Scandinavia: The Capitals to the Fjords 13 days (14 days in 2014)
About This Experience
Discover a smorgasbord of Scandinavian and Nordic delights, from seafaring histories to fantastic fjords and waterfalls. Set sail from Denmark’s waterside capital and head into Norway to marvel at the amazing wonderland of green cliffs and blue water. Hit the remaining Nordic capitals—Oslo, Stockholm and Helsinki, some of the world’s most livable cities—and explore their maritime histories and modern architecture.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
9 nights in handpicked hotels & 2 nights on a ferry
Breakfast daily, 6 three-course dinners with beer or wine; all shipboard meals
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
The creative vibe in the Nordic capitals
Smörgåsbord—pickled herring, breads & cheeses
The magnificence of the Norwegian fjord region
Viking history brought to life
The discovery & recovery of the Vasa warship
Stockholm’s medieval Old Town
Overnight Flight1 night
Copenhagen2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Eat, drink, browse, wander, get lost and get found in Copenhagen
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Copenhagen! A Go Ahead Tours representative greets you at the airport after you clear customs and then escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin acquainting yourself with Copenhagen. At an included dinner this evening, meet your fellow travelers.
Day3
Discover the Danish capital from the Little Mermaid to the Royal Guard
Breakfast
A professional local guide introduces you to the landmarks and monuments of Copenhagen, a bustling maritime city. Recall the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen as you stop to admire the harborside Little Mermaid statue. Pass Christiansborg Palace (seat of the Danish Parliament), Rosenborg Castle, and the Royal Theatre (home of the famous Royal Danish Ballet). In front of Amalienborg Palace, look for brightly costumed Royal Guards. In the Nyhavn district, view the beautifully preserved wharfside stores and homes. This afternoon, opt for an excursion to Hamlet’s Castle and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
Optional Excursions
Hamlet’s Castle & Louisiana Museum of Modern Art $155* pp
Travel along the Danish coastline to Elsinore, one of Denmark’s oldest towns. Here, you'll embark on a guided tour of Kronburg Castle, the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Commissioned in the 15th century to defend the sea lanes between the Baltic and North Seas, Elsinore's Kronborg Castle is an imposing stone fortress overlooking the Øresund sound. Explore the castle's courtyard, royal apartments and castle chapel. Finally, drive back along the coast to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Examine the unique collections and make your way to the museum’s impressive sculpture park, which overlooks the sea.
Cruise1 night - hotel info
Day4
Explore Hamlet’s castle in the ancient outpost of Elsinore
Breakfast, Dinner
Spend the day becoming better acquainted with Copenhagen at your own pace. You might choose to visit the Liberty Museum, devoted to the World War II Danish resistance movement, or stroll along the Strøget, Copenhagen’s inviting pedestrian area. Or, join an optional excursion to Roskilde, Denmark’s first capital, and the cobblestone streets of Dragør. This evening, board an overnight cruise ship to sail through the night to Norway. On board,
Optional Excursions
Roskilde & Dragør $145* pp
Just outside Copenhagen, you'll find the towns of Roskilde and Dragør. Enjoy a guided tour of Roskilde Cathedral and visit the city's impressive Viking Museum before continuing on to the prosperous fishing town of Dragør. Here, you’ll have free time to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the quaint harbor front, where fishermen haul in their daily catch just as they did in centuries past.
Fjord Region2 nights - hotel info
Day5
Sail into Norway for one-of-a-kind architecture and geography
Breakfast, Dinner
Borgund Stave Church
Dock in Oslo, then head to the west coast to the Norwegian fjord region, where the landscape is amazing—arguably one of the most aesthetically magnificent places on Earth. Here you’ll experience a unique side of Norway and its well-preserved rural life. En route, you’ll stop to visit the historic Borgund Stave Church. Dinner is included tonight.
