22 Day Grand Scandinavia With Deluxe Norway Coastal Cruise
This tour features a combination of escorted and independent travel. Part of your journey will be enjoyed as a group experience, led by expert tour leaders or local guides. The remainder is self-guided—whether by rail, cruise, or overland—allowing you the freedom to travel between destinations independently and explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Cruise along the scenic coast and fjords of Norway has often been praised as being one of the most beautiful voyages in the world. Each day of your voyage will yield unforgettable memories of natural beauty as you discover a coastline with an ever changing personality with a new revelation around every headland.
✓ Incredible sightseeing, including Finland’s buzzing capital Helsinki, vast landscapes above the Arctic Circle, an incredible opportunity to witness the North Cape’s Midnight Sun, a visit to the historic Nyhavn district in Copenhagen, and a deluxe cruise experience alongside the most scenic of the Norwegian fjords
✓ 13 nights in quality 3 & 4-star accommodation
✓ Overnight ferry ride from Oslo to Copenhagen, including private cabin
✓ 7 nights on board the new MSC Euribia in a deluxe inside stateroom (further upgrade options available)
✓ Breakfast daily, 7 lunches and 8 dinners
✓ Fully escorted by a professional English-speaking tour guide from day 1 - 15
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ Entry fees to Helsinki’s Temppeliaukion Church, the Arktikum Centre in Rovaniemi and Alta Museum
✓ Visit to North Cape Hall with a glass of sparkling wine
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
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 the White City of the North, Helsinki! Finland’s buzzing capital city is best-known for its art and culture, and innovative architecture.
From Helsinki airport, make your own way to the hotel, meet the tour director and spend the rest of the day at your own leisure.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
This morning after breakfast you’ll be met by your guide and explore the highlights of Helsinki. Pass by Senate Square, home to Helsinki Cathedral, the Market Square and the elegant Esplanade. The coach continues past key landmarks including Finlandia Hall, the Opera House, and the Olympic Stadium before a walking tour of the historic centre. We’ll move onto the Temppeliaukio Church, a Lutheran church which opened in 1969 and is built directly into solid rock (also known as the Church of the Rock and Rock Church) and is frequently used as a concert venue due to its amazing acoustics.
After touring the city, we’ll travel to Kuopio. You will arrive at your hotel in the afternoon, where you will have the evening at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Today we set off after breakfast on a picturesque drive to our next destination in northern Finland, Rovaniemi. We'll be driving through the scenic Finnish Lakeland region where there will be refreshment stops along the way, including a break at a lakeside cafe.
We’ll arrive at tonight’s hotel where we’ll check-in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
After breakfast, begin the day with an exploration of Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. Visit the Arktikum Science Centre and Museum, where the highlight is the Arctic in Change exhibition. Gain insight into the unique Arctic environment, its rich cultural heritage, and even experience the cold of the Arctic and the mesmerizing beauty of blue ice in the museum’s cold room.
The afternoon is at leisure, offering an opportunity to take a scenic stroll along the picturesque banks of the Kemijoki River or explore more of Rovaniemi at your own pace.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, we’ll set off for a scenic drive from Rovaniemi to Ivalo, a town deep in the Arctic Circle and home to around 3,000 people, via Saariselkä. This Finnish municipality is famous for its vast landscapes, fresh air and nature. There are over 200 km of cross-country ski trails, some of which pass through the Urho Kekkonen National Park. The park, a 15-minute drive from Saariselkä, is Finland’s second largest and is known for its superior hiking and trekking, and of course, skiing and snowboarding pursuits.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
We say goodbye to Finland this morning and head to Honningsvåg in Norway, the northernmost point in mainland Europe.
This quaint little town is a gateway for amazing Arctic experiences—one will take place this evening at the North Cape where you’ll witness the midnight sun with a glass of sparkling wine. An incredible evening you won’t forget!
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
After a relaxed morning, depart the hotel in the late morning and travel to Alta, a picturesque town on Norway’s northern coast at the head of Alta Fjord. Renowned for its breathtaking Northern Lights displays, Alta is also home to the remarkable Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, which melts away each spring.
