18 Day Follow The Midnight Sun With Norway Cruise & Scenic Railway

Välkommen to Sweden! Upon arrival at the airport, please make your own way to the starting hotel.

The fastest and most economical way to get into the centre of Stockholm, if you are arriving into Arlanda Airport, is the Arlanda Express. Which travels non-stop from Arlanda Airport to Stockholm Central station and takes just 18 minutes. The cost of a one-way fare is approximately 320 SEK.

This evening, meet your tour guide and fellow travellers as we enjoy a welcome dinner.

Today, embark on a private four-hour guided tour of Stockholm, delving deeper into the city's treasures. Our journey will traverse the main highlights of Stockholm aboard a comfortable coach, with a special focus on the enchanting old town, known as Gamla Stan in Swedish.

A visit to the iconic City Hall is also on the agenda, where entrance is included. Step inside to marvel at the breathtaking mosaics of the Golden Hall, the prestigious venue for the annual Nobel Peace Prize ball. Additionally, explore the Blue Hall, where the banquet preceding the ball takes place.

The city tour concludes back at your hotel, granting you some leisure time. Later, a coach will pick us up to transport us to the ferry terminal. We'll board the Tallink Sijla ferry, bound for Helsinki and passing through the Åland Islands at the entrance to the Gulf of Bothnia. This archipelago boasts around 6,500 skerries and islands, with fewer than a hundred being inhabited.

As evening descends, enjoy a buffet dinner on the ferry, accompanied by stunning views of the islands. Retire to your cabin for a restful night as the ferry sails through the serene waters.

Enjoy a delightful buffet breakfast on the ferry as we approach Helsinki. Upon disembarking, our group will rendezvous with a local English-speaking guide, and we'll board a private coach for an enriching three-hour exploration of Helsinki.

Discover the city's highlights, including the remarkable Temppeliaukio Church, affectionately known as the 'Church of Rock,' constructed into the bedrock in 1969. Another noteworthy site is the Sibelius monument, a striking sculpture dedicated to the late Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius. Nestled in Sibelius Park, this imposing structure comprises over 600 hollow steel pipes artfully welded together to form an abstract, undulating shape.

The tour concludes at your Helsinki hotel for check-in, allowing you the afternoon to leisurely explore more of the city. Uncover hidden gems within the central area, such as Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral, as you immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant Finnish capital.

Following breakfast at your Helsinki hotel, we'll venture to the adjacent train station in preparation for our journey to Rovaniemi.

Renowned as the residence of Santa Claus, our destination boasts Arctic landscapes and dense forests. Yet, during this season, the surroundings transform drastically. The once white fields and snow-covered trees give way to lush greenery illuminated by the gentle radiance of the perpetual Midnight Sun.

Embarking on an extensive train ride north, you'll have ample time to gaze out the window and marvel at the Scandinavian wilderness unfolding before you. The journey will carry us beyond the Arctic Circle, reaching the far north of Finland. Upon arrival, a private coach will transport you from the railway station to another hotel for check-in.

The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy as you please. Consider savoring a meal at Sky Kitchen & View Restaurant, where you can relish the unique experience of dining under the still-bright Midnight Sun.

Embark on a morning adventure by boarding a tour bus from your Rovaniemi hotel, and let your inner child come alive as we explore the enchanting Santa Claus Village. Amid the Arctic surroundings, witness herds of reindeer and even have the chance to meet the jolly, bearded man himself – appearing notably at ease until the onset of winter.

Our journey north continues with a brief stop in Sodankylä, where you can admire the facade of the historic Sodankylä Old Church, dating back to 1689 and standing as one of Finland's oldest wooden churches. Take a break for lunch and some free time before we proceed to Saariselkä.

Upon reaching the Midnight Sun Village in Saariselkä, be captivated by your accommodation. For the next two nights, settle into your private Midnight Sun cabin, featuring a 360-degree glass roof for you to relish the Arctic summer view in all its glory.

Indulge in a leisurely morning, allowing yourself to unwind and absorb the serene surroundings. 

Enjoy an included lunch at the hotel.

As part of today's included activity, you will meet a group of Siberian huskies. Join one of these spirited dogs on a wilderness hike, tied to a waist belt. As you traverse the scenic trail, your guide will enlighten you about arctic wildlife and plants. Take breaks to savor fresh berries, drink from a mountain stream, and immerse yourself in the unspoiled nature surrounding you. The route involves a moderate climb, making it ideal for moderately confident hikers.

