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Aurora in Tromso ©norvegian.travel

Capitals of Norway, Sweden, Denmark & Best of Northern Norway

(14 days / 13 nights)

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Vibrant cities, the sparkling SnowHotel & the magical northern lights

Embark on a Scandinavian adventure to remember with this 14-day tour. Beginning in fashionable Stockholm, you’ll discover the wonders of the ancient city before exploring colourful Copenhagen and lively Oslo. Visit royal palaces, marvel at beautiful architecture and stroll through charming streets. You’ll then set sail for Northern Norway, crossing into the Arctic Circle. Here, you’ll get to stay at the iconic SnowHotel and if you’re lucky the northern lights might make an appearance, dancing in the night sky.

14 days / 13 nights

Price p.p. from

EUR

The amount will be charged in EUR

Approx 8246 EUR

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— Why book with Nordic Visitor

  • Seamless travel experience
  • Handpicked hotels and routes designed by local experts
  • Comprehensive itinerary, personalised map & travel guide
  • 24/7 helpline during your tour
  • Service from local travel experts in Scandinavia
  • 5-star customer reviews
  • Carbon offsetting included

Read more

— Cancellation Protection

  • Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
  • Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the snow-dusted capitals of Norway, Sweden & Denmark
  • Travel in true Scandinavian style, hopping between trains and cruises
  • Stroll through Norway’s grand capital, Oslo, and Gamla Stan in Stockholm, Sweden
  • Enjoy a walk along Copenhagen’s harbour Nyhavn and visit the Little Mermaid statue
  • Cross the Arctic Circle into Northern Norway for a Nordic escape
  • Take in the beauty and culture of Tromsø
  • Sail on a Hurtigruten or Havila Voyages coastal cruise and enjoy incredible sea views at the North Cape, Europe’s northernmost point
  • Watch the northern lights from the deck of the ship or darkness of the Arctic countryside
  • Discover the snowy countryside on snowmobile and dog-sled tours
  • Stay in a snow room for a memorable night at the Snowhotel

Travel style

Independent Tours i

Interest

Active i, Castles and Royalty i, Coastal Cruise i, Culture and History i, Dog Sled i, Honeymoon & Romance i, Ice/Snow hotel i, Northern Lights i

Season

Dec - Mar

Departure

All days except Mondays

Interest

Active i, Castles and Royalty i, Coastal Cruise i, Culture and History i, Dog Sled i, Honeymoon & Romance i, Ice/Snow hotel i, Northern Lights i

Itinerary

A day-by-day plan to guide your Nordic adventure.

  • Day 1: Welcome to Sweden

    Welcome to Stockholm! After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, make your way to your accommodation.

    You could call a taxi or board the express train to Stockholm Central Station. Or, for a direct and comfortable ride, we can organise a private airport transfer for you.

    If you arrive early, spend the afternoon exploring Sweden’s beautiful capital. Stroll down to Drottninggatan to do some shopping. This street is home to many chain shops, as well as independent boutiques. It’s the perfect place to find a souvenir from your Scandinavian adventure.

    Or you could head to Östermalm. Here you’ll find beautiful architecture, fascinating museums and tempting eateries. Take your pick of the city’s plentiful restaurants for dinner, before making your way back to your hotel.

    Spend the night in Stockholm.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 2: The Charms of Swedish Culture

    Today, you’ll enjoy plenty of time exploring the heart of Stockholm. This walkable city is perfect to discover on foot. Just make sure to wrap up warm as it may well be chilly outside!

    Start by exploring the Old Town (Gamla Stan), where you will find the Royal Palace, the nation’s parliament, ancient churches and beautiful cobblestone streets.

    After some time in Gamla Stan, take a short ferry ride to the nearby island Djurgården. This is a cultural oasis offering something for everyone.

    Here you will find the ABBA Museum, celebrating Sweden’s most famous band. There’s also the Nordic Museum, the Vasa Museum, and the Skansen open-air museum.

    Spend another night in Stockholm.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 3: Travel from Stockholm to Lovely Copenhagen

    After breakfast, you’ll say goodbye to Stockholm and head to Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital city. Make your way to Stockholm Central Station to catch your train.

