A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
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.
✓ Special offer - free upgrade to 1st class rail in Switzerland! Immerse yourself in the remarkable Swiss railway system at unbeatable value
✓ Incredible sightseeing! Experience a journey on the renowned Swiss scenic trains as they traverse snow-capped mountains, embark on a serene boat excursion across the pristine waters of Lake Lucerne, and delight in the flavours of a delectable cheese fondue, savouring every moment.
✓ See the famous Lofoten Islands, fly through the Arctic forest by husky sled, hunt for the northern lights in wild Finnish Lapland, visit Santa Claus’ Village in Rovaniemi and more
✓ Small, personal group tour – no more than 24 people in Norway & Finland
✓ 22 nights handpicked, premium 4-star accommodation
✓ 1 night on board the overnight Santa Claus Express train from Helsinki to Kemi
✓ 1 night night in a magical glass igloo under Saariselkä’s starry skies, looking for the northern lights
✓ Breakfast daily, 1 lunch including cheese fondue, 5 dinners including memorable farewell dining in Norway
✓ World-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the spectacular Glacier Express and Bernina Express
✓ Dedicated rail ticket in 1st class, as per the itinerary, including seat reservation on all scenic trains in Switzerland
✓ Self-guided excursion to Mount Rigi including a stunning cogwheel train ride and boat ride on Lake Lucerne
✓ All transportation, rail tickets and entry fees as per itinerary
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.
Grüezi! Welcome to Switzerland.
Take an included rail transfer to Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland and a hub of both its economic and cultural vitality. The charming pathways of the central Altstadt, flanking the Limmat River, offer glimpses into its ancient origins. Riverside promenades like Limmatquai guide the way along the river, leading to the 17th-century Rathaus, or town hall. Enjoy an overnight stay in Zurich.
Arrival airport train transfers are included as part of your package.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. In the early morning, board a train for your journey to Lucerne. Your itinerary includes a visit to the "Queen of the Mountains." Commence your adventure at Lucerne Pier, where you'll embark on a crossing of Lake Lucerne, heading towards Vitznau. At Vitznau, you'll find the cogwheel train ready to transport you upwards through snow-kissed landscapes. Ascend to the mid-station, Rigi Kaltbad, where you can relish a delectable cheese fondue experience (the location, either at Rigi Kaltbad Hotel or the local Cheese Dairy, depends on the date). Continue your ascent to the pinnacle, Rigi Kulm, and conclude your circular expedition by journeying up to Arth-Goldau, where a regional train will whisk you back to Lucerne.
Embark on a train journey to Interlaken through the captivating route via Lucerne, which forms a segment of the renowned GoldenPass Line. Your arrival in Interlaken is scheduled for the afternoon. This charming town is nestled within the heart of the Bernese Oberland and the majestic Swiss Alps. Serving as the entrance to the Jungfrau region, Interlaken provides access to the iconic peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Graced by its location between the serene Thun and Brienz lakes, Interlaken rests at the base of the imposing Jungfrau massif.
Proceed further by train to Zermatt and enjoy a leisurely day.
Zermatt lies at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn peak. The town's touristic development is closely linked to what is arguably the world's most famous mountain. This car‐free resort offers guests an abundance of activities such as visits to the local mountains of Gornergrat or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It is also home to the highest open-air cog railway in Europe.
Zermatt offers an array of captivating activities for every traveller. From the dramatic backdrop of the Matterhorn to the charming village streets, this Alpine paradise caters to all interests. Embark on exhilarating hikes or take scenic train rides like the Gornergrat Railway. Explore the cultural gems at the Matterhorn Museum, savour alpine cuisine in local eateries, and relish the serene pleasure of stargazing. Zermatt's diverse activities promise an unforgettable journey amidst the breathtaking Swiss Alps.
