Highlights
- Cruise the famous canals of Copenhagen, beginning at the colorful Nyhavn
- Go snowshoeing through the idyllic forests outside Stockholm
- Savor the Swedish coffee experience of "fika" in local bakeries and cafés
- Take a boat tour of the Oslo harbor while relaxing in a floating sauna
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Copenhagen (Denmark), Canal Cruise from Nyhavn | Copenhagen |
| Day 2 | Copenhagen Food & Drink Tour: Scandinavian Delights Tasting | Copenhagen |
| Day 3 | Northern Zealand Day Trip & Frederiksborg Castle Visit | Copenhagen |
| Day 4 | Train to Stockholm (Sweden), Free Time at Twilight | Stockholm |
| Day 5 | Winter Kayaking Through the Stockholm Archipelago, Fika Experience | Stockholm |
| Day 6 | Snowshoeing Through the Swedish Wilderness | Stockholm |
| Day 7 | Morning Coffee Tour in Vasastan, Stockholm Archipelago Dinner Cruise | Stockholm |
| Day 8 | Train to Oslo (Norway), Norwegian Wine Tasting | Oslo |
| Day 9 | Oslo Street Food Tour, Floating Sauna Cruise | Oslo |
| Day 10 | Depart Oslo |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen (Denmark), Canal Cruise from Nyhavn
Welcome to Copenhagen, the vibrant and charming capital of Denmark! As soon as you step off the plane or train, you'll be greeted by a city full of life, color, and hundreds of bikes. Along with the picturesque buildings, cobblestone streets, and quaint canals, you'll find museums, charming cafés, and world-class restaurants.
After you settle into your hotel, head to the famous Nyhavn, the 17th-century waterfront lined with colorful houses and restaurants. Board a boat for a canal cruise and to see the city's famous sights from the water. Marvel at the houses in Nyhavn, including one where Hans Christian Andersen lived, before cruising past the palaces of Christiansborg and Amalienborg, and seeing the sights of the Nyhavn waterfront and the beautiful old Copenhagen Stock Exchange.
Before you head back to Nyhavn, you'll visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue in Langelinie, perched on a rock in the harbor. Along the way, your tour guide will provide you with the statue's history and other landmarks and buildings you pass. At the end of the tour, explore Nyhavn and the surrounding area on foot before relaxing at your hotel.
Day 2: Copenhagen Food & Drink Tour: Scandinavian Delights Tasting
Today, you'll explore Danish culture through its cuisine. Meet your local guide for a tour of the best food stands in Copenhagen, where you can sample a range of Danish and Nordic specialties. Immerse yourself in the city's delicacies, from traditional Danish dishes to modern fusion specialties.
Although the Danish food culture is heavily influenced by the seasons, you can expect to try various delectable pastries from landmark bakeries, smørrebrød (open-face sandwiches) from leading delicatessens, and more. Sample artisan cheese in small shops, try organic hot dogs from street stands, sample craft beers, and discover Danish apple wine. Other specialties to try are akvavit (aquavit), elderberry juice, or fish dumplings.
Day 3: Northern Zealand Day Trip & Frederiksborg Castle Visit
A day trip from Copenhagen today takes you into the North Zealand region of Denmark, starting with a scenic guided drive to Kronborg Castle, the setting of Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Discover the ramparts surrounding this mysterious castle as you take in the striking setting of this seaside complex. Snap a few pictures at the Fredensborg Palace, an 18th-century Baroque structure favored by the Danish royal family and often used for important royal events, such as weddings.
Next, you'll visit the charming town of Hillerød to see the intriguing Renaissance castle of Frederiksborg. Situated on an island in the middle of a picturesque lake, the castle dates back to the 17th century and is symbolic of the Danish king's powerful influence at the time. The ornate details and opulent grandeur of this structure also house the Museum of National History. The castle is also known for its lavish gardens, which you'll have time to explore before your transfer back to Copenhagen.
Day 4: Train to Stockholm (Sweden), Free Time at Twilight
Hop on the train in Copenhagen for a scenic six-hour ride to Stockholm, the stately capital of Sweden. The Stockholm archipelago is known as the "Venice of the North," making up fourteen islands in the Baltic Sea. The innovative city is famous for its art-installation metro stations, tolerant society, and distinct districts. Östermalm is the picture of refined elegance, while the island of Södermalm has artsy and laid-back vibes. The busy downtown of Norrmalm is near the charming Gamla Stan (Old Town) with its skinny alleys and old buildings.
After you settle in, explore some of the city's most famous attractions. In addition to Gamla Stan, you can visit the Vasa Museum, a fully-reconstructed ship that sank off the coast in 1628, or the Skansen Open Air Museum, which features replicas of Swedish homes from all over the country.