    The journey to Denmark takes you through the spellbinding Swedish countryside and over the iconic Øresund Bridge. Soak in the magical scenery as you travel.

    After settling into your hotel, you could take a walk along the enchanting old harbour area, Nyhavn. This famous district is lined with colourful houses and lively restaurants beside rows of docked boats.

    From here, you can easily explore the highlights of this iconic city. Walk the narrow side streets, visit some charming shops, and try a delicious, traditional open-faced sandwich, smørrebrød.

    Spend the night in Copenhagen.

    *It’s possible to travel by plane instead of by train between Stockholm and Copenhagen. For more details, check out today’s optional extras.

    Included:
    • Train Journey between Sweden and Denmark

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 4: A day in Captivating Copenhagen

    You have the whole day to explore the enchanting streets of Copenhagen. The best way to explore is on foot, so head back to the cobblestoned streets of the city centre.

    There are many regal landmarks, including Amalienborg Palace and Christiansborg Palace. Be sure to walk to the famous Little Mermaid statue by the waterfront.

    Do some souvenir shopping along Strøget street and grab something delicious to eat at Torvehallerne food hall.

    In the evening, enjoy a nightcap in one of the city’s many bars before returning to your hotel.

    Spend another night in Copenhagen.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 5: Set sail for Norway

    Spend the morning seeing some more of historic Copenhagen. If you haven’t already, you might want to check out the observatory of The Round Tower.

    There’s also the most famous church in Copenhagen, Church of Our Saviour, the impeccable King’s Garden, and the grand Rosenborg Castle.

    Later, it’s time to board your DFDS cruise to Oslo. The ship will sail you up the jaw-dropping Kattegat Sund on its way to Norway’s capital city.

    This evening, you could check out the on-board entertainment or simply relax and admire the magical night sky from the deck.

    Spend the night on the DFDS cruise.

    Included:
    • Overnight Cruise between Denmark and Norway

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 6: Enchanting Oslo

    Enjoy breakfast on board as the ship docks in vibrant Oslo. You have the day to explore Norway’s bustling capital.

    Stroll along the Karl Johans gate main street. As Oslo’s main thoroughfare, it’s one street you won’t want to miss. Expect to see street musicians, cobblestoned paths and even some reflecting ponds.

    Then make your way along the bustling Aker Brygge marina and past the Oslo Opera House. This area is packed with lively shops and beautiful views.

    Aker Brygge is also a great place for tonight’s dinner. There are countless eateries to choose from here.

    Spend the night in Oslo.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 7: Fly to lively Tromsø

    Today you’re leaving the south of Norway behind to fly into the magical Arctic Circle. Head to the airport to catch your flight, taking the Airport Express Train or a taxi. Alternatively, we would be happy to arrange a private airport transfer for you.

    Upon arrival in Tromsø, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the charming city. Also known as the "Capital of Northern Norway", it’s a lively hub of cultural and historical significance. Stroll the city’s charming streets, passing art galleries, museums and quaint boutiques along the way.

    There are also several restaurants to choose from here. Their menus are packed with Arctic flavours and local delicacies.

    After dinner, you could chase the magical northern lights on a guided tour. Watching the auroras dance across the night sky is a truly unforgettable experience.

    Spend the night in Tromsø.

    *Please note that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 8: Snowmobile Adventure at Camp Tamok

    This morning, hop on a transfer to Camp Tamok for a day of adventure. At the Camp you will join a snowmobile excursion, following your guide into the scenic mountains. You’ll travel to Finnvatnet lake where you’ll have a moment to relax and take in the beauty of the countryside.

    When you’re back at the camp, you’ll visit the Ice Domes Snow Park* to admire the ice sculptures and snow carvings. You’ll also have time to visit the herd of reindeer nearby.  

    Later, you head back to your accommodation in Tromsø. You also have the option of adding a night at Camp Tamok for the full experience (optional).

    Spend another night in Tromsø.

