Wednesday, July 08, 2026

Chris Trost's Scandinavia 2026 Excursion

Denmark - Norway - Sweden
Finland - Estonia

Copenhagen - Oslo - Stockholm - Helsinki - Tallin

September 21 - October 5, 2026

Assorted Trip Photos



Post-Trip Summary

This was my second time in Scandinavia.  The first time was 1998, except Tallinn, which I visited last in September 2013.
Gate1 Travel Map

How Long Was Your Trip? When Did You Go?  Where Did You Go? The advertised tour was 13-days, including travel days to and from the US at the beginning and end of the tour.  We added an extra day in Copenhagen at the beginning and an extra day in Tallinn at the end.  So our tour was 15 days.  It was definitely worth it. September 21-October 5, 2026.  I spent:
  • 3 days in Copenhagen, Denmark
  • 2 days in Oslo,Norway
  • 3 days in Stockholm, Sweden
  • 2 days in Helsinki, Finland
  • 3 days in Tallinn, Estonia
  • 2 days flying back and forth from the US
Had I had more time, I would likely have added a few days in Iceland or someplace else in continental Europe before going back to the US.  If Russia had been open to US travelers, I would have spent another 5 days revisiting St. Petersburg since it is a fabulous place.

Did You Do This on Your Own or with a Tour Company? I traveled with Gate1Travel on its "13 Day Capitals of Scandinavia with Tallinn" tour.  For me, the trip lasted 15 days because I had an extra day in Copenhagen before the trip and an extra day in Tallinn at the end.  The trip was exclusively in the capital cities of Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki and Tallinn.  The tour included a nice mix of historic sites and surrounding natural beauty. The itinerary was nicely paced and covered most of the major sights.  

Note, however, that the city tours included as part of the trip were not as comprehensive as past tours I've been on with Gate1.  Forunately, there was ample time every afternoon and evening after touring to venture out on your own.  If you want to see more of each city, you will definitely need to do your homework.  Our self-directed sightseeing included a lot of medievel city centers, castles, museums, church towers, and special interest sites.  Our tour guide was nice enough to provide a comprehensive list of things to do and places to eat when we were on our own.

On a personal note, I have a lot of Scandinavian blood from my mother's side of the family.  Many of her ancestors came from Finland and the border area between Norway and Sweden.  When they emigrated to the USA, they settled in northern Wisconsin where I'm from.

My DNA Estimate from MyHeritage - Lots of Scandinavian Blood


As usual, we had a wonderful tour director, Lasse Rasmussen, as well as excellent motorcoach drivers and local guides.  The hotels and food were also great.

My tour group consisted of 33 people, all from the United States. Overall, we were a seasoned group of travelers, and everyone got along well.

Gate1 Tour Director - Lasse Rasmussen - Excellent!

Gate1 Tour Group - 33 Total - All from USA

How Did You Get There and Back? I flew from my home in Milwaukee to New York City, where I stayed for three days before the tour.  From there we flew to Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm.  We travelled by overnight ferry from Stockholm and Helsinki, and then another short ferry ride from Helsinki to Tallinn.  My route back home took me from Tallinn to Milwaukee via Stockholm and Newark, New Jersey. 

Air Travel Map - 8,900+ Miles Round Trip

Usually I insert a map showing the route covered on the ground by motorcoach.  This time around, our stops were in all the big cities and we flew from city to city.  So there were no long driving days on his tour.   However, we travelled by ferry twice.  The first ferry was an overnight boat from Stockholm to Helsinki.  The second was a 2-hour transfer from Helsinki to Tallinn.  These ferries were luxury, with hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, shopping and casinos.  

Overnight Silja Line Ferry - 18 Hours - Stockholm to Helsinki

2-Hour Tallink Line Ferry - Helsinki to Tallinn

Was It Easy Navigating Your Way Around? Yes, because we were largely situated in the heart of each town or within walking distance to most everything.  If you don't like walking, Uber, metros, streetcars/busses and ferry boats could be used to get around cheaply. 

The Gate1 coach was used mainly for local city tours.  The drivers were excellent and the busses very comfortable.  Each had a bathroom and Wi-Fi, but no charging ports.  I always bring a portable battery pack with me to keep my phone fully charged.
Gate1 Motorcoach - Very Comfortable - Bathroom and Wi-Fi - No Charging Ports
Gate1 has a seat rotation policy so that the same people don't always have the coveted front seats.  As usual, I sat in the back behind the rotation zone with a few others so we could talk without interrupting others.

 Where Did You Stay? We stayed in a number of 4-star and 5-star hotels. In the cities, they were always centrally located.  All hotels were modern, clean, and comfortable, with excellent restaurants, AC, WiFi and fitness centers.

Gate1 Hotels - First Class!

In Scandinavia, Type C and Type F power outlets are commonly used. These outlets accommodate the rounded two and three prong European plugs.  The standard voltage is 220V at 60 Hz. Since the US standard is 110V, check your devices to make sure they support a voltage range of 110V to 240V. Devices that do not support this range may require a voltage converter.  Most importantly, bring Type C and Type F plug adapters. Without one, you will not be able to plug your US devices into Scandinavian outlets.

