- Overview
- Trip Outline and Itinerary
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
- Gallery
- Reviews
- Optional Excursions
Our ever-popular Northern Explorer tour covers ten countries across Scandinavia, eastern and central Europe! Absorb the culture, beautiful landscapes and hip cities from Amsterdam and Copenhagen to Berlin and back again. Experience the Scandinavian sophistication of Oslo, Norway. Explore the world’s happiest cities. Stockholm and Helsinki. Journey through Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania - Baltic states where the rhythm of life has remained unchanged. Connect with ancient culture in Warsaw and drink authentic German beer in vibrant Berlin. Want to travel Scandinavia and the Baltics? This Northern Vovager tour will more than scratch the surface!
- Visit a local Dutch cheese farm and clog factory
- Enjoy a cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic canals
- Welcome dinner in Amsterdam
- Explore Hamburg; Germany’s second-biggest city
- Visit Odense; birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen
- Discover Copenhagen; capital of Denmark
- Cruise from Helsingør to Helsingborg by ferry
- Enjoy a scenic drive through the Swedish countryside
- Visit Gothenburg; Sweden’s second city
- See the highlights of Oslo with a local guide
- Visit Sigtuna; Sweden’s oldest town
- Eat Swedish meatballs in Stockholm
- Explore Stockholm with a local guide
- Catch an overnight ferry to Finland
- Discover the highlights of Helsinki with a local guide
- Catch an overnight ferry to Finland
- Enjoy a lunch in Tallinn
- Take a tour of Tallinn with a local guide
- Sightsee in Pärnu; a resort city in Estonia
- Visit Saulkrasti; a Latvian seaside town
- Learn about Latvian history at the Latvian Military Cemetery
- Discover Riga; Latvia’s vibrant capital
- Visit the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania
- Explore Vilnius; capital of Lithuania
- Stop at Trakai, Europe's only historic national park
- See Warsaw’s highlights on a driving tour
- Discover Warsaw’s Old Town with a local guide
- Explore Old Market Square in Poznań
- See iconic sights on a walking and driving tour of Berlin
Itineraries
Day 1
Start of tour in Amsterdam
Welcome to Amsterdam and the start of your Northern Explorer tour! Meet your tour leader at the accommodation this morning. After everyone's checked in, get ready to experience the gorgeous Dutch countryside. Visit a local Dutch farm and see how clogs and local cheese are made! You will also have the opportunity to join an optional excursion which further explores the Dutch countryside. Later this evening, enjoy a canal cruise of Amsterdam - one of the best ways to see this amazing city and its sights! Afterwards, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2
Amsterdam - Hamburg - Northern Germany
Depart Amsterdam this morning and travel towards a new country, Germany! Arrive in Hamburg in the late afternoon and embark on an orientation tour with your tour leader. Hamburg is an impressive harbour town and top cultural destination home to over 50 museums! Your tour leader will show you some of the city’s highlights and give you some tips for what to explore during your free time. Enjoy some time to grab dinner, why not eat a hamburger in the city they were named after? Later, travel on to the accommodation for the night situated in a quaint town in Northern Germany. Get some rest tonight as tomorrow we make our way to Denmark where more adventures await!
DAY 3
Northern Germany - Odense - Copenhagen
The journey continues to Scandinavia after breakfast. Cross the border into Denmark and head towards the Danish capital, Copenhagen. The drive offers fantastic views as well as a crossing of Europe's longest bridge. En route, enjoy a visit to Odense, the birthplace of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen! Arrive in Copenhagen and enjoy an orientation tour of the city. It'll soon be evident why this charming city has been voted one of the world's most liveable so many years in a row! It's clean, safe, and very easy to get around and blessed with cosy cafés and world-famous restaurants!
Day 4
Copenhagen - Helsingør - Gothenburg - Oslo
The tour will visit three countries today; Denmark, Sweden and Norway! Depart Copenhagen and take a short drive to the port town of Helsingør this morning. This town is home to Kronborg Castle, the setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet. See the castle from the water as we take a short ferry ride to Sweden. Then, enjoy a drive from the port of Helsingborg through the stunning rural Swedish scenery while travelling towards Gothenburg, Sweden’s second city and the home of Volvo. Here, join your tour leader for an orientation tour and find a spot to enjoy lunch. Next, cross the border into Norway and travel north to Oslo. Norway’s capital city is full of Scandinavian culture and charm! Enjoy a free evening to explore the city.
DAY 5
Oslo : Free Day
Guided tour of Oslo: Join a local guide for a walking tour of Oslo. Explore the city and gain deeper insight into Oslo and its history. Highlights include the Oslo Opera House, Kvadraturen, the Parliament building, Akershus Castle and the Royal Palace.
