Scandinavia & Baltic Circuit

Intrepid Travel · 32 days

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Duration

32 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Explore the highlights of Scandinavia before travelling south into the Baltic states on this epic 32-day adventure through northern Europe.

Highlights

Join a local guide and cafe-hop your way around Alingsas, a town known as the Capital of Fika (Swedish cafe and food culture). Learn of the local love affair with coffee, discover the story behind the cafe culture and, of course, treat your tastebuds to sweet Swedish delicacies.
Take a ferry to Vrango Island, a stunning fishing town in the Gothenburg Archipelago, and discover this rocky nature haven by kayak (summer months only).
Aukstaitija National Park offers unique opportunities for both action and relaxation. Kayak across pristine lakes, indulge in home-cooked meals or cleanse yourself in a traditional sauna.
Norway's fjords feature some of the most stunning scenery on Earth. Cruise past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks through the narrow Naeroyfjord.
Follow your local guide along the narrow, winding roads through genuine villages, past the typical red painted cottages and explore unique sights around Siljan lake rural settlements. You'll even get a chance to meet and mingle with the locals living in these villages.

Trip Details

Duration

32 days

Transportation

Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Boat,Overnight ferry,Bicycle,Canoe,Metro,Tram,Cable car

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Copenhagen, Denmark

Finishes

Vilnius, Denmark

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Copenhagen

Welcome to Copenhagen. If you arrive early, which is highly recommended, why not visit the pastel-coloured waterfront houses in the Nyhavn area. Drop in at an industrial-chic bar for a drink or stroll around the famous Tivoli Gardens, home to the world's oldest rollercoaster. Another area worth checking out is Norrebro, a residential area known for its wide range of restaurants. Meet your group at 6 pm then head out for an optional group dinner if it takes your fancy.

Optional Activities:

Copenhagen - Glyptotek Art Museum (135 DKK)
Copenhagen - National Museum of Denmark (140 DKK)
Copenhagen - The Round Tower (40 DKK)
Copenhagen - Amalienborg Palace (125 DKK)
Copenhagen - Christiansborg Palace (215 DKK)
Copenhagen - Tivoli Gardens (180 DKK)
Copenhagen - Botanical Garden - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Copenhagen

Today see Copenhagen through a different lens. Join a local guide from Street Voices, a socially responsible company, with a mission to enhance life quality for socially vulnerable people and be led to the unlit corners of Copenhagen. You will hear different tales from lives on the edge and get insight into the life of a local person, their everyday struggles, and how to follow the unwritten rules of the streets. The afternoon is free for you to further explore this Scandinavian city. Stroll along the harbor or head out to the classicist palaces of 18th century Amalienborg, to this day the main residence of the Danish Royal family. Perhaps pay a visit to Frederik's Church, also known as Marble Church, the Court House on Nytorv Square or check out the facade of the red brick town hall. Alternatively, the National Museum is not to be missed, nor is the Christiansborg Palace in the very center of Copenhagen. In the Summer, you can even choose to join locals and take a cool dip in the free harbor baths centrally in the city.

Included Activities:

Copenhagen - Street Voices guided tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Malmo / Gothenburg

A morning train ride will get us to Malmo in Sweden, via the famous Oresund Bridge that spans the strait separating Denmark and the Scandinavian Peninsula. Upon arrival, your leader will take you on a walk through the city and will share stories from its history. Malmo has gone through somewhat of a transformation, or should we say revival, over the past twenty years thanks to the construction of the Oresund Bridge and the opening of Malmo University. Spend some time checking out the Old Town, the castle or perhaps have a glance inside Apoteket Lejonet, a 1896 pharmacy in Neo-Renaissance style. If the weather allows, why not rent a pedalboat on the canal before continuing on to Gothenburg (by train or bus depending on availability at the time of booking), where you'll spend the night.

