27 Day Tour | Northern Europe Coach & Cruise

Copenhagen

Upon arrival in Copenhagen please catch a taxi to the cruise port for you 7 night Norwegian Fjords Cruise om MSC Euribia.

The ship will depart at 5PM.

Meals: All Meals onboard

Accommodation: MSC Euribia

At Sea

Today is a full day at sea. Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the ships facilities.

Meals: All Meals onboard

Accommodation: MSC Euribia

 Hellesylt

Today the ship will arrive at 8AM and depart at 7PM.

Experience the unparalleled beauty of Norway's fjords and mountain country in Hellesylt, sitting at the head of the Sunnylvenfjord. Be sure to bring along plenty of film to capture the beauty of Geiranger's thundering waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, crystalline glaciers and magnificent, still lakes.

Meals: All Meals onboard

Accommodation: MSC Euribia

 Alesund

Today the ship will arrive at 7AM and depart at 5PM.

The gateway to the Geirangerfjord, Alesund spans several islands that reach into the Atlantic Ocean. The town is known for its art nouveau architecture, which creates a setting that's right out of a fairytale. Learn about this design style at the Art Nouveau Centre, or take a bus tour to see the spires, rounded turrets and ornamentation that adorn local buildings. Integrated into the coastal terrain, the Norwegian Aquarium has an underwater observatory, daily feeding demonstrations and an outdoor penguin park, while the Fisheries Museum, located in a warehouse built in 1861, features a laboratory that produces cod liver oil. Wildlife safaris transport you past seal colonies to the island of Runde, home to hundreds of thousands of puffins, shags, skuas, gannets and other sea birds during nesting season. For spectacular vistas of the city, ocean and surrounding Sunnmore Alps, ascend the 418 steps to the Aksla Viewpoint.

Meals: All Meals onboard

Accommodation: MSC Euribia

Flam

Today the ship will arrive at 7AM and depart at 5PM.

Flam is situated in the innermost part of the Sognefjord, surrounded by high mountains, in the heart of Fjord Norway. The whole of this scenic town is within easy walking distance of the port. You'll find handmade knitwear and attractive wood carvings in the local shops. For snacks and drinks, there is a café with outdoor seating near the pier, and the popular Fretheim Hotel serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Meals: All Meals onboard

Accommodation: MSC Euribia

At Sea

Today is a full day at sea. Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the ships facilities.

Meals: All Meals onboard

Accommodation: MSC Euribia

Kiel

Today the ship will arrive at 9AM and depart at 6PM.

This university city in north-central Germany has been an important port since the 10th century and boasts a rich maritime history. Among shore excursions offered in Kiel are sightseeing tours of the historic city center and visits to Molfsee, an open-air museum that replicates rural life in this part of Germany during the last 150 years. Here, weavers, blacksmiths and potters introduce visitors to their crafts. Excursions beyond Kiel go to Schleswig -- northern Germany's oldest city -- and Gottorf Castle, a magnificent residence that houses an extensive collection of art and historic objects from the 12th century to the present.

Meals: All Meals onboard

Accommodation: MSC Euribia

Copenhagen Amsterdam

Your cruise arrives at 7AM this morning.

On disembarking, please catch a taxi to the airport for your flight to Amsterdam.  On arrival make your own way to the pre tour hotel for 1 night.  The remainder of the day is free to explore Amsterdam.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam and the start of your Northern Explorer tour! Meet your tour leader at the accommodation this morning. After everyone's checked in, get ready to experience the gorgeous Dutch countryside. Visit a local Dutch farm and see how clogs and local cheese are made! You will also have the opportunity to join an optional excursion which further explores the Dutch countryside. Later this evening, enjoy a canal cruise of Amsterdam - one of the best ways to see this amazing city and its sights! Afterwards, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. The rest of the night is free. Stroll around the canals (keep an eye out for bicycles!), visit Dam Square or the famous red light district.

Experiences:

Cheese and clogs demonstration: See how these famous shoes are traditionally made by hand, and taste a variety of fantastic Dutch cheese. Purchase some unique and authentic Dutch souvenirs during the visit!

