Scandinavia & Best of Baltics | Winter | 2024/2025
Scandinavia & Best of Baltics | Winter | 2024/2025
Scandinavia & Best of Baltics | Winter | 2024/2025
19 Days Starting in Copenhagen and ending in Vilnius
Visiting: Copenhagen, Oslo, Lillehammer, Elverum, Falun, Stockholm, Tallinn, Tartu, Valmiermuiza, Cesis, Riga, Jurgaiciai, Kaunas, Vilnius, Pakruojis, Trakai
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WSBBA19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 19-day adventure through Scandinavia and the Baltics, starting in the vibrant city of Copenhagen and concluding in the historic Vilnius. This tour takes you through the picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Experience the charm of Copenhagen, the natural beauty of Oslo, the medieval allure of Tallinn, and the architectural splendor of Riga. Along the way, enjoy unique activities such as hiking with huskies in Falun, exploring the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, and savoring local delicacies. This journey promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Copenhagen
Location: Copenhagen
Accommodation Name: Scandic Sydhaven (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Good afternoon globe-roamers and welcome to 12-days of memory-making magic. After a bit of a mingle with the new squad we'll getting into the spirit of our imminent adventures in Copenhagen. We've got all day tomorrow to suss out the city, so after an orientation tour of the city, today can stay reserved for Contiki hangs if you're feeling social.
Day 2: Copenhagen
Location: Copenhagen
Accommodation Name: Scandic Sydhaven (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Constantly named amongst the most liveable cities in the world, Copenhagen is an artwork of locals on bicycles, Danish pastries in cute café windows, & Renaissance architecture. Being a bustling university town and home to the hippie hood of Freetown Christiania, nightlife and unique culture can be found at every turn.
Day 3: Copenhagen To Oslo
Location: Copenhagen, Oslo
Accommodation Name: Scandic Helsfyr (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before you go bursting out of your travel clothes thanks to your new-found pastry dependency, we're bailing on Denmark. Next stop: Norway! To the call of castles, fresh seafood, & pretty parks, we respond! Today we're taking on Norway. We'll be surrounded by 200 bronze statues eating Krumkaker pastries before we can say "jeg elsker Norge!" (that's "I love Norway," folks).
Day 4: Oslo
Location: Oslo
Accommodation Name: Scandic Helsfyr (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Oslo, both the capital and biggest city of Norway, is a riverside metropolis back-dropped by mountains of greenery and filled with easy-going culture. Pottering around museums and pretty buildings will keep us busy by day, while taking a stroll through the city should keep you busy by night.
Day 5: Oslo To Elverum
Location: Oslo, Lillehammer, Elverum
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Thon Hotel Elgstua (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Oslo, it’s been amazing, but today we’re making tracks for the traditional city of Elverum, with a brief stop-off along the way. Hey hey, Lillehammer! Upon arrival we could take a stroll through the city or hop on the Lillehammer Olympic Track bobsleigh, Northern Europe's only artificially frozen bob. All done for the day? We've got more epic surprises tomorrow, so make sure to rest up. With plenty of churches and lakes, things are bound to feel authentically Scandinavian here in Elverum, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Day 6: Elverum To Falun
Location: Elverum, Falun
Accommodation Name: Torgåsgården (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine! More adventures await us today. We're crossing the border from Norway to Sweden, so keep an eye out for the famous Vasaloppet start line. For dinner tonight, we’ll tuck into a traditional Norwegian speciality – reindeer stew served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry. It’s enough to warm the cockles of your heart.
Day 7: Falun
Location: Falun
Accommodation Name: Torgåsgården (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’ll wake up in Torgåsgården – a Contiki Special Stay renowned for its jaw-dropping natural beauty. We’ll head out for a hike during the day (with snowshoes if there’s snow, plus lunch cooked over an open fire). We’ll also be joined by some huskies… so be prepared for a cuteness overload.
Day 8: Falun To Stockholm
Location: Falun, Stockholm
Accommodation Name: Generator Stockholm (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving Dalarna behind, and saying farewell to Sweden's national symbol, the orange Dala horse, we're headed to the capital today! Stockholm, here we come!
Arriving in Stockholm, we'll take a city tour where we'll have the chance to stroll the quaint medieval streets of Gamla Stan & try to catch the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace.
