17 Day Follow The Lights - Northbound

Welcome to Oslo! Upon arrival make your way to your hotel and enjoy the rest of your day at your leisure. Settle in and explore the city at your own pace. For those interested, several of Oslo's key attractions are within walking distance of your hotel. In the evening, join your tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner to kick off your journey. Special InformationAirport 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. If you arrive before the standard check-in time of 3 PM local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with the hotel reception and explore the surroundings until your room is ready. Early check-in may be possible, but it is subject to availability and at the hotel's discretion.

After breakfast enjoy an Oslo Grand City tour that will take in the main attractions and highlights of Norway's capital. The remainder of your day is at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Oslo Opera House Vigeland sculpture park Holmenkollen Ski Jump Special Information For your upcoming Norway in a Nutshell journey, please prepare an overnight bag with everything you'll need for the night in Flåm, as your main luggage will be transported separately. Ensure all essentials like medication, and valuables are kept with you in your hand luggage. Your luggage will be transported to the hotel in Bergen.

After breakfast, embark on the renowned Norway in a Nutshell journey, a spectacular adventure through Norway's breath taking fjordlands. The day begins with a scenic train ride from Oslo to Myrdal, ascending to 850 meters above sea level. Here, you'll transfer to the iconic Flåm Railway, which descends through stunning landscapes to the charming village of Flåm. Along the route, marvel at the dramatic scenery and enjoy a brief stop at the picturesque Kjosfossen Waterfall. Upon arrival in Flåm, it's a short walk to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a delightful dinner this evening, served on-site. Inspiring Highlights Flåm Mountain Railway Kjosfossen Waterfall Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Start the second day of your Norway in a Nutshell adventure with breakfast before embarking on a two-hour boat cruise through the stunning Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. Admire the dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene beauty of these iconic fjords as you sail to the village of Gudvangen. From Gudvangen, a short scenic bus ride through the picturesque Nærøydalen Valley will take you to Voss, where you'll board a train for the final leg of the journey to Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords. Upon arrival in Bergen, check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to explore this charming city at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord Cruise Nærøydalen Valley Bergen Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

This morning is at your own leisure, before embarking on a guided walking tour of Bergen, showcasing many of the city's most notable highlights. We finish the tour at Bergen Pier, where you can relax at the guest lounge before boarding our Hurtigruten ship to begin our Coastal Express voyage north along Norway's beautiful coast. Inspiring Highlights St Mary's Church Håkon's Hall Bryggen district Bergen fish market Troldhaugen

This morning, the ship cruises through the stunning Nordfjord near Torvik, offering breathtaking views of rugged landscapes. It then sails past the iconic West Cape, continuing toward the picturesque town of Ålesund, where you'll spend the afternoon exploring. Known for its remarkable Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund is easily navigated on foot. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Mount Aksla for a spectacular panoramic view of the city and surrounding fjords. Return to the ship for dinner as it continues its journey to Molde, the final port of the day. Here, you'll be treated to the Molde Panorama, an extraordinary view of 222 snow-capped mountain peaks across the fjord. Special Information Approximate times in port:Florø: 02:45 - 03:00Måløy: 05:15 - 05:30Torvik: 08:20 - 08:30Ålesund: 09:45 - 20:00Molde: 22:35 - 23:05

After breakfast, the ship arrives in Trondheim, Norway's first capital. You have the option to explore the city at your own pace or join a range of optional guided excursions. Founded in 997, Trondheim is home to the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece often referred to as "Norway's Notre Dame" and regarded as the country's most sacred building. Following your exploration, be sure to visit the vibrant district of Bakklandet, where you can capture a beautiful photo of the colorful wooden wharves from Gamle Bybro, the historic old city bridge. Return to the ship for the journey north, passing the scenic Kjeungskjær Lighthouse before continuing towards the charming village of Rørvik. Special Information Approximate times in port:Kristiansund: 02:45 - 03:00Trondheim: 09:45 - 12:45Rørvik: 21:40 - 22:00

This morning marks a memorable moment as you cross into the Arctic Circle, where the chances of witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights increase the further you journey within its boundaries. The crew onboard will celebrate this milestone with a special Arctic Circle ceremony, a refreshing experience to start your day. After breakfast, the ship will dock at the ports of Ørnes and Bodø before continuing in the afternoon to the stunning Lofoten Archipelago. The Lofoten Islands offer some of the most dramatic landscapes in Norway, including the impressive Lofoten Wall, a towering 1,000-metre-high mountain formation. Enjoy a brief stop in Stamsund before arriving in the evening at the picturesque harbor town of Svolvær, where you can take in the scenic surroundings. Special Information Approximate times in port:Brønnøysund: 01:35 - 01:45Sandnessjøen: 04:35 - 04:50Nesna: 06:00 - 06:10Ørnes: 10:00 - 10:10Bodø: 13:05 - 15:20Stamsund: 19:15 - 19:40Svolvær: 21:20 - 22:15

