The best of Scandinavia

Welcome to Copenhagen. If you arrive early, which is highly recommended, why not visit the pastel-colored houses on the waterfront in the Nyhavn area. Stop by an industrial-chic bar for a drink or stroll through the famous Tivoli Gardens, home to the world's oldest roller coasters. Another area to visit is Norrebro, a residential area known for its wide range of restaurants. Meet your group at 18:00, then head out for an optional group dinner if you like.

When you are in Copenhagen, do as the locals do and explore the city by bike, undoubtedly the best way to discover the many hidden corners of the city. Venture into the Freetown of Christiania with a local guide, a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood southeast of the city center. It is governed by a special law, the Christiania Law of 1989, and has been a source of controversy since 1971, when squatters took over a former military area. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to further explore this Scandinavian city. Stroll along the harbor or head towards the classicist palaces of the 18th-century Amalienborg, still today the main residence of the Danish royal family. Perhaps pay a visit to Frederik's Church, also known as the Marble Church, the courthouse at Nytorv square, or admire the red brick facade of the city hall. Alternatively, the National Museum is not to be missed, nor is the Christiansborg Palace in the center of Copenhagen.

A morning train journey will take us to Malmo in Sweden, across the famous Oresund Bridge spanning the strait that separates Denmark and the Scandinavian peninsula (about 1 hour). Malmo has undergone a kind of transformation, or should we say rebirth, over the past twenty years thanks to the construction of the Oresund Bridge and the opening of Malmo University. Now, a city that once primarily depended on shipbuilding is steadily growing with architectural studios, IT companies, students, and startups. Just under half of Malmo's population is under 35 years old, so it is now truly a progressive city that knows how to have fun. Spend some time visiting the Old Town, the castle, and the harbor, then continue to Gothenburg (about 3 hours), where you will spend the night.

Today is a free day for you to enjoy all that Gothenburg has to offer. Perhaps embark on a cruise this morning through the numerous waterways of Gothenburg, passing by the opera house, the famous Feskekörka fish market (literally Fish Church) and the old docks. Or visit the Gothenburg City Museum, housed in the former East India Company House and built during the period when Gothenburg was an important maritime trading center. Admire the architectural complex of Gustav Adolfs Torg, go shopping along the main boulevard Avenyn, take a look at the iconic Skansen Kronan, stroll along the bohemian street Långgatan or sip a coffee in the charming district of Haga, known for its picturesque wooden houses and 19th-century atmosphere and the so-called hagabulle, a cinnamon bun similar to the kanelbulle.

Take an early morning ferry from Gothenburg to the island of Vrango, about an hour and 20 minutes away. Vrango is the southernmost island of the Gothenburg archipelago, with a permanent population of a few hundred people and a strong fishing industry. The island is known for its beautiful beaches and protected nature reserves, and you'll explore the coast in a kayak activity included (summer only). In the afternoon, enjoy some free time walking around the town or perhaps try an optional floating sauna, before heading back to Gothenburg for a free evening. Sweden's second-largest city is known as the world's most sustainable destination and is an exemplary example of what a responsible tourist destination should be like.

Take a morning bus across the border to the Norwegian capital Oslo (about 4 hours). The tour leader will take you on an initial orientation walk so you can get a first taste of this quirky and colorful city. It's definitely worth spending the day enjoying delicacies at Maschmanns Food Market, admiring the work of glassblowers at Hadeland Glassverk, or simply strolling along Karl Johans Gate, the city's main shopping street, or heading to the National Gallery of Art to catch a glimpse of Edvard Munch's famous 19th-century painting, The Scream. In the evening, say "skal" ("cheers") to the group during dinner. Why not try some traditional Norwegian dishes made with cod and mackerel.

Your journey ends today after breakfast and you may leave your accommodation at any time. If you wish to extend your stay in Oslo, please discuss this with your travel agent at the time of booking as we would be happy to arrange additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).