This is not a tour you’ll find anywhere else. It has been created entirely from our own experiences of living, working and travelling throughout Scandinavia – bringing together the places, traditions and experiences that we have personally discovered and loved over the years. While we’ve included some of the classic Scandinavian highlights, we’ve also woven in the unique, local experiences.
A particular highlight is Swedish Midsummer in Dalarna, where you’ll stay in beautiful Tällberg overlooking Lake Siljan and participate in this much-loved Swedish tradition with flowers, maypoles, music, dancing and traditional food.
In Finland, discover the charming coastal town of Kokkola and get to know the a more personal side of Finnish life. Share coffee and conversation with a local; head out on a quirky local nature walk; discover the therapeutic properties of sauna tradition.
Along the way, you’ll also discover Nordic capitals and smaller towns, visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi and spend a magical night beneath the summer skies in a Glass Igloo.
The journey finishes in Tallinn during Medieval Days, when the city’s atmospheric Old Town is transformed with colourful markets, traditional crafts, music, performances and medieval characters filling the streets. It’s a wonderfully immersive way to experience Tallinn and a fitting finale to a journey filled with traditions and experiences that go far beyond the usual tourist sights.
Arrive in Stockholm and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Sweden’s elegant capital is spread across 14 islands, combining historic neighbourhoods, waterfront scenery and a lively modern city atmosphere. The remainder of the day is free to settle in and begin exploring.
Travel by train to the picturesque Dalarna region.
Before heading to your hotel, enjoy a scenic drive through the Dalarna region to Nusnäs to discover the story behind the famous Dala Horse, the colourful hand-carved and painted wooden horse. The Dala horse, now one of Sweden’s best-known symbols, first appeared in the 17th and 18th centuries when forest and woodworkers in villages in the area, whittled toys from scrap wood during long winter evenings.
After your visit and a bit of shopping in their interesting store, continue to your home for the next three nights – the picturesque village of Tällberg in the heart of Sweden’s Dalarna region.
Tällberg is known for its traditional timber houses, peaceful countryside and spectacular lake views. With Midsummer approaching, the village begins to take on a particularly festive atmosphere, with local preparations and traditional celebrations taking place throughout the area.
Settle into the Green Hotel, ideally positioned overlooking Lake Siljan.
This evening, your first memorable dining experience awaits at the Green Hotel restaurant, where excellent cuisine is complemented by beautiful panoramic views across the lake.
It’s Midsummer Eve and the village comes alive with folk music, traditional costumes, dancing and the raising of the beautifully decorated Midsummer maypole. Join in the celebrations, create a traditional flower crown, and enjoy the festive atmosphere and almost endless Scandinavian summer daylight.
Back at the hotel, a Midsummer buffet feast awaits!
Later, relax in the hotel grounds overlooking Lake Siljan. Depending on the weather, there may even be an opportunity for a swim or some traditional Swedish games beneath the Midnight Sun.
Dinner this evening in the Green Hotel restaurant.
The celebrations continue today with a more intimate traditional Midsummer experience at Green Hotel.
Green Hotel is renowned for celebrating Midsummer in traditional Dalarna style. Festivities traditionally include gathering summer flowers, creating flower crowns, decorating the hotel’s Midsummer maypole and celebrating its raising accompanied by local folk musicians.
Spend the day enjoying the festive atmosphere, music and traditions in the beautiful grounds overlooking Lake Siljan.
After all this festive activity, dinner this evening will be a place to relax and as always, enjoy the spectacular view.
Still looking for something to wind up the day? How about playing board games, trying kubb (a traditional Swedish lawn game) or frisbee golf – it’s all there for you to enjoy.
After breakfast, depart Tällberg and travel by private coach through the scenic landscapes of Dalarna and central Sweden. The route winds west through forests, rolling countryside and around the many lakes that characterise this beautiful region, offering a glimpse of Sweden beyond its cities.
Continue towards the Norwegian border, with a lunch stop along the way to enjoy a relaxed break and take in the local surroundings. After lunch, cross into Norway and continue through forested valleys and increasingly rugged landscapes as you make your way towards Oslo.