For those up early, enjoy a peaceful morning stroll in Harstad, the first stop of the day. The ship then continues its journey via Finnsnes and the stunning island of Senja, before arriving in the Arctic capital, Tromsø. You'll have four hours to explore this vibrant city, home to local breweries, the Polaris Aquarium—the northernmost aquarium in the world—and other attractions. If time allows, cross the bridge to the Arctic Cathedral and make your way to the Fjellheisen cable car station. Take the cable car up to Storsteinen Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø and its surrounding landscapes. In the evening, weather permitting, step outside to witness the magnificent Lyngen Alps as the ship sails through the striking Arctic region. Special Information Approximate times in port:Stokmarknes: 01:30 - 01:40Sortland: 02:55 - 03:10Risøyhamn: 04:35 - 04:50Harstad: 07:10 - 07:45Finnsnes: 11:00 - 11:30Tromsø: 14:15 - 18:15Skjervøy: 22:10- 22:25

Today, we sail towards the northernmost point of Norway, arriving at Honningsvåg, the gateway to the North Cape, which marks the northernmost point of the European continent. As we continue our journey across northern Norway, you'll have the opportunity to observe local ways of life. Along the way, you may see cod drying on large wooden racks, known as hjell, a traditional method used in the fishing industry, which remains one of the region's key exports. Special Information Approximate times in port:Øksfjord: 01:50 - 02:00Hammerfest: 05:05- 05:45Havøysund: 08:30 - 08:45Honningsvåg: 10:55 - 14:30Kjøllefjord: 16:40 - 17:00Mehamn: 18:55 - 19:15Berlevåg: 22:00 - 22:10

Today, you'll disembark the Hurtigruten ship in Kirkenes, the final part of the coastal voyage before the ship heads back south to Bergen. However, your adventure continues as we cross into Finland. Our first stop is Inari, a renowned cultural hub for the indigenous Sámi people. Here, you will visit the Siida Sámi Museum, where you'll gain a deeper understanding of the Sámi culture that has shaped Finland's heritage. After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue our journey to Saariselkä, a charming ski village located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, where you will spend the night. Inspiring Highlights Siida Sámi Museum Special Information Approximate times in port:Båtsfjord: 00:00 - 00:30Vardø: 03:30 - 03:45Vadsø: 06:55 - 07:10Kirkenes: 09:00

After breakfast, enjoy the day at your leisure to explore the charming village of Saariselkä at your own pace. Alternatively, you may choose from a selection of optional excursions available to you. Following dinner, meet a local Sámi family for an intimate glimpse into their fascinating culture and way of life. Learn about their deep connection to the land and their centuries-old traditions, including the herding and care of reindeer. You will also have the opportunity to feed the family's reindeer, a truly special experience. Later in the evening, if weather conditions allow (December - March), embark on a magical reindeer sleigh ride through the snow-covered Lapland wilderness. Glide silently beneath the Arctic sky, keeping watch for the elusive Northern Lights dancing above Inspiring Highlights Saariselkä Reindeer farm

After breakfast, we travel south towards the heart of Lapland and its charming capital, Rovaniemi, renowned as the official home of Santa Claus. Upon arrival, visit Santa Claus Village, where you'll have the opportunity to meet Santa himself, interact with reindeer, and explore this festive destination. In the evening, we check in to the Arctic Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos in Sinetta, where you will enjoy a unique experience staying in a glass igloo. After dinner at the hotel, relax and settle in for the night, keeping your eyes peeled for the Northern Lights, which may appear right from the comfort of your bed. Inspiring Highlights Santa Claus Village Stay in a glass igloo Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast at the hotel, we drive back to Rovaniemi to have more time to explore the capital of Lapland. With a fascinating history, particularly during World War II, where the city was extensively damaged and was rebuilt in the shape of a reindeer's head. This afternoon, another magical Lapland experience awaits as we visit a husky farm. You will take a tour of a husky dog kennel where we will enjoy lunch. Afterwards, enjoy a thrilling husky-drawn cart or sled ride through the Lappish wilderness.Inspiring Highlights Husky-drawn cart or sled ride (depending on season of travel)

Today, you will have a full day to explore Rovaniemi. Your guide today can recommend additional excursions in the area or things to do in the area.

After breakfast, we journey south by train to Helsinki, the capital of Finland. Known for its high quality of life, Helsinki is a dynamic northern European city strategically located on the Gulf of Finland, offering strong connections to other countries in the region. This evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner to reflect on the incredible journey we've shared across Scandinavia, celebrating the memorable experiences and friendships made along the way. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.

Your journey across Scandinavia ends after breakfast today. Please make your own way to the airport. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information 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.