Grand Scandinavia (Small Groups, 20 Days)

Guide

From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination. Trondheim: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Market Square and its statue of Olav Tryggvason, the Nidaros Cathedral, the Tyholt Tower and Old Town Bridge. Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.

Meals

3 Dinner with Wine (DW) 19 Breakfast (B) 7 Dinner (D) 1 Lunch with Wine (LW) Copenhagen: Get to know your fellow travelers and Travel Director over a drink at your Welcome Dinner. Helsinki: Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market with your Local Expert and sample local produce, like liquorice or smoked reindeer. Alta: Savor a delicious oven-baked lunch of local seasonal specialties of fresh salmon or the local's favorite, reindeer, served with fresh salads and wine. Oslo: Scandinavian hospitality is matched with fine food and a glass of wine at your Celebration Dinner. Alta: Meet the Lyrek family and their huskies. Hear tales about their marathon Arctic dog sled races while enjoying a hearty lunch.

Others

Choose between two carefully selected activities Rovaniemi: Join your Local Expert for a nature walk in the forest and admire the tranquil surroundings. Rovaniemi: Meet Santa Claus when you visit his village where it is Christmas all year round! From his post office, you can make sure that Santa sends Christmas letters to friends and family back home come December. Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary. Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels. We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door. Karasjok: Visit the The Sámi Museum in Karasjok, displaying the largest cultural heritage collection of indigenous Sámi people in Norway. Admire a big part of its 5,000 items collection, spread across indoor and outdoor exhibits. The Sámi Museum in Karasjok educates its guests about the resiliency of the Sámi community and endeavors to safeguard indigenous-driven processes and traditional practices.The Sámi Museum advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities. Copenhagen: Make the most of the long summer nights at the glittering Tivoli Gardens, the world-famous entertainment park, full of fantasy, fun and charm. Copenhagen: With your Local Expert, view Christiansborg Palace and the cathedral where the Crown Prince of Denmark married Princess Mary. You'll also see Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, the Renaissance Stock Exchange and the unusual Rundertaarn, which is the oldest functioning Observatory in Europe. Copenhagen: Visit the impressive 18th century Copenhagen Cathedral, designed by Christian Frederik Hansen, known for its neoclassical architecture and for featuring the largest bell in Denmark. Oresund Bridge: Cross this magnificent feat of engineering. It's the longest road and rail bridge in Europe, spanning 8 kilometers. Stockholm: With a Local Expert, step inside the City Hall where the fabulous Gyllene salen, the Golden Hall is covered by 18 million gilded mosaic tiles. You'll also see the Blå hallen, the Blue Hall, where the Nobel Prize banquets are held. Stockholm: With your Local Expert, visit Gamla Stan to see the cathedral where Swedish kings have been coronated and wander the narrow streets of the Old Town. Helsinki: Admire the beautiful views from your high-class, sea-view cabin as your cruise through the largest archipelago in the world, from Stockholm to Helsinki. Helsinki: Your Local Expert will show you the sights of the harbor city. Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market and sample local produce like liquorice or smoked reindeer before enjoying free time to explore the harbor of this fascinating city of design. Kuopio: Admire the spectacular panoramic views from atop Puijo Tower. Oulu: Visit Northern Finland's oldest city. It is also one of the most important harbor cities in all of Northern Europe. Rovaniemi: See Alvar Aalto's Town Hall and visit the cathedral. You'll even receive an Arctic Circle Crossing certificate. Sodankyla: Visit one of Lapland's oldest churches. Ivalo: Enjoy an orientation as you arrive into the village. Karasjok: See the Sami Parliament and continue on to visit the museum devoted to Sami history and culture, offering a glimpse into the old Sami lifestyle. North Cape: Journey to mainland Europe's most northern point to see something that doesn't happen - sunset! Even at midnight, the sun clings to the horizon. This once-in-a-lifetime unique experience is accompanied by champagne and caviar to make it even more special. Stand near the fence of the towering cliffs, dramatically rising out of the sea and you will feel as if you are on the edge of the world, and you literally are. Narvik: Learn more about the scenic town of Narvik and its history as you gaze upon the majestic mountains that surround the town. Mosjoen: See the street of historic, 19th century wooden buildings and Norway's oldest octagonal church. Trondheim: Tell all your friends you traveled through! Geiranger: Enjoy an orientation of Geiranger to learn more about this small village and the surrounding Fjords. Geiranger: Cruise along the deep, blue waters of majestic Geirangerfjord, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, gushing waterfalls and lush green vegetation. Lillehammer: Explore the town where the 1994 Winter Olympics were held. Oslo: With your Local Expert, see Akershus Castle, Oslo Harbor and the Royal Palace. Oslo: Take a moment to contemplate the interesting Vigeland sculptures when you visit Frogner Park. "One thing I really love about showing guests Norway is how people have lived and flourished for thousands of years in harsh and unforgiving yet stunningly beautiful landscapes." Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Transport

Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available). If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport. Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.