Arrive in Oslo later this afternoon and check in to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or begin exploring Norway’s vibrant capital.
Discover the highlights of Oslo on a guided three-hour coach tour. Travel through the city and its surrounding neighbourhoods, passing major landmarks and enjoying photo stops along the way. See sights including the Royal Palace, Vigeland Sculpture Park, Holmenkollen Ski Jump and the Opera House, while learning about Oslo’s history and modern-day character from your guide.
The remainder of the day is free for further exploration. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to visit attractions including the Oslo Opera House, Munch Museum, Deichman Library and Karl Johans gate.
After breakfast this morning, board your scenic cruise through the Oslofjord, sailing past beautiful views of Oslo’s waterfront, islands and surrounding coastline. Sit back and take in the changing scenery as you glide past charming islands, historic landmarks and colourful waterfront communities, offering a wonderful introduction to Norway’s capital from the water.
Afternoon at leisure before embarking on your overnight cruise from Oslo to Copenhagen.
As the ship sails through the Oslo Fjord, you’ll have views of the coastline and surrounding islands. The ship has restaurants, cafés, bars, shopping and entertainment on board, as well as heated pools and a jacuzzi.
Relax over dinner this evening before heading to bed in your comfortable seaview cabin.
Arrive in Copenhagen and transfer to your hotel. After storing your luggage, join your guide for a walking tour around Denmark’s vibrant capital. Discover the city’s historic streets, elegant architecture and waterfront landmarks while learning about its royal heritage and Danish culture.
The remainder of the day is free to explore further or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this colourful Scandinavian city.
A free day to experience Copenhagen at your own pace. Explore the charming streets and canals, visit one of the city’s many museums or perhaps enjoy the cafés and restaurants around Nyhavn.
There is also time to discover more of Copenhagen’s historic centre, browse the shops or simply relax and enjoy the city.
Travel by train to Stockholm, with the journey taking just over five hours. Cross the iconic Øresund Bridge before continuing through the peaceful Swedish countryside.
Comfortable seating, Wi-Fi and onboard refreshments make this a relaxing way to travel between the two Scandinavian capitals.
On arrival in Stockholm, join a cruise through the beautiful Stockholm Archipelago aboard a classic sightseeing vessel, departing from central Stockholm. With an guide providing commentary along the way, discover the islands, historic sights and traditional summer houses scattered across the waterways.
Free time until late afternoon to explore Stockholm on your own. So much to see: Gamla Stan, the city’s atmospheric Old Town. Wander its narrow cobbled streets and colourful historic buildings, Stortorget, the Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral, Stockholm City Hall, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, and Djurgården, the island known for its museums and green spaces. The Vasa Museum is particularly worthwhile, housing the remarkably preserved 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage. Popular option to visit if music is your interest, is the ABBA Museum.
This evening, board your overnight cruise from Stockholm to Turku, Finland.
Sail through the spectacular Stockholm Archipelago, passing countless wooded islands, traditional cottages and rocky shorelines before continuing across the Baltic Sea. The route also passes through the Åland Islands.
Enjoy dinner and the ship’s facilities during the evening before settling into your cabin. Arrive in Turku the following morning.
This morning, board the train in Turku and travel north through the Finnish countryside towards Kokkola on Finland’s west coast.
Sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as the journey passes through forests, farmland and small towns, offering a relaxed and comfortable way to experience more of Finland beyond the major cities.
Kokkola is a charming coastal town known for its historic wooden quarter, maritime heritage and relaxed Finnish atmosphere.
On arrival, you’ll be met by a guide and taken on a sightseeing tour exploring the city’s historic centre, maritime heritage and Neristan, Kokkola’s beautifully preserved old wooden town and one of the best Old Towns in Finland.
The experience concludes with a very special local encounter as you are welcomed into a resident’s home for a traditional Finnish coffee break. Enjoy coffee and homemade pulla while chatting with your host and gaining a more personal insight into Finnish life, customs and hospitality.
A warm and memorable way to experience Kokkola beyond the usual sightseeing.
