16 Day Norway Rail Summer Splendour
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Limited Time Offer - Add return international airfares from only $2,099
✓ Comfortable group tour, up to 24 guests only
✓ Incredible sightseeing including city tours in Stockholm, Trondheim and Bergen, see the church village of Gammelstad, visit the world famous ICEHOTEL in Kiruna, get up close to Abisko National Park in the heart of Swedish Lapland, explore in depth the stunning Lofoten Islands - including a stay in a traditional fisherman’s hut, ride the brand new Romsdal Gondal high above the Romsdalfjord and cruise along the UNESCO heritage listed Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord and Nærøyfjord.
✓ 12 nights in chic and central 3 and 4-star accommodation across Sweden and Norway
✓ 2 nights in traditional fisherman’s hut on the Lofoten Islands
✓ 1 overnight train in cabin (shared facilities) from Stockholm to Luleå
✓ Breakfast daily and 7 dinners including a farewell dinner at the famous Bergen Fish Market
✓ Fjord cruises along the most famous fjords of Norway
✓ Fully escorted by an English-speaking tour guide
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✓ Why not extend your trip
Pre-Tour extension with Helsinki & Tallinn click HERE
Post-Tour extension with Oslo & Copenhagen click HERE
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Välkommen to Sweden! Upon arrival at the airport, please make your own way to the starting hotel.
The fastest and most economical way to get into the centre of Stockholm, if you are arriving into Arlanda Airport, is the Arlanda Express. Which travels non-stop from Arlanda Airport to Stockholm Central station and takes just 18 minutes. The cost of a one-way fare is approximately 320 SEK.
This evening, meet your tour guide and fellow travellers as we enjoy a welcome dinner. The rest of your evening is at leisure.
Why not extend your trip with Pre-Tour extension including Helsinki & Tallinn. Refer to link on the webpage.
After breakfast, we will enjoy a three hour city tour of Stockholm. We will see the city’s top sights including City Hall, where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded, the beautiful Gamla Stan (Old Town), where Stockholm’s history began over 800 years ago. Also seen will be the Royal Palace and the Parliament.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore, why not visit one of the city's many museums, including the Vasa Museum or take a tour of City Hall.
Description: Some more free time this morning to enjoy the attractions of Stockholm, before this evening we take an overnight train up to Swedish Lapland to the hub of Luleå.
Note: Your overnight train journey will be in a private twin cabin with shared facilities
Welcome to Swedish Lapland. We have arrived in Luleå, a beautiful coastal city just a couple hours away from the Arctic Circle and Finnish Border. Surrounded by an archipelago of islands, with a sparkling bay with a beautiful marina, Luleå has had a rich history.
It was in 1649 that the town was relocated from nearby Gammelstad, due to falling sea levels. What was left behind in Gammelstad, was the best preserved example of a unique type of settlement once found in northern Scandinavia - the church town. Built around a large church for the village to congregate, and for worshippers from the surrounding countryside, Gammelstad is a remarkable example of a settlement shaped by people’s religious and social needs rather than economic and geographical forces. Today, you will see the 424 wooden buildings that make up this unique look into medieval life in northern Europe.
We officially cross the Arctic Circle today by train, as we enjoy sweeping views of a train further into Lapland as we journey to Kiruna, home to the world-famous Icehotel 365. Opening in 2016, it is the first in the world to offer ice experiences year-round. A specially designed 2100 square meter ice art hall, which houses suites, an ice bar and an experience room. We will enjoy a visit before enjoying an evening at leisure in Kiruna
We depart Sweden and drive towards the striking Lofoten Islands in Norway. Before we cross the border, we stop at Abisko National Park. Majestic mountains frame the beautiful Abiskodalen valley with its flowering alpine meadows, picturesque rapids and Scandinavia’s largest alpine lake. During the summer you can experience light day and night and see the midnight sun. We take some time to explore before departing for Narvik, where we will stay overnight.
Before we depart for the majestic Lofoten Islands, we visit the famous Narvik War Museum. Set over 1600 square metres, the exhibition in the museum focuses on the German attack on Narvik in 1940, and the following five years of war and German occupation.
The scenery will begin to be something out of a fairytale as we journey over to the Lofoten Islands. Tonight, a truly unique Inspiring Stay as we enjoy two nights in traditional fisherman's huts, the morning views will surely take your breath away.
After breakfast, we enjoy a full day exploring the Lofoten Islands. The incredible arctic islands offers mountain peaks, fjords, tiny fishing settlements, beautiful beaches and some of the richest wildlife in Europe.
During summer, the days are long and in winter, drastically short. The area experiences both of the natural phenomena of the midnight sun and the northern lights. Today, we will visit the beach of Ramberg, where surfers from all over the world come to catch Arctic waves. We then venture to Henningsvær, a village strikingly set on inlets surrounded by mountains. A final stop in the quaint village of Nusfjord, lined with traditional fisherman’s huts, before we venture back to our own fisherman’s hut to enjoy dinner and another evening at leisure.