Amsterdam canal cruise: Sail along Amsterdam's stunning canals at twilight and admire the top attractions along the waterside as you go. This is the perfect introduction to Amsterdam, as you take in the city's well-known and iconic sights from the water.

Welcome dinner: Celebrate the first night of the tour with a welcome dinner at a restaurant in the centre of town. This is the perfect opportunity to get to know more about your fellow travellers.

Meals: Breakfast and Welcome Dinner

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Amsterdam Hamburg

Depart Amsterdam this morning and travel towards a new country, Germany! Arrive in Hamburg in the late afternoon and embark on an orientation tour with your tour leader. Hamburg is an impressive harbour town and top cultural destination home to over 50 museums! Your tour leader will show you some of the city’s highlights and give you some tips for what to explore during your free time. Enjoy some time to grab dinner, why not eat a hamburger in the city they were named after? Later, travel on to the accommodation for the night situated in a quaint town in Northern Germany. Get some rest tonight as tomorrow we make our way to Denmark where more adventures await!

Experiences:

Orientation tour of Hamburg: Discover Germany’s second biggest city (and the birthplace of Hamburgers) on an orientation tour with your tour leader. Hamburg is an important harbour town, lying on three rivers and home to more bridges than any other city in the world! Your tour leader will point out some top sights such as the Miniatur Wunderland and St. Michael’s Church which you can explore more during your free time.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Hamburg Odense Copenhagen

The journey continues to Scandinavia after breakfast. Cross the border into Denmark and head towards the Danish capital, Copenhagen. The drive offers fantastic views as well as a crossing of Europe's longest bridge. En route, enjoy a visit to Odense, the birthplace of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen! Arrive in Copenhagen and enjoy an orientation tour of the city. It'll soon be evident why this charming city has been voted one of the world's most liveable so many years in a row! It's clean, safe, and very easy to get around and blessed with cosy cafés and world-famous restaurants!

Experiences:

Visit Odense: Enjoy lunch and free time to find a spot for lunch during a visit to Odense. This is the third-largest city in Denmark and is known for hosting many cultural events and festivals. It’s most well-known for being the home of famous fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen!

Orientation tour of Copenhagen: Join your tour leader on an orientation tour of the Danish capital, Copenhagen which is colourful, charming and the definition of “Scandi Cool”. Tour the city and see top sights including the impressive Frederick's Church (popularly known as the Marble Church), Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen Town Hall, and the bronze Little Mermaid statue.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Copenhagen Helsingør Gothenburg Oslo

The tour will visit three countries today; Denmark, Sweden and Norway! Depart Copenhagen and take a short drive to the port town of Helsingør this morning. This town is home to Kronborg Castle, the setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet. See the castle from the water as we take a short ferry ride to Sweden. Then, enjoy a drive from the port of Helsingborg through the stunning rural Swedish scenery while travelling towards Gothenburg, Sweden’s second city and the home of Volvo. Here, join your tour leader for an orientation tour and find a spot to enjoy lunch. Next, cross the border into Norway and travel north to Oslo. Norway’s capital city is full of Scandinavian culture and charm! Enjoy a free evening to explore the city.

Experiences:

Ferry trip from Helsingør to Helsingborg, Sweden: Hop aboard a ferry for a short trip across the Øresund (“The Sound”) to Helsingborg in Sweden. Admire the views of Kronborg Castle on the Danish side of the bay as you cruise! 

Scenic drive through the Swedish countryside: Admire the views of Sweden’s beautiful rural scenery during a drive from Helsingborg to Gothenburg. 

Visit Gothenburg: Enjoy a visit to Gothenburg. This is Sweden’s second-largest city and is well-known for its rich heritage, historical sites and for being the birthplace of Volvo cars!

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Oslo

Look forward to exploring Oslo today! Begin with a locally guided tour of Norway’s cool, compact and captivating capital city. Oslo is surrounded by stunning scenery and is famous for its green spaces and museums. A local expert will showcase the city’s highlights including Akershus Castle, the Royal Palace and the Oslo Opera House. After the city tour, the rest of the day is free to explore as you wish. Why not visit one of the city’s famous museums or galleries, stroll around town admiring the architecture or choose a local spot to enjoy lunch and dinner?

