The Grand tour of Norway

Travel from east to west - into the fjords

Start your day with a breathtaking train ride on the scenic Bergen Line, winding through the picturesque Hallingdal Valley and traversing the stunning Hardangervidda mountain plateau. Your journey will take you to the quaint Myrdal Station.

Upon arrival at Myrdal Station, transfer to the iconic Flåm Railway, known for its dramatic descent from mountain to fjord. Down in Flåm, you will embark on an express boat for a captivating fjord cruise along the Aurlandsfjord and the main Sognefjord. The cruise takes you to the idyllic village of Balestrand, where you'll spend the night at the historic Kviknes Hotel. Enjoy a room with view in the hotel's modern building.

The stay at Kviknes include dinner buffet, featuring an array of meat dishes, fresh seafood, and a variety of other delights.

Fjord cruise to Bergen and culinary evening

Start your day with an early departure from Balestrand, crossing the fjord by boat to Bergen. The journey offers constant views of the fjord landscape before arriving at Bergen's harbor. After checking in at your centrally located hotel, you'll have free time to discover Bergen's attractions, from the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf to the lively Fish Market.

We highly recommend adding the optional dining experience at Cornelius på Holmen. A dedicated boat transports you to this unique restaurant, situated on a small island just outside Bergen. The 20-minute journey provides an excellent view of Bergen's coastline and surrounding islands.

Cornelius is renowned for its close connection to the sea. The restaurant's team, including the chefs, regularly dive in the surrounding waters to hand-harvest scallops, sea urchins, and other seafood. This commitment to ultra-fresh, local ingredients defines their innovative 5-course menu, which changes based on the day's harvest and seasonal availability.

The restaurant's location in a modern glass building offers panoramic views of the North Sea and Bergen's archipelago. Your 5-course dinner features the best of Norwegian coastal cuisine, with each dish explaining the connection between the local waters and your plate. After dinner, return to Bergen by boat, seeing the city's lights reflect in the harbor.

Explore Bergen before departing on a 6 day cruise

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the charming city of Bergen before embarking on the 6-day cruise adventure in the evening. Discover hidden gems around every corner as you explore the city's historic landmarks, markets and waterfront.

You can choose to add the optional excursion: Fjord Cruise Mostraumen. The 3-hour boat cruise through Mostraumen and Osterfjord is a great experience if you want to explore more of the coast near Bergen.

As evening approaches, make your way to the port to board your Hurtigruten or Havila cruise ship, your home for the next 6 days on the maritime journey along Norway's spectacular coast. Settle into your comfortable cabin and prepare for an enchanting journey filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters and unforgettable experiences.

Enjoy an evening meal onboard as you bid farewell to Bergen.

Ålesund and a day in the fjords

Arrive in the picturesque Art Nouveau town of Ålesund in the morning, where your day's adventure begins. Depending on the time of year, you will either travel to the Geirangerfjord (June to August) or the Hjørundfjord (September to October). In May you can enjoy 10 hours at leisure in Ålesund.

Geirangerfjord experience (June to August)
Set sail on a full-day cruise to the renowned Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its awe-inspiring beauty. Marvel at the majestic "Seven Sisters" waterfalls as they cascade down the steep mountainsides. When you reach the fjord village of Geiranger, you will participate in the Trollstigen Excursion. Disembark in Geiranger village (in tender boats) before you join the exciting excursion by bus across the Golden route mountain roads & fjords, before meeting the ship again.
Starting with the Eagle’s Road, offering an unforgettable view of the Geirangerfjord, then on to the breathtaking, steep Trollstigen hairpin road.

Hjørundfjord experience (September)
Alternatively, if you're visiting in September, set sail on a full-day cruise to the captivating Hjørundfjord. Upon reaching the fjord, board a tender boat to the charming village of Urke, where your exploration continues by bus. Traverse the narrow Norangsdalen valley and discover scenic gems such as the tranquil Lyngstølvatnet lake and the historic Hotel Union Øye, steeped in Norwegian heritage.

Explore Trondheim - home of Nidaros Cathedral

Today, the cruise navigates through the expansive Trondheimsfjord, leading you to the city of Trondheim, steeped in history and charm. Spend three hours at leisure exploring Trondheim's historic streets, or opt for an optional sightseeing tour to delve deeper into its fascinating past.

