(Recap of our June 2025 trip through Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway)
(Photos from this trip are located here)
Our 12-day journey through Scandinavia was a seamless blend of cultural exploration, scenic wonders, and unforgettable experiences. With the guidance of our dedicated tour leader and knowledgeable local experts, we discovered the vibrant capitals of Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway while also venturing into the heart of fjord country by train and cruise. The itinerary struck a perfect balance between organized sightseeing and free time, allowing us to enjoy both guided highlights and personal discoveries. From medieval old towns to modern design districts, royal castles to breathtaking fjords, this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Finland
Our adventure began in Helsinki, where we had the chance to explore this stylish Nordic capital at our own pace. From sleek design districts to leafy parks and historic squares, Helsinki gave us the perfect introduction to Scandinavian life. We admired its mix of modern architecture and old-world charm before boarding an overnight cruise to Sweden, complete with sea views and plenty of time to relax, shop, and enjoy the atmosphere on board.
Sweden
The approach to Stockholm through its archipelago was nothing short of magical, with thousands of tiny islands dotting the waters. Once ashore, we were welcomed with a guided tour that revealed the city’s many sides—from grand boulevards to Gamla Stan, the atmospheric Old Town filled with narrow lanes and colorful facades. A group lunch added to the experience before we had free time to dive deeper into the city, where some of us took the opportunity to jump back in time and sing along to the classic tunes at the Abba Museum. Stockholm charmed us with its elegance, history, and sparkling waterfront views.
Denmark
Our scenic rail journey through southern Sweden brought us to Copenhagen, where Denmark’s royal heritage and modern vibrancy came to life. A guided walking tour introduced us to the city’s most iconic landmarks, from the elegant Rosenborg Castle to the lush Botanical Gardens, before we enjoyed a leisurely canal cruise through the charming waterways. Some of us even rose early to visit the beloved “Little Mermaid” statue before the crowds arrived, and also made a delicious detour to Sankt Peders Bageri—Copenhagen’s oldest bakery, where the pastries more than lived up to their reputation. With its blend of history, culture, and unmistakable warmth, Copenhagen captured our hearts, perfectly embodying the Danish spirit of hygge, my new favorite word.
Norway
Sailing into Oslo at sunrise was a trip highlight in itself—the fjord scenery was stunning. A local guide then took us around the Norwegian capital, where we admired Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Royal Palace, Akershus fortress, and the bustling City Hall. But the real showstopper was the Norway in a Nutshell® journey, which took us from Oslo to Bergen by train, boat, and bus. We experienced the dramatic Flåm Railway, descending through mountains to the picturesque village of Flåm, and cruised the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. In Bergen, Norway’s gateway to the fjords, we explored the historic Bryggen Wharf and rode the funicular up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views over the city and fjords. We ended our adventure with a farewell dinner, reminiscing about the many unforgettable moments we shared.
From Helsinki’s modern charm to Bergen’s fjordside beauty, every stop on this trip offered something unique. With a seamless mix of guided experiences and free time, plus the camaraderie of traveling with a small group, our Scandinavian journey was filled with discovery, laughter, and lasting memories—a true trip of a lifetime. As always, if this all sounds like something you would enjoy, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I would be happy to repeat the route, either as is or with adjustments to suit your preferences. Or, if there’s a different route you’d like to try, I would be happy to come up with a custom itinerary! Make sure to check out some of the images from this trip in the website photo gallery!