Cap off the day with a hotel dinner and the Midnight Sun Photography Expedition. Make a captivating photo stop at the tranquil Lake Inari, a place ancient Laplanders believed to be the residence of Ukko, the Overgod. We’ll continue to a wilderness camp on the lake shore, where you'll enjoy a warm beverage and prepare a traditional Lapland midnight snack while anticipating the sun's descent toward the horizon.

Following breakfast at your Saariselkä hotel, we'll embark on the next leg of our journey through Finnish Lapland aboard a private coach.

Our morning unfolds with a visit to the quaint township of Inari. Here, we'll explore the newly renovated SIIDA museum and partake in a guided tour of the open-air exhibition. The museum showcases exhibits and artifacts that vividly portray the rich culture of the Finnish Sámi.

Lunch awaits at the museum restaurant before we resume our northern journey, crossing the border into Norway and ultimately arriving at Kirkenes in the afternoon.

Situated just a few miles from the border, Kirkenes played a strategic role during WWII, and remnants of that era are encapsulated in several museums and monuments. Additionally, Kirkenes is renowned for its king crab, a local delicacy that sustains the livelihoods of those in this frontier town.

In the evening, you'll check into your Kirkenes hotel.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before immersing yourself in the unique experience of the Snowhotel, Kirkenes 365. As the first-ever hotel constructed entirely from snow and ice, it transforms into a winter wonderland even in the heart of summer.

Enjoy a guided tour of the Snowhotel, complemented by a welcome drink. Don't miss the chance to visit the resident huskies and reindeer – the enthusiastic sounds of the pups are sure to warm your heart. Following the visit, you'll transfer from your hotel to the pier in preparation for boarding your ship.

As the ship sets sail, take note that there is no porterage service at Kirkenes pier, and the tour manager concludes their role after embarkation. Once on board, take some time to acclimate to your maritime surroundings and find your sea legs. Settle into your cabin for the night and anticipate the breathtaking views of the renowned Norwegian coast on this memorable sea voyage.

During the night, our ship makes stops at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord, followed by early morning visits to Honningsvåg and Havøysund.

In the early afternoon, immerse yourself in Hammerfest, boasting the largest population among the world's northernmost settlements. Explore the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, browse for souvenirs at the Polar Bear Society, or hike the path behind the town leading to the viewpoint atop Mount Salen.

Continuing our cruise along Norway's coastline, we reach Øksfjord and then Skjervøy, a town surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks and a crucial fishing port since 1896.

Heading towards Tromsø, catch glimpses of the majestic Lyngen Alps, home to some of Norway's highest peaks. We dock at Tromsø just before midnight, remaining in port for a few hours. If the 24-hour daylight energizes you, take a stroll around the city under the Midnight Sun – you might be surprised by the bustling activity.

Embark on a captivating exploration of the Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos today, marking a highlight of our scenic route through Norway.

Following an early morning stop at Finnsnes, our ship makes a call at Harstad. 

As we sail through the renowned islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen, anticipate breathtaking views of steep mountains, untouched wilderness, and charming fishing villages. Many of our guests consider this daylight route through the region to be the pinnacle of the voyage.

Following a brief stop at the quaint village of Risøyhamn, our journey takes us to Stokmarknes, the birthplace of The Hurtigruten Coastal Express over 125 years ago. Consider visiting the Hurtigrutemuseet here for a deeper understanding of our maritime history.

Continuing south, it may appear as if we are heading straight into a mountain. Rest assured, we are navigating a passage into the narrow Raftsund, flanked by peaks rising 1000m out of the sea.

Behold the awe-inspiring Trollfjord, where, weather permitting, we'll sail between sheer cliffs that seem almost within arm's reach – an unforgettable experience.

Our next destination is Svolvær where you can unwind in town at one of its many cafes, pubs, or restaurants.

Embarking on an essential 'rite of passage,' today marks our celebration of crossing the Arctic Circle on deck, featuring a nod to Arctic tradition with a spoonful of Norwegian cod liver oil. Although bidding farewell to the Polar region means parting ways with the Midnight Sun, the summer voyage continues to unfold with remarkably extended daylight hours.