Bring Round Plug Adapter and Maybe Voltage Converter from USA

Meals? Many of our meals were included in the price of the tour.  Breakfast was included every morning and many of our lunches and dinners.  All meals included healthy options to suit all tastes and dietary needs, as did the options provided when we dined on our own.

Food safety standards are excellent, so you can dine confidently at restaurants, cafés, and street markets.  Tap water is also safe to drink everywhere in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia and is among the highest quality in the world. 

[Insert food collage photo]

How Was the Weather? I traveled in September, and we were fortunate to have wonderful weather throughout the trip. Daytime temperatures were generally in the low 60s°F, with nighttime temperatures in the low 50s°F. Most days were sunny, and we had very little rain.

Our tour director and local guides told us we really lucked out, since September can be considerably wetter. We even caught the beginning of the fall color change, which added a beautiful touch to the scenery.


Scandinavia Weather in September - Generally Nice

What Clothing Did You Pack? I packed very light, bringing only about four days’ worth of clothes. I mostly packed long pants and long-sleeve shirts, along with a light jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Packing light is easy for me because most of my clothes are made from Dri-Fit material, which can be washed in the hotel sink every few days and dries quickly.

Gate 1 usually handles the luggage portering, but there were times in airports and some cities when we had to carry our own bags. That’s when having luggage with wheels and keeping your bags light can be a godsend. It also pays to pack light because the airlines strictly enforce their baggage weight limits.


Trip Luggage - 4 Days Worth

What was the Time Difference? Scandivania is 7 and 8 hours ahead of my home time zone in Milwaukee (US, Central Time, GMT/UTC −06:00).  Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm were 7 hours again.  Helsinki and Tallinn were 8 hours again.  I don't think I ever adjusted to the time difference, averaging 4-1/2 hours of sleep per night the entire trip.  The excitement of being in Scandinavia kept me going.
What Was the Currency? What Were Prices Like? Scandinavia and Estonia use a mix of local currencies and the Euro.  In Denmark, Norway and Sweden, you'll use the Krone or Krona.  In Finland and Estonia, you'll use the Euro.  Note that electronic payment, such as a credit or debit card, is the norm so you won't need much cash.  In fact, I never got any local currency  from a bank or ATM while on the ground in Scandinavia.  I did "tap-to-pay" on virtually everything.  I had $200 in large bills and $50 in singles that went largely to the Gate1 tour director and motor coach drivers.  For the first time, Gate1 paid the tips to the local guides on our behalf, which was nice because I didn't need to keep running to an ATM for tip money.

Use Tap-to-Pay on Credit/Debit Card and You May Never Need This
What Did This Whole Trip Cost You?  Scandinavia is expensive relative to the US and the rest of the world.  Denmark and Norway are much more expensive, Sweden and Finland are similar or slightly more expensive, and Estonia is the overall bargain.


I spent $6,450 in total, or about $430 per day. I paid 88% of the trip cost ($5,500) before leaving the US.  Once on the ground, I spent another $950 on items not included in the tour cost, such as tips, sightseeing and meals on my own, and my international mobile phone plan.

Trip Cost 15 Days - $6,450 - $430/Day
Tipping is modest compared with the United States because service charges and higher wages are already built into prices. Rounding up the bill or leaving about 5 to 10 percent for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.

Special Trip Considerations.
  • Safety. Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia are among the safest countries in the world. Violent crime involving tourists is rare. The biggest risk is petty theft, particularly pickpocketing in busy tourist areas, train stations, airports, and public transportation. Use the same common-sense precautions you would in any major city. You can get the latest US Dept of State Travel Advisories here.
  • Language Barrier. Very little. English is widely spoken throughout Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia. Most younger and middle-aged adults speak excellent English, especially in hotels, restaurants, museums, shops, and tourist attractions. Learning a few basic greetings in the local language is appreciated but certainly not necessary.
  • Physical Condition. Expect to do a considerable amount of walking. Historic city centers feature cobblestone streets, uneven sidewalks, and occasional hills. Museums, castles, churches, ferry terminals, and scenic viewpoints often involve stairs and extended periods on your feet. If you have mobility limitations, plan accordingly, although public transportation and many attractions are accessible.
  • Customs and Immigration. U.S. citizens can visit Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Estonia, and Norway for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. There are typically no routine passport checks when traveling between these countries, although random checks can occur. No arrival forms are normally required. As always, verify current entry requirements before you travel.
  • Air Quality. Air quality throughout Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia is generally excellent. These countries consistently rank among the cleanest in Europe. Unless there are temporary issues such as wildfire smoke or seasonal pollen, air quality is unlikely to affect your travel.  However, I had some issues with the diesel exhaust on the overnight ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki, and more issues in Helsinki.  I had a cough and congestion like everyone else on the tour by the time I went home.
Any Parting Comments? Travel is an adventure. It’s an opportunity to experience, learn and appreciate how people around the world live. While I’m always happy to come home at the end, I never come back the same person.

Having dispensed with the formalities, let's dive into the amazing things we experienced.  Following is a day-by-day account of my trip. Each day starts with an overview of what we did, followed by my daily journal. I stopped giving history lessons in my posts but added links you can click on to read more about the places I visited.   You can just read on from here or go back up to the Table of Contents above and jump to a specific day or topic of interest.

