17 Day Follow the Lights - Northbound (2027-28)

Welcome to Oslo. Despite its compact size, the Norwegian capital offers a wide range of experiences, from contemporary architecture to long-standing cultural traditions. Make your own way from the airport to your hotel and settle in. The city is easy to explore on foot. Grünerløkka is known for its independent cafés and relaxed atmosphere, while the Barcode district showcases modern waterfront design. Art is central to Oslo's identity, and the Munch Museum houses an extensive collection of works by famed Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. Ekeberg Park combines outdoor art with elevated views across the city and fjord. For a broader insight into Norwegian history, the Bygdøy Peninsula is home to several museums, including the Norsk Folkemuseum, where traditional buildings and a preserved stave church illustrate life through the centuries. This evening, meet your tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting and dinner at the hotel. Special Information 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. Hotel check-in time is at 3pm. If arriving prior to this, you will be able to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel's discretion.

This morning after breakfast, board your private coach and meet your local guide for a city sightseeing tour. This guided introduction to Oslo takes you past some of the capital's most recognisable landmarks. Visit Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to more than 200 sculptures set within Frogner Park. Continue to the Oslo Opera House, where contemporary architecture rises directly from the waterfront, and to Holmenkollen Ski Jump, a symbol of Norway's deep-rooted skiing tradition. The tour offers a broader perspective on the city, from historic districts to modern developments, while your guide provides context on Oslo's culture and daily life. The afternoon and evening are at leisure. You may wish to revisit any highlights from the tour, explore a different neighbourhood, or enjoy one of the city's many restaurants for dinner tonight. Inspiring Highlights Guided city sightseeing tour of Oslo Vigeland Sculpture Park Oslo Opera House Holmenkollen Ski Jump Special Information Please note that entrance fees are not included. For your upcoming Norway ‘s Southern Fjords journey, please prepare an overnight bag with everything you'll need for the night in Flåm, as your main luggage will be transported separately. Ensure all essentials like medication, and valuables are kept with you in your hand luggage. Your luggage will be transported to the hotel in Bergen.

After breakfast at the hotel, take a short walk to Oslo Central Station to begin the renowned Norway's Southern Fjords (Norway in a Nutshell) journey. Travel by train to Myrdal, passing through farmland, forests and increasingly dramatic mountain scenery as you climb inland. At Myrdal, change trains for the Flåm Railway, one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world. The descent towards the fjord is striking, with waterfalls, steep valley walls and wide views unfolding along the route. On arrival in Flåm, walk the short distance to your hotel and check in. The afternoon is at leisure to explore this small fjord-side village at your own pace, perhaps along the waterfront or into the surrounding landscape. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening. Inspiring Highlights Norway in a Nutshell railway journey Flåm Railway Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After breakfast, depart Flåm and begin today's fjord journey. Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest arms of the Sognefjord. Sheer mountain walls rise from the water, waterfalls thread down the rock face and small farms cling to the slopes, offering a sense of scale that is distinctly Norwegian. On arrival in Gudvangen, continue by coach through a valley landscape shaped by rivers and cascading falls. Travel onward to Voss, where you board the train for the final stretch to Bergen. Once you arrive in Bergen, transfer by private coach to your hotel and check in. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. Bergen's harbour area offers a selection of restaurants where you can enjoy dinner at your own leisure tonight. Inspiring Highlights UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord cruise Scenic coach and rail journey to Bergen Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After breakfast, meet your local guide for a walking tour of Bergen, Norway's historic gateway to the fjords. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen, where colourful wooden warehouses line the harbour and reflect the city's Hanseatic heritage. Continue to St Mary's Church and Håkon's Hall, both reminders of Bergen's importance during the medieval period. Your tour concludes with a return journey on the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen, where you can enjoy wide views across the city, surrounding mountains and open sea. Later, transfer to the Hurtigruten terminal for check-in and embarkation. In the evening, your ship departs Bergen and you begin your northbound voyage along the Norwegian coast. Dinner tonight is served on board. Inspiring Highlights Guided walking tour of Bergen UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf St Mary's Church and Håkon's Hall Fløibanen funicular and Mount Fløyen

