This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
✓ Add Return International airfares for only $999 per person
✓ Small group tour – up to 24 people
✓ Incredible sightseeing. Fly through the Arctic forest by husky sled, stay overnight in a Glass Igloo gazing up at the night sky, hunt for the Northern Lights throughout the Arctic Circle, see the home of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, travel through jaw-dropping fjords throughout Norway and so much more.
✓ Internal airfares from Evenes to Oslo with a local carrier
✓ 18 nights in comfortable 4-star accommodation throughout Finland and Norway
✓ 1-night on board the overnight Santa Claus Express train from Helsinki to Kemi
✓ Daily breakfast, 5 dinners including memorable welcome dining
✓ Fully escorted tour with English-speaking guide from day 1 - 17.Note: Oslo to Bergen is self-guided
✓ Unforgettable sightseeing as per the itinerary
✓ Including husky sledding, an icebreaker cruise, Santa's Village in Rovaniemi and the Lofoten Islands
✓ All transportation, rail tickets and entry fees as per the itinerary
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Scandinavia! Today is at your leisure to explore this quirky city. Please make your own way to the hotel.
Tonight you will enjoy a welcome meeting and dinner to get to know our fellow travellers a little better. This meeting commences at approx 6pm.
Hotel Check in:
Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Transportation:
Train connection between Helsinki city centre and Helsinki Airport is carried out by local commuter trains which run every 10 minutes on peak hours. Travel time from Airport Train Station to Helsinki Central Station is about 30 minutes. Single ticket fare from Helsinki Airport to city centre is € 4.10 from the ticket machines located at the station.
It's an early start today for an adventure to the Baltics and back. You will be transferred to a ferry and enjoy breakfast onboard as we cruise through a small stretch of the Baltic Sea, before arriving in the medieval city of Tallinn, Estonia. We will then enjoy a guided tour of Tallinn's magical Old Town. An exceptionally well-preserved district that dates back to the 13th century, the old town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Later, we return to Helsinki by ferry, where we’ll be transferred to the hotel.
This morning we enjoy a guided tour of the Temppeliaukio Church, known locally as the 'Rock Church'. Excavated directly into solid rock and completed in 1969, this is one of Helsinki's star attractions.
This afternoon, get ready to board the ‘Santa Claus Express’. This iconic overnight sleeper train will take us from Helsinki into the heart of Lapland and the ‘official’ home of Santa Claus. The modern train has private twin-share cabins, onboard dining and is the perfect way to travel up to the untouched north.
Early morning arrival to Kemi, where a morning visit and breakfast is served at the SnowCastle Resort. You will then have free time to explore the resort.
In the afternoon, we’ll travel to the Ajos Pier located by the Bothnian Bay, where the sea freezes over during winter. It’s time to board a real life Icebreaker for an incredible adventure. Ploughing through the thick ice is not the only attraction for passengers onboard this powerful vessel: guests also have the unique opportunity to swim among the ice (in a full-body waterproof 'survival suit', of course).
After an unforgettable day, we continue the journey north to Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus.
Today, visit Santa Claus’ Village for a couple of hours of Christmas magic. Here, you’ll cross the Arctic Circle and receive a certificate to commemorate this. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the village’s many charms and fun activities, like meeting Santa’s reindeer, perusing the souvenirs or exploring Snowman World. You can even send a postcard home from the post office, staffed by Santa’s postal elves – it will have a special Arctic Circle postmark not available anywhere else. And of course, you can meet Santa.
Discover Lapland’s unique snowy nature and the fun of snowmobiling. The best way to get to the heart of nature – and back. During this fun safari, you’ll learn how to ride a snowmobile along frozen rivers and through snow covered forests. Enjoy the beautiful views of the river valley from the hilltops. A break with hot beverages will keep your motor running.
Duration: approx. 2 hours (14:30 – 16:30).
Clothing: included outer layer wind and water resistant one piece thermal suit (you will need to wear the appropriate winter clothing underneath the suit to keep you warm.)
NOTE: This is a self drive activity you will require to have your internationally recognised driver's license on tour to participate. (Min 2 people per snowmobile) Supplement for solo driving: EUR 45,00 p.p. collected locally.
This morning we travel further north through the winter landscape, stopping at Sodankyla, where a quick outside visit to the old church is included.
Later, you’ll arrive at a husky farm to take part in your Inspiring Sight, a Husky Safari, where these friendly dogs will bark an enthusiastic welcome for you. Before departing on the safari, you will be given instruction on how to control the sleds. Upon your return to the farm, enjoy some hot berry juice by an open fire and chat away with the head musher about these amazing animals.
