Intrepid Travel

Essential Scandinavia

Essential Scandinavia

See the essential sites and cities of Scandinavia in Northern Europe with this nine-day adventure through Denmark, Sweden and Finland. Starting your journey in colourful Copenhagen, you’ll tick off bucket list cities, walk along nature trails off the tourist track, relax in a Finnish sauna and head out on a pub crawl with newfound friends. Learn the art of Swedish Fika, take walking tours with your handy leader and enjoy heaps of free time to spend your way – on optional bike rides, dinners, day trips, boat rides and museum visits. This is the perfect intro to three amazing countries and will surely have you coming back again and again!

Activities

  • Copenhagen – Copenhill Guided Tour
  • Copenhagen – Orientation Walk
  • Gothenburg – Pub Crawl
  • Donso Island – Nature Trail
  • Donso Island – Day Trip
  • Stockholm – Orientation Walk
  • Stockholm – Swedish Fika
  • Helsinki – Finnish Sauna

Highlights

  • Take some time away from the city with a day trip to Donso Island in the archipelago of Gothenburg. Head out on a walk with your leader on one of the nature trails, looking out for birds, enjoying coastal views and taking photos of some iconic Swedish sights.
  • Sweat the day away at a relaxing Finnish sauna – a quintessential experience in Helsinki and known as one of the key experiences to happiness – and maybe take a quick refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea!
  • Tick trendy Copenhagen off your bucket list and wander the colourful houses, then explore Copenhill and learn about their sustainability efforts while taking in the views of the city from above.
  • Head out on a pub crawl in Gothenburg – what walkable city doesn’t get better when the sun goes down Enjoy a couple of drinks with new friends and explore the nightlife of Sweden’s second-largest city.
  • Choose your own adventure with heaps of free time to customise your trip however you like – maybe rent bikes and cycle through the cities, see museums and soak up the history, art and culture, or cafe hop to sample some local delicacies.

04/12/2025 through 12/04/2027
04/12/2025 through 12/08/2027

Day 1

Charming Copenhagen is the jewel of Denmark and a delightful stop for any traveler. Well-known as an eco-friendly haven for sustainable and green living, Copenhagen has embraced its status as the best “bike city” on earth and promoted the use of bicycles by locals and tourists. Hop on a bike, electric bus, or train to easily traverse and explore this colorful and historic city.

Copenhagen has its share of iconic landmarks and visually stunning architecture. The oft-photographed Little Mermaid sculpture, whose pensive frame overlooks the harbor, is inspired by the work of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen and has come to symbolize the city. The Nyhavn canal is perhaps the most famous attraction in Copenhagen, where vibrant 18th-century townhomes in hues of red, yellow, pink, and blue line its waterfront. The splendid Tivoli Gardens are an absolute must-see; millions of visitors delight in thrilling amusement park rides and captivatingly lush gardens. Take a seat at the Tivoli Concert Hall or Glass Hall Theatre to watch operas, classical music and rock concerts, or stand-up comedy.

Sightseeing, shopping, and dining opportunities abound in any of Copenhagen’s fourteen distinct neighborhoods! Vestebro, the city’s former red-light district, is now a trendy hub for designer boutiques, authentic and Michelin-star eats, and Copenhagen’s nightlife scene. Go for a swim in the harbor baths of Islands Brygge or venture a little further from the city center to the Amager neighborhood, where you’ll find Denmark’s National Aquarium and Amager Beach, a summertime favorite. There are plenty of historic and cultural sites to pique your interest, too. Breathtaking royal dwellings like Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance gem that houses the country’s crown jewels, and Amalienborg Palace, the queen’s rococo-style abode and a vast royal museum, beckon you to revel in the enchanting world of vintage Copenhagen. The city’s Round Tower, a 17th-century observatory tower, provides spectacular views of the city and informative exhibitions on Danish art and science.

There is so much to discover and savor in Copenhagen, Denmark!


Day 2

Charming Copenhagen is the jewel of Denmark and a delightful stop for any traveler. Well-known as an eco-friendly haven for sustainable and green living, Copenhagen has embraced its status as the best “bike city” on earth and promoted the use of bicycles by locals and tourists. Hop on a bike, electric bus, or train to easily traverse and explore this colorful and historic city.