    *Please note that the Ice Domes Snow Park opens on December 11th, but is dependent on weather conditions so may be closed early in the season.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 9: Open day in Tromsø

    Take the start of the day to enjoy the best of Tromsø. After exploring its countryside, you can dive into the cultural highlights of this Norwegian city. We recommend a stroll along Storgata, the main shopping street of the city. Then stop to visit the Polar Museum nearby. Or travel across the water to take in the striking Arctic Cathedral. For views of the city and some more outdoor adventures, take the cable car Fjellheisen up Storsteinen mountain.

    This evening, you set off on the next leg of your journey, boarding a coastal cruise to Kirkenes. This sea voyage is sure to offer incredible views as you’ll sail along the coastline and fjords of Northern Norway. Tonight, there’s a good chance of seeing the northern lights from the ship, so keep your eyes peeled.

    Spend the night on board the coastal cruise.  

    Want to know which cruise you will be joining? Check out sailing departures per tour.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 10: North cape at 71°N

    Today your coastal cruise makes a stop at the famous North Cape (“Nordkapp”). Located at 71° north, it is the northernmost point of mainland Europe. This spot is also known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife sighting opportunities. From the ship, you will join a guided shore excursion to the North Cape to explore its famous viewpoint.

    Spend another night on the coastal cruise.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 11: King Crab Safari & Snow Hotel

    In the morning you will arrive in Kirkenes, a rustic town located about 400 kilometres (240 miles) above the Arctic Circle in Northern Norway. Your transfer from the cruise terminal is included to head to the delightful SnowHotel.

    Kick off your stay with a king crab safari. You will start by travelling by snowmobile out to the fjord. Here you will find the king crab traps that you’ll help pull up from the deep ocean, heavy with crabs. Later, you’ll head back to the SnowHotel to go learn how to cook your catch at the restaurant.

    Next, you will take a tour of the SnowHotel before enjoying a drink at the Snow Bar. Later, you’ll be served a 3-course Arctic feast by the fireplace at the Høyloftet Restaurant. Then it’s time for your memorable night in a special suite made of snow and ice*! You could also join one of the northern lights tours this evening.

    Spend the night in a snow room at the SnowHotel.

    *Check optional activities if you’d like to stay in a private cabin instead of a snow room.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 12: Dog Sledding at the Arctic SnowHotel

    In the morning, spend some time exploring the surroundings of the SnowHotel. Then you’ll join yet another unique experience: a dog sledding tour. You’ll get equipped with extra winter clothing for an exciting ride. The huskies will pull you across fjord ice and through frosty woodlands.

    After your adventure, you will head to Kirkenes for the night. Your transfer is included straight to your accommodation in the city centre.

    Spend the night in Kirkenes.

    Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 13: Return to Norway’s capital

    Today you’ll return to Norway’s capital city of Oslo. The flight from Kirkenes lasts around 2 hours, leaving you plenty of time to explore some more of the city once you’ve landed.

    Visit the Oslo Cathedral (“Oslo Domkirke”) for a dose of culture. The church stands as an elaborate focal point in the heart of the city and boasts incredible interiors. Step inside and look up to marvel at the beautiful mosaic ceiling.

    Or you could head to the Norwegian Maritime Museum to discover the country’s seafaring history. The exhibits include multi-media presentations and model ships.

    After dinner, round your final night in Scandinavia off with a star-lit walk under the night sky.

    Spend the night in Oslo.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 14: Departure from Oslo

    It’s time to say goodbye to Norway! If your flight is in the afternoon, you could spend a few last hours shopping for souvenirs, visiting one of Oslo’s museums or simply strolling through the charming city centre.

    When it’s time to head to the airport, take the Airport Express Train or call a taxi. Alternatively, we would be happy to arrange a private airport transfer for you.

    If you’d like to spend more time in Norway’s dynamic capital, you can easily add additional nights in Oslo during the booking process.

    See Activities for this day
View full itinerary

Optional extras

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Day One

Stockholm
Service

Private Airport Transfer – Stockholm Arrival

Duration 40 minutes
Price p.p. from

123EUR

EUR

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View all extras
Stockholm
Service

Private Airport Transfer – Stockholm Arrival

Duration 40 minutes
Price p.p. from

123EUR

EUR

View
Stockholm Old Town
Activity

Stockholm by bus – audio guide

Duration 24 hours
Price p.p. from

33EUR

EUR

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Bakery in Stockholm
Activity

Stockholm Food Walk

Duration 4 hours
Price p.p. from

104EUR

EUR

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Stockholm Old Town
Activity

Stockholm Private Walking Tour - Old Town

Duration 2 hours
Price p.p. from

291EUR

EUR

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Map

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

Included

Not included

Optional Extras

14 days / 13 nights

Price p.p. from

EUR

The amount will be charged in EUR

Approx 8246 EUR

Find your price
Request info

Essential information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this independent tour of Scandinavia. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here, so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Scandinavia Travel Guide.