DAY 6
Oslo - Sigtuna - Stockholm
Wave farewell to Norway as the tour travels back to Sweden. Find out why Sweden is ranked as one of the most naturally beautiful countries in Europe on a drive through various landscapes. Pass Karlstad on the shores of Lake Vänern before arriving in Örebro where the group has free time for lunch. After lunch, it’s time to visit Sigtuna. This beautiful mediaeval town is the oldest in Sweden. It’s home to old church ruins as well as the oldest main street in Sweden - Stora Gatan. Next, the tour continues to Stockholm, Sweden’s gorgeous capital! Arrive in the evening and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of the Scandinavian capital city. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.
DAY 7
Stockholm: Free day
Discover the highlights of Stockholm today! Discover the top attractions and learn all about Sweden’s capital city on a locally guided tour. See the Royal Palace, the AF Chapman Ship and take a walk through Gamla Stan; Stockholm’s famous Old Town. Enjoy free time from lunchtime onwards. The Royal Sweden & Vasa Museum optional, which takes place over two days, is a great way to learn more about Sweden’s royal history and see relics of its past! Today, the optional visits the Vasa Museum. Alternatively, relax in one of Stockholm’s green spaces or sample some local cuisine!
Please note: Today’s optional excursion will take place over day 7 and day 8 due to the timing of the tour's schedule.
DAY 8
Stockholm - Helsinki (Overnight Ferry)
Spend time this morning exploring the city of Stockholm! The numerous islands that make up the town offer fascinating walks, especially through the Djurgården. If you’re joining part two of the Royal Sweden & Vasa Museum optional, look forward to visiting the stunning Drottningholm Palace this morning! Otherwise, spot beautiful old ships in the harbour and visit some of the many world-class museums and art galleries. See if you can catch the changing of the guards at the Royal Palace! This afternoon it's time to travel to the next destination - Finland! This afternoon, take an overnight ferry, arriving in Helsinki, Finland, tomorrow morning
DAY 9
Helsinki
Arrive in Helsinki in the late morning and head off on a tour of the city with a local guide. See the highlights of Helsinki including the Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square. An effortlessly cool city, Helsinki prides itself on being slightly off-the-wall, playing with decor and design traditions to humorous effect. Elegant cafés, magnificent museums and impressive Art Nouveau architecture all combine to create a city that is certain to leave an impression! You will have the afternoon to explore the Finnish capital at your own pace. Alternatively, join this afternoon’s optional excursion and explore Helsinki's must-see attractions! Tuck into delicious local cuisine and soak up the spectacular views and architecture. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.
DAY 10
Helsinki - Tallinn
Today it’s time to travel to the Baltic States! Catch a ferry from the port in Helsinki, cross the Gulf of Finland and arrive in Tallinn, Estonia. With the strong mediaeval influence combined with modern structures, Tallinn is one of Europe's most enchanting cities! Enjoy an included group lunch at a local restaurant before seeing the highlights and wonderful historic sights of Tallinn with a local guide on a walking tour. Explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre, see Town Hall Square, St Olav’s Church and more! Enjoy a free evening to discover more of the city.
DAY 11
Tallinn - Pärnu - Latvian Military Cemetery - Riga
Travel onwards to Latvia today! Depart Tallinn and head towards Riga, Latvia’s capital city. En route, sightsee in scenic Pärnu, a resort town in Estonia, and visit the seaside town of Saulkrasti in Latvia before a sombre visit to the Latvian Military Cemetery, dedicated to the soldiers who fought in WWI. Later, arrive in Riga which is possibly the most vibrant of the Baltic cities and blessed with a culture that you'll find irresistible! In contrast to its smaller neighbours, Riga goes all out with a buzzing atmosphere and impressive Art Nouveau architecture. Join your tour leader on a walking tour. Explore some of its most notable landmarks and sights, including the famous central markets and many beautiful churches.
DAY 12
Hill of Crosses - Vilnius
Lithuania is calling today! The first stop of the day is the Hill of Crosses - a pilgrimage site loaded with around 100,000 crosses which is an impressive sight to behold. Arrive in Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, and set off on an orientation tour of the city before enjoying some free time. Lithuania's capital exudes Old Town charm, so much so that it's been added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites. In contrast to the medieval history, there are also reminders of Vilnius' more recent and darker past, including remnants of the ghettos where the Jewish community lived during Nazi occupation, and the influence of the Soviet Union. It is an intriguing city to discover.
DAY 13
Trakai - Warsaw
This morning, travel to the final destination in Lithuania - Trakai National Park. The main attraction is undoubtedly a view of the iconic brick-built castle at its centre, which lies on an island surrounded by crystal-clear water. Next, head towards the Polish border. En route to Warsaw, your tour guide will offer insights into the city and its surroundings on a driving tour. As the cultural hub of Poland, Warsaw is a city of energy and action, racing to replace what was lost after being utterly destroyed in World War II. Arrive at the hotel, check in and join the group for an included dinner this evening
DAY 14
Warsaw: Free Day
Enjoy a city tour of Warsaw’s Old Town with a local guide this morning. Meet your guide at the hotel and then embark on the tour, taking in a number of highlights and seeing the bustling square at the heart of the old town. This afternoon is yours to spend as you wish! Visit some of the highly regarded museums, such as the Museum of the History of Polish Jews, the Chopin Museum, or the extensive collections of the National Museum. On a Sunday, you can enjoy free entry to the Royal Palace and the occasional free music concert in Łazienki Park. Alternatively, you can further explore the Old Town and make the most of your time in this charming city.