We continue exploring the Lofoten Islands by heading south. We will stop in Reine, an authentic living fishing village famous for its scenic location by the Arctic Ocean and the majestic Lofoten Peaks. We will then reach the southernmost point of the islands to visit Å, a uniquely named fishing village whose economy solely relies on the stockfish industry.
We then catch a ferry to leave Lofoten to drive to Bodø, known as the mini-metropolis up north and named the European Capital of Culture in 2024.
Today, another beautiful train journey awaits. The lighter days of the summer will ensure we don’t miss anything. The train journey transports you through pine forests, across foothills, alongside fjords and rivers.
We will arrive in Trondheim in the late evening.
This morning, we enjoy a city tour of Trondheim. The city itself was Norway’s first capital city, and has a history that now stands over 1,000 years old. The centrepiece of the city is the beautiful Nidaros Cathedral, completed in 1300 and is a striking example of Gothic architecture in Northern Europe. We will have the chance to enter the Cathedral, and if you want, you can climb the 172 steps to the tower for stunning views of the city.
We depart this afternoon to the gateway of the fjords in Norway, to the quaint city of Dombås, where we will enjoy dinner and spend the night.
This morning, we take one of the iconic railway journeys in the country, the Rauma Railway. The approximately 1 hour and 40 minute journey takes you from the wild mountains surrounding Dombås to the beautiful fjords in Åndalsnes.
Upon arrival, we will enjoy the Romsdal gondola. A recent addition to the city, it will take you 1679 metres up the mountainside to get incredible views of the Romsdalsfjord.
Our day isn’t over just yet, as we continue our journey to the Trollstigen, also known as ‘Troll’s Road’, one of the most dramatic and visited roads in the country. Known for its 11 hair-raising hairpin turns and steep 10% gradient.
Tonight, we enjoy dinner and an evening at leisure at our hotel in the Geirangerfjord area.
Our journey through the beautiful fjords of Norway continues as we drive to Geirangerfjord itself, easily the country's most famous fjord, and on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. We enjoy a one hour cruise through the fjord, to get alongside the sheer mountain cliffs and the many waterfalls. You may notice the abandoned farms high on the cliffs, now abandoned, giving an insight into the historical life on the fjords.
We then drive to the Sognefjord area where we enjoy dinner and an evening at leisure in our hotel.
We drive through the incredible fjord area of Norway as we head to Sognefjord, where we will enjoy a cruise. First stop will be the charming village of Flåm, a quaint village perched on the edge of the Sognefjord known for its historic hotel and local breweries. We then cruise the Sognefjord, and the neighbouring UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord to the village of Gudvangen, where we will drive the rest of the way to Bergen.
Alternatively, at an optional cost, you can ride the famous Flåm Railway up to Myrdal, and meet the group in Bergen when you arrive by train.
Tonight, we enjoy an evening at leisure in Bergen.
As an alternative to driving from Flåm to Myrdal, take the famous Flåm Railway; it is one of Norway's major and most spectacular tourist attractions. On the 20 km-long ride, you can see rivers that cut through deep ravines, waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and mountain farms clinging dizzily to sheer slopes. The train also makes a photo stop at the beautiful Kjosfossen Falls.
In Myrdal you will connect to a regular train for the journey to Bergen.
After breakfast, we enjoy a guided tour of Bergen, including a visit to the famous Fish and Flower Market, the old Bryggen Harbour (also UNESCO heritage listed), the popular Hanseatic Quarter and the ancient Maria Church. Founded in 1070, during the 12th and 13th centuries, when the Kingdom of Norway was at the peak of its power, Bergen was the capital. The Norwegian Kings resided here, bringing a wealth of history to the city.
Tonight, we say farewell and reminisce on our journey with a farewell dinner at the Bergen Fish Market.
After breakfast, our Scandinavian summer adventure comes to an end.
Why not extend your trip with a Post-Tour extension including Oslo & Copenhagen. Refer to link on the webpage.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”3”
Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,321.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this tour to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Maximum of 24 people
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
This package includes international airfares or has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city.
If international airfares are included this will be stated in the ‘Inclusions’ section
Alternatively, if international airfares can be added to your booking you will be able to select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and flights will be added to your booking.
Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:
Baggage
Included baggage differs based on your country of origin. Included baggage will be as per the following:
Country of Origin |
Carry-on Baggage |
Checked Baggage |
Australia |
7kgs |
20kgs |
New Zealand |
7kgs |
20kgs |
United States of America |
15lbs |
45lbs |
Canada |
15lbs |
45lbs |
India |
7kgs |
20kgs |
United Kingdom |
7kgs |
20kgs |
Baggage allowances provided by the airline might differ to the values stated above. However limitations are required due to transport storage restrictions on your selected tour or package.
Flight requests, amendments or preferences
We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalised quote tailored to your specific requirements.
To make a flight request, please click ‘Book Now’ and select Would you like us to contact you around our flight service? By selecting this option you will be sent a request form after completing your purchase to make your request.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
If we can’t fulfill your request and you still wish to proceed with the booking, please select Land Only (excluding UK customers). This will allow you to travel on the land portion of the package without the included airfares. You will then be able to arrange your own flights separately.
FAQs
For more frequently asked questions please view our FAQs section.
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.