The journey takes you through the stunning landscapes of Finnmark County, with scenic viewpoints along the famed 129 km-long E69 highway. Often referred to as the "Last Road on Earth," this route is the final roadway connecting Norway to the North Pole, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the Arctic wilderness.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
After breakfast, set out on a short city tour of Alta, exploring the highlights of this Arctic town.
Our first stop is the World Heritage Rock Art Centre at Alta Museum, home to approximately 6,000 UNESCO-listed rock carvings and paintings, some dating back 7,000 years. These ancient works offer a fascinating glimpse into early human history in the region.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to take a stroll along the scenic Alta Fjord, immersing yourself in the breathtaking Arctic landscapes that define this remarkable destination.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, we continue our journey along the E6 highway, making our way to Narvik, a city set against the backdrop of a spectacular 900-metre-deep fjord. Along the route, take in breathtaking coastal scenery, including the striking landscapes of Tysfjord and Ballangen, as we travel through Norway’s dramatic northern terrain.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
After breakfast, we journey from Narvik to Mo i Rana, the third-largest city in northern Norway, situated just outside the breathtaking Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park. Once a bustling trading post, Mo i Rana has evolved into a dynamic modern city while retaining its rich heritage.
En route, take in the stunning landscapes of Saltdal, a national park municipality known for its unspoiled natural beauty. A scenic ferry crossing from Skarberget to Bognes offers a unique perspective of the rugged coastline and is sure to be a memorable highlight of the day.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10 hours.
After breakfast, we check out and begin our journey towards Trondheim, making several scenic and cultural stops along the way. Our first stop is at Laksforsen Turistcafé, where we can admire the powerful Laksforsen waterfall before continuing to Harran for a relaxing lunch break. From there, we visit the stunning Formofossen Waterfall, taking in its natural beauty before resuming our drive through the picturesque landscapes of central Norway. In the evening, we arrive in Trondheim and check in at your hotel, where the rest of the evening is free to explore the city or unwind at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 10.5 hours.
After breakfast, we begin a panoramic tour of Trondheim, exploring its historic landmarks before visiting the iconic Nidaros Cathedral (entrance fee paid locally). We then depart for Oppdal, taking a short rest break upon arrival before continuing our journey toward Dombås. En route, we pass Høydesteinen in the scenic Dovrefjell mountains before stopping for lunch in Dombås. After lunch, we continue to Ringebu, where we visit the historic Ringebu Stave Church for a brief photo stop. Our journey then takes us to Lillehammer, where we arrive in the evening and check in at your hotel. Enjoy a free evening to relax or explore the charming Olympic town.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 9.5 hours.
After breakfast, enjoy a brief panoramic tour of Lillehammer, exploring the key sights of this picturesque town. We then continue our journey to Eidsvoll Verk, where we make a brief stop at Nebbenes Kro Nord. Following this, we head towards Oslo, arriving in the early afternoon. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the capital at your own pace.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
After breakfast, embark on a two-hour city tour of Oslo by coach. Highlights include a panoramic drive along Karl Johan’s Gate (the main street), with views of the Parliament Building, City Hall, and the Royal Palace (no entrance is included). The tour also features visits to Aker Brygge and Vigeland Park.
In the afternoon, transfer to the DFDS port for your overnight sailing to Copenhagen.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
It is suggested to pack a small overnight bag with essential items as you will not have access to your checked in luggage during the sailing to Copenhagen.
Your onboard accommodation is an inside cabin with 2 lower beds.
Welcome to beautiful Copenhagen! This morning when we disembark the ferry you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive through Copenhagen, taking in the city's key landmarks. Highlights include the picturesque harbour waterfront and the iconic Little Mermaid statue, as well as passing by Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, City Hall, and the renowned Tivoli Gardens.
After the tour, check into a deluxe cabin on board your MSC Cruise. On an MSC Cruise, guests embark not only on a journey of creating lasting memories, exploring amazing destinations, and experiencing top-notch hospitality but also on an opportunity to enact change. We hope you will be inspired!
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your package includes a Deluxe Interior cabin. If you wish to upgrade, please see the 'Cruise Details & Upgrades' information below.
Today, take the time to relax and explore the ship as we sail towards Norway. There are five pools, the Aurea Spa, a contemporary Balinese Spa including a thermal area with sauna, steam bath, and a menu of massages and beauty treatments. After dinner, head to the Delphi Theatre.