Copenhagen has its share of iconic landmarks and visually stunning architecture. The oft-photographed Little Mermaid sculpture, whose pensive frame overlooks the harbor, is inspired by the work of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen and has come to symbolize the city. The Nyhavn canal is perhaps the most famous attraction in Copenhagen, where vibrant 18th-century townhomes in hues of red, yellow, pink, and blue line its waterfront. The splendid Tivoli Gardens are an absolute must-see; millions of visitors delight in thrilling amusement park rides and captivatingly lush gardens. Take a seat at the Tivoli Concert Hall or Glass Hall Theatre to watch operas, classical music and rock concerts, or stand-up comedy.

Sightseeing, shopping, and dining opportunities abound in any of Copenhagen’s fourteen distinct neighborhoods! Vestebro, the city’s former red-light district, is now a trendy hub for designer boutiques, authentic and Michelin-star eats, and Copenhagen’s nightlife scene. Go for a swim in the harbor baths of Islands Brygge or venture a little further from the city center to the Amager neighborhood, where you’ll find Denmark’s National Aquarium and Amager Beach, a summertime favorite. There are plenty of historic and cultural sites to pique your interest, too. Breathtaking royal dwellings like Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance gem that houses the country’s crown jewels, and Amalienborg Palace, the queen’s rococo-style abode and a vast royal museum, beckon you to revel in the enchanting world of vintage Copenhagen. The city’s Round Tower, a 17th-century observatory tower, provides spectacular views of the city and informative exhibitions on Danish art and science.

There is so much to discover and savor in Copenhagen, Denmark!


Day 3

Gothenburg, Sweden’s vibrant west coast gem, offers a perfect blend of maritime charm, innovative design, and sustainable living. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and classic Nordic architecture, Gothenburg invites visitors to explore its rich history and modern flair. The city’s heart is anchored by the famous Kungsportsavenyen (Avenyn), a grand boulevard lined with cafes, boutiques, and cultural landmarks like the Gothenburg Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of Nordic and international masterpieces. Stroll through the historic Haga district, with its 19th-century wooden houses, cozy cafes, and unique shops, or take a leisurely boat ride through the city’s network of canals, reminiscent of Gothenburg's Dutch-style origins.

Gothenburg's culinary scene is nothing short of remarkable, making it a paradise for food lovers. The city has earned its reputation as Sweden's culinary capital, boasting a wealth of Michelin-starred restaurants, including Restaurant 28+ and Bhoga, as well as the famed Feskekôrka (Fish Church), a bustling seafood market offering the freshest catches from the North Sea. Here, visitors can savor local delicacies such as herring, smoked salmon, and West Coast prawns, best enjoyed in a waterfront setting that reflects the city's strong maritime heritage.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Gothenburg, with its proximity to the stunning Southern Archipelago—a collection of islands that are easily accessible by ferry and perfect for hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Within the city itself, the Gothenburg Botanical Garden is a must-visit, featuring over 16,000 species of plants spread across a tranquil 175-acre oasis. Meanwhile, Liseberg amusement park, one of the most popular attractions in Scandinavia, offers thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, and vibrant seasonal events, making it a favorite among families and adrenaline seekers alike.

A fun fact about Gothenburg is its commitment to sustainability, which is evident in every aspect of the city. It has consistently ranked as one of the world's most sustainable cities due to its eco-friendly public transport system, green energy initiatives, and widespread use of bicycles. The city even has a goal to be entirely fossil-free by 2030, making it a perfect destination for the environmentally conscious traveler looking to experience the best of Nordic innovation while reducing their carbon footprint.


Day 4

Gothenburg, Sweden’s vibrant west coast gem, offers a perfect blend of maritime charm, innovative design, and sustainable living. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and classic Nordic architecture, Gothenburg invites visitors to explore its rich history and modern flair. The city’s heart is anchored by the famous Kungsportsavenyen (Avenyn), a grand boulevard lined with cafes, boutiques, and cultural landmarks like the Gothenburg Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of Nordic and international masterpieces. Stroll through the historic Haga district, with its 19th-century wooden houses, cozy cafes, and unique shops, or take a leisurely boat ride through the city’s network of canals, reminiscent of Gothenburg's Dutch-style origins.