Enjoy!


Day 1 - Monday, September 21, 2026 - Depart USA for Denmark

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary:  Depart New York City in the late afternoon on an overnight flight to Copenhagen, Denmark, arriving the following morning.

Daily Journal

Summary: Departed New York City om a late afternoon, overnight flight to Copenhagen, Denmark.

Weather:  70F and sunny


We were originally scheduled to depart from Newark (EWR), but an unexpected air traffic control outage forced the airport to close. Fortunately, we had arrived early enough to get rebooked on a later flight departing from JFK, just an hour and a half after our original departure time. What could have been a major travel disruption turned out to be a manageable detour.

Our SAS Airbus A330-300 departed JFK on schedule at around 7 p.m. and headed east across the Atlantic. Seven hours later, we touched down in Copenhagen at 8 a.m. local time, just 15 minutes behind our original arrival time, thanks to a strong tailwind. All things considered, we were lucky to have made it to Denmark with so little delay and a full day ahead of us.

Day 2 - Tuesday, September 22, 2026 - Arrive in Copenhagen, Day on Own

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark, early in the morning after your overnight flight. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore Copenhagen on your own.

About Demark from Lonely Planet

About Copenhagen from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: Arrived in the lively Danish capital of Copenhagen and transferred to hotel. Spent the day exploring the city on our own including Copenhagen City Hall, Stoget pedestrian shopping street, Nyhavn, canals of Copenhagen via a river cruise, and the Central Train Station.

Weather: 65F and sunny


After yesterday’s flight cancellation and an unexpected Uber ride from Newark Airport to JFK, we finally arrived in Copenhagen at 8 a.m. this morning, just 45 minutes later than originally planned. Not a bad recovery! My last visit to Copenhagen was in 1998, so I was curious to see how much had changed over the past 28 years.

With hotel check-in still several hours away, we took advantage of the gorgeous weather and set out on a walking tour of the Danish capital. After an overnight flight, it was a full day of sightseeing, but fresh air and a little exploration seemed like the best way to fight off jet lag.

Our first stop was Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, which opened in 1843. More than just a collection of rides, Tivoli combines beautifully landscaped gardens, historic architecture, restaurants, theaters, and old-fashioned amusements in a charming setting. Its blend of nostalgia and entertainment has delighted generations of visitors and even inspired Walt Disney. We strolled past the gardens, taking in the atmosphere before continuing toward City Hall.

Next came Copenhagen City Hall (Rådhus), an impressive red-brick landmark completed in 1905. Inspired in part by Italian Renaissance architecture, the building features an ornate façade, a richly decorated interior, and a distinctive clock tower. We climbed approximately 300 steps to the top of the tower, where panoramic views stretched across Copenhagen’s rooftops and spires. It was well worth the climb, offering a wonderful introduction to the city from above.

From City Hall, we made our way down Strøget, one of Europe’s best-known pedestrian shopping streets. Stretching through the historic city center, Strøget connects several of Copenhagen’s principal squares and is lined with shops, cafés, restaurants, and historic buildings. The lively mix of locals, street performers, and visitors makes it a great place to experience the rhythm of the city. We followed the pedestrian mall all the way to Nyhavn.

Nyhavn, with its colorful waterfront buildings and historic wooden ships, is one of Copenhagen’s most recognizable sights. Built in the late 17th century as a commercial harbor, it once welcomed merchant ships and sailors from around the world. Today, its former warehouses house restaurants and cafés, and its picturesque waterfront is one of the city’s most popular gathering places. The writer Hans Christian Andersen lived in several houses along Nyhavn during his life, adding another layer of history to this already charming district.

From the harbor, we boarded a boat for a popular one-hour Copenhagen canal cruise. Seeing the city from the water provided a different perspective on its architecture, waterfront neighborhoods, and maritime heritage. The route offered views of historic buildings, modern developments, and the waterways that have shaped Copenhagen for centuries. After a morning and afternoon on foot, it was a relaxing way to take in more of the city without adding to our step count.

Finally, it was time to check into the hotel and freshen up. After a brief break, we ventured over to Copenhagen Central Station, a striking historic railway terminal that opened in its present form in 1911. Its red-brick exterior, ornate details, and impressive timber roof give it a character that feels worlds apart from a typical modern train station. As one of Denmark’s main transportation hubs, it connects Copenhagen with destinations throughout the country and beyond.

Nearby, we stopped at the Tivoli Food Hall, a lively food market offering a variety of cuisines under one roof. It was a convenient and casual place to grab dinner, with plenty of choices after a long day of walking and sightseeing. We wrapped up the evening with a stop for drinks before heading back to the hotel.

It was quite a full day, especially after the previous day’s travel disruptions and an overnight flight. Copenhagen has certainly evolved since my last visit in 1998, yet it retains the charm, history, and welcoming atmosphere that make it such an appealing European capital.

We have another day to explore on our own before the rest of our tour group arrives. For now, though, a good night’s sleep is in order. Tomorrow, we continue discovering Copenhagen, hopefully with the jet lag beginning to fade.