Included Activities:

Malmo - Leader Led Walk

Accommodation:

Pension (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Vrango Island / Gothenburg

Catch an early-ish ferry from Gothenburg to Vrango Island. Vrango is the most southerly island of the Gothenburg Archipelago, with a permanent population in the low hundreds and a strong fishing industry. The island is known for its stunning beaches and protected nature reserves and you'll explore the coastline in an included kayaking activity (summer only). In the afternoon, enjoy some free time strolling around the town or maybe try an optional floating sauna, before returning to Gothenburg for a free evening. Sweden's second largest city is known as the world's most sustainable destination and is exemplary example of what a responsible tourism destination should look like.

Included Activities:

Vrango Island - Day Trip
Vrango Island - Island Tour with Local Guide (Oct to Apr)
Vrango Island - Sea Kayaking (May to Sep)

Accommodation:

Pension (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Gothenburg

This morning you'll head to Alingsas, regarded as the Capital of Fika, a Swedish cafe and food culture. You'll be accompanied by a local expert to tour some of the town's best traditional cafes. You'll learn of the local love affair with coffee and discover the story behind this town's special cafe culture. And, of course, you'll also get a chance to sample Swedish cinnamon buns, biscuits, chocolate truffles, pastries and sandwiches. You'll return to Gothenburg in the late afternoon and have a little time to explore at your leisure. Perhaps visit the Göteborg City Museum, housed in the former East India Company House and built during the time when Gothenburg's role was that of a major maritime trading centre. Take in the architectural ensemble on Gustav Adolfs Torg, go shopping along the main boulevard Avenyn, check out the iconic Skansen Kronan, stroll along bohemian Långgatan street or sip a coffee in the charming Haga quarter, known for its picturesque wooden houses.

Included Activities:

Alingsas - Guided Fika experience

Optional Activities:

Gothenburg - Paddan Boat Tour (260 SEK)
Gothenburg - Fish Market Feskekörka - Free
Gothenburg - Göteborg City Museum (70 SEK)
Gothenburg - World of Volvo Museum (250 SEK)
Gothenburg - Museum of Natural History (70 SEK)
Gothenburg - Aeroseum (130 SEK)

Accommodation:

Pension (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Oslo

Catch a morning bus across the border to Norway's capital Oslo. Your leader will take you on an initial orientation walk so you get a first taste of this quirky, colourful city. It's definitely worthwhile to spend the afternoon perusing delicacies at Maschmanns Food Market, admiring the handiwork of glass blowers at the Hadeland Glassverk, or simply strolling along Karl Johans Gate, the main shopping strip of the city. Perhaps head to the Munch Museum to glimpse Edvard Munch's famous 19th-century painting, The Scream. In the evening say 'skal' ('cheers') to the group over dinner. Why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare based around cod and mackerel dishes.

Included Activities:

Oslo - Leader Led Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Oslo

Today is a free day for you to enjoy all this city has to offer. You may like to roam the roof of the Olso Opera House, stroll the avenues of Vigeland Park or catch a ferry to the Viking Ship Museum. Meet your new group in the evening and perhaps head out for a drink or dinner and get to know any new travellers joining you.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Oslo

This morning, follow your leader on an orientation walk in the city. Then enjoy some free time in Oslo. Maybe embark on some island hopping on Oslofjord, browse the harbour-front Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, taste local flavours at the food hall Vulkan, explore the immense Akershus Castle & Fortress, or check out the cool shops in the Grunerløkka district. There's so much to get stuck into.