Hellesylt is a small, pretty village at the western end of the entrance of the famous Geiranger Fjord, famously known as ‘the jewel in Norway's crown of fjords.’ This UNESCO-listed fjord is an impressive 15 kilometres long and 260 metres deep. Hellesylt welcomes cruise ship visitors but enjoys a more relaxed atmosphere than Geiranger, even when the population increases in the summertime. A must-see is Hellesylt waterfall, located between two bridges and one of the most spectacular in the area. It’s a short walk from the port, right in the centre of the village.
Molde Fjord is in Møre og Romsdal and is a 20-kilometre long branch off of Romsdal Fjord, beginning at the Julsundet Strait, along the northern side of the Molde archipelago and ends at the entrance to the Fannefjorden. Molde is a small town that has been an active port since the 15th century. It’s been rebuilt many times and is accustomed to reinventing itself; the last time was after World War II and in 1940 was even the temporary home of the Norwegian government. Nicknamed the ‘Town of Roses due to the many flowering rose gardens here. The town’s breathtaking viewpoint, Varden, is the place to head to enjoy views of the city, fjords, archipelagos and 222 snow peaks.
Flåm is a small village in the Flåmsdalen valley, located at the inner end of the Aurlands Fjord and means ‘little place between steep mountains’ - there couldn’t be a more apt name for this beautiful part of the world. At the end of the 1800's many cruise ships carrying English and German adventurers found their way to Flåm to experience the fjords, mountains and waterfalls. And little has changed. Flåm welcomes ship loads of visitors from all over the world every season, and is best known for its spectacular mountain-to-fjord railway journey, the Rallarvegen hiking and cycle path runs down the valley, and Huldra, a seductive forest creature from Scandinavian folklore who uses song to tempt men to their fate!
Today take the time to relax and explore your floating hotel as we sail towards Germany. There are five pools, the Aurea Spa, a contemporary Balinese Spa including a thermal area with sauna, steam bath, and a menu of massages and beauty treatments. After dinner, head to the Delphi Theatre.
Welcome to Germany! Kiel is the capital city of the German state of Schleswig-Holstein and the port is on either side of the Kiel Fjord, an inlet of the western Baltic Sea. Founded in 1233 and is known for its bustling port, it has a rich maritime heritage and is often referred to as the “Sailing City.”
Back to Denmark and beautiful Copenhagen! Today marks the end of your unforgettable tour through Scandinavia. At the appropriate time, please make your way to the airport for your onward flight.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
Your cruise ship will arrive in Copenhagen at approximately 9am.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises has a rich history rooted in a deep love for the sea, spanning across multiple generations. The company is committed to sharing this passion with future generations, making each cruise a remarkable journey of exploration and unforgettable experiences for every guest. With a focus on enrichment and immersion, MSC Cruises provides a safe and enjoyable cruise experience. Guests can indulge in international dining options, delight in world-class entertainment, partake in award-winning family programs, and experience the latest user-friendly technology available onboard. MSC Cruises strives to create cherished memories and ensure that each guest's voyage is filled with discovery, excitement, and lasting emotions.
MSC Euribia Cabin Inclusions & Upgrades
Please note, MSC will assign your cabin number. Cabin will be attributed 40 days before your cruise and can change at any time up until embarkation.
Deluxe Interior (IR2) - Included. 17m2 on decks 11-14.
Deluxe Ocean View (OR1) - From $313 per person. Single price on application. 16m2 on deck 5.
Deluxe Balcony (BR1) - From $593 per person. Single price on application. 17m2 and 6m2 balcony on decks 8-10.
Please click HERE to learn more about the cruise ship.
Please note your upgrade request in the 'Special Request' field whilst making your booking. Once your upgrade has been confirmed, the additional amount will be added to your invoice and payable with your final payment.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
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. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
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 categorized 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
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
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, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $3,122.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name
Some areas in Norway are known for their cozy accommodations, and this may mean that rooms are smaller than what you're accustomed to. Rest assured, our chosen hotels prioritise comfort and convenience.
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.
Group Size
Up to 40 on the land portion. For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
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
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.
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