Wake early as the ship sails through Nordfjord near Torvik, where steep mountains and sheltered waters signal your continued journey north. Later, pass Stadlandet and West Cape before approaching Ålesund, one of Norway's most distinctive coastal towns. Rebuilt in Art Nouveau style after a fire in 1904, Ålesund is known for its decorative façades, curved lines and detailed stonework. Pastel-coloured buildings line the harbour, and towers, turrets and ornamented windows reflect a period of confident design. You will have much of the day to explore at your own pace. You may wish to wander through the town centre, visit a local museum, or climb the steps to Mount Aksla for wide views across the archipelago and surrounding peaks. The Atlantic Sea Park is another option, offering insight into marine life along this stretch of coast. In the evening, the ship calls at Molde. From the water, you may catch a glimpse of the Molde Panorama, a sweeping chain of mountain peaks rising across the fjord. Inspiring Highlights Ålesund Art Nouveau town exploration Norwegian coastal sailing

Arrive in Trondheim early in the morning, giving you time to explore Norway's first capital. Founded in 997 by Viking king Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim blends medieval heritage with the energy of a modern university city. At the heart of the city stands Nidaros Cathedral, Norway's national sanctuary and an important pilgrimage site. Its Gothic façade and intricate stonework dominate the skyline and reflect centuries of history. Cross the red-painted Gamle Bybro over the River Nid and enter Bakklandet, the old Hanseatic district, where colourful wooden warehouses on stilts now house cafés and small shops. For wider views over the city and fjord, walk up to Kristiansten Fortress. In the afternoon, the ship resumes its northbound voyage. Sailing northwest, you pass the Kjeungskjær Lighthouse before continuing towards Rørvik. Inspiring Highlights Independent exploration of Trondheim Nidaros Cathedral Bakklandet historic district Continued coastal sailing

Early this morning, the ship crosses the Arctic Circle, marking your entry into Arctic Norway. The moment is traditionally celebrated on board with a light-hearted ceremony that signals the start of a new chapter in the voyage. In winter, daylight is brief and the quality of light changes quickly. Above the Arctic Circle, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase, particularly on clear evenings when the sky is dark and open. Later in the morning, the ship calls at Ørnes, close to Svartisen, Norway's second-largest glacier. Continue to Bodø, Northern Norway's largest city in the region, framed by the Børvass peaks and exposed to the open sea. In the afternoon, enter the Lofoten archipelago. The dramatic mountain chain known as the Lofoten Wall rises sharply from the water, forming a striking horizon line. Calls at Stamsund and later Svolvær reveal a landscape shaped by the cod fisheries, where traditional rorbuer stand along the harbour and fishing ships gather in season. Inspiring Highlights Arctic Circle crossing ceremony Svartisen glacier views Lofoten Islands and Lofoten Wall Stamsund and Svolvær port calls

The ship calls at Harstad in the early morning, offering the option of a quiet walk ashore before continuing north. The voyage then takes you to Finnsnes, gateway to the island of Senja, before arriving in Tromsø, often referred to as the Arctic capital. You will have several hours to explore Tromsø independently. The compact city centre is easy to navigate, with shops, cafés and restaurants clustered around the harbour. Polaria offers insight into Arctic research and marine life, while Mack Brewery and the historic pub Ølhallen provide a taste of local brewing traditions. Across the water stands the striking Arctic Cathedral, its angular form and stained-glass window reflecting the Nordic light. In the early evening, the ship departs Tromsø and sails north towards Skjervøy, passing the jagged peaks of the Lyngen Alps rising directly from the sea. Inspiring Highlights Independent exploration of Tromsø Arctic Cathedral Lyngen Alps coastal views

During the early morning the ship stops at Hammerfest and Havøysund before arriving in Honningsvåg, one of the northernmost towns on the Norwegian mainland. Honningsvåg serves as the gateway to the North Cape, where a globe monument stands on the cliffs high above the Barents Sea, marking the northern edge of continental Europe. Continuing north, the ship approaches Kjøllefjord. Near the entrance to the harbour, look for the distinctive rock formation Finnkirka, an ancient sacred site for the Sámi people. By evening, the ship reaches Mehamn. In February and March, wooden racks known as hjell may be lined with drying cod, part of a fishing tradition that remains central to life along this coast. Later, the ship sails past Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost mainland lighthouse in the world, en route to Berlevåg. Inspiring Highlights Honningsvåg and the Norwegian Arctic coast Finnkirka rock formation Slettnes Lighthouse

After a final breakfast on board, arrive in Kirkenes and disembark, marking the end of the sea voyage and the beginning of the land journey into Finnish Lapland. From the quay, continue by coach to the Snowhotel Kirkenes for the included King Crab Experience. The excursion begins with an introduction to the Arctic king crab, offering insight into its habitat and importance along this stretch of coast. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting featuring freshly prepared king crab, served in a simple, seasonal style. Later, continue by coach across the border into Finland, travelling through open Arctic landscapes and forested terrain. By late afternoon, arrive in Saariselkä, a small village set deep within Finnish Lapland. Check in to your hotel before dinner in the restaurant. Tonight is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Hurtigruten disembarkation in Kirkenes King Crab Experience Overland journey into Finnish Lapland Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.

