Norwegian Fjords and Midnight Sun

Get great insights about modern Norway from an expert before enjoying a scenic tour of the capital’s top sites like vibrant Aker Brygge Wharf, packed with people enjoying the waterfront. While strolling with your guide in Vigeland Park, learn about the acclaimed sculptor Gustav Vigeland and his many works that adorn the grounds. Then, delve into Norway’s 4,000-year history of Nordic and downhill skiing at the impressive Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Ski Museum. It’s also a terrific spot to look out over all of Oslo! Explore at your leisure afterward.

One of Norway’s most internationally celebrated artists, Edvard Munch was a Modernist master and best known for his iconic “The Scream.” At the new MUNCH Museum, explore this prolific artist’s life work and the forces that shaped his creative vision. Head next to the Kon-Tiki Museum to learn about the amazing voyages of the famous Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl and see his traditional vessels, the balsa raft Kon-Tiki and the totora-reed boat Ra II. Finish with a cruise on Oslofjord to behold Oslo from the water!

Travel to Bergen on Europe’s highest-altitude railway, one of the world’s most scenic routes. Marvelous vistas surround you as you cross the Hardangervidda mountain plateau at more than 4,000 feet above sea level. Watch the landscape change dramatically as the train edges along lovely fjords, waterfalls and emerald forests. Keep an eye out for wild reindeer! Check in to the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen. Once settled, get acquainted with cozy Bergen, nestled by a harbor and surrounded by seven mountains.

This morning, an expert discusses the importance of the fjords in Norwegian history. Afterward, join your guide for an in-depth look at Bergen. Settled in 1070, it was the most important town in medieval Norway, home to royalty and a key trading post for Hanseatic League maritime merchants. Tour Bryggen, the colorful Hanseatic harbor, and see King Haakon’s Hall, Rosenkrantz Tower and other landmarks. Conclude with a tour of Troldhaugen, the hilltop summer home of revered Norwegian composer and native son Edvard Grieg.

Thrill to one of the world’s steepest train rides aboard the Flåm Railway to Myrdal. Revel in the resplendent natural beauty as you snake past snow-dusted peaks and rivers slicing through deep ravines. Wind through mountainside tunnels to the pristine Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest fjord. Delight in a cruise through this breathtaking, forested inlet to Gudvangen, then relish the Voss district’s idyllic landscape of forests, mountains, lakes and waterfalls. Return to Bergen for free time.

This morning, fly to Tromsø, Norway’s Arctic capital. During the summer months, the sun never sets here, a phenomenon due to Tromsø’s location about 220 miles north of the Arctic Circle and the Earth’s tilted axis. Find out what this unusual event is like during your stay! Tucked amid fjords, islands and snow-capped mountains, lively Tromsø is closely connected to the stunning wilderness that surrounds it. Visit the unique Arctic Cathedral and take in awe-inspiring views from atop Floyfjellet Mountain. Check in to the Radisson Blu Hotel, Tromsø.

Begin your day with an interesting talk about life in the Arctic Circle. Next, learn about Arctic wildlife at Polaria, featuring an aquarium and playful seals, and admire colorful arctic and alpine flora at the world’s northernmost botanical garden. Continue to the Arctic University Museum of Norway for an introduction to the rich traditions of the indigenous Sami people, including reindeer herding, handicrafts and joik, their folk music. Finally, at a dogsledding kennel, discover how huskies are trained to pull sleds and cuddle with the friendly puppies!

Take a scenic drive to Sommarøy Island along a route dotted with little fishing villages that hug the gorgeous coastline. While traveling, visit one of these communities and stop for photos. In the small, colorful fishing village of Sommarøy, appreciate the spectacular scenery of rugged mountains, crystalline waters and white-sand coves. Learn about Sommarøy’s fishing industry on a guided tour and enjoy lunch. After returning to Tromsø, celebrate your Norwegian adventure at a Farewell Dinner with your fellow travelers!