Accommodation

RADISSON BLU SCANDINAVIA HOTEL-COPENHAGEN (CONTEMPORARY) - DENMARK SCANDIC GRAND CENTRAL STOCKHOLM (CONTEMPORARY) - SWEDEN SERENADE/SYMPHONY, TALLINK SILJA LINE - STOCKHOLM (OVERNIGHT CRUISING) - SWEDEN GLO HOTEL ART-HELSINKI (HISTORIC) - FINLAND SCANDIC ATLAS, KUOPIO.-KUOPIO (TRADITIONAL) - FINLAND SANTA'S HOTEL SANTA CLAUS, ROVANIEMI.-ROVANIEMI (TRADITIONAL) - FINLAND HOTEL IVALO OY-IVALO (TRADITIONAL) - FINLAND SCANDIC HONNINGSVAG-HONNNINSVAG (TRADITIONAL) - NORWAY SCANDIC ALTA-ALTA (TRADITIONAL) - NORWAY SCANDIC NARVIK-NARVIK (CONTEMPORARY) - NORWAY FRU HAUGANS HOTEL-MOSJØEN (TRADITIONAL) - NORWAY CLARION HOTEL-TRONDHEIM (CONTEMPORARY) - NORWAY HOTEL UNION GEIRANGER-GEIRANGER (HISTORIC) - NORWAY. THON HOTEL OPERA-OSLO (CONTEMPORARY) - NORWAY

Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Insight Vacations through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022. While highly recommended, COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are no longer required for guests traveling with us from January 1, 2023 onward. It is your client’s responsibly to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destinations visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than the above. No refunds will be given if they are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to failure to comply with these requirements.