On an independent tour of Scandinavia, Nordic Visitor takes care of your local transportation, accommodation and excursions for a relaxed self-guided travel experience. This might include trains, cruises and/or internal flights, as specified in the itinerary.

You will follow an itinerary that’s been pre-planned and booked for you before you arrive in Scandinavia. This means you can take advantage of Nordic Visitor’s insider knowledge while exploring the different countries at your leisure.

Ahead of your arrival, you’ll receive personalised information via email, including an itinerary and detailed Scandinavia Travel Guide.

During your tour, you’ll always be able to reach us by calling our 24/7 helpline. This gives you peace of mind that we’re just a phone call away as you enjoy your independent adventure.

On this tour, you’ll get to experience both independent travel and exciting excursions led by local guides to see the best of the Norwegian Arctic. All with the support and 24/7 helpline of Nordic Visitor.

You’ll be able to explore the vibrant “capital of Northern Norway”, Tromsø, at your leisure.

In between your own exploration, you’ll join some thrilling guided excursions to experience the variety of Arctic life. You’ll always be led by a local, knowledgeable guide, and all the details of your adventures will be included in your itinerary.

Please wait to book flights to Scandinavia until we can confirm your desired travel dates for this tour. This is due to varying availabilities on services included in this package. 

After making a booking with Nordic Visitor, it might take a few weeks to confirm your travel arrangements. We recommend booking your flights once your personal travel consultant gets in touch to confirm your itinerary.

If you have any questions about your flights and itinerary, please contact us for more details.

Due to the nature of this tour and the activities included, it’s not recommended for families with young children. That said, it is suitable for active children of 7 years or older. If in doubt, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

The transfers between your hotel and train stations, cruise ports or airports are not included with this package.

Usually your accommodation will be within short walking distance from train stations or cruise ports. When travelling to airports for flights between destinations, we recommend taking the convenient local public transport. But you could also get a taxi from your accommodation if you prefer.

To find out which dates you can start your trip on, navigate to the "Find your price" section on the tour's page. Under "Tour start date", you'll see a calendar symbol. Select this and you'll see all the available dates to start your tour.

If you can't select a certain day, this means there are no departures available then. In that situation, please get in touch and one of our travel consultants will look into the options for you.

Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. 

If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.

Yes, you can fly to Copenhagen instead of taking the train, if you’d prefer. To do this, select the relevant optional extra during the booking process, or contact your travel consultant.

Your travel consultant will select the flights that make the most sense with your itinerary timings.

Please note that this service will come with an additional charge.

After your stay in Copenhagen, you’ll travel to Oslo on an overnight cruise. You’ll depart in the mid-afternoon and arrive in Norway the following morning.

We’ll book you a private cabin with ensuite facilities and a small window. In the morning before docking in Oslo, your breakfast is included.

There are 2 ships operating the route, Pearl Seaways and Crown Seaways. On board both, you will find facilities such as lounges, restaurants, bars and a viewing deck. There are also daily activities and entertainment to enjoy. 

On your Scandinavian adventure, you’ll stay in accommodation that’s been hand-picked by our travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

During the booking process, you can select whether you want Comfort Plus or Superior accommodation. Comfort Plus usually consists of standard rooms in good quality and comfortable 3-star hotels. Superior is standard rooms in 4-star hotels combined with superior rooms in premium 3-star hotels.

You will also be able to choose between single, double or triple rooms. Please note that in the Nordic countries room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.

For example, a double bed often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. Twin rooms are 2 separate single beds. Triple rooms include a double bed along with an extra single bed, rollaway or sofa bed. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

If you have anything specific in mind, please contact us to discuss customising your accommodation options.