DAY 15
Poznań - Berlin
Heading west through Poland, stop in Poznań, a city famous for its historic old town. Enjoy your free time to have lunch and admire the colourful buildings and beautiful architecture of the Old Market Square. Cross the border into Germany and continue to the city of Berlin! The German capital rose in power under Nazi rule leading up to the Second World War and then endured division during the Cold War, which is symbolised in the infamous Berlin Wall. Reminders of the past are everywhere, but Berlin has been reborn and is filled with vibrant modern culture today. Take a walking and driving tour through the city and see some famous landmarks, including Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.
DAY 16
Berlin: Free Day
Today is a free day in Berlin. Revisit some of the sights from yesterday's driving tour, or strike out on your own to discover more of the city for yourself. Alternatively, choose to join the fascinating Berlin+ tour for a trip into the past. For an incredible bird's eye view of the city, head up the Berlin TV tower - located close to Alexanderplatz, it has become an icon of the capital. If you fancy some museum action, head over to museum island, a collection of five world-famous museums in the heart of Berlin’s city centre. Want to let your hair down after a day of exploring? Berlin has you covered, offering an incredibly vibrant nightlife complete with bars, clubs and shows - from theatre to cabaret.
DAY 17
Berlin - Amsterdam
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Berlin and travel back to the Netherlands, enjoying the beautiful German and Dutch landscapes during the drive. Arrive back at the Amsterdam hotel for tonight, and the evening is free to do as you wish. To celebrate the last night of the tour, and say farewell to your tour leader, driver and fellow passengers, join in for the optional farewell dinner. This delicious three-course meal features a true Dutch delicacy - pancakes!
DAY 18
End of tour in Amsterdam
Today, the tour concludes after breakfast. By now, you will have enjoyed 18 days on tour, visiting amazing countries and making unforgettable memories! Be sure to share your contact details with your fellow travellers. We hope you've enjoyed your Northern Explorer Tour as much as we have!
Accommodation
- 16 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
- 1 night's accommodation in twin share cabin with private bathrooms
- Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room/cabin (subject to availability)
Meals
- 17 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 6 Dinners
*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request
Transport
- Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
- Overnight ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki
- Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days)
Tour Leader
- Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
- Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details
- Visa to any Country (tourists must obtain before travelling to Europe), We will help with VISA Assistance only.
- International flights to and from Europe.
- Airport departure tax if required.
- Travel insurance (trip, medical and personal).
- Daily personal expenses.
- Early check-in or late check-out at hotels.
- Tip and gratuity for local tour guides and drivers.
- Please read terms and conditions at https://letstraveleuro.com/terms-and-conditions/
Explore more of the Dutch countryside and get a glimpse of local life! Start with a visit to the quaint fishing village of Volendam. Wander the main street filled with charming cafes and local souvenirs and admire the sprawling views. Your next stop is the historical windmill village of Zaanse Schans. Here, learn about how these iconic symbols of the Netherlands were vital to the industrial development of the country. This is the perfect opportunity to capture some classic Dutch photos! The coach will then take you back into the city centre.
Discover a selection of Oslo’s top attractions with your tour leader. Explore beautiful outdoor spaces and fascinating museums! Start with a visit to Vigeland Sculpture Park where you’ll have the chance to prove your photography skills during a photo contest. Next, visit Bygdøy, a scenic peninsula near the city centre home to hiking trails, beaches and some of Oslo’s most visited museums. While here, visit the Fram Museum and see exhibitions showcasing Norway’s impressive polar expeditions. Finally, visit the Kon Tiki Museum which features exhibitions on Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl's world-famous 20th century expeditions.
Experience some of Sweden’s fascinating history! Embark on a scenic drive to Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the permanent residence of the Swedish royal family, for a guided tour. This tour also includes entrance into the intricately designed Chinese Pavilion, located on the palace grounds, and free time to explore the lush gardens. Then, head to the Vasa Museum to see the warship Vasa which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. This is the only almost fully intact 17th-century ship that has ever been salvaged!
Uncover Berlin’s tremendous history, vibrant culture and fascinating hidden gems with this full day tour! Begin at the East Side Gallery, the largest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall, before finding out what life was like in the German Democratic Republic at the Museum in the Kulturbrauerei. Next, see the hidden sights of the Hackescher Markt with a local guide and taste traditional currywurst (the meal comes with a drink and a vegetarian option is available). End the day at the Berlin TV Tower which offers incredible views of the city.
Spend the afternoon discovering Helsinki's must-see contemporary attractions! Start off with tasting Finnish food at Cafe Regatta while soaking up its breathtaking ocean views. Then, visit the Sibelius Monument before marvelling at the striking views from the Tower of the Helsinki Olympic Stadium. Behold the unique Temppeliaukio Church and capture a photo of the impressive Amos Rex.
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