DAY 1: Start of tour in Amsterdam
![Start of tour in Amsterdam]()
Welcome to Amsterdam and the start of your Northern Explorer tour! Your tour leader will be waiting to meet you at our accommodation this morning. After everyone is checked in, enjoy free time to spend as you wish this afternoon before enjoying a canal cruise of Amsterdam early this evening! Cruising the canals is one of the best ways to see this amazing city and its sights! Following the cruise, enjoy a dinner in the city centre. Afterwards, discover more of the city at your own pace during free time this evening. Stroll around the canals (don't forget to keep an eye out for the bicycles!) as you explore this fascinating and picturesque city!
Experiences
Cheese and clog demonstration: This morning, enjoy a cheese-making demonstration, revealing how cheese has been made traditionally in these parts for many years. Following that, we’ll learn about that most quirky of Dutch footwear choices – the clog – and see how these traditional shoes are carved. Stock up on unique souvenirs during the visit!
Amsterdam canal cruise: Sail along Amsterdam's stunning canals at twilight, and enjoy the views as you cruise. Watch the city drift past and listen out for tips and interesting insights into the city from your tour leader. This is the best way to be introduced to the vibrant capital of the Netherlands!
Welcome dinner in Amsterdam: Head to a local restaurant to celebrate the first night of the European Vistas tour! Enjoy a great meal, and get to know your new travel companions over dinner.
DAY 2: Amsterdam - Hamburg - Northern Germany
![Amsterdam - Hamburg - Northern Germany]()
Depart Amsterdam this morning and travel towards Germany. The first stop of the day is a fun visit to a local Dutch farm. See how clogs (traditional Dutch footwear) and local cheeses are produced the traditional way. After sampling some delicious cheese (this is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir of your time in the Netherlands), travel onward to a photo stop at a nearby windmill - a common sight in the Dutch countryside! Next, journey through northern Germany, arriving in Hamburg for a quick comfort stop in the late afternoon. After a brief stop in the city, travel on to the accommodation for the night.
Experiences
Cheese and clogs demonstration: See how these famous shoes are traditionally made by hand, and taste a variety of fantastic Dutch cheese. Purchase some unique and authentic Dutch souvenirs during the visit!
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Good morning + Bad Oldesloe
DAY 3: Northern Germany - Odense - Copenhagen
![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!
Experiences
Visit Odense: Enjoy free time to find a spot for lunch during a visit to Odense. This is the third-largest city in Denmark and is known for hosting many cultural events and festivals. It’s most well-known for being the home of famous fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen!
Orientation tour of Copenhagen: Join your tour leader on an orientation tour of the Danish capital, Copenhagen. Tour the city and see top sights including the impressive Frederick's Church (popularly known as the Marble Church), Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen Town Hall, and the bronze Little Mermaid statue.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Park Inn Copenhagen Airport
DAY 4: Copenhagen - Helsingør - Gothenburg - Oslo
![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.
Experiences
Ferry trip from Helsingør to Helsingborg, Sweden: Hop aboard a ferry for a short trip across the Øresund (“The Sound”) to Helsingborg in Sweden. Admire the views of Kronborg Castle on the Danish side of the bay as your cruise!
Scenic drive through the Swedish countryside: Admire the views of Sweden’s beautiful rural scenery during a drive from Helsingborg to Gothenburg.
Visit Gothenburg: Enjoy a visit to Gothenburg. This is Sweden’s second-largest city and is well-known for its rich heritage, historical sites and for being the birthplace of Volvo cars!
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Scandic Helsfyr
DAY 5: Oslo: Free Day
![Oslo: Free Day]()
Look forward to exploring Oslo today! Begin with a locally guided tour of Norway’s cool, compact and captivating capital city. Oslo is surrounded by stunning scenery and is famous for its green spaces and museums. A local expert will showcase the city’s highlights including Akershus Castle, the Royal Palace and the Oslo Opera House. After the city tour, the rest of the day is free to explore as you wish. Why not visit one of the city’s famous museums or galleries, stroll around town admiring the architecture or choose a local spot to enjoy lunch and dinner?
Experiences
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.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Scandic Helsfyr
DAY 6: Oslo - Sigtuna - Stockholm
![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.
Experiences
Visit Sigtuna: Enjoy a visit to Sweden’s oldest town! Founded by King Erik the Victorious in 970 AD, Sigtuna is home to the oldest Main Street in the country.
Swedish meatballs for dinner: It’s time to tuck into a Swedish classic - meatballs! Join the group and enjoy this included dinner tonight.
DAY 7: Stockholm: Free day
![Stockholm: Free day]()
See the highlights of Stockholm on a full day in this city that is spread over 14 islands! First, 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. From lunchtime onwards, you are free to explore more of Stockholm as you wish. Choose to visit one of the city’s world-famous museums or experience Skansen - the world’s first open air museum. Perhaps, spend the afternoon relaxing in one of Stockholm’s green spaces or enjoy a few more hours exploring the cobblestone lanes and historic buildings in Gamla Stan. Be sure to sample the local cuisine during your day in Stockholm!
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Motel L Älvsjö
Scandic Skärholmen
DAY 8: Stockholm Optional Free Morning - Helsinki (Overnight Ferry)
![Stockholm Optional Free Morning - 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, where you have the option to visit the Vasa Museum. 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.
Experiences
Overnight ferry trip to Finland: Travel from Stockholm to Helsinki and spend the night on the water! Hop on board and enjoy the stunning scenery while it’s still light out, as well as the onboard entertainment. Arrive in Finland the following morning.
DAY 9: Helsinki
![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. You will have the afternoon to explore the Finnish capital at your own pace. 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! Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.