Day6
Feast your eyes on spectacular scenery of fjords and falls
Breakfast
Embark on a cruise to explore the fjords this morning. Ranked by National Geographic as a must-see destination, the breathtakingly natural and tranquil scenery of the region will inspire you. This afternoon, enjoy a scenic journey on the Flåm Railway, the steepest conventional railway in the world, taking in breathtaking views of the fjords, mountains, charming mountainside farms and countless waterfalls, including the spectacular 738-foot-tall Kjosfossen waterfall.
Oslo1 night - hotel info
Day7
Follow the expeditions of Norway’s greatest adventurers
Breakfast
Kon-Tiki Museum, Viking Museum
Return to Oslo this morning for a guided tour. Recall Norway’s Viking tradition as you see the once feared longships at the Viking Ship Museum; and learn about the experimental journey of anthropologist Thor Heyerdahl at the Kon-Tiki Museum. Don’t miss a walk through the Vigelandsparken sculpture park, featuring more than 200 fantastic sculptures by Noway’s famed artist.
Stockholm2 nights - hotel info
Day8
Day9
Uncover the treasures of the Vasa warship
Breakfast
City Hall, Vasa Museum
This morning, an included tour introduces you to Sweden’s sophisticated capital. Visit Stockholm’s architecturally unique Town Hall, site of the annual Nobel Prize festivities. On the city island of Djurgården, tour the museum housing the Vasa warship, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. Named for King Gustav Vasa, this 16th-century ship was raised in 1961 from Stockholm harbor along with 12,000 other fascinating objects. Visit the Old Town (Gamla Stan) and stroll down its winding, medieval streets. This afternoon, join an optional Historic Sweden excursion, featuring Uppsala, often considered Sweden’s birthplace, and Sigtuna.
Optional Excursions
Historic Sweden $129* pp
The ancient city of Uppsala is considered the birthplace of Sweden. In addition to the tombs of the first Swedish kings in Old Uppsala, the city also hosts an 800-year-old Gothic cathedral and Scandinavia’s oldest university. A guided tour provides an in-depth look at all of these landmarks, as well as the University Museum, whose exhibits pay tribute to famous Swedish scholars such as Celsius and Linneus. Then, continue to the ancient city of Sigtuna, established by Sweden’s first Christian king. Runic stones, church ruins and the remains of a 1,000-year-old town plan provide a glimpse at its former greatness.
Cruise1 night - hotel info
Day10
Explore Stockholm’s markets, museums, cafes and clubs
Breakfast, Dinner
With a free day in Stockholm, you might choose to visit one of the colorful open markets or stroll along the elegant waterfront street of Strandvägen to the Nordiska Museum, highlighting Swedish history and culture. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Drottningholm. This evening, embark on your overnight voyage to Finland. An abundant Scandinavian smorgasbord buffet is included aboard ship.
Optional Excursions
Drottningholm $99* pp
Take a tranquil ferry ride across Lake Mälaren, and arrive at Lovön Island, where you'll explore the 16th-century Drottningholm Palace. The magnificence of this royal residence, still the permanent residence of Swedish royalty, rivals that of Versailles. Tour its decadent rococo interiors, and later, take the opportunity to step inside the fascinating Court Theatre, with its original 18th-century stage sets.
Helsinki2 nights - hotel info
Day11
Introducing Helsinki—the Daughter of the Baltic
Breakfast, Dinner
Rock Church
Your two-night stay in Helsinki begins with an included city tour. Pass through Senate Square, see the vibrant modern Olympic Stadium and stop to view Temppeliaukio Church, carved into a rocky hillside. In Sibelius Park, recall Finland’s most famous composer as you admire a monument to his life’s work. This afternoon, choose to walk around the downtown area on your own, shop the seaside fish and fruit markets, or visit the National Museum with its famous ethnographic exhibits tracing Finnish culture over 3,000 years. Dinner is included this evening.
Day12
Cruise across the Gulf of Finland for a day in medieval Tallinn
Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely day in Helsinki. You might wish to visit the Helsinki Zoo, home to snow leopards and reindeer. Another option is a fascinating full day excursion across the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn, capital of the independent Republic of Estonia. This beautiful 12th-century town boasts some of the finest medieval architecture in Europe.
