Compare Best of Scandinavia by Mayflower Tours vs Complete Scandinavia by Intrepid Travel

Day 1

Depart USA Today you’ll depart the USA on your overnight flight to Stockholm, Sweden.

Day 2

Stockholm, Sweden Upon arrival you are greeted by your a representative of Mayflower Tours and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy this remarkable Scandinavian city. This evening, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel. Dinner

Day 3

Stockholm After breakfast, enjoy a Stockholm city tour. Once home of the Vikings, today’s Sweden is a captivating mix of old and new. Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, is the very epitome of a vibrant cosmopolitan center, a city alive with world-class art museums, cutting-edge fashion boutiques and sizzling night life. Remark-able architecture abounds, exemplified in the dazzling City Hall, site of the Nobel Prize reception, with its glittering gold walls and stunning colored-glass mosaics. But even in this thrilling center of culture, you’ll find traces of Sweden’s fabled past. In the Gamla Stan, the city’s Old Town, medieval Stockholm comes to life in this beautifully preserved historic district. This afternoon, explore the city on your own or choose an optional excursion of The Royal Canal and Vasa Warship Museum. This excursion includes a one-hour cruise along the shady canal of Djurgarden and a visit to the remarkable Vasa Warship Museum, built around a restored 17th-century warship that sank in Stockholm’s inner harbor. Breakfast

Day 4

Oslo — Where Culture and Nature Meet Following breakfast this morning, bid farewell to Stockholm and depart for Oslo, Norway. Upon your late afternoon arrival in Norway, you’ll learn why it’s hard to say what is more stunning in Oslo: its glorious urban cityscapes or towering mountains and pristine countryside. The remainder of the day is free for you to experience Oslo on your own. Breakfast

Day 5

Oslo to Myrdal/Breathtaking Railway Journey On this morning’s city tour, your local guide will take you through Vigeland Sculpture Park as you discover the amazing granite and bronze artwork. Catch a glimpse of the regal and impressive Royal Palace. All these pleasures await, plus the bustling trade of a thriving port city. After the tour, transfer to the Oslo train station for one of the best ways to take in the wonders of Scandinavia: aboard a scenic railway that traverses this breathtaking countryside. You’ll take in dizzying vistas that open out on all sides as you speed from Oslo toward Myrdal, a remote mountain station located 3,000 feet above sea level. Famous for its remarkable panoramic views, Myrdal is the stepping off point for yet another glorious train ride on the world-renowned Flåm Railway. Descending 3,500 feet during a 13-mile journey into mountainous countryside, passengers glimpse wild rivers that cut through deep ravines, waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs, and mountain farms clinging perilously to steep slopes. In the heart of this rugged countryside, the historic Stalheim Hotel offers a stunning panoramic perspective of astounding fjordland views. For nearly 200 years, artists, painters and poets have drawn inspiration from the awe-inspiring majesty of this remarkable natural spectacle. Breakfast and dinner

Day 6

The Awe-Inspiring Fjords This morning after breakfast, you’ll get your final view of the Naeroey Valley before you transfer by coach to Flåm for embarkation of a cruise through the world-famous Sognefjord and Naerøey Fjords. Carved out over centuries by waves of majestic glaciers, the fjords are a testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature. No visit to Norway would be complete without views of the emerald green cliffs of the fjord sweeping sharply down to glittering waters, where you just may glimpse a sight of seals as they sun themselves on flat, warm rocks. Meet your coach in Gudvangen where you'll continue on the journey to Bergen. Breakfast, dinner

Day 7

The Rich Historical Heritage of Bergen Today you’ll enjoy an included city tour of Bergen, the second largest city in Norway. Bergen offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and natural beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage City, Bergen proudly preserves its rich past, seen in the timbered 15th-century houses, centuries-old warehouses built by seagoing merchants, and a charming labyrinth of cobblestone streets. Nearby, you’ll visit Troldhaugen, the former home and estate of one of Norway’s most famous sons, composer Edvard Grieg. The remainder of the day is free to explore this charming city on your own. Breakfast

Day 8

Copenhagen Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Copenhagen. Upon arrival you enjoy a city tour of this bustling metropolis. Copenhagen offers a mix of old-world grandeur with the excitement of a thriving modern cultural center. Parks and green spaces are everywhere, and canals and waterways crisscross its streets, recalling the city’s seagoing roots. The city is alive with such sites as Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest pleasure parks; and Christiansborg Palace, home to the Danish Parliament and the Royal Theater. Fans of literature make a pilgrimage to the statue of The Little Mermaid, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairytale, while shoppers enjoy browsing the quaint boutiques along the famous Stroget, Copenhagen’s renowned pedestrian district. Breakfast

