Explore Scandinavia

Välkomna! Join Melissa Ousley, host of YourClassical MPR and fellow public radio travelers for an
unforgettable journey through Scandinavia.

Discover the region's breathtaking fjords, majestic castles, shimmering glaciers and rich Viking heritage as you explore Sweden, Denmark and Norway by train, ferry and coach. Experience the charm and culture of each country, from cruising the fjords of Norway to riding one of the world's most scenic railways to Bergen.

Along the way, we you'll attend the Copenhagen Classical Music Festival and enjoy a special concert in the former home of Edvard Grieg. With spectacular scenery, fascinating history, delicious cuisine and unforgettable musical experiences, this 12-day Scandinavian arts and culture adventure has it all. Note - space is limited and the pace is physical. Reserve your spot for this awesome adventure today!

Itinerary

Day O

Depart the U.S. no later than July 28, arriving in Stockholm in time for the start of your journey. If your schedule allows, consider arriving on your own a day or two early to relax, adjust to the time change, and explore more of Sweden's beautiful capital.

Day 1: Thursday, July 29 – Välkommen till Sverige! Welcome to Sweden!

Upon arrival, meet your YourClassical host, Melissa Ousley, your expert Earthbound Expeditions guide, and your fellow travelers. This evening, gather for a festive welcome dinner—the perfect introduction to the music, culture, and camaraderie that await in Scandinavia. Overnight in Stockholm at the Stockholm Sheraton (D)

Day 2: Friday, July 30 – Discovering Stockholm and the Vasa Museum

After breakfast, explore Gamla Stan, Stockholm's charming Old Town, and visit the magnificent Royal Palace. Then, enjoy a short ferry ride to the acclaimed Vasa Museum, home to the remarkably preserved Vasa, the royal warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered more than 300 years later. Following lunch, enjoy a free afternoon and evening to explore Stockholm at your leisure. The popular ABBA Museum is just a short walk from the Vasa Museum for those wishing to continue sightseeing. Overnight in Stockholm at the Stockholm Sheraton (B, L)

Day 3: Saturday, July 31 – Stockholm Archipelago

Today, cruise by ferry through the breathtaking Stockholm Archipelago to the charming seaside village of Vaxholm, often called the "Capital of the Archipelago." Along the way, admire forested islands, colorful cottages, and graceful sailboats. Upon arrival, stroll the picturesque harbor, browse inviting boutiques, and enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the marina. Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace or visit historic Vaxholm Fortress, which has guarded Stockholm's harbor for centuries. Return to Stockholm in the late afternoon. Overnight in Stockholm at the Stockholm Sheraton (B, L)

Day 4: Sunday, August 1 – Onward to Copenhagen!

Travel by private motor coach to the beautiful Danish capital of Copenhagen. Upon arrival, stretch your legs with a stroll along the historic waterfront, where you'll see the iconic Little Mermaid statue and Amalienborg Palace, home of Denmark's royal family. This evening, gather for a festive "Welcome to Denmark" dinner. Note: Tickets to the Copenhagen Classical Music Festival will be purchased if an evening performance is announced. Overnight in Copenhagen at the Admiral Hotel (B, D)

Day 5: Monday, August 2 – Charming Copenhagen

This morning, join an expert local guide for a leisurely walk through Copenhagen's historic heart. Stroll the city's charming lanes, visit the colorful harbor of Nyhavn, and explore the lively Strøget, one of Europe's longest pedestrian promenades. Following lunch, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Your local guides will be happy to recommend favorite cafés, museums, and hidden gems. This evening, attend a performance at the Copenhagen Classical Music Festival. Overnight in Copenhagen at the Admiral Hotel (B, L)

Day 6: Tuesday, August 3 – Royal Castles and the Danish Riviera

Journey through the beautiful countryside of North Zealand, where charming villages, royal castles, and forested landscapes await. Visit magnificent Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark's finest Renaissance palace, then continue to Helsingør to admire Kronborg Castle, the legendary setting of Hamlet. After savoring a regional lunch, enjoy a scenic drive along the picturesque Danish Riviera before returning to Copenhagen. This evening, attend another performance at the Copenhagen Classical Music Festival. Overnight in Copenhagen at the Admiral Hotel (B, L)

Day 7: Wednesday, August 4 – Sunset Cruise to Oslo, Norway

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Copenhagen. Browse a local market, visit a museum, rent a bicycle or simply relax before meeting your guide for the transfer to the ferry terminal. This afternoon, board your overnight ferry to Oslo. Settle into your cabin, take in the sea views on the top deck and enjoy an included dinner as you sail north toward Norway. Overnight aboard the overnight ferry to Oslo (B, D)

Day 8: Thursday, August 5 – Welcome to Oslo!