Included Activities:

Oslo - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Oslo - Holmenkollen Museum (195 NOK)
Oslo - Fram Museum (180 NOK)
Oslo - Akershus Castle & Fortress (100 NOK)
Oslo - Island Hopping on Oslofjord (130 NOK)
Oslo - Museum Edvard Munch (180 NOK)
Oslo - Resistance Museum (100 NOK)
Oslo - 24 hour Transport and Sightseeing Pass (550 NOK)
Oslo - The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (195 NOK)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Bergen

Today you'll leave Oslo behind and take the train across the stunning countryside of the Fjell region to Bergen. No other train ride between two cities in Europe is at a higher altitude than this one, and few can match the views passing by your window. Linking Norway's two main cities, this line takes in some spectacular scenery of lush valleys, idyllic villages, dramatic mountains and picturesque lakes as it crosses the Hardangervidda Plateau. As the trip is long and you'll arrive quite late into quirky city of Bergen, there won't be too much time to explore today (don't worry, you'll have time to explore here tomorrow). There are some great seafood restaurants in town, so possibly venture out with the group for a bite to eat this evening.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Bergen

After breakfast this morning, join your leader for a ride by Fløibanen funicular. Taking you to 1.050 feet above the city in just seven minutes, it offers a bird eye prospective of the town and vistas of the deep blues of the sea. Those who want to get active can also continue following its multiple hiking trails. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore however you like. Perhaps visit World Heritage Bryggen area and wander through the reconstructed medieval homes and warehouses or visit the beautifully preserved wooden Hanseatic Museum (a former trade building), and explore the old Hanseatic port area – the Hanseatic merchant confederation dominated Baltic maritime trade for 400 years from the 15th century.

Included Activities:

Bergen - Floy Mountain Funicular round trip

Optional Activities:

Bergen - Mt Ulriken Cable Car & Shuttle (310 NOK)
Bergen - Vidden Trail Hike - Free
Bergen - Bergenhus Fortress - Free
Bergen - Aquarium (370 NOK)
Bergen - Rosenkrantz Tower (170 NOK)
Bergen - Hakons Hall (120 NOK)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Norwegian Fjords

Leave Bergen after breakfast and travel by bus to the fjord region. The journey will take you through epic landscapes and remote regions, so have your camera at the ready. The typical Norwegian huts that you’ll stay in tonight are located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by steep cliff walls with a perfect view of the spectacular crystal clear Kjelsfossen waterfall falling from the top of the fjords. It's humbling to look up and consider these giant and ancient geological formations. Your accommodation is located near the village of Gudvangen.

Accommodation:

Cabin (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Norwegian Fjords

Today, take a boat trip and be captivated by the sight of crisp mountain peaks reflected in the glassy waters of Naeroyfjord, a World Heritage site. The name Naeroyfjord takes its origins from the Norse god of seafarers and the sea, Njord. The fjord itself, formed by glacial erosion of the surrounding bedrock, is 18 kilometres long and only 250 metres wide at its narrowest point, but its depth reaches up to 500 metres. Surrounding mountain peaks rise up to 1400 metres and waterfalls crash down sheer cliff faces. The boat cruise will finish in fishing village of Flam, where you can ride the famous railway up to Myrdal (at extra cost). This is one of the most picturesque (and steepest) railway journeys in the country. Alternatively, explore on foot and discover nearby waterfalls and ancient moraines. Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunity to throw a line in the crystal waters, sit back and soak up the serenity (a fishing license is required and costs around NOK 150). In afternoon, catch the bus back to Gudvangen and spend the rest of the day as you please.

Included Activities:

Gudvangen - Naeroyfjord Boat Cruise to Flam (one way)

Optional Activities:

Gudvangen - Bike Hire (350 NOK)
Gudvangen - Kayak Hire - Half Day (650 NOK)
Flam - Gauge Railway (730 NOK)
Flam - Stegastein Lookout (470 NOK)
Flam - Railway Museum - Free
Gudvangen - Hiking Options - Free

Accommodation:

