Tours Christmas & New Year Tours Scandinavian Escape Christmas

Scandinavian Escape Christmas

Countries: 3 Days: 10
Start Point:Copenhagen
End Point:Stockholm
Transport:Private coach & ferry
Accommodation:Hotel
Ages:10 - 75+
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Price per person in twin share room

2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price

More reasons to book with us

  • Flexible bookings: 10-day money-back guarantee & free date changes
  • Low deposit secures your booking
  • Services of your Expat Explore tour leader
  • Pay the remaining balance off in installments
  • FREE Wi-Fi in hotels

Summary

Experience the best of Scandinavian travel this Christmas! See Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Wander through captivating Scandinavian cities. Marvel at the views of rolling hills and mountains sprinkled with snow. This Scandinavia tour kicks off in cultured Copenhagen, travels through the stunning Danish countryside, cruises through magnificent Norwegian scenery and showcases Sweden’s unique style! Absorb the Scandinavian spirit of Oslo and Stockholm and take a step back in time with the chance to visit a Viking village! Are you ready for a Scandinavian Christmas? Our Scandinavian tours are just what you need!

IIf you'd like to continue on to Helsinki at the end of the tour, consider the Copenhagen to Helsinki Christmas & New Year tour.

Highlights

  • Visit Denmark, Norway and Sweden over Christmas
  • Explore Copenhagen, Stockholm and Bergen with festive free days in each
  • Experience majestic Norwegian scenery
  • Enjoy an overnight ferry cruise to Norway
  • Guided tours of Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm

Start Point

Hotel in Copenhagen | 10:00 AM

End Point

Hotel in Stockholm | 10:00 AM
Day 1: Start of tour in Copenhagen

Kick off this unmissable Scandinavia Christmas tour this morning! Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark, and meet your tour leader and group at your hotel. Settle in before meeting up with an expert local guide to embark on a walking tour of this capital city's top attractions! Once the walk concludes, spend the rest of the day exploring at leisure. The Tivoli Gardens are always a must-see but especially during the festive season! This evening, after an exciting first day on tour, enjoy an included buffet dinner with your new travel companions. The Scandinavian exploration has just begun!

Meals: Dinner

Day 1: Start of tour in Copenhagen

Kick off this unmissable Scandinavia Christmas tour this morning! Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark, and meet your tour leader and group at your hotel. Settle in before meeting up with an expert local guide to embark on a walking tour of this capital city's top attractions! Once the walk concludes, spend the rest of the day exploring at leisure. The Tivoli Gardens are always a must-see but especially during the festive season! This evening, after an exciting first day on tour, enjoy an included buffet dinner with your new travel companions. The Scandinavian exploration has just begun!

Experiences

Guided tour of Copenhagen: Enjoy a walking tour of Copenhagen with a local guide. Highlights include the famous Nyhavn Waterfront, Rosenborg Castle, the Town Hall, the Little Mermaid statue and Amalienborg Palace.

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation
Hotel

Day 2: Copenhagen: Free Day

Get immersed in Copenhagen on a full free day! To embark on the ultimate exploration of Copenhagen's culture and rich history, join today's optional excursion led by an expert local guide. You won't want to miss the included canal cruise, a true bucket-list experience, or the delectable local delights at a local market! What better way to experience the city? Alternatively, use the free day to spend as you wish, at your own pace. Missed out on the Tivoli Gardens yesterday? Consider a visit! The city has much to explore, such as the astronomical observatory, the Rundetaarn. It's famous for its fabulous city views and the unique equestrian staircase. Today is guaranteed to be filled with fun and adventure!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation
Hotel
On Tour Excursions

Day 3: Copenhagen - Odense - Aarhus - Hirtshals (ferry port)

Start the picturesque journey to the seaside gem of Hirtshals this morning. On the way, make a stop in Odense, the third-largest city in Denmark that is world-renowned for being the birthplace of fairytale writer, Hans Christian Anderson. Arrive and head out on an orientation tour of the city, exploring its top attractions before enjoying some free time to spend as you wish. Next, travel to Aarhus, Denmark's second-largest city. Upon arrival, embark on an orientation tour of the must-see sights, such as an old town open-air museum, contemporary art and architecture, Viking museums and more! Journey to Hirtshals, where the group will board the overnight ferry to Bergen, Norway!

Experiences

Orientation tour of Odense: Explore the highlights of Odense, the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen. Join your tour leader and learn more about Odense’s history as well as its most famous inhabitant. Try and see if you can identify some of the inspiration for his fairytales!

Orientation tour of Aarhus: Enjoy a tour and learn more about the bustling city of Aarhus. Aarhus is home to Den Gamle By, an Old Town that doubles as an open-air museum offering insight into the Danish way of life from centuries ago.