Optional Excursions
Tallinn $159* pp
Cruise to Tallinn, a bustling port city dominated by Toompea Hill. The aura of the 14th and 15th centuries is strong in the central city’s jumble of medieval walls, spires and winding cobblestone streets. You’ll enjoy a guided tour followed by free time to discover the city on your own. Please note: Non-U.S. citizens who plan to visit Tallinn should check on entry requirements for Estonia in advance of their trip. This excursion requires advance reservations and must be booked at least 20 days prior to your departure.
Extend Your Stay
Add St. Petersburg $779*
St. Petersburg is a city of haunting magnificence. Created by Peter the Great in 1703 to be his “window on Europe,” St. Petersburg combines its fascinating Russian heritage with a distinctly European outlook. Considered the cultural heart of modern day Russia, St. Petersburg is rapidly regaining its reputation as one of the Great Cities of Europe. From the vibrant colors of spring, through the sunny summer days and endless twilights of the famous White Nights, the brilliant golden sun of autumn, and into the crisp and brittle brightness of a St. Petersburg winter, the City casts its own unique spell over visitors.
St. Petersburg3 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
Ogle the dazzling art and architecture in St. Petersburg
Breakfast
Alexander Nevsky Monastary, Museum of the Hermitage, Paul & Peter Fortress
This morning, a local guide brings the city of St. Petersburg (formerly Leningrad) to life. This beautiful city is built upon 42 islands at the mouth of the River Neva, which you’ll cross to behold the Peter and Paul Fortress on Hare Island. You’ll also visit the Alexander Nevsky Monastery. After passing by St. Isaac’s Cathedral, visit the world-renowned Museum of the Hermitage. Housed within the Winter Palace of the Czars and established by Catherine the Great as the private art collection of Russian royalty, this priceless exhibition is unrivaled in the world and ranges from ancient classical sculpture and Renaissance painting to the gold antiques of the Crimea.
Day3
Immerse yourself in the watery wonderland of Peterhof
Breakfast, Dinner
Today, you might wish to join a full-day optional excursion to the Palace of Peterhoff, the summer residence of Peter the Great. Built in 1720 to the design of the French architect Le Blond, this stately residence has been revised by various emperors and empresses. The gardens outside are every bit as impressive as the interior. Enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your group tonight.
Optional Excursions
Peterhof $99* pp
Journey to the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland to visit Peterhof, Peter the Great’s summer residence. On a guided tour, you'll explore the opulent palaces and gardens of Peterhof and learn how this former retreat of the czars has changed throughout Russian history.
About This Experience
Discover a smorgasbord of Scandinavian and Nordic delights, from seafaring histories to fantastic fjords and waterfalls. Head into Norway to marvel at the amazing wonderland of green cliffs and blue water, and then set sail from Oslo to Denmark’s waterside capital. Hit the remaining Nordic capitals—Stockholm and Helsinki, two of the world’s most livable cities—and explore their maritime pasts and modern architecture.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
10 nights in handpicked hotels & 2 nights on a ferry
Breakfast daily, 6 three-course dinners with beer or wine; all shipboard meals
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
The creative vibe in the Nordic capitals
Smörgåsbord—pickled herring, breads & cheeses
The magnificence of the Norwegian fjord region
Viking history brought to life
The discovery & recovery of the Vasa warship
Stockholm’s medieval Old Town
Overnight Flight1 night
Bergen3 nights
Day2
Soar over the fjords and descend into Bergen
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Bergen. A Go Ahead Tours representative greets you at the airport after you clear customs and then escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin acquainting yourself with Bergen. This evening, meet your fellow travelers at your welcome dinner.
Day3
Investigate the quays and castles of the 11th-century port
Breakfast
Fantoft Stavekirke, Edvard Grieg Museum
Get to know Bergen with a local guide, uncovering the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bryggen district, as well as the Bergenhus Fortress and atmospheric Fish and Flower Market. You’ll then continue to the Custom House pier to view the city center and harbour before taking a drive outside of the city to visit the medieval-style Fantoft Stavkirke church and the Edvard Grieg Musuem.
