockholm
    After breakfast, visit the Vasa Museum on the inner-city island of Djurgarden. The 17th-century warship, Vasa, sank in Stockholm Harbour in 1628 on its first voyage. Its wreckage was recovered in 1961. One of the most visited sites in Sweden, the Vasa Museum collection consists of the Vasa itself and all the objects that were found within the ship. The rest of the afternoon is free for you 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? Or consider taking a self-guided Millennium Trilogy Walking Tour or a visit to the Abba Museum. Alternatively, you could take a trip to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish royal family. Tonight, maybe head to Stockholm's Sodermalm district – the inner-city island with the best nightlife, full of cool shops, bars and cafes. You might like to have dinner at one of the city’s renowned restaurants on the cobblestoned islet of Gamla Stan or on Kungsholmen.
    Day 19 Location: Stockholm
    Today is free for you to enjoy your last day in Sweden, so get out and about to explore any of the sites you haven’t gotten around to yet. In the evening, you'll board an overnight ferry for Helsinki, Finland.
    Day 20 Location: Helsinki
    Arrive at Helsinki's port in the morning, then take public transport to your hotel. Join your leader for a short orientation walk to get to know the historical sites and gastronomic wonders of Helsinki, then the rest of today is free for you to explore the city however you like. You might like to visit the city's cathedral, the Design Museum, the waterfront market or the Old Market Hall for local delicacies. You could also take a short ferry ride to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna sea fortress. Throughout its 450-year history, Helsinki has often been the buffer between the east and the west. This is shown in the local cuisine, with a mix of root vegetables, berries and fresh fish featuring heavily in many dishes. Consider heading out in the evening to try some traditional dishes at dinner with your group.
    Day 21 Location: 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.
    Dates
    Prices
    Availability
    Departure Date:
    24MAY2026
    Return Date:
    13JUN2026
    15295.00NZD
    not available
    Departure Date:
    31MAY2026
    Return Date:
    20JUN2026
    16230.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    04JUN2026
    Return Date:
    24JUN2026
    14725.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    07JUN2026
    Return Date:
    27JUN2026
    14820.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    11JUN2026
    Return Date:
    01JUL2026
    14435.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    14JUN2026
    Return Date:
    04JUL2026
    14435.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    18JUN2026
    Return Date:
    08JUL2026
    15900.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    28JUN2026
    Return Date:
    18JUL2026
    15995.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    02JUL2026
    Return Date:
    22JUL2026
    15505.00NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    09JUL2026
    Return Date:
    29JUL2026
    15295.00NZD
    available
    Trip title

    Complete Scandinavia

    Trip code

    AMSAC

    Validity

    Validity: 01 Jan 2026 to 31 Dec 2026

    Extended validity

    05 Sep 2027

    Introduction

    With stylish minimalist design, world-renowned cuisine and dramatic landscapes, Scandinavia is ripe for exploring. On this 21-day trip, you’ll visit Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland, venturing off the beaten track in search of authentic local experiences. Be awed by the Norwegian Fjords, wander the fish markets of Copenhagen, take part in the local tradition of fika in Sweden and encounter the scenic destinations of Bergen, Lillehammer and the Swedish Lakes District. With an expert local leader to guide you and some free time to tailor your adventure, you’ll leave this trip with a treasure trove of memories.

    Style

    Original

    Themes

    Explorer

    Transport

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

    Physical Rating

    2

    Physical preparation

    This trip can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Some trips may have individual inclusions that may be of a higher physical rating compared to the overall rating of the trip. Please read the day-to-day itinerary carefully to find out more details on each day's activities, and whether they are suitable for you. Activities can be opted out of if you don't want to participate. EXPLORING EUROPEAN CITIES One of the pleasures of travelling in Europe is the ease at which cities can be explored on foot. On most trips, our leader will take you on frequent orientation walks, and you will be able to further explore in your own time. We recommend you pack comfortable walking shoes for this trip. Many of our customers are surprised at how much they end up walking, however this is entirely up to you, and public transport to take you back to our accommodation is never far away.

    Joining point

    Four Points Flex by Sheraton Copenhagen City (Formally Zleep Hotel Copenhagen City)

    Helgolandsgade 14

    Copenhagen

    Copenhagen

    1653

    DENMARK

    Phone: +45 70235635

    Joining point description

    With the hotel’s location in central Copenhagen, you stay near all the main attractions in Copenhagen. The hotel is situated on Vesterbro close to Copenhagen Central Station, Tivoli and the Meatpacking District. Copenhagen is a compact city, ensuring that you are within walking distance to attractions

    Joining point instructions

    From Copenhagen Airport Due to recent regulations at Copenhagen Airport that limit taxi services to the city centre, we no longer offer private arrival transfers. Taxis remain available at the airport, but we recommend also considering Copenhagen’s efficient public transport system, including metro, train, or bus services.