After breakfast this morning, head out to the countryside to the Kortjärvi Nature Trail, where Finnish nature and art come together. The trail winds through peaceful forest and around the lake, with a delightful collection of quirky and imaginative sculptures dotted along the way. Each one adds a little surprise to the walk, making the trail fun to explore as you take in the beautiful countryside and enjoy a taste of local Finnish creativity.
Cruise through the beautiful Finnish archipelago to remote Tankar Lighthouse Island, approximately 15 kilometres from Kokkola.
A guided walk introduces the island’s maritime heritage, including its traditional fishermen’s cottages, old church, former pilot station and distinctive red-and-white lighthouse. Enjoy free time to explore the island or perhaps sample traditional salmon soup before returning to Kokkola.
The day’s not over yet and more special experiences await.
Travel into the Finnish countryside to Hästöskata Restaurant, idyllically set beside the lake for a traditional Finnish sauna experience. After heating up, do what the Finns do, take an invigorating dip in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Finally, the third part of this ritual – sit back with a refreshing drink and absorb the peace which is Finnish nature.
The evening rounds off with dinner in the restaurant. Known for its excellent food and relaxed atmosphere, dishes are made with quality local ingredients, all served in a beautiful lakeside setting – a lovely way to finish this authentic Finnish experience.
It’s an early Christmas for you today!
Travel by train to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus and gateway to Finnish Lapland. Next stop Santa Claus Village! Cross the Arctic Circle, visit Santa’s famous Post Office and meet the man himself.
Another highlight awaits at Halo Igloo Resort, where you’ll check into your own private igloo surrounded by nature, with uninterrupted views of the Arctic sky. This evening, beneath the Midnight Sun, we’ll maintain our Australian tradition with our own Christmas in July celebratory festive dinner
Check out and transfer to Rovaniemi Airport for your flight to Helsinki.
Before checking in to your hotel, enjoy a visit to Porvoo, a captivating riverside escape where medieval charm effortlessly blends with vibrant Nordic design. Wander through a labyrinth of winding cobblestone alleys lined with brightly painted, 18th-century wooden houses. Here, time slows down. You’ll hear the gentle echoes of history as you explore independent art galleries, artisanal toy shops, and cozy cafes serving traditional Runeberg tortes.
After breakfast this morning, board your coach for a guided sightseeing tour of Helsinki. Take in the many sights Helsinki has to offer – the majestic Helsinki Cathedral, the bustling Market Square, the Rock Church, quarried straight out of solid bedrock and stand beneath the soaring steel tubes of the famous Sibelius Monument.
Embark on a Tallink Silja ferry to cross the Gulf of Finland, arriving just two hours later in Tallinn. On board, your cruise experience is offers premium facilities designed for comfort and entertainment. Relax in one of the comfortable lounges, catch live entertainment, or browse the tax-free shopping at the massive Traveller Superstore.
Your arrival in Tallinn has specially been timed to arrive for the Medieval Days. With its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, this is most perfect of settings to stage this annual event. Explore the cobbled streets and historic squares as they come alive with medieval markets, craftsmen, music, dancing, costumed performers and demonstrations of traditional skills.
A busy day awaits! The Medieval Days programme for today is a busy one with the main festivities centred around historic Town Hall Square.
Browse medieval markets, watch traditional crafts and enjoy music, performances and historical activities. There is also time to discover attractions such as Niguliste Church and the historic Pharmacy Museum.
A highlight today is the Grand Opening Procession, travelling from the Viru Gates through the Old Town to Town Hall Square. As evening falls, the celebrations continue with music, Fire Theatre and other entertainment throughout the historic city.
Day at leisure to continue enjoying the unique experience of Medieval days in Tallinn.
Farewell dinner this even in local restaurant with entertainment.
Your Scandinavian and Baltic adventure comes to an end.
Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure flight, taking with you, wonderful memories of Swedish Midsummer, Scandinavian capitals, Finnish traditions, Christmas in Lapland and Tallinn’s medieval celebrations.
Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we would love to talk with you.
