Compare Norway by Adventures by Disney vs Scandinavia Explorer by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: Norway

Meal: Dinner

Accommodations: Radisson Blu Royal Hotel

Arrive At Bergen, Flesland Airport (Bgo)

Velkommen til Norge! Once you exit customs and the baggage claim area, an Adventures by Disney representative welcomes you and assists you with your luggage before you are driven to the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Bergen.

Check-In At The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel

As your Adventure Guides check you in, explore this luxury hotel that sits in the heart of the historic Bryggen area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that exemplifies Old-World charm.

Welcome Dinner At The Hotel

Join your fellow Adventurers for a delicious welcome dinner. Feel the excitement build as your Adventure Guides set the stage for the adventures that await you and your family —inspired by the Disney movie Frozen.

Day 2: Voss And Flåm

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodations: Fretheim Hotel

Breakfast At The Hotel

Fuel up with a tasty breakfast at the hotel before departing for a day of adventure in Voss, known as "the adventure capital of Norway."

River Rafting In Voss

Experience true serenity as you and your family glide along one of the area's rivers that offer stunning vistas of the region's mountains.

Riverside Lunch

Enjoy a post-rafting lunch at the Voss Rafting Center's grass-roofed cabin. Satisfy your appetite and prepare for your ride to Flåm.

Check-In At The Fretheim Hotel

As your Adventures Guides check you in, explore this historic hotel with views of dramatic fjords. This graceful lodging with charming accommodations was once a local farm estate—and now is a newly renovated hotel, with vibrant colors inspired by the national costumes of Norway

Private Barbecue Dinner At Fretheim Hotel

Enjoy a mouth-watering meal at the grill of this welcoming hotel.

Day 3: Flåm

Meal: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodations: Fretheim Hotel

Breakfast At The Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast before you begin your day.

Fjord Safari On A Rigid Inflatable Boat (Rib)

Embark on an aquatic odyssey that will take you and your family on both a boat adventure and a cultural exploration. Ride an RIB into the nooks and crannies of the fjord. Discover villages along the way where you can experience Norwegian culture and enjoy the tales of local storytellers. And be sure to keep an eye out for trolls!

Undredal Stave Church

Visit the smallest stave church in the world! Be hosted by a local expert who will tell you the history of this mid-12th-century, 40-seat church.

Lunch At A Local Café

Regale in tales of trolls and Norwegian legends from a local storyteller as you enjoy lunch at a quaint café. Also, get a lesson in cheese-making traditions and methods followed by a tasting of some regional favorites!

Continuation Of Fjord Safari On Rib Boat

Hop back on your RIB Boat and continue your journey along the scenic fjord amid stunning surroundings. Keep your eyes peeled…While sightings are rare, you may see a seal or a dolphin frolicking in the calm waters of the famed UNESCO World Heritage Site called Naeroyfjord. Your local expert will also point out an ancient Viking burial site.

Dinner On Your Own In Flåm

Have a pleasant meal abounding with local flavors. Discuss your day's adventures with family and newfound friends. Be sure to get some dining recommendations from your Adventure Guides.

Cultural Walk

If you would like to take an evening walk, meet behind the hotel and head out on foot for a delightful, nighttime walking tour of local Flåm culture.

Day 4: Geiranger

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodations: Hotel Union

Breakfast At The Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for your next destination—the famed Borgund Stave Church.

Visit The Borgund Stave Church In Laerdal

Arrive in Laerdal and explore this remarkably well preserved stave church, built around 1180 A.D. Considered one of Norway's iconic structures, a stave church is a medieval wooden church built around 4 central upright logs with vertical planks for its walls. With beautifully carved portals and 4 carved dragon heads on the roof peaks, it's a sight to behold. The Borgund Stave Church may look familiar, as it along with other stave churches provided architectural inspiration to the filmmakers of the classic Disney film Frozen.

Lunch And Depart For Geiranger

Before heading out for Geiranger, delight in a delectable Norwegian lunch at a local restaurant nestled among the fjords and glaciers. Enjoy gorgeous landscapes dotted with pastoral farmland as you travel to Geiranger, the location of some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. The Geirangerfjord area—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is a popular destination and home to the majestic Seven Sisters Waterfall which overlooks Geirangerfjord.

Check-In At The Hotel Union

As your Adventure Guides check you in, explore this historic, family-run hotel on the hill above Geiranger that offers breathtaking views of the Geirangerfjord and superb amenities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, Turkish baths, gardens and more.

Adult Dinner At Hotel Restaurant

Savor a sampling of local flavors in the hotel's main dining room and share stories with fellow Adventurers while Junior Adventurers enjoy their own dinner and fun.

Junior Adventurer Dinner In Museum Room

Junior Adventurers can dine in a private setting in the hotel's "car garage," a museum that showcases an impressive collection of car-related treasures and whimsical memorabilia. Afterward, they can enjoy a troll-making activity and karaoke sing-along!

Day 5: Geiranger

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodations: Hotel Union

Breakfast At The Hotel

Get your day off to a good start with a delightful breakfast.