    Finish point

    Hotel Arthur

    Vuorikatu 19

    Helsinki

    FINLAND

    Phone: +358 09173441

    Finish point description

    Hotel Arthur is located close to the railway station in the heart of Helsinki. The main sights, shopping district and theatres are just a short walk away. The recently refurbished rooms are cosy and brightly coloured. All rooms have a private shower/toilet, telephone, TV, and hair dryer - some also have a minibar. If you choose to arrange additional accommodation at this location you may be required to change rooms for the nights which are not included as part of your Intrepid itinerary.

    Finish point instructions

    If you are making your own way to Helsinki Vantaa International Airport (airport code HEL) the hotel will be able to help book you an airport shuttle or taxi. Please ask at reception. Alternatively your best option is to take the train from the main railway station in Helsinki, or public bus No. 615 or the Finnair Bus which go from Rautatientori (railway square) to the airport. The train/bus journey takes about 35 minutes and both modes of transport depart frequently. Pre booked departure transfer to Helsinki Vantaa International Airport (HEL): If you have pre booked a departure transfer, you will be collected at the hotel reception 2 hours before your flight departure time. In case of flight cancellations, changes or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly: +358 50 545 5454.

    Important information

    1. A single supplement is available on this trip, subject to availability. Please contact your sales agent if you would like to book this. The single supplement excludes Days 3, 15 and 16, where you will be in shared accommodation. 2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for ferry tickets. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket. 3. Due to recent regulations at Copenhagen Airport that limit taxi services to the city centre, we no longer offer private arrival transfers. Taxis remain available at the airport, but we recommend also considering Copenhagen’s efficient public transport system, including metro, train, or bus services. Please refer to the Joining Point Instructions for further guidance on reaching your hotel.

    Group leader

    All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip. , EUROPEAN LEADERS Intrepid trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who is European or lives in Europe. We also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

    Safety

    TRAVEL ADVISORIES & ALERTS We recommend that you check your government's foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. We also recommend saving the phone number for emergency consular assistance for your government’s consulate in the destination/s you’ll be travelling. Links to travel advisories and any current travel alerts for our trips can be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts PERSONAL SAFETY Ensure you have a secure method of carrying your passport, phone, credit cards and cash while travelling such as a money belt. Leave all other high value items, including jewellery, at home Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit streets wherever possible. Be vigilant on public transport and look out for your fellow travellers. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS Intrepid welcomes all LGBTQIA+ customers on our trips, however we operate in parts of the world that are less accepting. We support LGBTQIA+ customers to travel to these destinations and are committed to ensuring they face no discrimination on any part of the trip we control. We recommend you visit Equaldex (https://www.equaldex.com/) and your government's foreign travel advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers when choosing your trip.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

    Visas

    PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

    Why we love it

    Cruise past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Naeroyfjord in Norway. Be surrounded by cascading waterfalls and mountain peaks up to 1400 m tall.

    Follow your local guide along narrow, winding roads through villages and past traditional red cottages when you explore the rural settlements around Lake Siljan. You'll also get a chance to meet and mingle with the local villagers.

    Take a ferry to Vrango Island, a fishing town in the Gothenburg archipelago, and discover rocky landscapes, beaches and protected nature reserves. In the summer months, you’ll explore by kayak!

    Join a local guide and cafe-hop your way around Alingsas, a town known as the capital of fika (Swedish cafe culture). Learn about the local love affair with coffee, discover the story behind the tradition of coffee and cake and, of course, treat your tastebuds to sweet Swedish delicacies.

    Unearth a different perspective in the Swedish city of Gothenburg during a guided walking tour with Street Voices – a company with a mission to spotlight the stories of socially vulnerable people.

    Is this trip right for you

    Please keep your luggage as small and light as possible. You'll be travelling on public transport where storage space is limited. You'll need to be able to lift your luggage into storage racks, walk across cobblestone streets with it and carry it up and down stairs., The areas visited on this trip can be very cold at night throughout the year, especially at the start and end of the season. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions, including base layers, a hat, gloves, scarf, coat and anything else that will keep you cosy., Scandinavia can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to optional activities, but especially in terms of eating out. Your leader will be able to advise you on how to have the best value holiday in Scandinavia., Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. Occasionally, bathrooms will be shared with other guests., This trip is designed to give you a fair amount of free time so you can explore each destination at your own pace. You will, however, go on regular orientation walks, so you'll be on your feet quite a lot. While this may be tiring for some, it’s the best way to get your head around a place and to set yourself up for further discoveries., There are a few long days of travel by public transport (up to 7 hours), as you'll be covering a lot of ground. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates., If you have more time to explore the region, you may want to check out our trip ‘Scandinavia & Baltic Circuit’ (AMSOC) which continues from Helsinki through the Baltic States, ending in Vilnius.