Day 9

A day at leisure This day is yours to experience Copenhagen and all of its charm. Or join us for an optional excursion to North Zeeland. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Helsinor, one of the oldest towns in Denmark, and nearby Kronborg Castle, legendary home of Prince Hamlet. Your tour also includes views of Fredensborg Castle and an included visit to Frederiksborg Castle. Tonight join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for the Farewell Dinner at our hotel. Breakfast and dinner

Day 10

Copenhagen Following breakfast at the hotel, bid farewell to Scandinavia with memories of life enriching experiences as you transfer to Copenhagen Airport for the flight home. Breakfast

Day 1 Copenhagen

Welcome to Copenhagen. If you arrive early, which is highly recommended, why not visit the pastel-coloured waterfront houses in the Nyhavn area. Drop in at an industrial-chic bar for a drink or stroll around the famous Tivoli Gardens, home to the world's oldest rollercoaster. Another area worth checking out is Norrebro, a residential area known for its wide range of restaurants. Meet your group at 6 pm then head out for an optional group dinner if it takes your fancy.

Day 2 Copenhagen

When in Copenhagen, do as the locals do and explore the city by bike, undoubtedly the best way to explore the city's many hidden corners. The bike-friendly streets mean cycling to the city's major sites are a breeze. Venture into the Freetown of Christiania with a local guide, a self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood south-east of the city centre. It is regulated 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 late afternoon is free for you to further explore this Scandinavian city. Stroll along the harbour or head out to the classicist palaces of 18th century Amalienborg, to this day the main residence of the Danish Royal family. Perhaps pay a visit to Frederik's Church, also known as Marble Church, the Court House on Nytorv Square or check out the facade of the red brick town hall. Alternatively, the National Museum is not to be missed, nor is the Christiansborg Palace in the very centre of Copenhagen.

Day 3 Malmo / Gothenburg

A morning train ride will get us to Malmo in Sweden, via the famous Oresund Bridge that spans the strait separating Denmark and the Scandinavian Peninsula. Malmo has gone through somewhat of a transformation, or should we say revival, over the past twenty years thanks to the construction of the Oresund Bridge and the opening of Malmo University. Now, a city once reliant mainly on shipbuilding is growing steadily with architecture firms, IT companies, students and start-ups. Just under half of Malmo's population is under the age of 35, so it really now is a progressive city that knows how to have fun. Spend some time checking out the Old Town, the castle or perhaps have a glance inside Apoteket Lejonet, a 1896 pharmacy in Neo-Renaissance style. Then continue on to Gothenburg (by train or bus depending on availability at the time of booking), where you'll spend the night.

Day 4 Vrango Island / Gothenburg

Catch an early-ish ferry from Gothenburg to Vrango Island. Vrango is the most southerly island of the Gothenburg Archipelago, with a permanent population in the low hundreds and a strong fishing industry. The island is known for its stunning beaches and protected nature reserves and you'll explore the coastline in an included kayaking activity (summer only). In the afternoon, enjoy some free time strolling around the town or maybe try an optional floating sauna, before returning to Gothenburg for a free evening. Sweden's second largest city is known as the world's most sustainable destination and is exemplary example of what a responsible tourism destination should look like.

Day 5 Gothenburg

This morning you'll head to Alingsas, regarded as the Capital of Fika, a Swedish cafe and food culture. You'll be accompanied by a local expert to tour some of the town's best traditional cafes. You'll learn of the local love affair with coffee and discover the story behind this town's special cafe culture. And, of course, you'll also get a chance to sample Swedish cinnamon buns, biscuits, chocolate truffles, pastries and sandwiches. You'll return to Gothenburg in the late afternoon and have a little time to explore at your leisure. Perhaps visit the Göteborg City Museum, housed in the former East India Company House and built during the time when Gothenburg's role was that of a major maritime trading centre. Take in the architectural ensemble on Gustav Adolfs Torg, go shopping along the main boulevard Avenyn, check out the iconic Skansen Kronan, stroll along bohemian Långgatan street or sip a coffee in the charming Haga quarter, known for its picturesque wooden houses.

Day 6 Oslo

Catch a morning bus across the border to Norway's capital Oslo. Your leader will take you on an initial orientation walk so you get a first taste of this quirky, colourful city. It's definitely worthwhile to spend the afternoon perusing delicacies at Maschmanns Food Market, admiring the handiwork of glass blowers at the Hadeland Glassverk, or simply strolling along Karl Johans Gate, the main shopping strip of the city. Perhaps head to the Munch Museum to glimpse Edvard Munch's famous 19th-century painting, The Scream. In the evening say 'skal' ('cheers') to the group over dinner. Why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare based around cod and mackerel dishes.