Day4
Feast your eyes on spectacular scenery of fjords and falls
Breakfast
Fjords cruise , Scenic train
Spend the day journeying through Norway’s fjord country, a region of otherworldly natural beauty. Transfer first to Gudvangen, where you’ll embark on a cruise through the country’s seascape of steep cliffs and narrow waterways. Disembark in the village of Flåm, overlooking Aurlandsfjord. Here, you’ll have free time to explore the Flåm Railway Museum, before climbing aboard. The scenic train rides along one of the steepest rails in the world, climbing from the valley floor around several spirals to the picturesque mountain station at Myrdal, yielding beautiful views all along the way. Afterward, return by train to Bergen.
Oslo1 night - hotel info
Cruise1 night
Day6
Follow the expeditions of Norway’s greatest adventurers
Breakfast, Dinner
Kon-Tiki Museum, Viking Museum
This morning, a local guide will show you the highlights of Oslo. Recall Norway’s Viking tradition as you view the once-feared longships at the Viking Ship Museum; and learn about the experimental journey of anthropologist Thor Heyerdahl at the Kon-Tiki Museum. Don’t miss a walk through the Vigelandsparken sculpture park, featuring more than 200 sculptures by Noway’s famed artist. This evening, board a cruise ship to sail through the night to Denmark, with an included dinner served on board.
Copenhagen2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Discover the Danish capital from the Little Mermaid to the Royal Guard
Breakfast, Dinner
After docking in Copenhagen, a local guide introduces you to the landmarks of this bustling maritime city. Recall the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen at the harborside Little Mermaid statue. Pass Christiansborg Palace (seat of the Danish Parliament), Rosenborg Castle and the Royal Theatre (home of the famous Royal Danish Ballet). Look for the brightly costumed Royal Guards in front of Amalienborg Palace. And in the Nyhavn district, view the beautifully preserved wharfside stores and homes. This afternoon, opt for an excursion to Denmark’s first capital at Roskilde and the cobblestone streets of Dragør. Tonight, enjoy a dinner with your fellow travelers.
Optional Excursions
Roskilde & Dragør $145* pp
Just outside Copenhagen, you'll find the towns of Roskilde and Dragør. Enjoy a guided tour of Roskilde Cathedral and visit the city's impressive Viking Museum before continuing on to the prosperous fishing town of Dragør. Here, you’ll have free time to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the quaint harbor front, where fishermen haul in their daily catch just as they did in centuries past.
Day8
Eat, drink, browse, wander, get lost and get found in Copenhagen
Breakfast
Spend the day exploring Copenhagen at your own pace. You might choose to visit the Liberty Museum, devoted to the World War II Danish resistance movement, or stroll along the Strøget, Copenhagen’s inviting pedestrian area. Or, join an optional excursion to Hamlet’s Castle and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
Optional Excursions
Hamlet’s Castle & Louisiana Museum of Modern Art $155* pp
Travel along the Danish coastline to Elsinore, one of Denmark’s oldest towns. Here, you'll embark on a guided tour of Kronburg Castle, the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Commissioned in the 15th century to defend the sea lanes between the Baltic and North Seas, Elsinore's Kronborg Castle is an imposing stone fortress overlooking the Øresund sound. Explore the castle's courtyard, royal apartments and castle chapel. Finally, drive back along the coast to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Examine the unique collections and make your way to the museum’s impressive sculpture park, which overlooks the sea.
Stockholm2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Day10
Uncover the treasures of the Vasa warship
Breakfast, Dinner
Town Hall, Vasa Museum
This morning, a guided tour introduces you to Sweden’s sophisticated capital. Visit the architecturally unique Town Hall, site of the annual Nobel Prize festivities. On the city island of Djurgården, tour the museum housing the Vasa warship, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. Named for King Gustav Vasa, this 16th-century ship was raised in 1961 from Stockholm harbor along with 12,000 artifacts. Stroll down the winding, medieval streets of the Old Town (Gamla Stan). This afternoon, join our optional Historic Sweden excursion, featuring Uppsala, often considered Sweden’s birthplace, and Sigtuna.