Yes, you should have moderate to good physical fitness to take part comfortably in this tour. This is because packages set in the Arctic are considered adventure travel due to the specific conditions you’ll experience. Arctic travel can sometimes involve extreme weather conditions as well as vigorous activity and animals (like huskies and reindeer) on many excursions.

You'll travel between Oslo and Tromsø via a domestic flight. This journey should take around 2 hours.

Your travel consultant will book the best option for your travel dates, depending on availability. Flight times will be confirmed when we book your travel arrangements.

You'll travel between Kirkenes and Oslo via a domestic flight. This journey should take just over 2 hours.

Your travel consultant will book the best option for your travel dates, depending on availability. Flight times will be confirmed when we book your travel arrangements.

Your dog sledding day out will last around 8 hours, starting with a 75-minute bus transfer between Tromsø and Camp Tamok. 

Once you reach the camp, you will get a lesson before setting off. The dog sledding excursion itself will take around 2 hours, travelling 10–12 kilometres (6–7.5 miles). You will be driving in pairs, with one person as the driver and the other as the passenger. The roles will be switched halfway.  

No experience is required to take part, but you should be in fair physical condition. Warm clothing and equipment will be provided on location for the activity.

On this tour, you will hop aboard a coastal cruise, provided by either Hurtigruten or Havila Voyages, along the Norwegian west coast. You’ll be staying in your own cabin with private facilities.

Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages operate along the same route on different days. Your personal travel consultant will book the cruise on your behalf in light of your tour’s start date and the rest of your itinerary.

If you are travelling on a Hurtigruten cruise:
Hurtigruten ships offer a classic Norwegian experience, with cosy cabins furnished with either twin or double beds. Your room will be between 8-11 square metres (86-118 square feet) and will always include a port hole, but please note that a view from the window cannot be guaranteed.

Instead, Hurtigruten ships all offer comfortable viewing decks, dining areas and lounges. This way, you can spend your mornings and evenings relaxing with incredible views of the passing Norwegian coastline.

If you are travelling on a Havila Voyages cruise:
Havila Voyages ships are the newer cruise liners on the block. Their modern cabins are furnished with either twin or double beds and are all around 15 square metres (161 feet). Your room will have a port hole and a small sofa so you can watch the views of ocean or coastline go past. Or, head up to the lounge, restaurant or viewing deck to see more of the passing fjords.

For the Norway portion of your Scandinavian adventure, your travel consultant will arrange the details of your cruise departure in light of your tour’s start date. They’ll then include all the information in your personal itinerary.

If you have a specific cruise in mind, check out our list of Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages sailing dates in 2025 and 2026.

Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages are shipping companies which transport travellers along the Norwegian coastline. Both offer incredible views of spectacular fjords and charming coastal villages as they journey towards Norway’s north or south.

That said, both companies have their own histories and distinct characters. Your cruise experience will vary depending on which company you’re travelling with. We’ve broken down the key differences below so you know what to expect on your seafaring adventure.

Hurtigruten dates back to 1893, and many of its ships were originally used to transport post. Due to the historic nature of these cruises, each one differs in size and your room’s port hole window may not have a view. Instead, you can expect a cosy cabin stay, with access to charming lounges and restaurant areas that have floor-to-ceiling windows.

Havila Voyages are a newer company, with a focus on eco-friendly and sustainable travel. Their rooms are slightly larger and have views of either the ocean or the coastline from their port holes. Just like Hurtigruten, they offer on-board facilities such as relaxing lounges, restaurants and viewing decks.

Whichever company you travel with, you’ll enjoy a private cabin with either a double or twin beds and ensuite facilities. Please bear in mind that we cannot guarantee your cabin number for coastal voyages shorter than 5 nights.

When your ship is in port for longer than 30 minutes, you’ll have the option to disembark. Optional shore excursions will also be available on your journey, so make sure to pre-book any activities that interest you.

The North Cape, or “Nordkapp”, is mainland Europe’s northernmost point, located at latitude 71°N. On this tour, you’ll take a shore excursion from your Hurtigruten cruise to come admire the views of the cape.