Day 7 Oslo

Today is a free day for you to enjoy all this city has to offer. You may like to roam the roof of the Olso Opera House, stroll the avenues of Vigeland Park or catch a ferry to the Viking Ship Museum. Meet your new group in the evening and perhaps head out for a drink or dinner and get to know any new travellers joining you.

Day 8 Oslo

This morning, follow your leader on an orientation walk in the city. Then enjoy some free time in Oslo. Maybe embark on some island hopping on Oslofjord, browse the harbour-front Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, taste local flavours at the food hall Vulkan, explore the immense Akershus Castle & Fortress, or check out the cool shops in the Grunerløkka district. There's so much to get stuck into.

Day 9 Bergen

Today you'll leave Oslo behind and take the train across the stunning countryside of the Fjell region to Bergen. No other train ride between two cities in Europe is at a higher altitude than this one, and few can match the views passing by your window. Linking Norway's two main cities, this line takes in some spectacular scenery of lush valleys, idyllic villages, dramatic mountains and picturesque lakes as it crosses the Hardangervidda Plateau. As the trip is long and you'll arrive quite late into quirky city of Bergen, there won't be too much time to explore today (don't worry, you'll have time to explore here tomorrow). There are some great seafood restaurants in town, so possibly venture out with the group for a bite to eat this evening.

Day 10 Bergen

After breakfast this morning, join your leader for a ride by Fløibanen funicular. Taking you to 1.050 feet above the city in just seven minutes, it offers a bird eye prospective of the town and vistas of the deep blues of the sea. Those who want to get active can also continue following its multiple hiking trails. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore however you like. Perhaps visit World Heritage Bryggen area and wander through the reconstructed medieval homes and warehouses or visit the beautifully preserved wooden Hanseatic Museum (a former trade building), and explore the old Hanseatic port area – the Hanseatic merchant confederation dominated Baltic maritime trade for 400 years from the 15th century.

Day 11 Norwegian Fjords

Leave Bergen after breakfast and travel by bus to the fjord region. The journey will take you through epic landscapes and remote regions, so have your camera at the ready. The typical Norwegian huts that you’ll stay in tonight are located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by steep cliff walls with a perfect view of the spectacular crystal clear Kjelsfossen waterfall falling from the top of the fjords. It's humbling to look up and consider these giant and ancient geological formations. Your accommodation is located near the village of Gudvangen.

Day 12 Norwegian Fjords

Today, take a boat trip and be captivated by the sight of crisp mountain peaks reflected in the glassy waters of Naeroyfjord, a World Heritage site. The name Naeroyfjord takes its origins from the Norse god of seafarers and the sea, Njord. The fjord itself, formed by glacial erosion of the surrounding bedrock, is 18 kilometres long and only 250 metres wide at its narrowest point, but its depth reaches up to 500 metres. Surrounding mountain peaks rise up to 1400 metres and waterfalls crash down sheer cliff faces. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy the scenery of the surrounding area. Perhaps hire bikes and cycle along the shore of the fjord, take to the waters in a kayak or take a bus to the nearby fishing village of Flam and then ride the famous railway up to Myrdal. This is one of the most picturesque (and steepest) railway journeys in the country. Alternatively, explore on foot and discover nearby waterfalls and ancient moraines. Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunity to throw a line in the crystal waters, sit back and soak up the serenity (a fishing licence is required and costs around NOK 150).

Day 13 Lillehammer

There will be another long bus journey ahead of us after breakfast today, as you journey to the town Alpine playground of Lillehammer. Cross vast high plains, and remote valleys, and drive through the Lærdal Tunnel, the world's longest road tunnel at 24.5 km. The tunnel is divided into four sections, broken up by ‘mountain caves’. These caves are 6 kilometres apart and equipped with special lighting to help drivers concentrate by giving off the illusion of driving into daylight. Lillehammer, which held the Winter Olympics in 1994, is picturesquely situated on Lake Mjøsa. When you arrive, head out for a brief orientation walk to find your bearings in the laid-back 19th-century town centre, along the main pedestrian street of Storgata (Big Street), lined with wooden houses, boutiques and restaurants.