Experiences:

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

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Oslo Sigtuna Stockholm

Wave farewell to Norway as the tour travels back to Sweden. Find out why Sweden is ranked as one of the most naturally beautiful countries in Europe on a drive through various landscapes. Pass Karlstad on the shores of Lake Vänern before arriving in Örebro where the group has free time for lunch. After lunch, it’s time to visit Sigtuna. This beautiful mediaeval town is the oldest in Sweden. It’s home to old church ruins as well as the oldest main street in Sweden - Stora Gatan. Next, the tour continues to Stockholm, Sweden’s gorgeous capital! Arrive in the evening and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of the Scandinavian capital city. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.

Experiences:

Visit Sigtuna: Enjoy a visit to Sweden’s oldest town! Founded by King Erik the Victorious in 970 AD, Sigtuna is home to the oldest Main Street in the country.

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

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Stockholm

See the highlights of Stockholm today! Discover the top attractions and learn all about Sweden’s capital city on a locally guided tour. See the Royal Palace, the AF Chapman Ship and take a walk through Gamla Stan; Stockholm’s famous Old Town. Enjoy free time from lunchtime onwards. The Royal Sweden & Vasa Museum optional is a great way to learn more about Sweden’s royal history and see relics of its past! Alternatively, relax in one of Stockholm’s green spaces or enjoy a few more hours exploring Gamla Stan. Be sure to sample the local cuisine during your day in Stockholm! 

Please note: Today’s optional excursion will take place over day 7 and day 8 due to the timing of the tour's schedule.

Experiences:

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.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Stockholm Helsinki (Overnight Ferry)

Spend time this morning exploring the city of Stockholm! The numerous islands that make up the town offer fascinating walks, especially through the Djurgården, where you have the option to visit the Vasa Museum. Otherwise, spot beautiful old ships in the harbour and visit some of the many world-class museums and art galleries. See if you can catch the changing of the guards at the Royal Palace! This afternoon it's time to travel to the next destination - Finland! This afternoon, take an overnight ferry, arriving in Helsinki, Finland, tomorrow morning.

Experiences:

Overnight ferry trip to Finland: Travel from Stockholm to Helsinki and spend the night on the water! Hop on board and enjoy the stunning scenery while it’s still light out, as well as the onboard entertainment. Arrive in Finland the following morning.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Helsinki

Arrive in Helsinki in the late morning and head off on a tour of the city with a local guide. See the highlights of Helsinki including the Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square. You will have the afternoon to explore the Finnish capital at your own pace. An effortlessly cool city, Helsinki prides itself on being slightly off-the-wall, playing with decor and design traditions to humorous effect. Elegant cafés, magnificent museums and impressive Art Nouveau architecture all combine to create a city that is certain to leave an impression! Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.

Experiences:

Guided tour of Helsinki: Discover the highlights of Helsinki with a local guide. Visit the Havis Amanda, the famous Art Nouveau fountain features a lady in the nude. It is said to symbolise the birth of the city of Helsinki. Also explore the famous Senate Square and its buildings, a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. In the city’s historic centre, visit Helsinki Cathedral - Finland's most photographed building and yet another neoclassical marvel. Set foot in Uspenski Cathedral, the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. Finish with a walk through Kauppatori Market, the ideal place to pick up some keepsakes and well-priced Finnish crafts.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Helsinki Tallinn

Today it’s time to travel to the Baltic States! Catch a ferry from the port in Helsinki, cross the Gulf of Finland and arrive in Tallinn, Estonia. With the strong mediaeval influence combined with modern structures, Tallinn is one of Europe's most enchanting cities! Enjoy an included group lunch at a local restaurant before seeing the highlights and wonderful historic sights of Tallinn with a local guide on a walking tour. Explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre, see Town Hall Square, St Olav’s Church and more! Enjoy a free evening to discover more of the city.

Experiences:

Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing: Hop aboard and enjoy a cruise across the Gulf of Finland, from Finland to Estonia. Be sure to take in the scenic views as the ferry makes its way to Tallinn.  