Enjoy awe-inspiring scenery as we cruise this morning into the spectacular Oslofjord. Upon arrival in Norway’s vibrant capital, enjoy an exclusive, private tour of Oslo’s modern, award-winning Opera House. Afterward, we visit the breathtaking Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to 212 life-size sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. After a delicious group lunch, check into your centrally located hotel and enjoy a wonderful free evening exploring Oslo at your leisure. Overnight in Oslo (B, L)

Day 9: Friday, August 6 – A Free Day in Oslo

The morning is yours to experience the many wonders of Oslo. We highly recommend a visit to the historic Fram Polar Ship Museum or the Edvard Munch Museum. Take the afternoon to stroll the scenic waterfront, relax at a café, or hunt for the perfect souvenir before gathering with fellow travelers for dinner on your own. Overnight in Oslo (B)

Day 10: Saturday, August 7 – Scenic Train to Bergen and the Edvard Grieg home

Today we board the legendary Oslo-to-Bergen railway, traveling west past majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls. Beautiful Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1070, welcomes us with its historic charm, medieval atmosphere, and iconic wooden wharf. Our hotel sits right on the ancient harbor. Upon arrival, you’ll tour Troldhaugen, the beloved home of composer Edvard Grieg, and enjoy an intimate concert. Overnight in Bergen (B, L)

Day 11: Sunday, August 8 – The Fjords of Norway

We set sail directly from the city center, offering a spectacular waterside view of Bergen's UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf. Cruise through the magnificent Osterfjord toward the charming village of Modalen, navigating the thrilling currents of the narrow Mostraumen Strait. As the fjord walls grow steeper, the boat will pass cascading waterfalls—and get close enough to feel their refreshing mist! Keep an eye out for sunbathing seals and soaring eagles along the way. Return to Bergen tonight for a festive farewell feast. Overnight in Bergen (B, D)

Day 12: Monday, August 9 – Return home with a lifetime of memories

Our unforgettable Scandinavian journey concludes after breakfast. Transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay to further explore the magic and beauty of Norway's fjords. (B)

Pricing and Terms

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

This journey includes travel by train, ferry and motor coach, so guests must be comfortable
boarding and disembarking and managing their own luggage during transfers. Porter service is
available at the hotels but not on trains or ferries.

Reservations and Deposits: A $1,000 per person deposit is needed to confirm your space on this journey. You can make a credit card deposit online or by phone. Deposits are refundable, minus a $250 per person cancellation fee, for 60 days from the processing date or 90 days prior to departure, whichever comes first. Deposits made within 90 days of departure are nonrefundable. Final payment is due 90 days before departure and is nonrefundable, which is why we strongly urge guests to purchase travel insurance.

Not Included: International airline tickets, alcoholic beverages, room service and gratuities for hotel staff, gratuities for ship crew, travel insurance, meals not listed in brochure, and any activities or items not listed in your itinerary.

Physical Requirements: It is the responsibility of each guest to be aware of their physical abilities or limitations and to be in sufficient good health to undertake the trip. Visit earthboundexpeditions.com to read “Is an Earthbound trip right for you?” or call the Earthbound office for more details.

Travel Insurance: Earthbound Expeditions strongly encourages the purchase of travel insurance coverage. We include information on trip insurance in your deposit information.

Events and Hosted Journeys: If a planned event is cancelled for any reason, another event will be substituted. This is not cause for refund. Events are subject to change. Also, if a host or special guest is unable to attend as planned, Earthbound Expeditions will do its utmost to find another host who has similar
interests, talents, and expertise. The inability of a host to participate in a tour is not grounds for a full or partial refund.

Terms and Conditions: Visit earthboundexpeditions.com to read the full terms and conditions