Norway: Vikings, Trolls & Fjords

Upon our arrival at the Oslo airport, we will be met by our driver and begin our exploration of Oslo. This afternoon, we visit the Kon-Tiki Museum and discover the story of Thor Heyerdahl's daring 1947 expedition across the Pacific Ocean on a hand-built raft. We also visit the Fram Museum to explore the world's most famous polar ship, Fram, which was used by Norwegian explorers to navigate the Arctic and Antarctic. Afterward, we’ll check into our hotel. Karla Johan Hotel Oslo or similar.

Today is yours to explore Oslo at your leisure. You might choose to visit historic sites like Akershus Fortress, with its stunning views over the Oslofjord, or tour the King’s Palace and the Parliament building. For shopping and dining, stroll along the bustling Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s main street. Alternatively, you can simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of the city. This is also a great opportunity to meet up with relatives or friends if you have connections in the area. Karla Johan Hotel Oslo or similar.

Our day begins with a visit to the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Museum. We then drive to the Holmenkollbakken ski jump, which gives us a spectacular view of Oslo. In the afternoon we depart for Lillehammer where we can walk the streets made famous by many Olympic greats. First Hotel Breiseth, Lillehammer or similar.

Our first stop today will be Maihaugen in Lillehammer, where we enjoy an escorted tour of an open-air museum. Here, several Norwegian farm settings from past centuries have been carefully reassembled, providing the opportunity to see first-hand how Norwegians lived and worked over the years. After lunch we depart on a scenic drive to Dombas. Dombas Hotel, Dombas or similar.

Our destination today is the beautiful town of Geiranger, which is situated on the shores of what is arguably the most beautiful of Norway’s fjords. Along the way we travel the Troll’s Highway, a twisting road with many switchbacks, traversing some of the most rugged and photo-opportune landscapes in Norway. Upon arrival in Geiranger, we have free time to shop, explore and take in the scenery before dinner. Havila Geiranger Hotel, Geiranger or similar.

Today we take the ferry to Hellesylt, on the Geiranger fjord, which is one of the most scenic fjords in Norway. We stop in Skei for lunch and then drive to our hotel in Sogndal. Hofsund Fjord Hotel, Sogndal or similar.

After the past few days, you might think it can't get any better—but today promises even more breathtaking experiences. We start by taking another ferry from Flam to Gudvangen, cruising through the stunning Aurland and Sogne fjords. Then, we drive up the famous Stalheimskleiva, one of Northern Europe's steepest roads, built between 1842 and 1846 and featuring 13 thrilling hairpin bends. Our destination is the historic Stalheim Hotel, where we'll enjoy a guided tour of the Stalheim Museum of Cultural History, home to Tønneberg’s remarkable collection. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak in the serene beauty of the surroundings. Stahlheim Hotel or similar.

Today we travel to Flam where we take the spectacular Flam Railway to Myrdal, famous for its dramatic views of western Norway’s stunning landscapes. National Geographic Traveler Magazine has ranked the Flåm Railway among the top 10 train journeys in Europe, while Lonely Planet named it the best train journey in the world in 2014. We return to Stalheim for overnight. Stahlheim Hotel or similar.

Today, we drive to Bergen, often hailed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the gateway to Norway’s majestic fjord region. We stop at Troldhaugen, the charming home of Norway’s beloved composer, Edvard Grieg, where you can immerse yourself in his life and music. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Bergen at your own pace—whether you choose to wander through the colorful Bryggen Wharf, take in the views from Mount Fløyen, or simply enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere. We have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Hotel Olena, Bergen or similar.

Sadly this morning, we must bid our driver farewell, after we are transferred to Bergen International Airport, where we will board our flight for the return across the Atlantic to the U.S. We bring with us memories of some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, centuries-old buildings, the history of the Vikings, and the friends we have met along the way.