We encourage visiting the authentic neighborhoods of Bakklandet, adorned with wooden houses, galleries and cafes. Also cross the iconic old bridge known as "Gamle Bybro." Be sure to visit the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, a symbol of Norwegian national identity and a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

Travel beyond the Arctic Circle to Bodø and Lofoten

On day 7, the journey takes you beyond the Arctic Circle to the enchanting town of Bodø. As you arrive in Bodø, take in the breathtaking scenery that surrounds this Arctic gem. Spend time exploring the town at your leisure.

For those seeking adventure, consider joining an optional excursion to Saltstraumen, home to the world's strongest maelstrom. Witness the power of nature as massive volumes of water rush through the narrow strait, creating mesmerizing whirlpools and turbulent currents.

Departing from Bodø, the ship continues its journey across the Vestfjord towards the majestic Lofoten Islands, renowned for their dramatic landscapes and unparalleled beauty. Sail past the imposing Lofoten Wall and arrive in the charming villages of Stamsund and Svolvær in the evening, where you'll have the opportunity to explore these picturesque coastal communities.

Journey along the Arctic coast, with stop in Tromsø

The journey continues along the spectacular Arctic coast before arriving in Tromsø, Europe's northernmost university town. As you disembark in Tromsø, spend time exploring the town at your leisure. Wander through the charming streets lined with colorful wooden houses, or venture to the waterfront to admire panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

For those eager to delve deeper into Tromsø's rich history and cultural heritage, consider joining an optional sightseeing excursion titled "The Arctic Capital." Explore iconic landmarks such as the remarkable Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen).

Journey to the North Cape

Today, the journey leads you to the iconic North Cape, a rugged cliff perched on the edge of Norway's northernmost island, Magerøya. Arriving in the main port of Honningsvåg, embark on an excursion to the North Cape by bus. Traverse the scenic landscapes of Magerøya island as you make your way towards this legendary landmark. Enjoy the expansive plateau offering panoramic views of the Arctic Ocean stretching endlessly to the horizon.

Following your visit to the North Cape, the ship continues along the Finnmark's barren coast, where towering cliffs and rugged terrain create a dramatic backdrop for your journey. Keep an eye out for the remarkable rock formation known as Finnkirka, rising majestically from the sea. Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Norway's northernmost reaches, where the untouched wilderness and pristine waters offer a glimpse into the untamed spirit of the Arctic.

End of coastal adventures and journey back to Oslo

Continuing along the rugged Finnmark coast, the ship offers views of the untamed wilderness and remote settlements that characterize this northern region. Marvel at the stark beauty of the landscape as you sail through the tranquil waters of the Bøkfjord.

After breakfast on board, bid farewell to your shipmates and disembark in the Arctic town of Kirkenes. From here, take the scheduled airport bus for a convenient transfer to the airport (approximately 20 minutes), operated by Hurtigruten/ Havila Voyages.

After completing your coastal voyage, fly from Kirkenes to Oslo. Check in at a centrally located hotel, positioning you perfectly for two days of city exploration. These final days allow you to discover Oslo's distinct character at your own pace. The city center is highly walkable, with efficient public transport connecting all major attractions.

Key sites within easy reach include:

• The harborfront district with the Oslo Opera House
• The new Munch Museum and National Museum
• The Vigeland Sculpture Park
• Restaurants and cafes showcasing New Nordic cuisine

Exploring Oslo's Main Attractions

Today offers a full day to delve deeper into the cultural riches of Oslo, with a comprehensive city sightseeing tour followed by an optional evening cruise on the Oslofjord.

Embark on a 5-hour guided sightseeing tour showcasing Oslo's most iconic landmarks and cultural treasures. Highlights include the renowned Holmenkollen Ski Jump, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Explore the impressive Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to over 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. Dive into Norwegian maritime history at the Fram Museum, where you can discover the stories of polar exploration, and immerse yourself in the living history of Norway at the Norsk Folkemuseum, featuring the unique Stave Church and Open Air Museum.

In the evening, you can choose an optional evening cruise on the Oslofjord aboard an electric boat, offering a unique perspective of the city's waterfront scenery. Enjoy a tapas dinner as you glide along the tranquil waters, taking in the illuminated landmarks that dot the shoreline. This add-on excursion is available for booking during the checkout process.

The tour ends after breakfast* and check-out from the hotel next morning.