Embark on a remarkable journey today as you uncover the myriad highlights along the Glacier Express route. The passage from Zermatt to St. Moritz is an indelible experience. Enveloped by a breathtaking mountain panorama, the route stretches eastward into the Upper Rhone valley, reaching a peak of 1366m at Oberwald. It then winds through Andermatt and ascends to the Oberlap Pass, the apex of the journey at 2034m. Descending, the route continues through the Rhine valley to reach its lowest point at Chur, 595m. The landscape undergoes a marvellous transformation, especially in the dramatic Rhine gorge.
Take a regional train to Pontresina and switch over to the Bernina Express panoramic train bound for Tirano. Appreciate the wintry scenes unfolding through your window as the train traverses the Upper Engadine Valley. The journey continues, guiding you through the loftiest peaks of Canton Graubunden and past the Morteratsch Glacier, marking the initiation of the ascent up the Bernina Pass. Amidst this seasonal backdrop, Lago Bianco appears, its surface adorned with snow. Shortly after, you'll reach the pinnacle at 2253m, Ospizio Bernina, before the thrilling descent via Alp Grum commences. This leg affords you magnificent vistas of the Palu Glacier. Your voyage concludes in the charming northern Italian town of Tirano. Later, return to St. Moritz using the regional train service.
Commute via train to Zurich for your ultimate overnight stay. Enjoy one final evening to explore and experience the city at your leisure. Why not treat yourself to a visit to the Lindt Chocolate Museum?
At the appropriate time, catch a train transfer to Zurich Airport for your included flight to Helsinki.
Welcome to Scandinavia! Please make your own way to the hotel.
Tonight you will enjoy a welcome meeting and dinner to get to know our fellow travellers a little better. This meeting commences at approx 6pm.
Transportation:
Train connection between Helsinki city centre and Helsinki Airport is carried out by local commuter trains which run every 10 minutes on peak hours. Travel time from Airport Train Station to Helsinki Central Station is about 30 minutes. Single ticket fare from Helsinki Airport to city centre is € 4.10 from the ticket machines located at the station.
It's an early start today for an adventure to the Baltics and back. You will be transferred to a ferry and enjoy breakfast onboard as we cruise through a small stretch of the Baltic Sea, before arriving in the medieval city of Tallinn, Estonia. We will then enjoy a guided tour of Tallinn's magical Old Town. An exceptionally well-preserved district that dates back to the 13th century, the old town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Later, we return to Helsinki by ferry, where we’ll be transferred to the hotel.
This morning we enjoy a guided tour of the Temppeliaukio Church, known locally as the 'Rock Church'. Excavated directly into solid rock and completed in 1969, this is one of Helsinki's star attractions.
This afternoon, get ready to board the ‘Santa Claus Express’. This iconic overnight sleeper train will take us from Helsinki into the heart of Lapland and the ‘official’ home of Santa Claus. The modern train has private twin-share cabins, onboard dining and is the perfect way to travel up to the untouched north.
Early morning arrival to Kemi, where a morning breakfast is served at the SnowCastle Resort. Visit the main building of the SnowCastle Resort, where there will be snow & ice sculptures on display, an ice bar and an ice restaurant.
In the afternoon, we’ll travel to the Ajos Pier located by the Bothnian Bay, where the sea freezes over during winter. It’s time to board a real life Icebreaker for an incredible adventure. Ploughing through the thick ice is not the only attraction for passengers onboard this powerful vessel: guests also have the unique opportunity to swim among the ice (in a full-body waterproof 'survival suit', of course).
After an unforgettable day, we continue the journey north to Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus.
Please note: on some departure dates, the breakfast will be served at Seaview Restaurant Lumihiutale instead of SnowCastle Resort, and the visit of SnowCastle Resort will be replaced by SnowExperience365.