Cabin (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Lillehammer

There will be another long bus journey ahead of us after breakfast today, as you journey to the Alpine playground of Lillehammer. Cross vast high plains, and remote valleys, and drive through the Lærdal Tunnel, the world's longest road tunnel at 24.5 km. The tunnel is divided into four sections, broken up by ‘mountain caves’. These caves are 6 kilometres apart and equipped with special lighting to help drivers concentrate by giving off the illusion of driving into daylight. Lillehammer, which held the Winter Olympics in 1994, is picturesquely situated on Lake Mjøsa. When you arrive, head out for a brief orientation walk to find your bearings in the laid-back 19th-century town centre, along the main pedestrian street of Storgata (Big Street), lined with wooden houses, boutiques and restaurants.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Lillehammer

This morning, your leader will take you on an included visit to the Maihaugen Open Air Museum, home of the Garmo Stave Church, which tells the story of people in the Gudbrandsdalen Valley over the last 300 years. This brilliant museum includes timber-built farms, a town and a big residential area that gives you an insight into various eras of Norway's history. The afternoon is free for you to further explore. Perhaps conquer misty mountains on a hike. As a town famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer has a great Olympic Museum where you can hear tales of heroic feats and is also an ideal spot for many outdoor activities.

Included Activities:

Lillehammer - Maihaugen Open Air Museum

Optional Activities:

Lillehammer - Sigrid Undset's Home at Bjerkebæk (160 NOK)
Lillehammer - Hiking Options - Free
Lillehammer - Olympic Museum (225 NOK)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Vikarbyn

Travel for around five hours by private bus today and cross the border into Sweden. Head to the lakeside town Rättvik, a laidback place that encapsulates the most Swedish of Swedish landscapes, and which sits right in the middle of the Swedish lakes. Rättvik is a location steeped in history and culture that's ready to be discovered. Dalarna county is in the heart of the Sweden and is famous for the national symbol of the wooden Dala horse. Tonight, you will stay in a peaceful setting of local B&B located 7 km outside of Rattvik.

Accommodation:

Bed and Breakfast (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Vikarbyn

This morning you'll get a chance to get under the surface of this region with a special guided village safari with local experts. You'll get to know the history behind the villages here and learn about the traditions of the area around Lake Siljan. A truly memorable experience, you'll visit a variety of villages, discover the traditional way of life and mingle with the locals. The rest of the day is free to explore the local area and its lakes. Perhaps take a leisurely historic boat trip across the lake, sink a line to partake in a little fishing, hike around the gentle rolling surrounds or enjoy local artisan shopping.

Included Activities:

Lake Siljan - Cultural Village tour with picnic lunch

Optional Activities:

Lake Siljan – Historic boat trip (250 SEK)
Lake Siljan – Canoe or SUP rental (150 SEK)

Accommodation:

Bed & Breakfast (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Stockholm

Leaving the Swedish lakes behind, head to the country's cultural, political and economic capital of Stockholm by train. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the North' and arguably Scandinavia 's most beautiful city, Stockholm is packed full of amazing architecture, pristine parks and clear waters. After an introductory orientation walk, use the rest of your day to settle into your accommodation and explore the area around you. You can perhaps head underground for the world’s longest art exhibition. Connecting the fourteen islands of the city and blasted through hard rocky ground, the subway (Tunnelbana) system's 100 stations are like the longest modern art exhibition in the world, featuring artwork from over 140 different artists. Enjoy the narrow cobble stone streets and the colourful merchant houses. Why not soak up the culture and try a cinnamon roll in Stockholm’s oldest café Sundbergs Konditori located on Jarntorget square, and dating from 1785.