Overnight ferry to Norway: Arrive in Hirtshals seaport and hop aboard the ferry. Get ready to enjoy an overnight cruise to Bergen, Norway.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation
Hotel

Day 4: Overnight ferry - Bergen (Christmas Eve)

Are you ready to explore Norway's second-largest city on Christmas Eve? Arrive in Bergen and head out on an orientation tour of the city's sights. This charming city, also known as "the city among the seven mountains" serves as the gateway to the famous Norwegian fjords, which are just a short boat trip away from the home of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bryggen Quay. Embark on an orientation tour of Bergen and enjoy some free exploration time thereafter. Alternatively, spend Christmas Eve enjoying the ultimate Norwegian experience on an optional excursion, including a visit to Norway’s historic fishing villages! Later, join back up with the group.

Experiences

Orientation tour of Bergen: Become familiar with this city that is known as “the city among the seven mountains” on an orientation tour with your tour leader. There are great things to see and do in Bergen including an acclaimed aquarium as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed quay.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation
Ferry
On Tour Excursions

Day 5: Bergen: Free Day (Christmas Day)

Welcome to beautiful Bergen, the must-see destination where you will be spending Christmas Day discovering its top attractions and picturesque surroundings. Why not explore the city in-depth without the hassle of arrangements by joining today's Bergen+ optional excursion? This highly recommended excursion includes an orientation tour followed by a guided tour of Bryggen. Then, take a Fløibanen ride to the top of Mount Fløyen for panoramic views before enjoying a cocktail at the Magic Ice Bar. You'll truly see the best of Bergen in a day! Otherwise, use the day to discover at leisure. The city boasts impressive medieval architecture and Christmas markets waiting to be explored.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation
Hotel
On Tour Excursions

Day 6: Bergen - Flam - Gudvangen

What better time than the day after Christmas for a journey into the heart of Norway? Depart Bergen towards today's first stop, Gudvangen. This village is situated at the end of Nærøyfjord, arguably Norway's most famous fjord! For the ultimate deep dive into Bergen's beauty, join today's optional excursion. Visit a Viking village and embark on a scenic cruise through the Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjorden fjords to Flam. Join back up with the coach and marvel at some Scandinavian travel highlights, such as beautifully blue waters, steep cliffs and impressive waterfalls. Later, settle into the accommodation in Gudvangen for the evening and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Experiences

Experience Norway’s scenery: Enjoy a scenic trip through the Norwegian countryside. Look forward to views of mountains, forests and fjords. Norway is home to over 1,000 fjords. The striking, winding waterways offer views which are guaranteed to leave you speechless!

Visit Gudvangen: Make a stop in Gudvangen, a village nestled at the end of one of the most famous fjords in Norway. When you arrive in Gudvangen, you will have the opportunity to join the Viking Village and Sightseeing Fjord Cruise optional excursion.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation
Hotel
On Tour Excursions

Day 7: Gudvangen - Oslo

Today, head to Oslo, the capital of Norway and home of the Norwegian royal family. First stop is Gol Stave Church, a striking structure typical of Norwegian Viking architecture. Arrive in Olso and join an expert local guide and explore some of the city's top attractions, including Akershus Castle and the Royal Palace - where you can wave to the royal family! Next, take advantage of some free time to roam around as you wish. This evening, explore on your own and enjoy dinner anywhere you choose.

Experiences

See Gol Stave Church: Enjoy a stop at this unique Norwegian church. Have your cameras ready as the striking building offers great opportunities for photos.

Guided tour of Oslo: Join a local guide for a walking tour of Oslo. On the tour, gain deeper insight into the city and its history. Highlights include the Oslo Opera House, Kvadraturen, the Parliament building, Akershus Castle and the Royal Palace.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation
Hotel

Day 8: Oslo - Karlstad - Sigtuna - Stockholm

Explore even more of Sweden today! This morning, travel from Oslo to Karlstad, located halfway between Oslo and Stockholm on Lake Vänern's shores. Arrive in Karlstad, discover the must-see attractions and delectable local cuisine. Next, head to the medieval town of Sigtuna for an orientation tour and photo stop before enjoying free time in Sweden's oldest town founded in 970 AD. Then, the journey continues towards the capital of Sweden, Stockholm. Upon arrival, embark on a city tour with an expert local guide to tick the top attractions off of your bucket list, including the Royal Palace, the AF Chapman ship and Gamla Stan (Stockholm’s Old Town). This evening, enjoy an included dinner and settle into the hotel.

Experiences

Stop in Karlstad: Discover this small city on the shores of Lake Vänern which is conveniently located between Oslo and Stockholm. Karlstad is known for its outdoor activities and ancient Viking history.

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. 