Day 3 - Wednesday, September 23, 2026 - Copenhagen, Day on Own

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Another day in Copenhagen to explore on our own.  Day trip north to Helsingor to tour the city and Kronburg Castle.

Daily Journal
Summary: Explored Copenhagen and environs on our own. Traveled north to Helsingor by train to tour Kronburg Castle (the "Shakespear Castle"), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evening orientation meeting with Tour Manager, followed by dinner.

Weather: 65F and sunny


I woke at 2 a.m.  Still jetlagged.  At 6:30 am, we ate breakfast in the hotel dining room, where we met our tour director, Lasse Rasmussen, and prepared for a day of exploring Denmark.


At 8:30 a.m., we walked to Copenhagen Central Station and boarded a train for the approximately 1¼-hour journey north to Helsingør, home of the magnificent Kronborg Castle.  Standing at the narrowest point of the Øresund Strait between Denmark and Sweden, Kronborg Castle once controlled access to the Baltic Sea. Built beginning in 1574 under King Frederik II, this impressive Renaissance fortress reflected the wealth and power of the Danish monarchy.

Kronborg is best known as the setting of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, earning it the nickname “The Castle of Hamlet.” Although Shakespeare never visited, the castle's royal history and dramatic setting helped inspire the legendary backdrop for his famous tragedy. Today, Kronborg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its architecture and historical significance.

We explored the royal chambers and the magnificent Great Hall, then walked along the ramparts for sweeping views across the strait toward Sweden. One of the more unusual sights was in the basement, where we found the legendary Ogier the Dane, a sleeping warrior with his hands resting on his sword.  According to Danish legend, he will awaken and rise to defend Denmark if the nation ever faces mortal danger. His long beard is said to have grown into the stone table where he rests.

After touring the castle, we wandered through Helsingør’s charming old town, with its cobblestone streets, historic churches, and colorful buildings. The town’s maritime heritage is evident throughout, and its relaxed atmosphere offered a pleasant contrast to the grandeur of the castle.

We returned to Copenhagen around 2:30 pm and took a much-needed nap until 5:30 pm after several exhausting days of travel.

At 6 p.m., we gathered for an orientation meeting at the hotel with Lasse, who reviewed the itinerary and outlined what lay ahead. It was our first opportunity to meet the fellow travelers joining us for the Scandinavian adventure.

We have a nice group of 33 people, and everyone seemed friendly and ready to explore. Dinner followed, accompanied by plenty of wine and good conversation.

After a day of Danish history, Shakespearean legend, and scenic train travel, it was a great start to the organized portion of our trip. Tomorrow, the Scandinavian adventure continues!

Go to Table of Contents

Day 4 - Thursday, September 24, 2026 - Copenhagen City Tour

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Copenhagen. Highlights include Nyhavn, the Little Mermaid statue, and Rosenborg Palace, home to the Danish Crown Jewels. 

About Tivoli Gardens from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: A full day exploring Copenhagen, from the Little Mermaid and the royal treasures of Rosenborg Castle to the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace. Climbed 400 steps up the spectacular spiral tower of Church of Our Saviour for panoramic city views, then wrapped up the evening with beers in colorful Nyhavn.

Weather: 65F and partly cloudy


Another restless night. I woke at 1 am, and didn't get back to sleep until around 5 am. I used the early morning hours to catch up on laundry before heading down to breakfast at 7 am. At 8:30 am, we met our tour group for a sightseeing tour of Copenhagen, accompanied by local guide Brad and our Gate 1 motorcoach driver, Peter.

Tivoli Gardens and Christiansborg Palace

Our tour began with views of Tivoli Gardens from the motorcoach. Opened in 1843, Tivoli is one of the world's oldest amusement parks, combining gardens, rides, theaters, restaurants, and beautifully themed settings in the heart of Copenhagen. Walt Disney visited in 1951, and Tivoli is widely recognized as one of the inspirations for Disneyland. Unfortunately, the park was closed for scheduled maintenance, so we had to settle for viewing it from outside.

Along the way, we spotted a colorful former railway station building slated for redevelopment, with a new hotel planned above it.

We also stoppped at Christiansborg Palace, one of Denmark's most important government buildings. It houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister's Office, while the royal family uses parts of the palace for official functions. Denmark's multiparty parliamentary system often requires coalition governments, reflecting the country's tradition of consensus-based politics.

The Little Mermaid

Our first major photo stop was the iconic Little Mermaid Statue, one of Copenhagen's most recognizable landmarks. Created by sculptor Edvard Eriksen and unveiled in 1913, the bronze statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale about a mermaid who longs to become human. Sitting quietly on a rock beside the harbor, the relatively small statue has become an enduring symbol of Denmark and a must-see for visitors.

Rosenborg Castle and the Crown Jewels

Next, we visited Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance palace built in the early 17th century by King Christian IV. Originally a royal summer residence, it now houses important collections of Danish royal treasures and historical artifacts.

Inside, we explored the royal rooms and the magnificent Long Hall, decorated with ornate details and featuring the impressive coronation thrones. The highlight was the treasury, where Denmark's Crown Jewels and royal regalia are displayed. The collection of crowns, gemstones, and ceremonial objects offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's monarchy and centuries of royal tradition.