Experiences
Guided tour of Helsinki: Discover the highlights of Helsinki with a local guide. Visit the Havis Amanda, the famous Art Nouveau fountain features a lady in the nude. It is said to symbolise the birth of the city of Helsinki. Also explore the famous Senate Square and its buildings, a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. In the city’s historic centre, visit Helsinki Cathedral - Finland's most photographed building and yet another neoclassical marvel. Set foot in Uspenski Cathedral, the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. Finish with a walk through Kauppatori Market, the ideal place to pick up some keepsakes and well-priced Finnish crafts.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Radisson Blu Hotelli Espoo
DAY 10: Helsinki - Tallinn
![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.
Experiences
Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing: Hop aboard and enjoy a cruise across the Gulf of Finland, from Finland to Estonia. Be sure to take in the scenic views as the ferry makes its way to Tallinn.
Guided tour of Tallinn: Join a local guide for a tour of Tallinn, Estonia’s lively capital! Filled with mediaeval churches, cobbled walkways and a vibrant, contemporary culture, Tallinn is a photographer's dream. Highlights include St Olav's church, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tall Hermann Tower, Town Hall Square and more.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Hestia Hotel Seaport
Hotel Metropol
DAY 11: Tallinn - Riga
![Tallinn - Riga]()
Today it’s time to travel onwards to Latvia! Depart Tallinn and head towards Riga, Latvia’s capital city. En route, visit the seaside town of Saulkrasti in Latvia before a sombering visit to the Latvian War Cemetery, dedicated to the soldiers who fought in WWI. Later, arrive in Riga - 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.
Experiences
Visit Saulkrasti: The seaside town of Saulkrasti is a great place to drink in the beauty of the Latvian shoreline without huge crowds. This is where the locals head when they go to the beach.
Latvian War Cemetery: Also known as the Brothers' Cemetery or Cemetery of the Brethren. This national monument commemorates the sacrifice of 2,000+ Latvian soldiers who gave their lives for their country during 1915 - 1920, fighting in World War I and the Latvian War of Independence.
Orientation tour of Riga: Embark on an orientation walking tour of Riga, Latvia’s exciting capital city. See the impressive architecture and learn more about Latvia’s history and culture. Riga is home to popular landmarks like the Houses of the Black Heads and the Freedom Monument.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Radisson Blu Hotel Latvija
Hestia Hotel Jugend
DAY 12: Hill of Crosses - Vilnius
![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.
Experiences
Visit the Hill of Crosses: Enroute to Vilnius, make a stop at the Hill of Crosses, an astounding site of pilgrimage. Containing around 100,000 crosses, they were first placed here back in 1831 by the relatives of those who fell during the local rebellion.
Orientation tour of Vilnius: Join your tour leader for an orientation tour of Vilnius. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers centuries of history to explore, and has a long and storied past. Learn about the history and see more of this city’s Baroque-style architecture and medieval buildings and monuments. You can also cross the river into the Užupio Respublika, a self-proclaimed republic within Vilnius which has its own constitution and an army of 11 men.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Green Park Hotel Vilnius
DAY 13: Trakai - Warsaw
![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.
Experiences
Visit Trakai National Park: Make a stop at Trakai National Park, Europe's only historic national park. It is home to beautiful monuments, lakes and forests with the crowning jewel being Trakai Island Castle, located in the centre of a beautiful lake.
Warsaw driving tour: Glimpse all the iconic sights as we enter the historic city!
DAY 14: Warsaw: Free Day
![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.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Radisson Blu Sobieski
Optional Excursions
- Communist Nysa tour i €25
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 15: Poznań - Berlin
![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 prospered under the rule of the Nazis 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 driving tour through the city and see some of the more famous landmarks, including Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.
Experiences
Lunch stop in Poznan: Enjoy free time to sample some delicious Polish cuisine and explore the Old Market Square in Poznan. Faithfully reconstructed following the Second World War, this beautiful square is home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks and monuments, including the Town Hall, colourful townhouses and the Pranger, a 16th-century punishment device. Did you know that Poznan was once used as a coronation city of the early Polish kings?
Driving tour of Berlin: Join your tour leader for an exciting driving tour of Berlin. Learn the fascinating history of this vibrant city and see the top sights, including the Berlin Wall, Alexanderplatz, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Reichstag. Take note of those you want to explore further on your free day tomorrow!
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Good Morning + City East
AMBER ECONTEL Berlin Charlottenburg
DAY 16: Berlin: Free Day
![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 the 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.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Good Morning + City East
AMBER ECONTEL Berlin Charlottenburg
Optional Excursions
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change. DAY 17: Berlin - Amsterdam
![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.
Experiences
Cheese and clog demonstration: This morning, enjoy a cheese-making demonstration, revealing how cheese has been made traditionally in these parts for many years. Following that, we’ll learn about that most quirky of Dutch footwear choices – the clog – and see how these traditional shoes are carved. Stock up on unique souvenirs during the visit!
Amsterdam canal cruise: Sail along Amsterdam's stunning canals at twilight, and enjoy the views as you cruise. Watch the city drift past and listen out for tips and interesting insights into the city from your tour leader. This is the best way to be introduced to the vibrant capital of the Netherlands!
Welcome dinner in Amsterdam: Head to a local restaurant to celebrate the first night of the European Vistas tour! Enjoy a great meal, and get to know your new travel companions over dinner.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Hampton by Hilton Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam - Schiphol
Best Western Plus Plaza Almere
Optional Excursions
- Diversely Dutch Dinner i €35
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 18: End of tour in Amsterdam
![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! You can extend your stay in Amsterdam and explore more of this incredible city. Please contact our team for more information.