As the winter day transitions into the evening in Stockholm, the city unfolds its enchanting charm. Take in the panoramic views from the rooftop bar at Gondolen, check out the photographs and nighttime city views at Fotografiska, walk along the serene waterfront, or try the classic activity of ice skating in Kungsträdgården. If the conditions are right, head outside town to Hammarbybacken to view the northern lights. Whatever you do, remember that dressing warmly is critical to enjoying those cold winter evenings!
Day 5: Winter Kayaking Through the Stockholm Archipelago, Fika Experience
Today, you'll see the islands of Stockholm from the water as you paddle on a sea kayak. Begin at the Skärgårdens Kanotcenter to meet your guide for a thorough safety briefing. Once you're familiar with the basic paddling and safety techniques, hop into your sea kayak and explore the winter archipelago. Follow your guide to discover the charming town of Vaxholm, with its historic fortress, once used to defend Stockholm, and its traditional fishing cottages in the harbor.
Paddle to one of Stockholm's largest nature reserves, the Bogesund Nature Reserve. The peaceful spot feels remote, even though it's only 30 minutes from the city center. Kayak through the area and hear stories about the resident Vikings, who lived there 1,000 years ago. Make your way back to your starting point in Stockholm, savoring the views before warming up with the afternoon ritual of fika (a coffee break). Fika is one of Sweden's most famous customs and is usually enjoyed with coffee and a kanelbulle (cinnamon bun).
Day 6: Snowshoeing Through the Swedish Wilderness
Once again, you'll venture outside Stockholm to immerse yourself in the winter nature of Sweden. Strap on some snowshoes and hike through the snowy wonderland, appreciating the serene landscape, snow-draped trees, frozen lakes, and the occasional animal track.
Your guide will impart invaluable knowledge about nature, navigation, and survival skills as you go. Learn how to start a fire with nothing but flint, then enjoy a classic Swedish fika around the campfire. Identify trees and tracks, practice the "leave-no-trace" ideals, and stay warm in the wilderness before transferring back to Stockholm for a free afternoon.
Day 7: Morning Coffee Hunt in Vasastan, Stockholm Archipelago Boat Dinner Cruise
Delve deep into Stockholm's coffee culture this morning in the central neighborhood of Vasastan. Discover the best coffee destinations on St. Eriksgatan, where you'll find Kaffeverket, a local favorite renowned for its top-notch espresso. Venture over to Odenplan and indulge in the expert brews at Johan & Nyström. The surrounding streets offer plenty of options for a quick coffee fix, such as Blåbär and Café Pascal. Java Whiskers, a popular cat café, lets you partake in fika with some feline company.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to Ritorno, a traditional pastry shop established in 1959. Try Café Koya for a Japanese twist on a classic Swedish café. For the ultimate Swedish fika experience, visit Lillebrors Bageri for some of the city's best semla (cardamom cream buns).
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 8: Train to Oslo (Norway), Norwegian Wine Tasting
Say goodbye to Sweden and hop aboard the express train to Norway! The 5.5-hour train ride will take you past gorgeous scenery to the small yet lively city of Oslo. Surrounded by mountains and the sea, this Scandinavian capital is known for its fjords and forests, paired with modern architecture and well-preserved buildings.
After you check into your hotel, walk along Oslo's main thoroughfare, Karl Johans Gate, which leads to the home of the Norwegian monarchy at Palace Park. Continue your walking tour to Aker Brygge along the Oslofjord to explore the many shops along the waterfront, as well as notable museums like the Nobel Peace Center and Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art. For dinner, you can head to the city's historic core, which has many restaurants and cafés that offer a warm and cozy setting. End the day at Destilleriveien 11 to taste some of the best from Norway and Europe.
Day 9: Oslo Street Food Tour, Floating Sauna Cruise
This morning, meet your guide at the Mathallen Food Hall for a street food tour of Oslo. The hall itself is a foodie paradise, with over 30 stalls and specialty shops selling everything from cheese, smoked fish, reindeer, and cupcakes. Explore the surrounding Vulkan neighborhood and taste various Norwegian treats along the way. Try Norwegian-style waffles, hot dogs, and the local orange soda, Solo.
In the afternoon, you'll board a sauna cruise to explore Oslo by water. Part boat, part sauna, the cruise takes you slowly around the harbor, allowing you to sightsee and savor the benefits of the heat. If you feel like a quick cool-down, as part of the quintessential Scandinavian experience, the skipper will stop for you to take a bracing dip in the sea.
Day 10: Depart Oslo
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