Later in the afternoon, we leave Rovaniemi and continue our journey into Saariselkä for an Inspiring Stay. Tonight we are bedding down in a glass-roof cabin. The glass-roofed structures let you sleep right beneath the starry skies, and hopefully the Northern Lights. Each Aurora cabin is extremely well-insulated to ensure guests are not bothered by the cold in even the coolest of temperatures.
Note : on some departure dates, passengers might stay at Northern Lights Village Pyha, located further south of Saariselka.
Today, continue North, stopping in Inari, where a visit to the SIIDA Museum is included before crossing the border to breathtaking Norway, and a little later arrival to Karasjok.
Note: on some departure dates, passengers might stay at Lakselv Hotel 3* - located in Lakselv, a little futher north of Karasjok.
Leaving Karasjok we continue our Arctic adventures to Norway's northern tip – the vast North Cape/Nordkapp.
Upon arrival you’ll be presented with a certificate to prove you've been to Europe's most northerly point. Here, you’ll also enjoy an Inspiring Taste of sparkling wine and caviar.
Leaving the North Cape region today we begin our journey south, down the coast of Norway to Alta. Here we'll explore the Alta Museum and its World Heritage Rock Art Centre.
Tonight we go on an evening drive around Alta to hunt for the Northern Lights again from a different perspective.
Today we leave Alta and continue south to Tromsø. Located 350km north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is the largest city in Northern Norway. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with many local pubs and a wide range of restaurants specialising in the fresh ingredients of the Arctic. En route, we travel via the Lyngen Alps. This mountain range dominates the landscape, bordered by the Lyngen Fjord to the east, and Ullsfjorden to the west.
On arrival, enjoy some time at leisure in this so-called Gateway to the Arctic.
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. You'll have the opportunity to visit one of the many museums within walking distance of your hotel.
After breakfast we leave Tromsø and make our way to Narvik, which sits on the doorstep of the beautiful Lofoten Islands. On arrival, we visit the Red Cross War Memorial Museum. In the spring of 1940 Nazi Germany suffered its first defeat in Narvik at the hands of Norwegian, British, French and Polish forces. The Red Cross War Memorial Museum tells the full story of the epic Battles of Narvik.
Leaving Narvik, we make our way to the town of Svolvær, within the famous Lofoten archipelago. The setting surrounding the town is sublime with a backdrop of high mountains and iconic red wooden houses. Svolvær is the perfect base to explore the magical Lofoten Islands.
Today, we explore the stunning Lofoten Islands and their natural beauty, including a stop in the small village of Henningsvær. Set among a group of tiny islands seemingly dropped into the ocean at the foot of the imposing Vågakallen mountain, Henningsvær is one of Lofoten‘s best-known fishing villages. The stunning setting and mix of traditional wooden architecture and modern art galleries make this island village one of a kind.
After checking out of the hotel we head by bus to Evenes, where we'll board a flight to the captivating Norwegian capital of Oslo. After a short flight we arrive in Oslo where we'll be transferred to our central hotel. Oslo is known for its green open spaces and museums. Many of these are on the Bygdøy Peninsula, including the waterside Norwegian Maritime Museum. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy the rest of your day or evening at leisure, exploring this pedestrian-friendly city.
Today we enjoy a guided city tour of Oslo, enjoy a scenic drive through Oslo, passing such national landmarks as the Parliament building, with its two imposing lion statues at the main entrance, the National Theatre and the magnificent Royal Palace, official residence of the present Norwegian Monarch. Next stop is the Akershus Castle and Fortress, a medieval fortress built by King Håkon V, in the 14th century, which is a today seen as a national symbol for Norwegians and today a popular place for
recreation.
Today, make the short walk from the hotel to the train station, located next door, for the start of the “Norway In a Nutshell” tour. Experience the essence of Norway on Norway’s most popular and sustainable tour. Travel through stunning Norwegian fjords, mountains, valleys and cities on 1 green ticket. On the first day of your Norway adventure you travel from Oslo to Flåm. You start with the Bergen railway to Myrdal enjoying the change of scenery and landscape from busy city life up to the quiet high mountains. In Myrdal you change to the famous Flam railway, one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. After a breathtaking train ride to Flåm, you check in at your hotel and free time to explore the small village, visit the Ægir Microbrewery or perhaps the Flåm Railway Museum.
Note: Guide services finish after breakfast. Day 17 - 20 are unguided. The ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ route from Day 17-20 is Norway’s most famous independent trip. The entire journey connects seamlessly and well signed in English. Transport service times are made to connect together making the whole trip effortless.
Baggage: To make the journey easier, your luggage will be transferred to Bergen ahead of you. Please make sure to take an overnight bag for your stay in Flam. Your luggage (max. 1 bag per person) must be given to the reception at your hotel (Thon Hotel Opera) by 6:30AM. Luggage is picked up from reception and will be available in your hotel in Bergen, the following evening.