Visit To Westeras Farm

Take a refreshing hike up the hills and down into the dales around Westeras Farm.

Farm Activities

Experience some of the day-to-day rituals of life on this quaint farm. Listen to a Norwegian family's stories about the farming culture. And spend some quality time with the farm's animals, including goats and llamas!

Walk To Fjord Viewpoint For Magnificent Views

With a local farmer as your guide, walk from Westeras Farm to enjoy stunning views of Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lunch At Westeras Farm

Satisfy your appetite with some wonderful home-style cooking featuring local ingredients and flavors.

Hike To Storseterfossen Waterfall (Optional)

Take to the trails again—this time on a hike from the farm up to the glorious Storseterfossen Waterfall for a magnificent view of this natural wonder.

Afternoon On Your Own In Geiranger

Choose how to spend your afternoon. Visit the Geiranger Fjord Center* to gain some insight about the people and culture of the Geiranger region. Or go kayaking*, enjoy the services at the hotel including a spa treatment*, or simply curl up with a book by the pool and relax.

Barbecue Dinner In Private Cabin At Hotel Union

Sit down for a Norwegian-style barbecue dinner in the hotel's grass-roofed, traditional cabin. Adventurers can watch as the chefs prepare their delicious, mouth-watering meal.

Day 6: Breakfast At The Hotel

Start your day with a delicious breakfast and then head for Lake Loen.

Net Fishing Or Rowboating

Spend some relaxing time on Lake Loen either fishing for rainbow trout or just rowing across the serene, crystal-clear waters for a lazy morning with some of the most gorgeous vistas in the world.

Lunch At Kjenndalstova

Journey into the peaceful Kjenndal Valley and enjoy a meal of traditional Norwegian food at this family-owned café. Choose from a menu that includes local fare like fresh trout or a gourmet burger.

Briksdal Glacier Visit

Catch a ride up this renowned glacier part way by "troll-car" and the last mile by foot. Along the way, be surrounded by cascading waterfalls and high mountain peaks, with Briksdal Glacier just up ahead. Also, enjoy a private Glacier Safari, which includes rafting on the lake in Jostedalsbreen National Park that is home to the world-famous glacier. Finally, return to Geiranger on a scenic ferry tour that includes a stunning photo op with the Seven Sisters waterfall as the backdrop.

Dinner On Your Own In Geiranger

Dine on delicious traditional food at a cozy café or enjoy a more sophisticated dining experience at the hotel. Be sure to get a dining recommendation from your Adventure Guides.

Day 7: Oslo

Meal: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodations: Hotel Continental Oslo

Breakfast At The Hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before you catch the train to Oslo.

Geiranger To Otta Via Motor Coach, Then Otta To Oslo Via Train

Travel by motor coach from Geiranger to Otta and board the train that will take you to the vibrant and sophisticated Norwegian capital of Oslo. Enjoy lunch on your own aboard the train while traveling through the scenic Norwegian countryside.

Farewell Dinner And Dancing At Hotel Continental Oslo

Celebrate the culmination of an amazing family adventure with new friends and fellow Adventurers at this farewell dinner in a private room at the Grand Hotel Oslo. Enjoy entertainment by authentic folk dancers accompanied by a musician—and discover some of this nation's rich culture and history.

Day 8: Oslo

Meal: Breakfast

Accommodations: Hotel Continental Oslo

Breakfast At The Hotel

Wake up to a hearty breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your flight home.

Transfer To The Oslo Airport Gardermoen (Osl)

Get assistance with your luggage and enjoy pre-arranged transportation to the airport. Then it's time to say "farvel" to Norway—until you return again!

Day 1 Oslo

Welcome to Norway, where you’ll discover the irresistible charm and eccentricity of Oslo. With so much to see and do in Oslo we recommend that you plan to arrive a few days before the trip begins, so you can see as much of the city as possible. Why not head to the Munch Museum to glimpse Edvard Munch's famous painting, The Scream. Your adventure begins with a important welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you'll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. Afterwards, why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare with the group.

Day 2 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.

Day 3 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.

Day 4 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.

Day 5 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.

Day 6 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 afternoon is free for you to enjoy the scenery of the surrounding area. Perhaps hire bikes and cycle along the shore of the fjord, take to the waters in a kayak or take a bus to the nearby fishing village of Flam and then ride the famous railway up to Myrdal. 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 licence is required and costs around NOK 150).

Day 7 Lillehammer

There will be another long bus journey ahead of us after breakfast today, as you journey to the town 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.

Day 8 Lillehammer

Join an orientation walk this morning and get to know Lillehammer. 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.

Day 9 Swedish Lakes

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 at in a peaceful setting of local B&B located 7 km outside of Rattvik.

Day 10 Swedish Lakes

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.

Day 11 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.

Day 12 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.

Day 13 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.

Day 14 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.

Day 15 Helsinki

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. There are no more activities planned and you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you would like to extend your stay in Helsinki we are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Please speak to your travel consultant at the time of booking.