Optional Excursions
Historic Sweden $129* pp
The ancient city of Uppsala is considered the birthplace of Sweden. In addition to the tombs of the first Swedish kings in Old Uppsala, the city also hosts an 800-year-old Gothic cathedral and Scandinavia’s oldest university. A guided tour provides an in-depth look at all of these landmarks, as well as the University Museum, whose exhibits pay tribute to famous Swedish scholars such as Celsius and Linneus. Then, continue to the ancient city of Sigtuna, established by Sweden’s first Christian king. Runic stones, church ruins and the remains of a 1,000-year-old town plan provide a glimpse at its former greatness.
Cruise1 night - hotel info
Day11
Explore Stockholm’s markets, museums, cafes and clubs
Breakfast
With a free day in Stockholm, you might choose to visit one of the colorful open markets or stroll along the elegant waterfront street of Strandvägen to the Nordiska Museum, highlighting Swedish history and culture. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Drottningholm. This evening, embark on your overnight cruise to Finland. A Scandinavian smorgasbord buffet is served onboard.
Optional Excursions
Drottningholm $99* pp
Take a tranquil ferry ride across Lake Mälaren, and arrive at Lovön Island, where you'll explore the 16th-century Drottningholm Palace. The magnificence of this royal residence, still the permanent residence of Swedish royalty, rivals that of Versailles. Tour its decadent rococo interiors, and later, take the opportunity to step inside the fascinating Court Theatre, with its original 18th-century stage sets.
Helsinki2 nights - hotel info
Day12
Introducing Helsinki—the Daughter of the Baltic
Breakfast, Dinner
Your two-night stay in Helsinki begins with an included city tour. Pass through Senate Square, see the vibrant modern Olympic Stadium and stop to view Temppeliaukio Church, carved into a rocky hillside. In Sibelius Park, recall Finland’s most famous composer as you admire a monument to his life’s work. This afternoon, choose to walk around the downtown area on your own, shop the seaside fish and fruit markets, or visit the National Museum with its famous ethnographic exhibits tracing Finnish culture over 3,000 years. Dinner is included this evening.
Day13
Cruise across the Gulf of Finland for a day in medieval Tallinn
Breakfast
Spend a leisurely day in Helsinki. You might wish to visit the Helsinki Zoo, home to snow leopards and reindeer. Alternatively, join our full-day excursion across the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn, capital of the independent Republic of Estonia. This beautiful 12th-century town boasts some of the finest medieval architecture in Europe.
Optional Excursions
Tallinn $159* pp
Cruise to Tallinn, a bustling port city dominated by Toompea Hill. The aura of the 14th and 15th centuries is strong in the central city’s jumble of medieval walls, spires and winding cobblestone streets. You’ll enjoy a guided tour followed by free time to discover the city on your own. Please note: Non-U.S. citizens who plan to visit Tallinn should check on entry requirements for Estonia in advance of their trip. This excursion requires advance reservations and must be booked at least 20 days prior to your departure.
Flight homefor a day
Extend Your Stay
Add St. Petersburg $779*
St. Petersburg is a city of haunting magnificence. Created by Peter the Great in 1703 to be his “window on Europe,” St. Petersburg combines its fascinating Russian heritage with a distinctly European outlook. Considered the cultural heart of modern day Russia, St. Petersburg is rapidly regaining its reputation as one of the Great Cities of Europe. From the vibrant colors of spring, through the sunny summer days and endless twilights of the famous White Nights, the brilliant golden sun of autumn, and into the crisp and brittle brightness of a St. Petersburg winter, the City casts its own unique spell over visitors.