    Health

    GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. 

    Food and dietary requirements

    While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure.

    Money matters

    SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. , EUROPE The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in the following destinations: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain. All other European countries still have their own national currencies. You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Europe. You can obtain EUR cash prior to arriving through normal outlets such as banks and currency exchange offices., Below are any additional currencies used in countries visited on this itinerary., The local currency in Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK)., The local currency in Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK)., The local currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK)., BUDGET Please budget for additional meals and expenses while on your trip. We suggest EUR 1,075.00 for meals not included on this trip. Our suggestion is based on past traveller feedback but you may choose to spend more or less., TIPPING Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be., We recommend budgeting approximately EUR 10-20 per person per week to tip local service providers for activities included in this trip, in local currencies. This doesn’t include a tip for your leader., YOUR GROUP LEADER OR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE Tipping your group leader or local representative is highly appreciated if you feel they’ve provided outstanding services throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, the recommended amount is 4-7 USD or EUR per traveller per day (in a currency relevant to your destination). Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader or local representative on your trip., CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred because of changes to itineraries, including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra USD 500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of all travellers; however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs. Please confirm with your leader on Day 1 if you need to carry this in cash, or whether access via card or electronically is sufficient.

    What to take

    Most travellers prefer to take a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which is a great size for the packing capacity in our private vehicles. Whatever you take, be mindful that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take it in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible. If your trip includes travelling on overnight trains or primarily using public transport, the smaller your luggage, the easier it will be to store under or above bunks. Large suitcases may not be able to be taken on board. A lockable bag or small padlock for your bag will be useful, especially when travelling on public transportation as well. When you're exploring during the day, you'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket and activity-specific items like a swimsuit, a waterproof pouch/bag for your phone, or hiking shoes. Below we have listed the essentials for this trip:

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

    WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. When unable to avoid bottled water, it is better to buy the largest available and distribute it into your smaller bottle for the day. Some travellers like to bring a bottle with its own filtration system or water purification tablets. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip, you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you.

    WHITE NIGHTS The closer you travel to the second half of June, the shorter the nights are in this part of the world. As many of our accommodations may not have suitable curtains to block out light you may want to consider bringing an eye-mask, especially if you are a light sleeper. Similarly, in winter months, especially in Highland and Island areas, the days are shorter, and it gets dark early. This can impact the availability of certain views and outdoor activities. CLOTHING & CLIMATE The climate in this region is extremely varied. In shoulder season (April, May, September, October and beyond) you can expect temperatures to vary between single digits and warm sunny days, while from June until September temperatures can reach well above 30 C. It is always a good idea to bring a warm windproof jacket, a hat and waterproof footwear and waterproof pouch/bag to protect your phone and documents. No matter which time of year you decide to travel, it can get quite cool at night especially when in the countryside, so we recommend that you bring a warm jacket or fleece.

    Climate and seasonal

    The areas visited on this trip can be cold throughout the year, especially at the start and end of the season, and at night. Rain is possible at any time of year. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, and snow fall is common. Summers on the other hand can be quite hot, and temperatures can reach up to 30 C. Please familiarize yourself with what climate to expect and bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions, including base layers, hat, rain coat and anything else that you think may be applicable.

    A couple of rules

    Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

    Feedback

    Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

    Emergency contact

    While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time., For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us, In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: , Intrepid’s Local Operator: +49 8024 4679 540

    Responsible travel

    Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip leaders and local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel, WHALE MEAT Whale meat is sold and consumed in this destination, and it is possible you may see it on some menus. The issue of whale hunting for traditional or commercial purposes can be complex and sensitive. Wherever possible, your leader will advise you in advance if whale meat may be available for sale, to ensure you're informed and prepared.

    The Intrepid Foundation

    Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ , This trip directly supports Eden Reforestation Projects, who are tackling climate change by restoring forests across the world; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within local communities. Donations support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries, including Madagascar, Kenya and Nepal. To find out more or make a donation, visit: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/eden-reforestation-projects 

    Accommodation notes

    The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. , Sea cabins are situated right by the water in the heart of Vrango Harbour’s archipelago setting. Each cabin features a private wooden deck patio. Cabins include a double bed, private bathroom with shower, and a kitchenette with fridge, stove, and microwave. Wi-Fi, TV, bed linen, and towels are all included.

    Transport notes

    TRANSPORT IN EUROPE Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance, your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number, rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and each country you visit may have its own specific entry requirements. For example, some mandate travel health insurance for all foreign travellers, regardless of their nationality. Travellers from the European Union, Switzerland or the USA who decline travel insurance when travelling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: , https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

    Your fellow travellers

    As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure., SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

    Itinerary disclaimer

    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 and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , 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.

    Accommodation

    Hotel (16 nights), Sea Cabins (1 nights), Cabin (2 nights), Overnight ferry (1 night)

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