Included Activities:

Stockholm - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Stockholm

After breakfast, go on an included visit to the Vasa Museum on the inner-city island of Djurgarden. The 17th-century warship, Vasa, sank in 1628 on her maiden voyage in the harbour of Stockholm and was salvaged only in 1961. As one of the most visited sights in Sweden, the Vasa Museum collection consists of the Vasa itself and all of the objects that were found within the ship. The rest of the afternoon is all yours to explore as you wish, so why not leave the city behind for a few hours and see the waterways of Stockholm on a cruise past tiny islets and along narrow waterways? Consider taking a self-guided Millennium Walking Tour of Stockholm or visit the Abba Museum. Alternatively, you can take a trip to Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish royal family. There are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy here in this great Scandinavian city, so plan your activities wisely. Tonight perhaps head to Stockholm's Sodermalm district, the inner-city island with the best nightlife, full of hip shops, bars and cafes. Or maybe sit down at one of the city’s top-notch restaurants, such as the latest venues opened on the cobblestoned islet of Gamla Stan, or in the cool fusion restaurants of Kungsholmen.

Included Activities:

Stockholm - Vasa Museum

Optional Activities:

Stockholm - Millennium Books Tour (450 SEK)
Stockholm - Drottningholm Palace (150 SEK)
Stockholm - Skansen Open Air Museum (285 SEK)
Stockholm - Abba Museum (299 SEK)
Stockholm - Fotografiska (Photography Museum) (220 SEK)
Stockholm - City Hall (150 SEK)
Stockholm - Nobel Prize Museum (150 SEK)
Stockholm - Nordic Museum (170 SEK)
Stockholm - Gröna Lund Amusement Park (130 SEK)
Stockholm - The Royal Palace (200 SEK)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Stockholm / Overnight Ferry

Today is free for you to enjoy your last day in Sweden. In the evening, you'll be boarding an overnight ferry for Helsinki, Finland.

Accommodation:

Overnight boat (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Helsinki

After your morning arrival into Helsinki's port you will take a public transport to your hotel. Discover a wealth of historical sights and gastronomic wonders in Helsinki. Apart from a short orientation walk, today is completely free and you'll be able to explore Helsinki in your own time. A few options to consider during your time here are a visit to the city's cathedral or the interesting Design Museum. Don't miss the harbour-side market and market hall from 1889 for local oddities, and make sure you take a short ferry ride to the magnificent Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, sometimes referred to as the Gibraltar of the North, a World Heritage-listed site that was once an important point of defence for the city. Surrounded by the sea, Helsinki is a modern European city that offers an endless array of options. Throughout its 450-year history, the city has often been the buffer between the east and west. This is shown in their cuisine, with a mix of root vegetables, berries and fresh fish. Perhaps head out in the evening to sample some traditional dishes at dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

Helsinki - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Helsinki

Use your free time getting under the skin of diverse Helsinki, which combines elements of Scandinavia, the Baltics and neighbouring Russia in its character. Make sure you spend some time on senate square to see the sights surrounding it. You may want to consider purchasing the Helsinki Card – an economical way to travel on Helsinki City Transport (HKL) services, as well as free admission to the main Helsinki sights and nearly 50 museums. This evening, be sure to attend another briefing, where some new travellers may be joining you for the next stage of your adventure.

Optional Activities:

Helsinki - Ateneum Art Museum (22 EUR)
Helsinki - Cathedral (10 EUR)
Helsinki - City Museum - Free
Helsinki - Design Museum (20 EUR)
Helsinki - Mannerheim Museum (14 EUR)
Helsinki - Open-Air Museum Seurasaari (18 EUR)
Helsinki - Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (7 EUR)
Helsinki - Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum (22 EUR)
Helsinki - Rock Church (8 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Tallinn

Leave Helsinki after breakfast and catch a ferry across the Gulf of Finland to the Estonian capital of Tallinn. Arrive mid-afternoon, check into your hotel and head out for a short orientation walk through the city. The rest of your day is then free to enjoy this exceptionally preserved medieval city and all it has to offer. Perhaps head out and enjoy some of the region's culinary specialties or stop for a drink and people watching on the main square. With its steep red roofs, spires, pastel-coloured buildings and new restaurants and bars, Estonia's capital is a real treat to explore. Seeing the vibrant streets of Tallinn now, it's difficult to fathom that Soviet occupation only ended in 1991.