Rising to an impressive 308 metres (1,000 feet) above the Barents Sea, the cape was originally an important orientation point for sailors. Today it is better known for its spectacular scenery and wildlife sighting opportunities.

You’ll have time to enjoy the views and try to spot birds or sea life. On the cape, you’ll also find a museum and restaurant where you can learn about early expeditions to the North Cape.

This package includes a one-night stay in a unique ice room at the Snowhotel. The hotel is an impressive complex with 20 rooms carved by master ice sculptors from around the world. 

Transfers to and from the hotel are included with the Snowhotel Experience. You will also take a tour of the hotel, and enjoy dinner here as well as a visit to the ice bar. 

If you would prefer not to stay in an ice room at the Snowhotel, there is the option of staying in a small cabin. You can select this option in the booking steps. 

The cabins are warm, comfortable and offer panoramic views if you want to stay up late looking out for the northern lights.

While at Camp Tamok, you’ll join a snowmobile excursion with an expert guide. This will allow you to experience the snowy countryside in a thrilling way.

You’ll start by meeting your tour guide for a safety briefing. They will also provide you with the gear you need and teach you how to drive a snowmobile. After you’re outfitted and informed, it’s time to take to the snow.

Here's some important information:

  • Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving licence.
  • Everyone who takes part in this excursion must be at least 130 centimetres (4 f 3) in height to meet safety requirements.
  • Two people share a snowmobile and take turns driving.

From the Snowhotel, you’ll travel by snowmobile to the nearby fjord. From here, you’ll help fishermen pull up king crab traps from the depths of the sea.

After the active, outdoors adventure, you’ll head back to the Snowhotel to go cook and enjoy your fresh catch of the day.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline. 

During your tour, there will always be a travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

If you have a passport from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa to visit Scandinavia. This visa-free entry is valid for up to 90 days.

Visiting from another country? You might need to apply for a Schengen visa. You can find out whether you require a visa to enter on the Sweden Government website or the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland. You’ll need to apply to the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time, or the first country you will visit.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your departure from the region. It’s good to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it.

Scandinavia is a beautiful destination all year long. But it’s good to be aware of a few things before picking the best time to visit for you.

During the summer months, June to August, you’ll have the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours of the year. This is ideal for outdoor excursions and taking full advantage of your days for sightseeing.

If you’d like to experience the top attractions with fewer visitors around, then you could book a summer itinerary in May or September. These shoulder season months generally have more tour and attraction availability.

Independent tours of Scandinavia are also available during the rest of the year. But please be advised that if you are travelling in late March, April, late September or October, the weather is much milder, especially in Sweden and Norway. That said, there will still be more sunlight at this time of year than in winter.

Choose to travel in winter, November to February, and you’ll benefit from an itinerary of quieter towns and attractions. You can also expect fewer daylight hours, and the addition of snow-dusted mountains as a backdrop. It’s good to remember that in Scandinavia, northern lights can only really be seen from Northern Norway, Iceland, and Lapland.

Christmastime is another magical time of year to visit Scandinavia, with Christmas markets galore. But please note that there are limited opening hours during the holiday season.

Because of its northerly location, Scandinavia has limited daylight in winter.

In Helsinki, Stockholm and Copenhagen you can expect between 6 and 10 hours of daylight. This will be similar in the southern regions of Norway, such as in Oslo and Bergen.

If you visit the north of Norway, you can expect few daylight hours in late autumn and early spring. Then from late November to mid-January, the sun never rises. This is called the “polar night”, which gives you a better chance of seeing the northern lights.

Find out more about time zones and daylight in this guide to time and daylight in Scandinavia.

Yes! Wintertime is the right season to visit Norway if you want to see the northern lights (or aurora borealis). You can experience the northern lights in the north of Norway between October and March, with peak visibility from December through February. 

For the best chances of seeing them, head into the Arctic Circle, to locations such as Tromsø, Kirkenes and the Lofoten islands. With Nordic Visitor, you can also pick from a selection of Norway northern lights tours.

Please note that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. Even if you go out on a specific northern lights excursion, you might not see them, depending on the conditions or cloud cover. 

Read our Norway northern lights guide to learn more.

The winter climate across Scandinavia is generally cold and can sometimes be wet.