Gothenburg's culinary scene is nothing short of remarkable, making it a paradise for food lovers. The city has earned its reputation as Sweden's culinary capital, boasting a wealth of Michelin-starred restaurants, including Restaurant 28+ and Bhoga, as well as the famed Feskekôrka (Fish Church), a bustling seafood market offering the freshest catches from the North Sea. Here, visitors can savor local delicacies such as herring, smoked salmon, and West Coast prawns, best enjoyed in a waterfront setting that reflects the city's strong maritime heritage.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Gothenburg, with its proximity to the stunning Southern Archipelago—a collection of islands that are easily accessible by ferry and perfect for hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Within the city itself, the Gothenburg Botanical Garden is a must-visit, featuring over 16,000 species of plants spread across a tranquil 175-acre oasis. Meanwhile, Liseberg amusement park, one of the most popular attractions in Scandinavia, offers thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, and vibrant seasonal events, making it a favorite among families and adrenaline seekers alike.

A fun fact about Gothenburg is its commitment to sustainability, which is evident in every aspect of the city. It has consistently ranked as one of the world's most sustainable cities due to its eco-friendly public transport system, green energy initiatives, and widespread use of bicycles. The city even has a goal to be entirely fossil-free by 2030, making it a perfect destination for the environmentally conscious traveler looking to experience the best of Nordic innovation while reducing their carbon footprint.


Day 5 As a city located in a Baltic Sea archipelago, it's not surprising that Stockholm has 50 bridges and sightseeing boats moving people between its 14 islands. This contemporary and welcoming capital of Sweden is nonetheless easily navigable by foot. Every district here has a distinct flavor, from the sophisticated Östermalm to the bustling downtown energy of Norrmalm to the delightful Old Town.

Attractions in Stockholm include the maritime wonders of the Vasa Museum, the grandiose Royal Palace, the waterside Stockholm City Hall, and the Nobel Museum, where Nobel prizewinners are celebrated. And hey music fans, there's even an ABBA museum!
Day 6 As a city located in a Baltic Sea archipelago, it's not surprising that Stockholm has 50 bridges and sightseeing boats moving people between its 14 islands. This contemporary and welcoming capital of Sweden is nonetheless easily navigable by foot. Every district here has a distinct flavor, from the sophisticated Östermalm to the bustling downtown energy of Norrmalm to the delightful Old Town.

Attractions in Stockholm include the maritime wonders of the Vasa Museum, the grandiose Royal Palace, the waterside Stockholm City Hall, and the Nobel Museum, where Nobel prizewinners are celebrated. And hey music fans, there's even an ABBA museum!
Day 7 As a city located in a Baltic Sea archipelago, it's not surprising that Stockholm has 50 bridges and sightseeing boats moving people between its 14 islands. This contemporary and welcoming capital of Sweden is nonetheless easily navigable by foot. Every district here has a distinct flavor, from the sophisticated Östermalm to the bustling downtown energy of Norrmalm to the delightful Old Town.

Attractions in Stockholm include the maritime wonders of the Vasa Museum, the grandiose Royal Palace, the waterside Stockholm City Hall, and the Nobel Museum, where Nobel prizewinners are celebrated. And hey music fans, there's even an ABBA museum!
Day 8 This sustainable capital city will charm you with its beautiful sea-facing landscape, diverse architecture and world-famous design. While the city is modern and lively, the archipelago and green forests are quickly reached via an efficient public transportation system for those looking for nature. Helsinki's neoclassical buildings were often used as a backdrop for films set in the Soviet Union including The Kremlin Letter (1970), Reds (1981), and Gorky Park (1983).
Day 9 This sustainable capital city will charm you with its beautiful sea-facing landscape, diverse architecture and world-famous design. While the city is modern and lively, the archipelago and green forests are quickly reached via an efficient public transportation system for those looking for nature. Helsinki's neoclassical buildings were often used as a backdrop for films set in the Soviet Union including The Kremlin Letter (1970), Reds (1981), and Gorky Park (1983).

05/28/25 - 06/05/25

Starting At $1,606

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06/25/25 - 08/06/25

Starting At $2,040

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09/03/25 - 09/17/25

Starting At $1,970

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10/01/25 - 12/10/25

Starting At $1,890

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01/14/26 - 04/15/26

Starting At $1,935

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05/13/26 - 05/27/26

Starting At $2,015

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06/10/26 - 08/19/26

Starting At $2,090

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09/02/26 - 10/14/26

Starting At $2,015

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11/25/26 - 12/08/27

Starting At $1,935

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