After enjoying a nice breakfast you take the morning departure from Flåm, starting with one of the many highlights on the tour, the fjordcruise on the UNESCO Nærøyfjord to Gudvangen. In Gudvangen a scenic bus ride to Voss awaits you. You pass by roaring waterfalls and small farms. In Voss you change to the Bergen railway and go on a relaxing train ride to Bergen. After a day with loads of impressions you arrive Bergen in early afternoon and check in at your hotel.
Today is at leisure to further explore Bergen, also known as the “Gateway to the Fjords”, situated on the West coast of Norway, surrounded by mountains. We recommend visiting the old Hanseatic part of town, known as Bryggen, where you can step back in time and wonder between the old buildings. A highlight of any visit to Bergen is the stunning views from the top of Mt Fløien, and you can reach this by taken a journey on the funicular railway – Fløibanen. The local fish market is also a must when visiting Bergen, and perhaps enjoy dinner in one of the many seafood restaurants located in the harbour area.
Today marks the end of your magnificent and unforgettable tour through Northern Scandinavia. We hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your inspiring winter experience. At the appropriate time please make your own way to the airport for your onward journey.
A fast way to reach Bergen Airport is by the Airport Bus (called Flybussen in Norwegian), which only takes 30 minutes. The bus costs NOK 135 (AUD $21) and tickets can be purchased on the bus. The BUSSTASJONEN stop is located outside of the Scandic Ørnen hotel and the bus departs every 20 minutes.
Inspiring Stay
Inspiring Sight
Inspiring Taste
We offer two payment options – the choice is yours. Our advertised price is based on our 'Pay in Full' option, which includes a discount by making full payment at the time of booking. Alternatively, choose our 'Installment Payment Plan' option for the flexibility of incremental payments, beginning with a low deposit.
Please click 'Book Now' and proceed to the payment page to select your preferred option under the heading ‘Choose how to pay’. The total due will be reflected accordingly.
Pay In Full Option:
Installment Payment Plan Option:
Booking Process
Please refer to conditions below, which are agreed to at time of purchase.
Can I extend my stay pre- and/or post-tour?
This depends on the package you are booking.
Where available, extensions must be added at time of purchase and cannot be added post-purchase unless inside the 7-day cooling off period.
We can assist in arranging your airfares to accommodate an extension; however, you must also book the additional nights’ accommodation through us at time of booking (where available as an add-on):
When adding additional nights to your booking, the cost of the extra nights’ accommodation will be reflected on your invoice and payable with the final balance.
Airfare surcharges may apply if extending due to airfare seasonal changes and possible fare differences. These are payable at the time of selecting your desired airfare.
The second installment of your booking must be made before airfares can be booked.
Outside of extending your stay you must select Land Only if:
If you are interested in one of the above options, please select LAND ONLY at time of check-out and you will need to arrange your own airfares. Inspiring Vacations will not be accountable for flight delays or missed tour components due to late arrival or airline changes.
How to book my flights through the flight portal:
As the travel industry moves towards providing customers with more self-service options, we are excited that our customers will have the opportunity to book their flights through our flight portal. If this option is available to you, you will be notified once flights are available to book for your selected departure date. Flights may be booked by Inspiring Vacations at any time.
Please visit our FAQ for more information.
Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
Inspiring Vacations do not arrange seat selection. It is important to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats or they may charge a fee to do so. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
COVID-19
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”:
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
Tipping in Scandinavia is not compulsory, however, they are much appreciated, especially as a reward if guests feel someone has delivered good service. Tips and gratuities are not included for this package and are discretionary. If you wish to reward good service, the suggested amounts are:
Local assistant or guide transfer: EUR 10.00 per person, per service
Guide: EUR 5-6 per person, per day
Driver: EUR 2-3 per person, per day
Hurtigruten Cruise: There are no guidelines as such; tips and gratuities are appreciated but not expected. Please speak to cruise staff on-board for more information.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,899.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
In order to keep our Single Supplement at a reduced cost, some hotels may allocate solo travellers with a dedicated Single Room. At times this may mean a single bed will be provided.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visa's may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
10-24 people.
Trip Style - Small Group Tour
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. You will travel with only a maximum of 20 other guests. Enjoy choice features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Northern Lights
Please note, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomena and can't be guaranteed. The dates provided will give you the best chance of hopefully viewing the lights during your trip, but Inspiring Vacations will not be liable for any departures which unfortunately don't see the Northern Lights during their trip.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
To enhance your journey, we're offering a choice of the following optional activities:
*Clothing: included outer layer wind and water resistant one piece thermal suit (you will need to wear the appropriate winter clothing underneath the suit to keep you warm.)
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.