Lunch at a medieval restaurant in Tallinn: Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town Square.  

Guided tour of Tallinn: Join a local guide for a tour of Tallinn, Estonia’s lively capital! Filled with mediaeval churches, cobbled walkways and a vibrant, contemporary culture, Tallinn is a photographer's dream. Highlights include St Olav's church, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tall Hermann Tower, Town Hall Square and more.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Tallinn Riga

Travel onwards to Latvia today! Depart Tallinn and head towards Riga, Latvia’s capital city. En route, sightsee in scenic Pärnu, a resort town in Estonia, and visit the seaside town of Saulkrasti in Latvia before a sombre visit to the Latvian War Cemetery, dedicated to the soldiers who fought in WWI. Later, arrive in Riga which is possibly the most vibrant of the Baltic cities and blessed with a culture that you'll find irresistible! In contrast to its smaller neighbours, Riga goes all out with a buzzing atmosphere and impressive Art Nouveau architecture. Join your tour leader on a walking tour. Explore some of its most notable landmarks and sights, including the famous central markets and many beautiful churches.

Experiences:

Visit Pärnu: Enjoy a stop in the resort city of Pärnu in southwestern Estonia. Pärnu is a seaside city overlooking Pärnu Bay and is renowned for its street art, colourful houses and scenic beach.

Enjoy a stop in Saulkrasti: The seaside town of Saulkrasti is a great place to drink in the beauty of the Latvian shoreline without huge crowds. This is where Latvian locals spend days by the beach.

Visit the Latvian Military Cemetery: Also called the Brothers' Cemetery or Cemetery of the Brethren, the Latvian Military Cemetery is a national monument that commemorates the sacrifice of 2,000+ Latvian soldiers who gave their lives for their country during 1915-1920, fighting in World War I and the Latvian War of Independence.

Orientation tour of Riga: Embark on an orientation walking tour of Riga, Latvia’s exciting capital city. See the impressive architecture and learn more about Latvia’s history and culture. Riga boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere combined with Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. The city is home to popular landmarks like the Riga Dom Cathedral, the Houses of the Black Heads, Parliament House, the Three Brothers, the Old City Wall and the Freedom Monument.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Riga  Vilnius

Lithuania is calling today! The first stop of the day is the Hill of Crosses - a pilgrimage site loaded with around 100,000 crosses which is an impressive sight to behold. Arrive in Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, and set off on an orientation tour of the city before enjoying some free time. Lithuania's capital exudes Old Town charm, so much so that it's been added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites. In contrast to the medieval history, there are also reminders of Vilnius' more recent and darker past, including remnants of the ghettos where the Jewish community lived during Nazi occupation, and the influence of the Soviet Union. It is an intriguing city to discover.

Experiences:

Visit the Hill of Crosses: Experience a visit to the Kryziu Kalnas Hill of Crosses in Lithuania which has been one of the world’s most singular expressions of human faith and sacrifice for over 100 years. Pilgrims have been flocking to the sight for centuries and today there are 200,000+ crosses, carvings and shrines. The tradition of leaving crosses on the hill began only in 1831 by relatives of rebels who died fighting the Russian tsar of the time. 

Orientation tour of Vilnius: Join your tour leader for an orientation tour of Vilnius. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers centuries of history to explore, and has a long and storied past. Learn about the history and see more of this city’s Baroque-style architecture and medieval buildings and monuments. Highlights include the Vilnius Cathedral, the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, the Vilnius Town Hall and the Adam Mickiewicz statue. You can also cross the river into the Užupio Respublika, a self-proclaimed republic within Vilnius which has its own constitution and an army of 11 men.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Vilnius  Trakai Warsaw

This morning, travel to the final destination in Lithuania - Trakai National Park. The main attraction is undoubtedly a view of the iconic brick-built castle at its centre, which lies on an island surrounded by crystal-clear water. Next, head towards the Polish border. En route to Warsaw, your tour guide will offer insights into the city and its surroundings on a driving tour. As the cultural hub of Poland, Warsaw is a city of energy and action, racing to replace what was lost after being utterly destroyed in World War II. Arrive at the hotel, check in and join the group for an included dinner this evening.