Day 14 Lillehammer

Join an orientation walk this morning and get to know Lillehammer. Your leader will take you on an included visit to the Maihaugen Open Air Museum, home of the Garmo Stave Church, which tells the story of people in the Gudbrandsdalen Valley over the last 300 years. This brilliant museum includes timber-built farms, a town and a big residential area that gives you an insight into various eras of Norway's history. The afternoon is free for you to further explore. Perhaps conquer misty mountains on a hike. As a town famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer has a great Olympic Museum where you can hear tales of heroic feats and is also an ideal spot for many outdoor activities.

Day 15 Swedish Lakes

Travel for around five hours by private bus today and cross the border into Sweden. Head to the lakeside town Rättvik, a laidback place that encapsulates the most Swedish of Swedish landscapes, and which sits right in the middle of the Swedish lakes. Rättvik is a location steeped in history and culture that's ready to be discovered. Dalarna county is in the heart of the Sweden and is famous for the national symbol of the wooden Dala horse. Tonight, you will stay at in a peaceful setting of local B&B located 7 km outside of Rattvik.

Day 16 Swedish Lakes

This morning you'll get a chance to get under the surface of this region with a special guided village safari with local experts. You'll get to know the history behind the villages here and learn about the traditions of the area around Lake Siljan. A truly memorable experience, you'll visit a variety of villages, discover the traditional way of life and mingle with the locals. The rest of the day is free to explore the local area and its lakes. Perhaps take a leisurely historic boat trip across the lake, sink a line to partake in a little fishing, hike around the gentle rolling surrounds or enjoy local artisan shopping.

Day 17 Stockholm

Leaving the Swedish lakes behind, head to the country's cultural, political and economic capital of Stockholm by train. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the North' and arguably Scandinavia 's most beautiful city, Stockholm is packed full of amazing architecture, pristine parks and clear waters. After an introductory orientation walk, use the rest of your day to settle into your accommodation and explore the area around you. You can perhaps head underground for the world’s longest art exhibition. Connecting the fourteen islands of the city and blasted through hard rocky ground, the subway (Tunnelbana) system's 100 stations are like the longest modern art exhibition in the world, featuring artwork from over 140 different artists. Enjoy the narrow cobble stone streets and the colourful merchant houses. Why not soak up the culture and try a cinnamon roll in Stockholm’s oldest café Sundbergs Konditori located on Jarntorget square, and dating from 1785.

Day 18 Stockholm

After breakfast, go on an included visit to the Vasa Museum on the inner-city island of Djurgarden. The 17th-century warship, Vasa, sank in 1628 on her maiden voyage in the harbour of Stockholm and was salvaged only in 1961. As one of the most visited sights in Sweden, the Vasa Museum collection consists of the Vasa itself and all of the objects that were found within the ship. The rest of the afternoon is all yours to explore as you wish, so why not leave the city behind for a few hours and see the waterways of Stockholm on a cruise past tiny islets and along narrow waterways? Consider taking a self-guided Millennium Walking Tour of Stockholm or visit the Abba Museum. Alternatively, you can take a trip to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish royal family. There are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy here in this great Scandinavian city, so plan your activities wisely. Tonight perhaps head to Stockholm's Sodermalm district, the inner-city island with the best nightlife, full of hip shops, bars and cafes. Or maybe sit down at one of the city’s top-notch restaurants, such as the latest venues opened on the cobblestoned islet of Gamla Stan, or in the cool fusion restaurants of Kungsholmen.

Day 19 Stockholm / Overnight Ferry

Today is free for you to enjoy your last day in Sweden. In the evening, you'll be boarding an overnight ferry for Helsinki, Finland.

Day 20 Helsinki

After your morning arrival into Helsinki's port you will take a public transport to your hotel. Discover a wealth of historical sights and gastronomic wonders in Helsinki. Apart from a short orientation walk, today is completely free and you'll be able to explore Helsinki in your own time. A few options to consider during your time here are a visit to the city's cathedral or the interesting Design Museum. Don't miss the harbour-side market and market hall from 1889 for local oddities, and make sure you take a short ferry ride to the magnificent Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, sometimes referred to as the Gibraltar of the North, a World Heritage-listed site that was once an important point of defence for the city. Surrounded by the sea, Helsinki is a modern European city that offers an endless array of options. Throughout its 450-year history, the city has often been the buffer between the east and west. This is shown in their cuisine, with a mix of root vegetables, berries and fresh fish. Perhaps head out in the evening to sample some traditional dishes at dinner with your group.

Day 21 Helsinki

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. There are no more activities planned and you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you would like to extend your stay in Helsinki we are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Please speak to your travel consultant at the time of booking.