This morning, travel to Inari, widely regarded as the cultural centre of Finland's Sámi community. Here, traditions remain closely connected to the land, lakes and forests that shape daily life in the north. Accompanied by a local guide, spend the day learning about Sámi history and contemporary culture. At the Siida, the Sámi Museum and Nature Centre, exhibitions explore reindeer herding, seasonal rhythms and the deep relationship between people and the Arctic environment. Set beside Lake Inari, the museum's location reflects how closely culture and landscape are intertwined. Later, head out onto frozen Lake Inari by snowmobile sleigh and try your hand at traditional ice fishing, a quiet, hands-on experience that offers a glimpse into everyday northern life. During the excursion, enjoy lunch at a local wilderness hotel, where regional dishes are served in warm surroundings. Return to Saariselkä in the afternoon. Dinner tonight is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Inari and Sámi cultural experience Siida – Sámi Museum and Nature Centre Ice fishing on frozen Lake Inari Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today is a day at your leisure in Saariselkä. This small village sits on the edge of Urho Kekkonen National Park, where forests and open fell landscapes stretch far beyond the last houses. You may choose to explore independently, take a gentle walk along the marked trails in the surrounding area, or simply relax at the hotel. In the evening, gather for dinner at the hotel before setting out on a guided aurora hike. Accompanied by your guide, you will walk at a gentle pace into the surrounding landscape. The trail is accessible and suitable for all abilities, leading to a sheltered aurora hut where you can warm up and learn more about the science and stories behind the Northern Lights. Away from artificial light, this quiet setting offers an ideal vantage point to watch for the aurora. Afterwards, return to the hotel later in the evening. Inspiring Highlights Day at leisure in Saariselkä Guided aurora hike

After breakfast, depart Saariselkä and travel south towards Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. En route, pause in Sodankylä for a short stop to view its historic Old Church, a simple wooden structure that reflects Lapland's rural heritage. Continue to the Santa Claus Village, located on the Arctic Circle. Here, you will have time to explore at your own pace, cross the Arctic Circle line, browse local shops, or simply take in the atmosphere of this well-known landmark. Lunch is at your own arrangement. In the afternoon, travel onward to Sinettä and check in at the Arctic SnowHotel and Glass Igloos. This evening, enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant before settling into your Glass Igloo accommodation. The heated glass roof offers uninterrupted views of the night sky from the comfort of your bed. Tonight is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Sodankylä historic Old Church Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle

Enjoy a relaxed morning before departing for one of today's highlights, a husky safari in the forests of Finnish Lapland. At the kennels, learn how the dogs are trained and cared for, and get an insight into the preparation required to keep them fit for the Arctic environment. Then set out on a guided husky ride through the landscape. Depending on conditions, the journey takes place by sled or cart, but the route and overall experience remain the same. This is not a self-driving tour, allowing you to focus on the scenery and the energy of the dogs as they move along the trail. Following the safari, warm up with a soup lunch before spending some time with the huskies. Later, continue to Rovaniemi and check in to your hotel. Tonight is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Husky safari in Finnish Lapland Husky kennel visit Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour. Please note that the sleds will only be used if there is enough snow. Otherwise, pulled carts will be used. The route and experience remain the same regardless of conditions.

This morning after breakfast, transfer to Rovaniemi railway station for your train journey to Helsinki. As the train departs Lapland, the landscape gradually shifts from Arctic forest and open fells to lakes, farmland and small towns, offering a final view of Finland's changing scenery. You will arrive in Helsinki in the late afternoon and make the short walk to your hotel. Finland's capital presents a different pace, with broad boulevards, neoclassical architecture and a strong maritime character shaped by its position on the Baltic Sea. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at the hotel. It is a chance to reflect on the experiences shared over the past 16 days, from Norway's fjords and Arctic coastline to the winter landscapes of Finnish Lapland. We hope this journey from the fjords of Norway to the winter wonderlands of Finnish Lapland has been one to remember. Inspiring Highlights Scenic rail journey from Rovaniemi to Helsinki Farewell dinner in Helsinki Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 9 hours.Your train documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour leader.

After breakfast at the hotel, your tour comes to an end. Depending on your onward travel plans, you may have time for a final walk through Helsinki's centre or along the waterfront before making your own way to the airport or onward destination. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information 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.