Navigating along the Helgeland coast, you'll encounter the remarkable mountain, Torghatten, rising 258m above sea level. Renowned for the distinctive hole through its center, measuring 160m in length, 35m in height, and 20m in width, this geological marvel was shaped during the ice age.

A further highlight awaits as we sail past the Seven Sisters mountain range. According to legend, these seven peaks originated from seven beautiful troll sisters who, caught out at sunrise, transformed into stone, resulting in the creation of the seven stunning mountaintops.

Our journey includes a brief pause at the charming trading post of Nesna before advancing to Sandnessjøen.

Begin your day by exploring the historic royal city of Trondheim for a few enriching hours. Make a point to visit the grand Nidaros Cathedral, a magnificent structure built over the burial site of King Olav II, who reigned from 1015 to 1028.

As we bid farewell to Trondheim, our journey unfolds with a scenic sail past captivating island landscapes and some of Norway's tiniest communities, culminating in our arrival at Kristiansund and Molde.

Renowned as Norway's 'dried cod capital' due to its extensive export of salted dry fish, Kristiansund beckons with the option to embark on an excursion along the Atlantic Road, a National Scenic Route. This 8km stretch of highway boasts eight bridges, traversing picturesque landscapes surrounded by the open sea.

Today marks the conclusion of our Norwegian coastal cruise, but the final day with us promises a wealth of sights. Overnight, we'll make stops at Ålesund and Torvik, and as we approach Måløy, early risers may catch a glimpse of the northbound Coastal Express.

Before arriving in Bergen, take a moment to witness Nordfjord beneath the vast Jostedal Glacier, mainland Europe's largest glacier. The fjord widens to the east, stretching 90 km inland.

Our morning stop at Florø, Norway's westernmost community, allows you time to soak in the harbor and marina. Shortly after, as we depart, seize the opportunity to capture images of Stabben Lighthouse, a favored subject for photographers.

As we approach our final port in the afternoon, the ship will navigate through the last islands and skerries of our Norway scenic route, sailing down Hjeltefjord to reach Bergen, Norway's second-largest city.

Upon bidding farewell to the captain and crew, we'll embark on a city sightseeing tour of Bergen via a private bus. This includes a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bryggen, St. Mary's Church, and Håkon's Hall. The tour concludes at your Bergen hotel, where you'll check in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Explore the food stalls at the fish market or venture to the vibrant Hanseatic wharf at Bryggen for some souvenir shopping.

Enjoy the day at your own pace as you delve deeper into the captivating city. Embraced by seven mountains, Bergen is often hailed as "The Gateway to The Fjords," presenting an exquisite blend of unspoiled nature and vibrant culture.

Ascend to the pinnacle of Mount Fløyen for breathtaking panoramas of the city and its surrounding waterways. An unhurried journey aboard the funicular railway will effortlessly transport you to the summit.

Explore the extensive art collections and exhibits showcased across the four KODE museums and galleries. Additionally, meander through the array of shops, cafés, and restaurants encircling Market Square.

Our journey unfolds with a scenic train ride to Voss, where we'll then transition to a bus drive to Gudvangen. The highlight of the day awaits as we board a ferry to reach the charming village of Flåm, where we will spend the night.

Nestled amidst breathtaking fjord landscapes, Flåm offers a picturesque setting that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. With its unique blend of nature and culture, Flåm promises an unforgettable experience on your Norwegian journey.

Note: The ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ route from Day 15-18 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 Oslo ahead of you. Please make sure to take an overnight bag for your stay in Flam. Your luggage (max. 1 bag per person) is picked up from reception and will be available in your hotel in Oslo, the following evening.

We’ll continue our scenic train journey to Myrdal to reach Oslo where we’ll stay for the next two nights.

The capital city of Norway is a captivating destination that blends rich history with modern sophistication. Nestled at the northern end of the Oslofjord, this vibrant metropolis is renowned for its scenic beauty and thriving cultural scene.

Embark on a captivating 3-hour guided tour of Oslo today, led by a knowledgeable local guide. Discover the rich history and culture of the city, marvel at its key landmark, and take in beautiful views from Holmenkollen Hill. Delve into the artistic world of Gustav Vigeland as you explore the distinctive Sculpture Park, featuring over 200 sculptures in bronze and granite (please note, in case of inclement weather, we will visit the Fram Museum instead).

Your journey across Scandinavia ends after breakfast today.  Please make your own way to the airport.