Today, visit Santa Claus’ Village for a couple of hours of Christmas magic. Here, you’ll cross the Arctic Circle and receive a certificate to commemorate this. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the village’s many charms and fun activities, like meeting Santa’s reindeer, perusing the souvenirs or exploring Snowman World. You can even send a postcard home from the post office, staffed by Santa’s postal elves – it will have a special Arctic Circle postmark not available anywhere else. And of course, you can meet Santa.
Discover Lapland’s unique snowy nature and the fun of snowmobiling. The best way to get to the heart of nature – and back. During this fun safari, you’ll learn how to ride a snowmobile along frozen rivers and through snow covered forests. Enjoy the beautiful views of the river valley from the hilltops. A break with hot beverages will keep your motor running.
Time: 9am or 2:30pm.
Duration: Approx. 2 hours.(including 1.5 hours driving time).
Includes: snowmobile guide, safety helmet, hot beverage, biscuits, winter clothing (outer layer wind and water resistant one piece thermal suit). Note, you will need to wear the appropriate winter clothing underneath the suit to keep you warm.
Snowmobile Safari:
This morning we travel further north through the winter landscape, stopping at Sodankyla, where a quick outside visit to the old church is included.
Later, you’ll arrive at a husky farm to take part in your Inspiring Sight, a Husky Safari, where these friendly dogs will bark an enthusiastic welcome for you. Before departing on the safari, you will be given instruction on how to control the sleds. Upon your return to the farm, enjoy some hot berry juice by an open fire and chat away with the head musher about these amazing animals.
Later in the afternoon, we leave Rovaniemi and continue our journey into Saariselkä for an Inspiring Stay. Tonight we are bedding down in a glass-roof cabin. The glass-roofed structures let you sleep right beneath the starry skies, and hopefully the Northern Lights. Each Aurora cabin is extremely well-insulated to ensure guests are not bothered by the cold in even the coolest of temperatures.
Note : on some departure dates, passengers might stay at Northern Lights Village Pyha or at Aurora Village in Ivalo, instead of Northern Lights Village Saariselkä.
Today, continue North, stopping in Inari, where a visit to the SIIDA Museum is included before crossing the border to breathtaking Norway, and a little later arrival to Karasjok.
Note: on some departure dates, passengers might stay at Lakselv Hotel 3* - located in Lakselv, a little futher north of Karasjok. A breakfast box will be provided.
Leaving Karasjok we continue our Arctic adventures to Norway's northern tip – the vast North Cape/Nordkapp.
Upon arrival you’ll be presented with a certificate to prove you've been to Europe's most northerly point. Here, you’ll also enjoy an Inspiring Taste of sparkling wine and caviar.
Leaving the North Cape region today we begin our journey south, down the coast of Norway to Alta. Here we'll explore the Alta Museum and its World Heritage Rock Art Centre.
Tonight we go on an evening drive around Alta to hunt for the Northern Lights again from a different perspective.
Today we leave Alta and continue south to Tromsø. Located 350km north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is the largest city in Northern Norway. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with many local pubs and a wide range of restaurants specialising in the fresh ingredients of the Arctic. En route, we travel via the Lyngen Alps. This mountain range dominates the landscape, bordered by the Lyngen Fjord to the east, and Ullsfjorden to the west.
On arrival, enjoy some time at leisure in this so-called Gateway to the Arctic.
Note: on the following departure dates (12/02/25 , 19/02/2025 and 09/03/2025), passengers will stay at Enter Amalie Hotel, a high quality 3-star hotel.
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. You'll have the opportunity to visit one of the many museums within walking distance of your hotel.
Note: on the following departure dates (12/02/25 , 19/02/2025 and 09/03/2025), passengers will stay at Enter Amalie Hotel, a high quality 3-star hotel.
After breakfast we leave Tromsø and make our way to Narvik, which sits on the doorstep of the beautiful Lofoten Islands. On arrival, we visit the Red Cross War Memorial Museum. In the spring of 1940 Nazi Germany suffered its first defeat in Narvik at the hands of Norwegian, British, French and Polish forces. The Red Cross War Memorial Museum tells the full story of the epic Battles of Narvik.