Others

Other activities and services not mentioned

Flights

International flights are not included

Optional

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES Most Insight trips already include a host of bonus highlights and comprehensive sightseeing. There may also be an exciting array of Optional Experiences which will turn an already amazing experience into the trip of a lifetime! These are entirely optional and can be booked through your Travel Director/Local Representative at the commencement of your trip. Please note, many Optional Experiences are operated by independent third party suppliers, not Insight Vacations. Prices and availability of Optional Experiences are subject to change. NORTH ZEALAND CASTLE TOUR Drive along the scenic coastal road of the Danish Riviera to the castles of North Zealand. See Fredensborg, the summer residence of the Royal Family, then visit Fredriksborg, the largest Renaissance palace in Scandinavia. It's now a museum, so the tour through the beautiful rooms is an encounter with the kings and queens who shaped the country's history. En-route, pass through picturesque villages of half-timbered houses and thatched roofs. Adult Price: EUR 53.00 Code: COP0001 TRADITIONAL DANISH DINNER Home to some of the world's best restaurants, Copenhagen is currently experiencing a culinary renaissance. Make the most of the long summer evenings and join us for a traditional Danish meal in the heart of Copenhagen. Two glasses of wine, beer or soft drinks are included with your meal. Adult Price: EUR 69.00 Code: COP0002 SWEDISH SUMMER DINNER This evening, we dine "Swedish Style." Savour a succulent three-course meal with beer, wine & soft drinks. Soak up the atmosphere of the traditional surroundings while enjoying its history and design. Adult Price: EUR 65.00 Code: STO0001 VASA GALLEON When the Vasa was launched in 1628, it was arguably the world's most powerful warship. Bristling with 64 cannon and carrying some 300 men, it was built to strike the fear of God into the enemy. Unfortunately, it sank on its maiden voyage. Raised from Stockholm harbour in 1961, this grand galleon remains almost wholly preserved, along with 700 wooden sculptures and ornaments. Your visit will provide a unique insight into early shipbuilding techniques and everyday life on board a 17c naval vessel. Adult Price: EUR 38.00 Code: STO0003 RUSSIAN DINNER IN HELSINKI As the capital city in a former Grand Duchy of the Russian Tsarist empire, Helsinki has always been famous for its Russian restaurants – even amongst the Russians. Tonight we enjoy an evening of authentic, pre-revolution Russian cuisine in an atmosphere of times gone by. Adult Price: EUR 65.00 Code: HEL0001 FLY OVER HELSINKI An exclusive chance to enjoy Helsinki from above. This three-part grand-slam tour begins with a state-of-the-art Cinematic Experience which takes you virtually on a flight over Helsinki. Flying Cinema Helsinki is the newest attraction in a city renowned for its cutting-edge technology and daring design. Afterwards, we'll savour a some local Finnish delicacies and refreshments before commencing our ride inside a glass pod of the Helsinki Sky Wheel, Helsinki’s answer to the London Eye! A unique and exciting introduction to Helsinki and to Finland. Adult Price: EUR 49.00 Code: HEL0002 RANUA WILDLIFE PARK A visit to the Arctic wildlife park where more than 50 species of nordic animals live in their natural habitat. Our local guide introduces us to the unique wildlife of Northern Scandinavia. Adult Price: EUR 59.00 Code: ROV0003 THE ARCTIC CENTRE & PIONEER FARM Visit a pioneer farm, now converted into a museum, for a fascinating glimpse into rural life and traditions from the 19th Century, where we'll also light refreshments. Continue to the tubular glass frame of the Arktikum, a one-stop cultural centre for all things Arctic. This is the world's first museum dedicated to the demanding conditions and challenge of coping with life in the dark, cold and barren Arctic. Adult Price: EUR 45.00 Code: ROV0001 TRADITIONAL LAPLAND DINNER AT A FAMILY REINDEER FARM Leave the 20th century behind and join a family from Lapland at their farm situated on the Arctic Circle. Meet Rudolf and his brothers and learn all about reindeer husbandry. During the evening you are initiated into the local culture with a traditional dinner. Adult Price: EUR 67.00 Code: ROV0002 BETWEEN A ROCK AND HARD PLACE First a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Alta Museum to see world-famous rock carvings. Continue with a stunning stroll along the beautiful shore of the Alta Fjord where you'll learn about life here six-thousand years ago. Meet a local artisan and slate cutter who'll share stories about his craft, then become a slate cutter yourself and create your very own masterpiece to take home. An interactive and charming experience! Adult Price: EUR 55.00 Code: ALT0001 THE ULTIMATE ARCTIC EXPERIENCE – SEA BIRDS AND ARCTIC CRUISE Embark upon a journey across an almost 'lunar' landscape to reach one of the most northerly fishing villages in the world. From here we'll set sail upon a 90-minute Arctic Adventure around the Gjesværstappen, a necklace of islands that's a protected nesting area for Puffins, Kittiwakes, Gannets, Guillemots and White Tailed Eagles! Other potential fauna sightings include Grey Seal and Porpoise. Transportation and survival suits are provided. Adult Price: EUR 112.00 Code: HON0002 WILDERNESS RIVER ADVENTURE Enjoy warm drinks and Norwegian waffles by the campfire at Sorrisniva, the site of the world-famous Igloo Hotel. Then, an exciting ride up the Alta River in a traditional river boat for scenery and thrills! A true north outdoor experience! Adult Price: EUR 61.00 Code: ALT0002 RAILWAY JOURNEY FROM SWEDEN We take a railway ride on the Ofot Railway, an incredible engineering feat, constructed over 100 years ago to transport supplies of iron ore from Kiruna to Narvik for shipment around the world. The journey offers us incredible views of the surrounding fjords as the train clings to the mountainside. Adult Price: EUR 34.00 Code: NAR0001 THE TROLL'S ROAD Your tour of Geiranger includes a scenic drive up the Eagle’s Road, offering amazing views of the Geiranger Fjord and the stunning Seven Sisters Waterfall. At the small village of Eidsdal, cross the fjord by ferry and climb up through the abundant fruit growing valleys. Leave civilisation behind as you venture high above the tree line for some of the most breathtaking scenery. Now on to the Troll’s Road, a masterpiece of engineering built over 70 years ago. (This optional is seasonal) Adult Price: EUR 51.00 Code: GEI0001 EUROPE'S HIGHEST FJORD AT DALSNIBBA In the comfort of your coach, climb 1500 metres to the highest possible fjord view in Europe at Dalsnibba mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the famous Geiranger fjord and the surrounding glacier topped mountains. For the bold, test your nerve on the Geiranger Skywalk suspended over a 500 metre drop. (Weather permitting and Seasonal) Adult Price: EUR 31.00 Code: GEI0002 ARCTIC EXPLORERS AND THE POLAR SHIP FRAM Step aboard the polar ship Fram, the strongest wooden ship ever built, to experience the life and work of Norway's famous Arctic explorers. The expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen come to life in the interactive exhibitions of this museum, which also houses the Gjøa, the first ship to navigate the entire Northwest Passage. Adult Price: EUR 38.00 Code: OSL0001

Insurance

Insurance is not included