Day 9: Stockholm
Location: Stockholm
Accommodation Name: Generator Stockholm (Stockholm, Sweden)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wander the quaint medieval streets of Gamla Stan & try to catch the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace. All that ground covered will earn you some Swedish salmon & an Absolut on the rocks – but don’t forget to save room for your evening meatballs….
Day 10: Stockholm To Tallinn
Location: Stockholm, Tallinn
Accommodation Name: Metropol Hotel Tallinn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Welcome to Tallinn, Estonia's elegant capital. We'll let you explore this beautiful Baltic city for a few hours, after which our TM will give you an orientation tour, followed by a local dinner at F HOONE, with its menu of healthy but seriously delicious local delicacies.
Day 11: Tallinn
Location: Tallinn
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Tallinn Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tallinn is all yours for the day, so go out and find out what makes this place so special. One of Europe's hidden gems, this early medieval era creation is now a fascinating mix of old and new.With one of the best preserved old towns in the world, a charming coastline, and gothic towers scattered around, this city will win your heart in an instant. Stop by the Estonian Open-Air Museum or take a walk to Toompea Hill for a chance to see the Old Town in all its splendor.
Day 12: Tallinn To Tartu
Location: Tallinn, Tartu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tartu (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we're setting our sights on Tartu... A town known for its upbeat nightlife, bunting-clad town square, its wealth of cultural activities, and its 17th Century university, Tartu is an Estonian hidden gem. Take the day to explore every nook and cranny alongside your new pals and TM and we'll meet back in the evening for a locally prepared meal full of cultural specialties.
Day 13: Tartu To Riga Via Valmiermuiža And Cēsis
Location: Tartu, Valmiermuiza, Cesis, Riga
Accommodation Name: Rixwell Konventa Seta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tartu, it's been emotional, but today we're heading for Latvia. An iconic tour, tasting & lunch awaits at Valmiermuiža Brewery, where we'll become acquainted with the cornerstones of brewing beer. Next, we'll stop by to visit the Cēsis Castle, one of the most iconic and best preserved castles in Latvia. Here we are in Riga! Enjoy a free evening around Latvia's capital, resting quietly on the Baltic Sea. Sitting at the border between tradition and cutting edge modernism, this city will no doubt charm you with its art nouveau architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Day 14: Riga
Location: Riga
Accommodation Name: Rixwell Konventa Seta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You've got beautiful Riga all to yourself today, so make the most of it! Take a stroll through the Old Town and discover the House of the Black Heads (a 14th century landmark), some of the many shops and restaurants that fill the cobblestoned streets and the timeless charm of a capital steeped in over 800 years of history.
Day 15: Riga To Kaunas
Location: Riga, Jurgaiciai, Kaunas
Accommodation Name: Moxy Kaunas Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
...and we're on the road again.
Today we're visiting the Hill of Crosses, an epic site pilgrimage site which boasts a collection of over 200,000 ornate crosses, statues and effigies erected on a small hill in Northern Lithuania.
Well hello, Kaunus! Here in this southern Lithuanian gem, we'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to river views and impressive cathedrals. Don't miss Kaunas Castle or the epic 9th Fort.
Day 16: Kaunas To Vilnius
Location: Kaunas, Vilnius
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Vilnius Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
So long, Kaunas. We’re making our way to our next awesome destination today, and it’s none other than vibrant Vilnius!
The cathedrals, the cobbled streets, the baroque architecture… try not to fall in love with Vilnius. Oh, and have your camera ready for Trakai island castle.
Day 17: End Vilnius
Location: Vilnius
Accommodation Name: Moxy Kaunas Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
...and we're on the road again. Today we're visiting the Hill of Crosses, an epic pilgrimage site which boasts a collection of over 200,000 ornate crosses, statues and effigies erected on a small hill in Northern Lithuania. Well hello, Kaunus! Here in this southern Lithuanian gem, we'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to river views and impressive cathedrals. Don't miss Kaunas Castle or the epic 9th Fort.
Day 18: Pakruojo Dvaras To Vilnius Via Trakai
Location: Pakruojis, Trakai, Vilnius
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Vilnius Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
So long, Kaunas. We’re making our way to our next awesome destination today, and it’s none other than vibrant Vilnius! Welcome to Trakai Castle, a 14th century fortress built on an island on the glittering Lake Galve. This place looks just like a fairytale, so cameras at the ready… Our journey ends here in Vilnius but not without a tour of the stunning baroque architecture that'll inspire you to remodel your own home. Take advantage of the street art lining the cobblestone streets and exchange details with all your new best friends. Time to lock in your next adventure!