Guided tour of Stockholm: Join a local guide and see the top sights of Sweden’s capital city. Highlights of this cosmopolitan Scandinavian city include the Royal Palace, the AF Chapman ship as well as the old town Gamla Stan which is the beating heart of the city.

Swedish meatballs for dinner: It’s time to tuck into a Swedish classic - meatballs! Join the group and enjoy this included dinner tonight.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation
Hotel

Day 9: Stockholm: Free Day

Explore more of Stockholm's must-see sights on a full free day! Be sure to visit Gamla Stan, the old town filled with red, orange and terracotta buildings and cobblestoned streets winding in between them. Or, take a leisurely walk - the town is made up of several picturesque islands. Wander through the Djurgården and visit the Swedish open-air museum, the Skansen. Alternatively, embark on a memorable journey by joining today’s optional excursion. This outing includes a cruise and a visit to the famous Vasa Museum. You're guaranteed to make lifelong memories today!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation
Hotel
On Tour Excursions

Day 10: End of tour in Stockholm

After 10 days of discovering the highlights of Scandinavia in winter, the time has come to bid this gem a festive farewell! This morning, the tour comes to an end after breakfast. Be sure to swap contact information with your newly-made travel friends before leaving! Expat Explore hopes you have had an incredible Christmas on tour with us. We wish you a Happy New Year full of even more exciting travel experiences!

Meals

Breakfast

What's Included

Accommodation

  • 9 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
  • Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room/cabin (subject to availability)

Meals

  • 9 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
    *Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

  • Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
  • Overnight ferry from Denmark to Norway
  • Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Tour Leader

  • Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
  • Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

13 Experiences!

  1. Enjoy a guided tour of Copenhagen; Denmark's capital city
  2. Explore Odense; hometown of Hans Christian Anderson
  3. Visit Aarhus; a captivating Danish city
  4. Catch an overnight ferry to Bergen, Norway
  5. Explore Bergen; known as “the city among the seven mountains”
  6. Marvel at Norway’s spectacular natural scenery
  7. Visit Gudvangen near Norway’s most famous fjord
  8. Enjoy a photo stop at Gol Stave Church
  9. See the highlights of Oslo with a local guide
  10. Discover Karlstad on an orientation tour
  11. Visit Sigtuna; Sweden’s oldest town
  12. Explore Stockholm with a local guide
  13. Tuck into Swedish meatballs in Stockholm

Accommodation

We partner with a range of hand-picked hotels in each destination. The hotels listed below are those we stay at most frequently. However, you may stay at different hotels of a similar standard. 

A confirmed list of hotels is emailed to all travellers prior to their tour departure. To extend your stay in Copenhagen and Stockholm book pre and post-tour accommodation through our partner Booking.com.

Copenhagen

Photos of the tour

Optional Excursions

Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Dates & Rates

2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price

Our pricing model: Whether you book early or take advantage of our special promotions, you’ll always get fantastic value when you choose to travel with us.
Years
Start Date / End DateFlexible BookingStatusPrice Per Person
21 Dec 2025 - 30 Dec 2025Flexible booking date for 2025-12-21SOLD OUT!

Additional Information

For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre .

Additional Information Help Centre

Reviews

Reviews powered by: Power Reviews

19 reviews
R
Ryan Verified Buyer 2024-01-04
Exceeded Expectations
Top 5 in my Bucket List is visiting the Scandinavian Countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland). I have always been intrigued by these countries due to my fascination with the Vikings history! And surely this tour did not disappoint at all! Enjoyed every moment and surely one of the best tours I have had!
M
Martha Verified Buyer 2023-09-20
Scandinavia was WONDERFUL
I really enjoyed the tour and Diarmaid was a spectacular tour leader!
K
K & G Verified Buyer 2023-09-15
Memorable & Fantastic Tour!
5* Tour All Round! Diarmaid was fantastic, with so much passion and expertise to bring us all the best experience possible! I highly recommend Expat as a company from start to finish - it is the best way to explore the world! Now it's just deciding which tour to book next!
b
bettolimaTX Verified Buyer 2023-09-12
An Unforgettable Trip
The territory covered in such a short period of time was FUNtastic!
C
CC Verified Buyer 2023-08-28
Great value tour to Scandinavia
This was a very pleasant trip through Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, touching down in Copenhagen, some small town spots in Denmark, Bergen, through the Norwegian countryside, Oslo, Karlstand, Sigtuna, and ending in Stockholm. Definitely a value-based tour with stays in some budget hotels that are not located centrally, but are located close to public transportation should it be needed. Especially appreciated the hotel in Copenhagen being close to the airport as we arrived on an overnight flight and just wanted to crash in the lobby awaiting our tour leader. Being a few stops away by metro was very convenient. Favorite part of the trip was the entire country of Norway. Do not miss the optional fjord cruise in Norway and do not fall asleep on the coach through the Norwegian countryside!