Experiences:

Visit Trakai National Park: Make a stop at Trakai National Park, Europe's only historic national park. It is home to beautiful monuments, lakes and forests with the crowning jewel being Trakai Island Castle, located in the centre of a beautiful lake.  

Warsaw driving tour: Glimpse some of Warsaw’s most iconic sights on a driving tour of the historic city! Warsaw’s top sights include The National Museum in Warsaw, the Palace of Culture and Science, Piłsudski Square and the Warsaw Uprising Museum.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Warsaw

Enjoy a city tour of Warsaw’s Old Town with a local guide this morning. Meet your guide at the hotel and then embark on the tour, taking in a number of highlights and seeing the bustling square at the heart of the old town. This afternoon is yours to spend as you wish! Visit some of the highly regarded museums, such as the Museum of the History of Polish Jews, the Chopin Museum, or the extensive collections of the National Museum. On a Sunday, you can enjoy free entry to the Royal Palace and the occasional free music concert in Łazienki Park. Alternatively, you can further explore the Old Town and make the most of your time in this charming city.

Experiences:

Guided tour of Warsaw’s Old Town: See the highlights of Warsaw’s Old Town with a local guide. This area is made up of bustling market squares, quaint cobblestone alleyways and mediaeval architecture. The historic centre was nearly completely destroyed during the Warsaw Uprising of 1944 but after a careful reconstruction campaign, has been rebuilt and is now inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Warsaw  Poznań Berlin

Heading west through Poland, stop in Poznań, a city famous for its historic old town. Enjoy your free time to have lunch and admire the colourful buildings and beautiful architecture of the Old Market Square. Cross the border into Germany and continue to the city of Berlin! The German capital rose in power under Nazi rule leading up to the Second World War and then endured division during the Cold War, which is symbolised in the infamous Berlin Wall. Reminders of the past are everywhere, but Berlin has been reborn and is filled with vibrant modern culture today. Take a driving tour through the city and see some famous landmarks, including Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.

Experiences:

Visit Poznań: Enjoy free time to sample some delicious Polish cuisine and explore the Old Market Square in Poznań. Faithfully reconstructed following the Second World War, this beautiful square is home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks and monuments, including the Town Hall, colourful townhouses and the Pranger, a 16th-century punishment device. Did you know that Poznań was once used as the coronation city of the early Polish kings?

Driving tour of Berlin: Join your tour leader for an exciting driving tour of Berlin. Learn the fascinating history of this vibrant city and see the top sights, including the Berlin Wall, Alexanderplatz, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Reichstag. Take note of those you want to explore further on your free day tomorrow!

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Berlin

Today is a free day in Berlin. Revisit some of the sights from yesterday's driving tour, or strike out on your own to discover more of the city for yourself. Alternatively, choose to join the fascinating Berlin+ tour for a trip into the past. For an incredible bird's eye view of the city, head up the Berlin TV tower - located close to Alexanderplatz, it has become an icon of the capital. If you fancy some museum action, head over to museum island, a collection of five world-famous museums in the heart of Berlin’s city centre. Want to let your hair down after a day of exploring? Berlin has you covered, offering an incredibly vibrant nightlife complete with bars, clubs and shows - from theatre to cabaret.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Berlin Amsterdam

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Berlin and travel back to the Netherlands, enjoying the beautiful German and Dutch landscapes during the drive. Arrive back at the Amsterdam hotel for tonight, and the evening is free to do as you wish. To celebrate the last night of the tour, and say farewell to your tour leader, driver and fellow passengers, join in for the optional farewell dinner.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: TBC on booking confirmation

Amsterdam Australia

Today, the tour concludes after breakfast. By now, you will have enjoyed visiting amazing countries and making unforgettable memories! Be sure to share your contact details with your fellow travellers. We hope you've enjoyed your Northern Explorer Tour as much as we have! Make your way to the aiport for your flight home.

Meals: Breakfast and Inflight Menu