Included Activities:

Tallinn - Leader led orientation walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 23: Tallinn

Today is free to do as you wish, but an exploration of the Old Town is recommended – home to the last remaining gothic town hall in northern Europe, Old Thomas as well as the Raapteek, which has housed a pharmacy since the 15th century. You can also see St Olaf Church. Maybe head to Upper Tallinn, home to the noble families, to see amazing views of Lower Tallinn and the medieval spires of the town walls. The 13th-century Toompea Castle, where the Estonian Parliament sits, and the 19th-century orthodox Alexander Nevsky Cathedral are some of the main attractions. Alternatively, head to Pirita to chill out at Tallinn's most popular beach, or visit Kadriorg Palace – a palace built by czar Peter the Great for his second wife Catherine I.

Optional Activities:

Tallinn - Estonian History Museum (13 EUR)
Tallinn - Kadriorg Palace (13 EUR)
Tallinn - Peter The Great Museum (5 EUR)
Tallinn - City Bike Tour (28 EUR)
Tallinn - City Museum (8 EUR)
Tallinn - Kiek in de Kök Tower Museum (12 EUR)
Tallinn - TV Tower (16 EUR)
Tallinn - The Estonian Maritime Museum (30 EUR)
Tallin - Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom (14 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 24: Riga

Depart by bus after breakfast, cross the border and arrive in the Latvian capital of Riga in the afternoon. Riga is renowned for its welcoming locals and a fascinating art nouveau heritage. Tonight, perhaps grab a drink at one of the many bars in the Old Town after you’ve settled into your lodgings.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 25: Riga

Travel by public transport to Sigulda – a pretty town with medieval history that backs onto Gauja National Park. Take the cable car across the river to Turaida Castle, which began construction in 1214 and is made from striking red bricks. Take a guided tour, then explore the castle grounds which feature sculptures set in evergreen woodland. Take a hike along the winding Gauja River with your leader, taking in the clear air and thick Latvian forest. Return to Riga for a free evening.

Included Activities:

Sigulda - Gauja River Cable Car
Sigulda - Day Trip
Sigulda - Turaida Castle Guided Tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 26: Riga

Today, you’ll get the chance to explore Riga. Take an orientation tour and see the Doma Cathedral, St Peter's Basilica, House of Blackheads, the Swedish Gate, The Great Guild & Small Guild and the Cat House. There is nothing scheduled for the rest of the day, so you are free to explore at your own pace. Perhaps pay a visit to The Museum of Occupation of Latvia, which offers insight into the hardships suffered by Latvians during its occupation by, the Germans and the Soviets. The Central Market Halls are a great place to haggle for supplies for a picnic lunch if it takes your fancy. Make sure you give the (bitter but reputedly healthy) Riga Black Balsam a try. The recipe is secret, but it contains rare ingredients such as Valerian, Wormwood, Black Pepper, Ginger, Gentian and Linden flower.

Included Activities:

Riga - Leader led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Riga - Riverboat Cruise (20 EUR)
Riga - St Peter's Tower (9 EUR)
Riga - Central Market Halls - Free
Riga - Museum of Occupation of Latvia (8 EUR)
Riga - Beer Spa (151 EUR)
Riga - Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum (5 EUR)
Riga - Riga Art Nouveau Center (9 EUR)
Riga - Panorama Observation deck of the Latvian Academy of Science (8 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 27: Klaipeda

Set off by private bus after breakfast and cross the border into Lithuania. After a stop at the famous Hill of Crosses at Siauliai, continue onto the former Prussian city of Klaipeda, the city of sculptures and jazz. Klaipeda used to be a member of the Hanseatic League and is the gateway to the Curonian Spit – a long and narrow sand dune peninsula separating the Curonian lagoon from the Baltic Sea. When you arrive, check into your hotel, then head out to the waterfront and explore the Old Town centre, which features 18th-century wooden buildings and other historic monuments.

