Northern Capitals
10 days from Copenhagen to Helsinki
If you’re in search of a different European experience, just head north to the intersection of yesterday and tomorrow. Old meets new and tradition meets innovation on this cool tour of Scandinavia and its most exciting hot spots. With two-night stays in the capital cities of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, you’ll wake up to Copenhagen’s rush hour of designer-clad cyclists, Oslo’s stunning skyline “starchitecture,” Stockholm’s trendy galleries and gastro pubs, and Helsinki’s electrifying design scene. Within these hipster hubs, you’ll follow ancient Viking trails and the narrowest of cobblestone streets to the palaces and museums that hold the most fascinating historical stories—and the indoor and outdoor markets that carry the most intriguing snacks and souvenirs. The cool factor is illuminated on a breezy overnight cruise across the Baltic Sea from Stockholm to Helsinki.
PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Helsinki so you can plan your day your way.
Itinerary
DAY 1
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel.
DAY 2
Your Scandinavian adventure begins with a guided sightseeing tour that includes a visit to the Royal Reception Rooms of Christiansborg Palace, views of the National Museum and Royal Theater, plus stops to take photos of Amalienborg Palace and the Little Mermaid Statue. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore more before visiting the world-famous Tivoli Gardens.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Christiansborg Palace commands the scene on the islet of Slotsholmen with an 800-year history as Denmark's seat of power in central Copenhagen. This magnificent site houses the Danish Parliament, Prime Minister’s office, and Denmark’s Supreme Court. The magnificent palace is also home to visiting Danish monarchs with its resplendent royal reception rooms, chapel, and royal stables.
DAY 3
This morning, say goodbye to Denmark with a ferry ride to Helsingborg, Sweden. Disembark and continue to Gothenburg to get acquainted with an orientation drive that includes a photo stop at Göta Square. Globus Local Favorite Visit the famous indoor market for a “walk about” experience through the market stalls and sample some local snacks. Later, cross the border into Norway and arrive in the capital city of Oslo.
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES At Gothenburg’s indoor market hall, you can find spices, coffee, cheese, fruit, and other delicacies from around the world in its 40 shops and eateries. Stroll around the stalls to enjoy a Swedish food experience and sample some of the local specialties.
DAY 4
This morning, join your Local Guide to discover what makes Oslo so very special. See the National Theater, Parliament, and the Royal Palace. Take a walk through incredible Frogner Park and visit City Hall. Explore more of Oslo at leisure during free time this afternoon and evening.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Frogner Park contains over 200 sculptures in granite, bronze, and wrought iron, along with fountains and bridges comprising the life’s work of legendary sculptor Guztav Vigeland. Visit the stately Oslo City Hall, with its red-brick architecture, soaring towers, and 49 bells. Here, the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony takes place each year.
DAY 5
Enjoy a scenic drive to Stockholm and enjoy the serene natural beauty and lush green views along the route from Norway to Sweden, dotted with small lakes and little villages amid the lovely Scandinavian landscape.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS Called “the capital of cool,” Stockholm is the place for music, art, and fashion. With nearly 100 museums, Stockholm has more museums per capita than almost anywhere else in the world. Sustainable and eco-friendly solutions are a big part of everyday life in Stockholm where many restaurants focus on locally sourced seasonal ingredients, and the city skyline rises above lush, green spaces.
DAY 6
Join your Local Guide to discover Stockholm, the “City of Islands.” Guided sightseeing features views of the Royal Palace and Riddarholmen Church, the final resting place of the Swedish kings and Stockholm's only preserved mediaeval abbey. Walk through the Old Town and visit the City Hall. Later, Globus Local Favorite visit the Vasa Museum and marvel at its treasure, an almost intact 17th Century warship. Explore more of this beautiful city during a leisurely afternoon and evening.
LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURE & TRADITION Set your course for the Vasa Ship Museum in Stockholm. Here, you’ll cruise back through maritime days to see the historic Vasa – the Swedish war ship which capsized and sank on her maiden voyage off Stockholm 1628. After 333 years on the seabed, the mighty warship and remarkable relics were salvaged to carry visitors on a fascinating voyage through history. Today, the Vasa is the world's best-preserved 17th-century ship and one of the most sought-after museum experiences in Scandinavia.
DAY 7
Enjoy a morning and lunchtime at leisure in Stockholm. Perhaps visit one of the museums, browse the stores, or try local specialties for lunch, like the unofficial national dish of köttbullar (Swedish meatballs). Later, take an overnight dinner cruise across the Baltic Sea to Helsinki.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Finland has often been voted the happiest country in the world, due to its affinity with nature and strong social support system. The capital city of Helsinki is situated in the south of the country poised on a peninsula in the Gulf of Finland. Though it is the coldest capital in the Nordic region, its striking architecture and Nordic cuisine don’t fail to give visitors a warm welcome.
DAY 8
Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour that includes views of the Lutheran Cathedral, Sibelius Monument, and open-air market. Explore more of Helsinki with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Steam Settings
Soak up Finnish life with a visit to a panoramic local spa, uniquely set in a floating structure above of the sea. Take a dip in the pools and enjoy the views from the sauna as you experience the "löyly" effect of water poured on the hot stones for the ultimate steamy experience!
Maritime Marvel
Hop aboard a ferry for a short ride to join your Local Guide at the UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna Fortress, located on an island in Helsinki harbour. Historically an important military base serving three different nations, this "living fortress' is now a lively maritime district.
DAY 9
Enjoy a free day in Helsinki to discover more art and culture in one of the museums, browse the stores, or try Finnish pastries and local specialties in one of the many cafes. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Estonia! This evening, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at the hotel.
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with an optional excursion to Tallin, the capital city of Estonia on the Gulf of Finland. The coastal gem on the Baltic Sea combines an exciting mix of old and new with promenades and pristine beaches. Take in the ancient architecture and modern cityscapes, including the Old Town - one of the best-preserved medieval merchant districts in the world.
DAY 10
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.