St. Petersburg3 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
Ogle the dazzling art and architecture in St. Petersburg
Breakfast
Alexander Nevsky Monastary, Museum of the Hermitage, Paul & Peter Fortress
This morning, a local guide brings the city of St. Petersburg (formerly Leningrad) to life. This beautiful city is built upon 42 islands at the mouth of the River Neva, which you’ll cross to behold the Peter and Paul Fortress on Hare Island. You’ll also visit the Alexander Nevsky Monastery, final resting place of many great Russian cultural figures. After passing by St. Isaac’s Cathedral, visit the world-renowned Hermitage Museum. Housed within the Winter Palace of the Czars and established by Catherine the Great as the private art collection of Russian royalty, this priceless exhibition is unrivaled in the world and ranges from ancient classical sculpture and Renaissance painting to the gold antiques of the Crimea and delicate ornaments of Faberge.
Day3
Immerse yourself in the watery wonderland of Peterhof
Breakfast
Today, you might wish to join a full-day optional excursion to the Palace of Petrodvorets, the summer residence of Peter the Great. Built in 1720 to the design of the French architect Le Blond, this stately residence has been revised by various emperors and empresses. The gardens outside are every bit as impressive as the interior.
Optional Excursions
Peterhof $99* pp
Journey to the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland to visit Peterhof, Peter the Great’s summer residence. On a guided tour, you'll explore the opulent palaces and gardens of Peterhof and learn how this former retreat of the czars has changed throughout Russian history.
Passport & Visa
In order to enter Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland (as well as Estonia on an optional excursion and Russia on the tour extension), U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of your return home. A visa is also required for U.S. and Canadian passport holders to enter Russia on the tour extension. You can obtain an individual visa through our recommended provider VisaCentral (www.visacentral.com/goaheadtours) or by applying directly through the Russian consulate. If you opt to apply with the Russian consulate and require additional assistance and/or documentation from Go Ahead Tours, a special arrangements fee of $95 per person may be charged. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
Health
There are no major health risks at your destinations. It is always advisable to check with your doctor or health-care provider for the latest updates and overseas travel requirements.
More information on vaccinations and other health precautions can be found via the CDC website.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Round-trip flights arrive in Copenhagen and depart from Helsinki. Included transportation on “Scandinavia: Capitals to the Fjords” is by a combination of overnight ferry and private motor coach. In your free time, you may wish to explore the cities by public transportation and on foot. Copenhagen’s flat landscape lends itself to walking, but the transportation system is also superb. A network of 10 S-train serves all the main attractions, connecting in Central Station. There is also a bus network called HT. Tickets are based on zones and are available in singles or in packages. Oslo is easily accessible on foot. You may also take a combination of buses, subways, streetcars and ferries to break up periods of walking. Stockholm is a model of efficiency. An extensive network of subway, train and bus lines are all run by the SL, which sells Tourist Cards for a designated period of time, valid on all transport. There is also the Stockholm Card, valid for all transport and entrance to most of the city’s main attractions. A similar system exists in Helsinki, on the HKL Transportation network.
Clothing & Packing Tips
Light, loose-fitting clothing that provides comfort when exploring the sights is essential for your tour. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes are recommended for sightseeing. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any eventuality—a lightweight sports jacket and emergency rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an especially elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable in something more formal. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (entrance may be denied on this basis).
Currency
The Danish krone, Norwegian krone, Swedish krona and euro (in Finland), as well as the Russian ruble (on extension), are the currencies you will be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in your destination countries, although it is worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We strongly advise that you take a combination of bank/debit cards and credit cards. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalency of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalency of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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The Scandinavian Capitals
I have not been on any organized tours prior to the Scandinavia Capitals and am raving about it to everyone I know. Friends and coworkers agree that the value was exceptional. In fact, two coworkers asked about the company for their future travel plans. Our tour guide, Maria, was marvelous - her personality, knowledge and general disposition. She kept us on track ( we were a small tour, only 18) and was there for us, always. The various city guides and drivers were also very nice and knowledgable. This only added to the experience. Would I do another tour with your company? --Without question!!
Scandinavia Tour
The tour of Scandinavia was wonderful and our tour director, Frank, did a wonderful job of making sure that everything was taken care of and that everyone had a wonderful time.