Day 19: End Vilnius
Location: Vilnius
Meals Included: Breakfast
...and this is where our journey sadly ends. Exchange contact information with your fellow travelers, who have now probably become friends. Time to lock in your next adventure!
What's Included
-
Meals
Meals are included throughout the tour, with breakfast provided daily and some dinners featuring local specialties such as reindeer stew and cultural specialties.
-
City Tours
City tours are included in various locations such as Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, Tallinn, and Vilnius.
-
Special Activities
Special activities such as the Lillehammer Olympic Track bobsleigh, hiking with huskies in Falun, and a brewery tour at Valmiermuiža Brewery are included.
-
Transport
Transport between cities and countries is included, ensuring seamless travel throughout Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
What's Not Included
-
Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transport between cities and countries is included, ensuring seamless travel throughout Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Scandic Sydhaven, Scandic Helsfyr, Thon Hotel Elgstua, Torgåsgården, Generator Stockholm, Ibis Tallinn Center, Hotel Tartu, Rixwell Konventa Seta, Moxy Kaunas Center, and Ibis Vilnius Center.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Scandic Sydhaven, Scandic Helsfyr, Thon Hotel Elgstua, Torgåsgården, Generator Stockholm, Ibis Tallinn Center, Hotel Tartu, Rixwell Konventa Seta, Moxy Kaunas Center, and Ibis Vilnius Center.
-
Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, meals are included throughout the tour. Breakfast is provided daily, and some dinners feature local specialties such as reindeer stew and other cultural specialties.
-
What kind of city tours are included in the itinerary?
City tours are included in various locations such as Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, Tallinn, and Vilnius.
-
What special activities are included in the tour?
Special activities such as the Lillehammer Olympic Track bobsleigh, hiking with huskies in Falun, and a brewery tour at Valmiermuiža Brewery are included.
-
Is transport between cities and countries included?
Yes, transport between cities and countries is included, ensuring seamless travel throughout Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
-
Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
-
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
-
Are optional activities included in the tour package?
No, optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
-
What personal expenses are not covered by the tour?
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Are visa fees included in the tour package?
No, visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.
-
What can I expect on the first day of the tour in Copenhagen?
On the first day, you will have an orientation tour of Copenhagen and can spend the rest of the day mingling with fellow travelers.
-
What activities are planned in Oslo?
In Oslo, you can explore the riverside metropolis, visit museums, and stroll through the city to experience its easy-going culture.
-
What is special about the visit to Lillehammer?
In Lillehammer, you have the option to take a stroll through the city or hop on the Lillehammer Olympic Track bobsleigh, Northern Europe's only artificially frozen bob.
-
What unique experience is offered in Falun?
In Falun, you will go on a hike (with snowshoes if there's snow) and have lunch cooked over an open fire. You will also be joined by huskies during the hike.
-
What can I expect during the visit to Stockholm?
In Stockholm, you will take a city tour, stroll the medieval streets of Gamla Stan, and try to catch the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace.
-
What is included in the Tallinn itinerary?
In Tallinn, you will have an orientation tour, a local dinner at F HOONE, and a day to explore the well-preserved old town, charming coastline, and gothic towers.
-
What is special about the visit to Tartu?
In Tartu, you can explore the town known for its upbeat nightlife, cultural activities, and 17th-century university. The day ends with a locally prepared meal full of cultural specialties.
-
What activities are planned in Riga?
In Riga, you will have a free evening to explore the city, known for its art nouveau architecture and vibrant nightlife. The next day, you can stroll through the Old Town and discover historical landmarks.
-
What is unique about the visit to the Hill of Crosses?
The Hill of Crosses is an epic pilgrimage site in Northern Lithuania, boasting a collection of over 200,000 ornate crosses, statues, and effigies.
-
What can I expect in Vilnius?
In Vilnius, you can explore the cathedrals, cobbled streets, and baroque architecture. A visit to Trakai island castle is also included.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Thursday - Monday
Dec 05, 2024 - Dec 23, 2024Thursday - Monday
Dec 12, 2024 - Dec 30, 2024Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions