Summer Family Trip to Norway & Denmark - 14 Days

Highlights

• Live like a Viking at Njardarheimr
• Cruise Norway's stunning fjords
• Experience the thrills and fun of Dyreparken and LEGOLAND
• Relax in the colorful streets of Copenhagen

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo, Norwegian Open Air Museum

Welcome to Oslo, a rapidly-growing city with a small-town feel. An easy and scenic train ride from the airport, this compact destination is surrounded by mountains and sea and is perfect to discover on foot. Once you've settled in, get into your comfortable shoes and take the family exploring. Karl Johan's Gate is a great place to start (and to grab dinner later on), taking you from the center through to the impressive Palace Park, the residence of the Norwegian monarchy. The Vigeland Sculpture Park is also an easy walk and a lovely way to let the kids enjoy some green space while you look at the impressive artwork.

Once you're all warmed up, the Norwegian Open Air Museum is a short bus ride away—ideal for kids, this highly interactive museum is a large outdoor park featuring buildings from both rural and urban Norway spanning the Middle Ages to modern times. Let the kids scamper on the cobbled streets, imagining themselves living and shopping in the buildings around them. Don't miss the famous Gol Stave Church, built in the 1200s. If your energy is flagging after your travels, grab a coffee from the on-site café and let the kids say hello to the various friendly animals surrounding the period farmhouses.

Day 2: Kayak Tour & Explore Oslo

See Oslo from another angle today with a family kayak tour of the Oslofjord. Experience isn't necessary—the tour begins with instruction. Tours are tailored to your family, with single and double kayaks available (kids do have to be six or over, though, and able to swim). You'll start in the sheltered Sjølyst Marina and make your way through the scenic fjord, passing by islands and beaches, ensuring that you see the best city highlights from the water and also Norway's unforgettable natural beauty.

Later on (or in the morning if the kids are still a little young to kayak), there are abundant other family-friendly attractions. Oslo has over 50 museums, so there's something for everyone. Art-focused options include the must-see Munch Museum or the Nasjonal Museet, which is very kid friendly with its drawing stations, workshops, and Fairy Tale Room. If art isn't quite what you're after, try the Fram Museum, where you'll see one of the world's most famous wooden ships and exhibitions on the history of Norwegian polar exploration. You can also try the Natural History Museum―the kids will be fascinated by the fossils and animal dioramas. With botanic gardens and a café adjacent, this is a great place to spend a few hours. 

Day 3: Scenic Train to Flåm, Transfer to Aurland

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Oslo, then take the train to Myrdal. Here, you'll change onto the famous Flåm Line, a trip highlight in its own right. Considered one of the world's most beautiful railway lines, sit back and relax as your family enjoys views of quaint villages, fjords, snowy mountains, and waterfalls —you'll be amazed at the extensive cascades of Kjosfossen, and there'll be plenty of time for photos there. The line is also one of the world's steepest, passing through elevations of up to 4,000 feet (1,219 m) above sea level. 

You'll be met in Flåm by a private driver who will take you to your accommodation. If the kids need to stretch their legs, take a stroll through the village— there are plenty of local businesses and craftspeople to visit—or even take a brief hike in the surrounding hills. The Flåm Railway Museum is worth a visit, or take a tour of the local church, constructed in 1667. For dinner, head to Ægir Brewery, one of Norway's best craft breweries. Home to a great kid's menu and playground, the little ones will be happily entertained while you take advantage of the five-course menu, paired, of course, with the finest in local beer.  

Day 4: Visit Stegastein Viewpoint, Boat Safari to Undredal

Enjoy breakfasting on the fine local bread and cheeses before your family hops on a bus to one of Norway's most popular attractions: the Stegastein Viewpoint. A stunning construction, the platform is 2,132 feet (650 m) above the fjord and juts out 98 feet (30 m) from the cliffs. You and the kids will have the exhilarating feeling that you are walking on air while you take in the spectacular views. There are several hiking trails nearby to stroll, so you can enjoy the scenery from multiple perspectives. Afterward, the bus will carry you back to Flåm for your next adventure―it's time to see the fjord from the water.

This afternoon, you'll sail to Undredal, a tiny village perched between tall mountains. Your vessel will be a fast RIB (rigid inflatable boat). The whole family will love the excitement of scooting through the fjord, taking in the scenery, and stopping at attractions along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for seals, porpoises, and eagles while you listen to your guide tell you about the region. At Undredal, admire Scandinavia's smallest stave church and taste the village's award-winning goat cheese while learning about its traditional production. The boat will drop you back in Flåm at the end of the tour.

Day 5: Visit the Viking Valley

This morning take your family on an easy scenic ferry ride through two stunning fjords from Flåm to Gudvangen. This small village is adjacent to the Njardarheimr Viking Valley, where you and your family will enjoy a vivid history lesson today. Situated in the heart of the Norwegian fjord landscape, experience how Vikings lived and worked in this reconstructed village, built to be as authentic as possible. Start with a 45-minute tour and then explore the buildings yourselves, according to what most interests you—there are over 20 buildings, making this construction a true labor of love!

Day 6: Train to Bergen & Explore

Relax on another scenic train ride this morning as you make your way to one of the oldest port cities in Europe, Bergen. Once you're settled in your accommodation, start exploring this small and atmospheric center. Take a walk through scenic Bryggen, a colorful wharf area that the kids will recognize from the hit movie, "Frozen," and explore Bryggen's medieval past with a stop at the Fantoft Stave Church or the Rosenkrantz Tower, home to the city's leaders for hundreds of years. 

Later, take the Fløibanen Funicular, always a hit with kids, up Mount Fløyen. A paradise for young children awaits you at the top, with a Troll Forest (how many of these mysterious creatures can the kids find?), nature-based playgrounds, and friendly goats. Head to the café, where the whole family can enjoy a helping of svele, or take a coffee to the playground next door and relax while the kids let off steam. A local tip: take advantage of the free canoeing nearby. Afterward, head downtown, where you'll be spoiled for choice with world-class restaurants—just follow your nose!

Day 7: Mostraumen Cruise

Enjoy a beautiful start to your day with a three-hour fjord cruise. Beginning in Bergen, you'll see magnificent views of the city, particularly Bryggen, before you head to the Osterfjord and the Mostraumen Straits. The farther you go, the more striking the landscape—you and the kids will be awed by the mountains and cascading waterfalls as you sail close enough to feel the spray on your faces. Get the kids to keep an eye out for the wildlife you'll see on the way, with plenty of goats, seabirds, and even seals to spot. 

Once you're all back on dry land, try exploring one or two more of Bergen's seven mountains―there are loads of family-friendly trails. If you and the kids loved Mount Fløyen yesterday, there are several trails there to explore. You can also explore Mount Ulriken, either taking the new stairs the entire way or taking the cable car for part of it. If you're feeling particularly energetic, try your hand (or rather feet!) at the popular Stoltzekliven Route and its 900 sherpa-built steps, doable with kids at a leisurely pace. You will, of course, be rewarded with amazing views!

Day 8: Fly to Kristiansand & Explore

Head to Bergen Airport by bus this morning and catch your flight to Kristiansand. With a population of 88,500, Kristiansand is the largest city in southern Norway, and its proximity to attractive beaches and islands makes it a great family escape. Get settled at your hotel, then head out to explore. Begin with the old town, Posebyn, a quaint collection of white wooden houses. Nearby you'll find a beautiful cathedral and plentiful fine dining. Alternatively, make your way to Fiskebrygga (Fish Quay) and dine on the catch of the day. The kids will love the spectacle of it all, with large tanks full of fish and shellfish on view.

Not far from the city center, you'll find untouched natural scenery and beautiful walking trails in the Baneheia Reserve. Take the family on a guided tour―while it will feel like you're a world away, you'll also get fabulous views of the city. The first stop is the Brannposten, where people would watch for potential fires in past times. You'll then continue to Ravnedalen, a planted and managed park established in the 1870s. See one of Northern Europe's biggest spruce trees and enjoy a break for a snack and drink. If the kids' legs aren't yet tired, there's plenty of space for them to run around! Head back up into Beneheia for a lakeside stroll―the lakes in the reserve are safe to swim, so feel free to jump in and cool off! 

Day 9: Dyreparken Zoo & Amusement Park

Today will be a highlight for the kids— a day at Dyreparken Zoo and Amusement Park, Norway's number one tourist attraction. With over 150 species of animal, the kids will be entertained for hours —they'll love getting up close to animals from the Scandinavian wilderness, like wolves, elk, and lynx, as well as exotic favorites like lions and tigers. Keep an eye out for the animal presentations―you'll get to see lions feeding and cheetahs sprinting, and you'll get to meet some cheeky wee monkeys! It would be tempting to spend the day here, but there's more fun to come!

After grabbing some lunch at one of a selection of restaurants, head to the amusement park area, which doubles both as an entertainment and a cultural experience, thanks to its literary inspiration. Divided into several themed areas based on Norway's most popular books and cartoons, you and the kids will find yourselves immersed in a pirate world one minute and a traditional farming one the next. For an additional ticket, you can also enjoy the "Badelandet" aquapark—splashing around here is the perfect way to enjoy a warm summer's day. 

Day 10: Ferry to Hirtshals (Denmark), Transfer to Billund

Cross the Skagerak Sea this morning with your family, and you'll find yourselves in Hirtshals, Denmark. You'll be taking the popular Color Line Ferry―sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. If you and the kids are feeling peckish, there are several eateries and a buffet available.

From Hirtshals, you'll be heading to Billund via train and bus. Most famous for LEGOLAND and the Lalandai Resort, this small town is also home to a sculpture park, a large adventure playground, and a zoo―needless to say, it's a popular destination for families. The town embraces this, and a child-friendly "Playline" path links the various attractions so you and the kids can stroll between them without worrying about traffic and directions. Grab some dinner and get settled into your accommodation―tomorrow will be full of adventure!

Day 11: Full-Day LEGOLAND Adventure

Today holds a real treat for the kids: a day trip to the original LEGOLAND! Begin by visiting LEGO House, where you can view some of the world's most amazing LEGO models, then proceed on to LEGOLAND itself. With nine themed areas and multiple attractions, there's plenty to occupy the kids for the day. Pan for gold, ride the rollercoasters and tremble your way through the haunted house. The kids' favorite characters, from the Dragon Knight to Ninjago, are here, and for the younger ones, there are plenty of Duplo–based activities.

Naturally, there are many opportunities for the whole family to put their LEGO skills to the test―how about building your own boats to race down the LEGOREDO River or creating animals for The Great LEGO Reef? When you need a break to refuel, choose from one of three restaurants―eat like a knight or a pirate, or feast on local, seasonal food. If you still have time for more action after LEGOLAND, Billund is also home to Scandinavia's largest water park, the Aquadome at Lalandia. With plenty of waterslides and a wave pool, as well as quieter wellness experiences, there's something for each family member. 

Day 12: Train to Copenhagen & Explore 

Take the train from Billund this morning to Copenhagen, Denmark's largest city and political capital. Despite its size, your family will appreciate the relaxed and friendly vibe here, with a great café culture and abundant nautical flair. Begin by exploring on foot—the kids will love the colorful houses and tall ships of Nyhavn. If you're up for a bit of shopping, then Strøget should be your destination of choice―this lengthy pedestrian area runs the gamut of high-end to high-street shopping, so you're bound to find what you need. If you'd rather shop in the smaller, local stores, then head into the Old City.  

Alternatively, you can get a great overview of the city with a hop-on hop-off tour―this one is both bus and canal-style, for the ultimate flexibility. With tickets valid for 48 hours, this is a great way to get around during your stay. The kids will love the boat ride, and if they do get sick of sitting on board, there are plenty of attractions to stop off at! When it's time to dine, experience the Nordic Food Revolution for yourselves at one of the city's cutting-edge restaurants, or head to the Torvehallerne Food Market, where you can try a selection of local specialties in a casual atmosphere.

Day 13: Copenhagen Private Highlights Tour & National Aquarium Adventure

Spend today exploring a few of Copenhagen's highlights. Begin with a four-hour sightseeing tour―let a guide escort your family around the city, allowing plenty of opportunities for photos. See such famous sights as the Little Mermaid Statue (a must for fairy tale lovers) and the Amalienborg Palace with the convenience of a private driver. The kids will love the main stop―the impressive National Aquarium, Northern Europe's largest. Get up close to thousands of different species in its 48 aquariums, and be sure to catch one or two of the many shows on offer. 

In the afternoon, head to one of the historic castles near Copenhagen. Try the lavish Rosenborg Castle for extensive collections of 17th-century Venetian glass and Flora Danica dinnerware. The castle interiors are well-preserved, giving the kids a great glimpse into the life of Kind Christian IV in the 1600s. North of the city, you'll find the Kronborg Castle, famous as Shakespeare's Castle Elsinore, home of Hamlet, and Frederiksborg Castle. Situated in beautiful gardens, this castle is also home to the Museum of National History and a sizeable art collection.

Day 14: Depart Copenhagen

It's the last day of your trip today, but you don't have to lose that holiday feeling quite yet. Begin with a leisurely breakfast and then stroll through Copenhagen's famous Botanic Gardens, a great chance to let the kids run around for a while before they have to sit still on a plane. Right in the middle of the city, you'll find 25 acres (10 ha) of impressive planting and historic conservatory complexes dating back to the 1800s. Some specimens here are over 200 years old, and there are a mind-boggling 13,000 plant species on display. When it's time, head to the airport for your onward flight. Safe travels!

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