Included Activities:

Siauliai - Hill of Crosses

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 28: Curonian Spit

Today, take a day trip to explore the unique World Heritage-listed Curonian Spit National Park – the second-oldest national park in the former Soviet Union. This area is full of beaches, sand dunes and forested areas. The peninsula is only 400 m wide in parts but 98 km long. It formed only 5000 years ago by strong winds and currents which constantly change the shape of the landscape to this day. Only recently a whole village was swallowed by the inexorable sand. According to legend, the spit was formed by the girl giant Neringa, who poured sand into the Baltic Sea to protect the bay from storms and create an embankment for fishermen to live. Explore the tiny village of Nida and the surrounding beaches by bike and look in the distance to see the Russian border. Then for lunch, maybe try the smoked pike for which the spit is famous.

Included Activities:

Curonian Spit - Bike Ride
Curonian Spit - Full Day Trip to the National Park

Optional Activities:

Nida - Fisherman Ethnographic Museum (2 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 29: Aukstaitija National Park

After breakfast, travel by bus, train and car to the town of Ignalina, then on to Aukstaitija (pronounced owk-sty-chee-ah) National Park and the charming village of Ginuciai – your home stay for the night. As one of the best national parks in the Baltic states, Aukstaitija has 126 lakes, an abundance of waterways, hills and woods. Enjoy the hospitality and home-cooking of our host family for the next two days.

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 30: Aukstaitija National Park

This morning, you’ll take a guided kayak ride through the lakes and rivers, past villages and through forests, to an ancient pagan site on top of a hill with a wishing tree. The top affords great views across the surrounding forests and lakes. The rest of the day is free to visit some of the local attractions, such as the nearby villages that date from the 14th century and consist of traditional wooden houses and farmsteads. The 19th-century Ginuciai Watermill is another point of interest. You can hike to lookouts, fish, swim in the lake or river rapids, or relax. Perhaps ask your host family to fire up the sauna for the ultimate relaxation and cleansing experience.

Included Activities:

Aukstaitija National Park - Guided Kayak Trip

Optional Activities:

Aukstaitija National Park - Sauna (80 EUR)
Aukstaitija National Park - Bike Hire (20 EUR)
Aukstaitija National Park - Beekeeping Museum (6 EUR)

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 31: Vilnius

Continue your journey today by local train to the capital of Lithuania – Vilnius. Having once been occupied by Sweden, Poland, France and Russia, each occupier has left its mark in some way. Vilnius offers a different picture of the Baltics than Riga and Tallinn, but it’s every bit as interesting. Take an orientation walk with your leader when you arrive, seeing Cathedral Square and its free-standing belfry and the length of pedestrianised Pilies Gatve, lined by baroque churches. The rest of the day is free. Maybe visit to the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, previously called the Museum of Genocide Victims and better known under the name KGB Museum, as it is located in the former KGB headquarters of Vilnius. If you’d like a break from Vilnius’ historic monuments, maybe take a walk through some of the charming gardens around the city.

Optional Activities:

Vilnius - Trakai Island Castle (12 EUR)
Vilnius - TV Tower (16 EUR)
Vilnius - Gediminas Castle Tower (8 EUR)
Vilnius - University Museum (3 EUR)
Vilnius - National Museum (6 EUR)
Vilnius - Museum Of Occupations And Freedom Fights (6 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 32: Vilnius

Your adventure comes to an end today. There are no more activities planned and you're free to depart the accommodation at any time after you check-out. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $14,785

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 32 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Explore the highlights of Scandinavia before travelling south into the Baltic states on this epic 32-day adventure through northern Europe.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 26 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

John

Traveled, June 2023

07/13/2023

A far better tour than I expected, I realised how much I didn't know about all 7 countries and will now have to read more about them. The 3 Balkan countries were particularly surprising as I had no idea as to how beautiful and fascinating they are, in particular the National Parks in Lithuania.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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