Leaving Narvik, we make our way to the town of Svolvær, within the famous Lofoten archipelago. The setting surrounding the town is sublime with a backdrop of high mountains and iconic red wooden houses. Svolvær is the perfect base to explore the magical Lofoten Islands.
Today, we explore the stunning Lofoten Islands and their natural beauty, including a stop in the small village of Henningsvær. Set among a group of tiny islands seemingly dropped into the ocean at the foot of the imposing Vågakallen mountain, Henningsvær is one of Lofoten‘s best-known fishing villages. The stunning setting and mix of traditional wooden architecture and modern art galleries make this island village one of a kind.
After checking out of the hotel we head by bus to Evenes, where we'll board a flight to the captivating Norwegian capital of Oslo. After a short flight we arrive in Oslo where we'll be transferred to our central hotel. Oslo is known for its green open spaces and museums. Many of these are on the Bygdøy Peninsula, including the waterside Norwegian Maritime Museum. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy the rest of your day or evening at leisure, exploring this pedestrian-friendly city.
Today we enjoy a guided city tour of Oslo, enjoy a scenic drive through Oslo, passing such national landmarks as the Parliament building, with its two imposing lion statues at the main entrance, the National Theatre and the magnificent Royal Palace, official residence of the present Norwegian Monarch. Next stop is the Akershus Castle and Fortress, a medieval fortress built by King Håkon V, in the 14th century, which is a today seen as a national symbol for Norwegians and today a popular place for
recreation.
Please note: Akershus Castle only opens on Saturdays and Sundays in wintertime. It will be replaced by the Historical Museum on Tuesdays to Fridays, and to The Fram Museum on Mondays.
Today marks the end of your magnificent and unforgettable tour through Northern Scandinavia. We hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your inspiring Winter Wonderland experience.
There are various options to reach Oslo airport. The Flytoget Express train is convenient and efficent. Trains get to Oslo Central Station 6 times/hour (weekday, 3 times/hour during weekends) every 20 minutes more or less. Adult single ticket cost is approximatively 20 euros per person.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
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:
This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”
By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can assist with flying the airline of your choice to turn your booking into a flight inclusive package.
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:
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.
This tour is a combination of 9 Day Premium Swiss Rail Winter Wonderland, which operates on an independent basis, and 17 Day Norway Winter Premium Small Group Tour
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.
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 $2,841.00 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.
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://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/entry-requirements-country.html for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Travel in Switzerland is on an independant basis
Travel in Norway is group size 12-24
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.
Glacier Express 3-Course Lunch
As you gaze out at the stunning alpine panorama, enjoy a freshly prepared 3-course meal on board and served at your seat. Upgrade for $91 per person.
Glacier Express Excellence Class
A panoramic trip through the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express is now even more spectacular with guaranteed window seats and panoramic views. The new Excellence Class sets standards that are as high as the mountain peaks along the legendary route. Along the way you will be served a refined regional 5-course menu with accompanying wines. For an aperitif, some delicious cocktail or to exchange with fellow travellers the Glacier Bar is the perfect place to visit. Thanks to the compass on the ceiling none of the many turns will be missed.
During the entire journey, you will be taken care of by a concierge. Be it with culinary delights, answers to personal concerns or exciting anecdotes and information about nature, culture and people along the journey.
Upgrade for $869 per person.
Complementary Services in Excellence Class
Coach & Services
Lounge seating with guaranteed window seat
Exclusive access to the Glacier Bar.
Tablet with Bord Infotainment
Concierge as host in the Excellence Class
Welcome-Desk & personal check-in on the platform
Luggage transport in dedicated lockable sections aboard
Catering
Coffee, juice, soft drinks
Starter plate with Champagne
Regional 5-course menu incl. wine accompaniment
Tea Time in the afternoon with goodies
Snacks throughout the day available
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