Fjords 9/27/12
The trip to Scandinavia and the fjords was delightful. The fjords alone were worth the trip. All of the local tour guides were great and Nicolai in Estonia was exceptional as was our overall tour guide Frank Sahl. Frank proved to be not only knowledgeable but also extremely well organized. I preferred the buffet meals to the set meals in the hotel as you were able to choose what to eat. My favorite part of the tour was the trip to Flam with the railroad ride and the boat trip in the fjords. I wish we had a little more time in Oslo. The only down side of the trip was the flight home. It is not a good idea to schedule one hour between connections. I definitely plan to take another trip with Go Ahead soon.
AMAZING SCANDINAVIA
Excellent tour. This tour is great for first time travelers as well as experienced travelers like myself. Each and every capitals of the Scandinavian countries were amazing. The Norwegian Fjords simply took my breath away. The optional to Tallinn, Estonia is a must to take.
many cities, so little time
Hi ... our tour guide gave us a detailed review to fill out at the end of the trip ... would have been great to have it all along if they wanted that much detail on every meal, every local tour guide, etc etc. I came on this tour with mom - that category is not offered in the spot where you ask for that. Mom could not do it alone, so let me preface my remarks by saying this is not how i normally travel We covered much territory and it was great to be in all these places, however, covering so much ground in so little time put everyone at breakneck speed and everyone seemed exhausted and worried about not seeing enough... The city overviews were great but after a long bus ride it seemed crazy to do a 2-3 hour bus ride tour. However, it was necessary to get an overview and see where things were since we had very littel time to then navigate and find what we wanted to see. More than once, i heard of people that could not find what they were looking for. The cities were great, the fjourds beautiful, the trip well thought out in terms of how to get places etc and show us the most in less than two weeks. However some suggestions: * Too many smorgasbords that all had the same things, no diversity * All the side trips were out of the city when there was not even enough time in the city. I bet people would have taken more direction about how to get places and what to see, even being led on the trains to specific things. It was too much to tout it as a tour of the cities and then keep taking people out of the cities when there was not enough time to see what was there. * The one dinner we did have in the last hotel was awful awful awful * People felt compelled to see things, do things, not encouraged to slow down, enjoy the culture and people, so help in that woudl have been great. * Tour guide was knowledgeable and very helpful .. and local tour guides were very much appreciated. Home meals, more local foods would have been great, meeting teachers etc, people that lived there, would have been great
A must visit!
I had the greatest time in Scandinavia, the entire trip was enjoyable. The cities were so unique, the people in Norway and Finland were especially friendly. We had a good tour guide too.
Scandinavia, Finland and Estonia
Our tour director was energetic, fun and knowledgeable, We were thrilled with Norway's Vigeland, Fiords, and Olympic Ski Park. We wished like everyone else we could have stayed longer there as well as Stockholm and its museums, island sights and chic shopping areas The cruises like ferries and superb bus drivers were gracious, timely and forgiving when we were a few minutes late-only two of us guilty of lateness. The meals \were hearty and delicious. The lodging provided every amenity. The comaraderie of our group was fun and educational as well--we look forward to other Go ahead tours to see these folks again. It's hard to imagine ourt Go Ahead adventure will measure up to the incredible culture,geography, people and museums of Scandinavians, Finland and Estonia.
A different set of societal expectations.
The difference between the Scandinavian countries and the rest of Europe was striking. You do not go to a church to see art, you go to the city government buildings to see the history of the country. The Borgund Stave Church really demonstrated the influence the Vikings had on the development of the Scandinavian countries. They are very proud of their social policies that ensure a quality of life that promotes the overall good of the nation. It seems to work for them!
Awesome Trip
We had two incredible tour directors - feel like I've taken a college history class only better cause I got to see the sites personally. Soooo enjoyable!!
Beautiful Scandinavia
We so enjoyed this trip. The sites were spectacular but the tour directors really made the tour. They were both ( in Scandinavia and in Russia ) so knowledgable and so dedicated to us seeing as much as we could and making transportation , luggage,,eating etc go smoothly and seamlessly.