Copenhagen will have warmer temperatures, being further south. Expect averages between 1–5°C (34–41°F). Stockholm and Oslo share similar weather conditions, with temperatures falling below zero from December on.

If you travel to Bergen, you’ll find it is often less cold than Oslo as the Gulf Stream warms up the west coast. Up north, in the Arctic Circle, you’ll experience temperatures below freezing, around 0 to -5°C (31–23°F).

This is also the time of year where snow starts falling and you’ll be able to admire snow-capped mountains.

Generally, this means you should come prepared with warm, insulated clothes and outer layers to visit Scandinavia in winter.

For more information on the local climate, read the page Scandinavian weather conditions.

Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. This means that your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit.

During the winter season, you can expect temperatures below freezing across the Scandinavian countries. For that reason, you’ll want to pack and dress with plenty of layers to keep yourself warm and dry.

Here is an essential winter packing list for your trip to Scandinavia:

  • Insulated and waterproof jacket
  • Cosy wool or fleece jumpers
  • Waterproof (and potentially lined) trousers
  • Warm gloves, hat and scarf
  • Insulated boots
  • A few pairs of thermal socks
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Lip balm and moisturiser
  • Electronic gear such as smartphone, external powerpack, and travel adapters
  • A backpack for easy access to daily essentials
  • and don’t forget your camera!

For more information, check out this Scandinavian packing list.

In most major Scandinavian cities and towns you will be able to find coin-operated launderettes, with self-service facilities, and dry cleaners. Most hotels on your trip will also offer a laundry or dry cleaning service for an additional cost.

When you travel with Nordic Visitor, breakfast at your accommodation is always included. For the rest of your meals, the amount of spending money you need will depend on the country you're in and the standard of restaurants you decide to go to.

In Helsinki and Tallinn, we recommend budgeting between 15–20 euros for lunch per person, each day. Dinner at casual restaurants might cost between €25–€40 for a main course. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you might expect to spend €70–€100 per person or more.

In Sweden, we recommend budgeting between 150–250 SEK for lunch per person, each day. Dinner at casual restaurants might cost between 300–500 SEK for a main course. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you might expect to spend at least 500–800 SEK per person.

In Copenhagen, these numbers will be closer to 150–250 DKK for lunch, 250–450 DKK for casual dinners and upwards of 600 DKK for upscale dining.

For Norway, you’ll want to budget 200–400 NOK per person per lunch. Dinners will be between 400–700 NOK for a main course, and upscale restaurants might charge upwards of 700–1,500 NOK.

These general budgeting tips do not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking.

We recommend waiting for confirmation from your travel consultant to ensure your travel dates are available. You’ll then be able to purchase your flights with confidence.

If you like to plan well ahead of time, you’ll find that it’s possible to book many tours for the following year. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us.

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

We aim to complete bookings within a few weeks. During this time we take care of booking your accommodation, activities, and transport, confirming all parts of your journey. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. 

When we get back to you might depend slightly on how far ahead you’ve booked your travels and other tours running at the time. 

No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.

Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund. 

If you have any questions before your trip, you can get in touch with our Scandinavian travel experts based in Stockholm. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Scandinavia Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

After you have booked your tour, it will take a few weeks to confirm its availability. Then we will start the booking process to create your itinerary.

Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll send you e-copies of your travel documents. This will include your personalised itinerary, our Scandinavia Travel Guide and your service vouchers. We recommend printing your tickets and vouchers to bring with you to Scandinavia.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect when you land in Sweden?

After picking up your luggage, you’ll make your way to your accommodation. Public transport is easy to access and convenient in Stockholm. Or you could catch a taxi.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2–4 PM.

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel until check-in. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your trip if you’d like an early check-in.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will usually need to check out from your room around 10–11 AM. If you’re staying in town longer, you will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before making your way to the airport.

All bookings are billed in Euro (EUR). Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. This means conversions from EUR to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

Accommodation

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Comfort Plus

Standard rooms in good quality and comfortable three-star hotels in combination with charming country hotels.

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Superior

Standard rooms in four-star hotels in combination with Superior rooms in premium three-star hotels.

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Price per person from

EUR

The amount will be charged in EUR

Approx 8246 EUR

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