A Taste of Scandinavia

Hej! Welcome to Denmark. Your adventure begins in Copenhagen – if you arrive early, which is highly recommended, why not visit the pastel-coloured waterfront houses in the Nyhavn area. You could drop in at an industrial-chic bar for a drink or stroll around the famous Tivoli Gardens, home to one of the world's oldest rollercoasters. Another area worth checking out is Norrebro, a residential area known for its wide range of restaurants. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and the other travellers who will be joining you for the trip. After the meeting, head out for an optional welcome dinner where you can get to know your group over some tasty Danish cuisine.

When in Copenhagen, do as the locals do – explore the city by bike! This is undoubtedly the best way to explore the city's many hidden corners, and the bike-friendly streets make it a breeze to get to all the major sites. The afternoon is free for you to keep exploring at your own pace. Stroll along the harbor or head to the 18th-century Amalienborg Palace, which is still the main residence of the Danish royal family. Maybe pay a visit to Frederik's Church (AKA the Marble Church), the Court House on Nytorv Square or the City Hall, with its red brick facade. Alternatively, the National Museum is a must-see, as is Christiansborg Palace. In summer, you can even choose to join the locals and take a refreshing dip in the free harbor baths located in the city centre.

See Copenhagen through a different lens this morning – join a local guide from Street Voices, a company with a mission to enhance quality of life for socially vulnerable people, aiming to give voice to their stories. You’ll hear personal stories about your local guide’s everyday struggles and gain insight into the reality of life on the streets in Copenhagen. This afternoon, take a train to Gothenburg, then board a ferry to Vrango Island, where you'll spend the night.

Today, you’ll explore Vrango – the most southerly island of the Gothenburg archipelago, with a population of just a few hundred and a strong fishing industry. The island is known for its stunning beaches and protected nature reserves – in the summer, you'll explore the coastline in an included kayaking activity. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to stroll around the town, then return to Gothenburg for a free evening. Sweden's second largest city is known as one of the world's most sustainable destinations and is exemplary of what a responsible tourism destination should look like.

This morning, head to Alingsas, regarded as the capital of fika – a Swedish tradition of pausing during the day for a coffee and cake break. You'll be guided by a local expert on a tour of some of the town's best traditional cafes. Learn about the local love affair with coffee and discover the story behind this town's special cafe culture. 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. Maybe visit the Gothenburg City Museum, housed in the historic East India Company building, which was built in the 18th century when Gothenburg was a major maritime trading centre. Take in the architecture at Gustav Adolfs Torg, go shopping along the main boulevard Avenyn, check out the iconic Skansen Kronan, stroll along bohemian Langgatan street or sip a coffee in the charming Haga district, known for its traditional wooden houses.

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

With no further activities planned, your trip ends after breakfast today. If you would like to extend your stay in Oslo, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).