Exploring the City Center

After our castle visit, the group headed to Nyhavn, Copenhagen's famous waterfront lined with brightly colored buildings, historic ships, cafés, and restaurants. Since we had already explored Nyhavn and taken a canal cruise the previous day, we decided to use our time to see a few other parts of the city.

We visited Magasin du Nord, Denmark's largest department store and a Copenhagen institution dating to the 19th century. Its grand historic building stands in the heart of the shopping district.

We also passed a Lutheran church and a Russian Orthodox church that we had noticed earlier our way to Rosenborg Castle. Copenhagen's architecture reflects its varied religious and cultural history, with historic Protestant churches standing alongside places of worship serving other communities.

Around noon, we made our way to Amalienborg Palace to watch the changing of the Royal Guard. Amalienborg consists of four elegant palaces arranged around an octagonal square and serves as the official residence of Denmark's royal family. The daily guard ceremony is one of the city's best-known traditions, with uniformed guards marching through the streets and taking up their posts at the palace.

Church of Our Saviour: 400 Steps to the Top

From Amalienborg, we walked to Church of Our Saviour, or Vor Frelsers Kirke, in the Christianshavn neighborhood. Completed in 1696, the church is famous for its striking black-and-gold spire, added in 1752, with an external spiral staircase winding around the outside.

Naturally, we decided to climb it. The ascent involves approximately 400 steps, with the staircase becoming narrower as you approach the top. The final stretch winds around the outside of the spire, providing spectacular views across Copenhagen's rooftops, canals, and harbor. The staircase spirals counterclockwise, an unusual feature that makes the climb even more distinctive. It was quite an adventure, but the panoramic views made the effort worthwhile.

An Evening in Nyhavn

After a busy morning of sightseeing and climbing towers, we returned to the hotel for a much-needed nap, resting until 5:30 pm.

Later, we walked back to Nyhavn to enjoy the waterfront atmosphere. The colorful façades and historic harbor looked just as inviting in the evening, with restaurants and cafés bustling along the canal. We stopped for a couple of beers before heading back to the hotel.

It was a full day of Copenhagen highlights, from royal treasures and historic palaces to famous statues and panoramic views. Although we missed Tivoli Gardens because of its scheduled closure, we still managed to see a great deal of the Danish capital.

Now, if only I could get a full night's sleep!

Go to Table of Contents

Day 5 - Friday, September 25, 2026 - Flight to Oslo, City Tour of Oslo

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Late-morning flight from Copenhagen to Oslo, Norway’s waterfront capital, followed by a city tour featuring Oslo Central Station, Karl Johans Gate, and Vigeland Sculpture Park.  Self-guided walking tour of Oslo City Hall and medieval Akershus Fortress.
About Norway from Lonely Planet

About Oslo from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: Late morning flight to Oslo, the capital of Norway. Tour of city including the Central Train Station, a busy transportation hub in the heart of the city, Karl Johans Gate, Oslo’s famous pedestrian-friendly main street, stretching from the Central Station toward the Royal Palace and lined with shops, restaurants and historic buildings, stop at Vigeland Sculpture Park, designed by Gustav Vigeland, which contains over 200 sculptures featuring more than 600 figures. Its most popular attraction is the Monolith column, carved from a single block of granite and standing 46 feet high. Self-guided walking tour to city hall and akershus fortress. Dinner with a panoramic view of Oslo.
     
Weather:  60F and overcast


From Copenhagen to Oslo

A late-morning flight took us from Copenhagen to Oslo, the capital of Norway. After arriving, we headed straight into an afternoon of sightseeing, eager to explore a city I last visited in 1998.

Oslo Central Station and Karl Johans gate

Our guided tour began at Oslo Central Station, the city's main transportation hub in the heart of downtown. From there, we walked along Karl Johans gate, Oslo's famous main street, which stretches toward the Royal Palace and is lined with shops, restaurants, cafés, and historic buildings. The lively street connects many of the city's principal landmarks and offers a great introduction to the Norwegian capital.

Vigeland Sculpture Park

Next, we visited Vigeland Sculpture Park, a remarkable outdoor collection created by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. The park features more than 200 sculptures depicting over 600 human figures, exploring themes of life, relationships, and the human experience.

Its centerpiece is the towering 46-foot Monolith, carved from a single block of granite and composed of intertwined human figures reaching skyward. The park's combination of striking sculptures and beautiful green spaces makes it one of Oslo's most memorable attractions.

Oslo City Hall and Akershus Fortress

After the guided tour, we explored the city on our own, visiting Oslo City Hall, the distinctive red-brick landmark overlooking the harbor. Completed in 1950, it houses the city's municipal government and is internationally known as the venue for the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Its interior features impressive murals and artwork celebrating Norwegian history and culture.

We continued to Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and defensive stronghold overlooking Oslo's harbor. Construction began in the late 13th century, and the fortress has played an important role in Norway's military and royal history. Its historic grounds and waterfront views provide a wonderful contrast to the modern city surrounding it.

Dinner with a View

We finished the day with a group dinner on the top floor of our hotel, enjoying panoramic views of Oslo. It was a relaxing end to a busy afternoon of sightseeing and a wonderful introduction to Norway's capital.

Another great day exploring Scandinavia!


Day 6 - Saturday, September 26, 2026 - Full Day in Oslo

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Today, enjoy an Oslofjord Cruise & Holmenkollen tour. Cruise through the scenic Oslofjord, then visit the famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump for panoramic views of the city and fjord. Before returning to Oslo, enjoy traditional Norwegian cake and coffee..  

About Oslofjord Cruise & Holmenkollen Tour from ???

Daily Journal

Summary: Instead of a day on our own in Oslo, we opted for the Full Day Oslofjord Cruise & Holmenkollen tour. Embark on a scenic Oslofjord cruise, where you'll sail through stunning landscapes, passing idyllic islands, and quaint coastal villages. The cruise offers an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Norway's capital from a unique perspective. Afterward, head to Holmenkollen, one of the world's most famous ski jumping hills, offering panoramic views of Oslo and the surrounding fjord. Enjoy a traditional Norwegian cake and a cup of freshly brewed coffee before returning to Oslo. Optional: Full Day Oslofjord Cruise & Holmenkollen (AM). Overnight: Oslo. Meals: Breakfast
    
Weather:

I got up at .... had breakfast...them met the group in the hotel lobby for the tour of the fjords surrounding Oslo and the Holmen Kollen ski jump from the 1952 Winter Olympic Games.


We boarded our ship for the Oslofjord tour, offering spectacular scenery with wooded islands, charming villages, and peaceful waters. A cruise provides a completely different perspective of Norway's capital and is among the city's most relaxing excursions.  Official Website 


After the fjord cruise, we boarded our motor coach and headed to Holmenkollen, one of the world's most famous ski jumps and has hosted international competitions for over a century. The observation deck provides sweeping views across Oslo and the fjord while the ski museum chronicles more than 4,000 years of skiing history.  Official Website

After the tour, we went back to our hotel, had dinner....

Day 7 - Sunday. September 27, 2026 - Flight to Stockholm & City Tour

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Fly to Stockholm, Sweden, this morning and transfer to your hotel. Guided city tour featuring City Hall (or the Royal Armoury if City Hall is closed), the medieval Old Town, Storkyrkan Cathedral, the Nobel Museum, and Stortorget Square.
About Sweden from Lonely Planet

About Stockholm from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: Flight to Stockholm & City Tour. Board a morning flight to Stockholm, a city spread across 14 islands and connected by 57 bridges. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. The discovery of Stockholm begins at City Hall*, where you will visit the famous Blue Hall and glistening Gold Hall, the venue for the annual Nobel Banquet and Ball. A walk through the narrow streets of the medieval Old Town reveals rows of 17th and 18th century storybook buildings, 700-year-old Storkyrkan Cathedral, the Nobel Museum, and historic Stortorget Square. This evening, dinner is at a local restaurant. If City Hall is closed, the Royal Armoury will be visited instead. Overnight: Stockholm. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
     
Weather:

I got up at .... had breakfast...them met the group in the hotel lobby for the short ride to the airport to catch our flight to Stockholm, Sweden. After checking in, we had some time to kill before our flight.


Our Scandinavia Airlines flight left Oslo on time at ... and arrive on time at ... in Stockholm.
We met our coach driver and went on a tour of Stockholm.


Our first stop was Stockholm City Hall, known worldwide as the venue for the Nobel Prize Banquet, Stockholm City Hall is one of Sweden's architectural masterpieces. Highlights included the Blue Hall, the glittering Gold Hall, and the tower overlooking the city. Official Website 

The next stop was Gamla Stan, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval old towns. Narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, shops, cafés, and historic squares create a storybook atmosphere in the heart of Stockholm.  Official Website 

The next stop was Storkyrkan, a cathedral dating to the thirteenth century that has hosted royal coronations and weddings for centuries. Inside are magnificent Gothic interiors and the famous sculpture of St. George and the Dragon.  Official Website 


Our last stop was the Nobel Prize Museum, celebrating Nobel laureates whose discoveries and achievements changed the world. Interactive exhibits explore science, literature, peace, and innovation.  Official Website 

After the tour, we checked into our hotel. We had dinner....

Day 8 - Monday, September 28, 2026 - Skansen Open-Air Museum

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Visit Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum, to experience historic buildings, traditional crafts, and Swedish life from centuries past. See the 18th century Seglora Church if it is open.

About the Skansen Open-Air Museum from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: Skansen Open-Air Museum. Begin the day with a visit to Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum. Step back in time as you explore historic buildings, traditional crafts, and folk performances. The museum recreates rural and urban life from different eras, with costumed guides bringing history to life. Explore the Seglora Church*, a wooden structure that reflects the craftsmanship and architectural style of 18th century Scandinavia. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Seglora Church unavailable to tours if there is a wedding or special event occurring. Overnight: Stockholm. Meals: Breakfast
     
Weather:

I got up at .... had breakfast...them met the group in the hotel lobby for the trip to Skansen Open-Air Museum near Stockholm.


Founded in 1891, Skansen is the world's oldest open-air museum. Historic buildings, costumed interpreters, traditional crafts, and Nordic animals recreate Swedish life through the centuries.  Official Website 

While in Skansen, we visited Seglora Church, an eighteenth-century wooden church relocated to Skansen from western Sweden. It remains an active church and provides a glimpse into Scandinavian religious architecture.  Official Website 

After the tour, we went back to our hotel, had dinner....


Day 9 - Tuesday, September 29, 2026 - Vasa Museum, Ferry to Helsinki

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Visit the Vasa Museum to see the restored 17th century warship that sank on its maiden voyage. This afternoon, board an overnight ferry to Helsinki. Enjoy the ship's restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. 

About the Vasa Museum from Vasa Museum Website

Daily Journal

Summary: Vasa Museum, Ferry to Helsinki. Tour the Vasa Museum, home of the restored royal warship that set off on a maiden voyage and sank to the bottom of the sea. In the afternoon, say goodbye to Stockholm and transfer to the port to board the ferry to Helsinki. The overnight journey offers a relaxing and unique way to travel between two Nordic capitals. Enjoy a range of amenities including restaurants, duty-free shopping, and live entertainment. Tonight, have dinner aboard the ferry. Overnight: Ferry Tallink Silja Oy. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Weather:

I got up at .... had breakfast...them met the group in the hotel lobby for a short tour of the Vasa Museum in Stockholm. The Vasa Museum houses the remarkably preserved seventeenth-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. Recovered after 333 years underwater, it is one of the world's most extraordinary maritime museums.  Official Website 

In midafternoon, we headed down to the docks and boarded our overnight ferry boat for the trip from Stockholm to Helsinki (Tallink Silja Line).  The overnight ferry between Stockholm and Helsinki combines transportation with restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and comfortable cabins while crossing the Baltic Sea.  Official Website 

We checked into our comfortable cabin and them enjoyed the ship's amenities.


Day 10 - Wednesday, September 30, 2026 - Helsinki City Tour

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary:  Arrive in Helsinki and enjoy a guided city tour. See Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski Cathedral, the Rock Church, and the modern Oodi Library. After checking into your hotel, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
About Finland from Lonely Planet

About Helsinki from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: This morning, meet your local guide as you disembark the ferry and begin your exploration of Helsinki. View the Senate Square, home to the grand Helsinki Cathedral, and the striking Uspenski Cathedral, a symbol of Finland's Eastern Orthodox heritage. Visit the unique Rock Church, a remarkable architectural feat built directly into solid rock and Oodi Public Library, designed with open spaces and cutting-edge architecture. Afterward, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.  Overnight: Helsinki.  Meals: Breakfast.
     
Weather:

I got up at .... had breakfast...them met the group in the ships lobby to disembark the overnight ferry and board our motor coach for a tour of Helsinki.  


Our first stop was Senate Square, forming the historic heart of Helsinki and surrounded by elegant neoclassical buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel. It remains the city's most important civic gathering place.  Official Website 


Our next stop was Helsinki Cathedral, which dominates the skyline and is one of Finland's best-known landmarks. Visitors climb its steps for panoramic views over Senate Square.  Official Website 


The next stop was Uspenski Cathedral, Western Europe's largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral. Its red-brick exterior and golden domes reflect Finland's historical ties to Russia.  Official Website


The next stop was Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Church), which is carved directly into solid granite and covered by a dramatic copper dome. Its remarkable acoustics make it a favorite venue for concerts.  Official Website 


The last stop was Oodi Library, one of the world's most innovative public libraries, combining striking modern architecture with community spaces, technology, and cultural programming.  Official Website 

After the tour, we checked into our hotel. We had dinner....


Day 11 - Thursday, October 1, 2026 - Full Day in Helsinki

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary:  Travel to the charming town of Porvoo on an optional full day tour. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit Porvoo Cathedral, and stop at the famous Brunberg chocolate factory shop before returning to Helsinki.

About Porvoo from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: We opted for the Full Day Medieval Porvoo tour. Embark on an excursion to Porvoo, located on the Gulf of Finland. Admire the views of the coastline, and the archipelago along the way. Stroll through the Old Town with its cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses, and artisan boutiques. Marvel at the 15th century Porvoo Cathedral, perched on a hill overlooking the town. Next, visit the Brunberg factory shop, famous for its delicious handmade chocolates and confections. Here, you can sample a variety of treats, including the signature truffles, licorice, and other Finnish sweets. Perhaps shop for unique souvenirs, or explore Helsinki's museums, galleries, and indoor markets. Tonight, have dinner at your hotel. Optional: Full Day Medieval Porvoo. Overnight: Helsinki. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
     
Weather:


I got up at .... had breakfast...them met the group in the ships lobby for the day tour to historic Porvoo, one of Finland's oldest towns and famous for colorful riverside warehouses, medieval streets, artisan shops, and cafés. Its Old Town is among Finland's most charming destinations.  Official Website 

Our first stop was Porvoo Cathedral, dating to the fifteenth century.  It has witnessed many important moments in Finnish history and overlooks the picturesque Old Town.  Official Website
Another stop was Brunberg Factory Shop, which has produced Finnish chocolates and confectionery since 1871. Visitors sample famous truffles, licorice, and other traditional sweets.  Official Website 

After the tour, we headed back to Helsinki to relax before dinner....

Day 12 - Friday, October 2, 2026 - Ferry to Tallinn, City Tour of Tallinn

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Take a ferry across the Baltic Sea to Tallinn, Estonia. Enjoy a guided city tour featuring the UNESCO listed Old Town, the Song Festival Grounds, St. Bridget's Convent ruins, Toompea Castle, Town Hall, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.


About Estonia from Lonely Planet

About Tallinn from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: Ferry to Tallinn, City Tour of Tallinn. Embark on a scenic ferry journey to Tallinn, crossing the Baltic Sea. Admire the views of the coastline, and the archipelago along the way. In the afternoon discover Tallinn, the northernmost Baltic capital, with cobbled streets set beneath spires of 14th century churches. The city's historic Old Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. View the Song Festival grounds, and the ruins of the 15th century St. Bridget's Convent rising along the banks of the Pirita River. Proceed to the upper part of the Old Town and view the pink Baroque-style Toompea Castle, Estonia's traditional seat of power, and the Gothic Town Hall. Conclude with a visit to the onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Overnight: Tallinn. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
     
Weather:

I got up at .... had breakfast...them met the group in the hotel lobby. We headed to the docks to catch the ferry for a short ride across the Baltic Sea from Helsinki to Tallinn.

Our ferry left Helsinki at .... and arrived in Tallinn at ....Along the way, we relaxed and enjoyed the view.

Upon arrival in Tallinn, we boarded our motor coach and head to Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe's finest preserved medieval cities. Stone streets, merchant houses, towers, and churches transport visitors back to the Middle Ages.  Official Website 
Our next stop was Song Festival Grounds, which Estonia's famous national song festival, a celebration of music that played an important role in the country's peaceful independence movement.  Official Website 

Our next stop was St. Bridget's Convent, the impressive ruins of a fifteenth-century monastery standing beside the Pirita River and providing insight into medieval religious life in Estonia.  Official Website 
Our next stop was Toompea Castle, which has served as Estonia's seat of power for centuries and today houses the national parliament. Its hilltop location offers commanding views of Tallinn.  Official Website

Our next stop was Tallinn Town Hall, the only surviving medieval town hall in Northern Europe. It has stood at the center of civic life for more than 600 years.  Official Website 

Our last stop was Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, built during the Russian Empire, and Tallinn's largest Orthodox church, distinguished by its elaborate onion domes and richly decorated interior.  Official Website 
After the tour, we headed back to hotel to relax before heading into Old Town for dinner.

Day 13 - Saturday, October 3, 2026 - Full Day in Tallinn

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Enjoy a free day to explore Tallinn at your own pace or join the optional food tour. Visit the Balti Jaama Market, tour a local gin distillery, and sample Estonian specialties. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner.

About Tallinn from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: Full Day in Tallinn. Today is at leisure to explore Tallinn at your own pace. Perhaps, join the optional Tallinn Food Tour with Gin Distillery. Begin at the Balti Jaama Turg Market, offering a rich selection of local delicacies. Stroll through its diverse stalls, sampling traditional Estonian treats, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. Next, dive into the world of craft spirits with a guided tour to a local gin factory. Discover the secrets behind Estonia's premium gin-making process, from botanical selection to distillation. Conclude with an exclusive tasting session. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager. Optional: Tallinn Food Tour with Gin Distillery (PM). Overnight: Tallinn. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
     
Weather:


We slept in, had a leisurely breakfast.

We opted to explore Tallinn on our own.  Others took the optional tour to Balti Jaama Turg, Tallinn's modern public market featuring fresh produce, local specialties, handmade crafts, restaurants, and gourmet food vendors. It offers an excellent opportunity to sample authentic Estonian cuisine and shop like a local.  Official Website 


We went to ... Balti Jaama Turg on our own.




Day 14 - Sunday, October 4, 2026 - Full Day in Tallinn on Own

Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: Extra day in Tallinn to explore on our own.

About Tallinn from Lonely Planet

Daily Journal

Summary: Extra day in Tallinn to explore on our own.
     
Weather:

We slept in, had a leisurely breakfast.

We opted to explore Tallinn on our own.


After dinner, it was back to the hotel to pack our bags for the trip back to the USA the following morning.


Gate1 Travel Map

Itinerary: After breakfast, transfer to the airport for return flight back to the Newark, New Jersey via Stockholm.

Daily Journal

Summary: After breakfast, transfer to the airport for return flight back to the Newark, New Jersey via Stockholm.
     
Weather:

Woke up at ...

Had breakfast.


Met driver for ride to Tallinn airport


Boarded Scandinavia Airlines flight to Stockholm


Arrived in Stockholm at ....


Relaxed


Boarded Scandinavia Airlines flight to Neward NJ


Arrived in Newark at 1:15 pm EDT.


Direct flight to Milwaukee departed Newark at 4:30 pm EDT...

Arrived in Milwaukee around 6:30 pm CDT.

Took Green Line airport bus home 20 minutes arriving home at 7:30 pm CDT


Travel is always fun but always nice to come home.





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