Norway Winter Wonderland by Rail and Sea

Day 1 - UK - Oslo

Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for your flight to Oslo. Upon arrival, transfer to your centrally located hotel.

Day 2 - Oslo

We have the whole day to explore Oslo, starting with a three-hour guided city tour - a fascinating introduction to Norway’s capital. The highlight? A visit to the Fram Museum - home to the legendary Fram, the world’s strongest wooden polar ship, built in 1893. Step aboard and trace the footsteps of Norway’s boldest explorers as you uncover the thrilling history of Arctic expeditions that helped shape a nation. The rest of the day is yours to explore Oslo at your own pace. Climb the rooftop of the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet for panoramic views of the city and fjord or stop by the buzzing Aker Brygge waterfront - famous for its cafés and restaurants - and sample a local delicacy like freshly caught shrimp on sourdough or a traditional Norwegian waffle.

Day 3 - Oslo - Bergen

After an early breakfast, we set off for Bergen by train. But this isn’t just any train ride; this is Northern Europe’s highest railway, and it’s nothing short of spectacular. Over seven hours, you'll be swept through cinematic landscapes of snow-covered mountains, icy fjords, and remote alpine villages. The journey takes you across the dramatic Hardangervidda mountain plateau, reaching an impressive 1,222m above sea level, where you’ll glide through more than 180 tunnels carved into the wild Norwegian terrain. When we arrive in Bergen, we’ll enjoy a guided city tour to help you get our bearings and soak in the charm of this colourful coastal town.

Day 4 - Bergen - Embark ship

Enjoy some free time this morning to explore beautiful Bergen. You might choose to ride the Fløibanen funicular for sweeping views over the city, or wander through the colourful, UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf with its charming wooden buildings and maritime history. In the early afternoon, we step aboard our Havila ship and begin a scenic voyage north towards the Arctic Circle. But this ship is more than just a way to get from A to B - it’s part of the adventure. Havila’s state-of-the-art vessels are designed with sustainability at their core, combining hybrid battery power with quiet, low-emission cruising through Norway’s breathtaking fjords.

Day 5 - Alesund - Molde

As we continue our voyage north, we follow a historic coastal route that connects communities all the way to the Arctic Circle. In total, our ship will make 33 stops - each one a glimpse into everyday life along Norway’s rugged and remote coastline. Today brings an extended stay in the picture-perfect town of Ålesund, set across a string of islands and famed for its striking Art Nouveau architecture. Wander along cobbled streets, admire beautifully preserved brick houses and former warehouses, or climb the 418 steps to the top of Mount Aksla for a panoramic view of the town and surrounding fjords. Keep an eye on the water as you sail - this region is known for sightings of sea eagles, porpoises, and even the occasional pod of orcas.

Day 6 - Trondheim

This morning, we dock in Trondheim - Norway’s former capital and one of its oldest cities, founded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason over a 1,000 years ago. A must-see while you're here is the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, often called “Norway’s Notre Dame.” This towering Gothic masterpiece is the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world and was built over the burial site of St. Olav, Norway’s patron saint. Step inside to admire the intricate stained glass and soaring vaulted ceilings or take a moment to stroll through the peaceful grounds. And while you're exploring, be sure to stop by one of the city’s many cosy cafés for a taste of Trondheim’s famous kanelboller - sweet, spiced cinnamon buns loved by locals and perfect with a cup of coffee as you watch the world go by.

Day 7 - Bodo - Svolvaer

Today marks an exciting milestone on our journey - we officially cross the Arctic Circle. To celebrate, we take part in a traditional ceremony on board, a light-hearted nod to this legendary line of latitude that few travellers get to pass. We could tell you what the ceremony is… but we’d rather not spoil the surprise. As we sail deeper into Norway’s Arctic region, the scenery becomes even more dramatic – snow-dusted peaks, icy fjords, and remote island communities nestled between sea and sky. We head to Bodø, gateway to the wild north, before continuing to Svolvær in the heart of the Lofoten Islands. This far north, we’re in prime territory for spotting the Northern Lights. With little light pollution and vast open skies, the conditions here are among the best in the world for seeing this natural phenomenon. Keep watch from the open deck or through the panoramic windows – you never know when the aurora might dance across the night sky.

Day 8 - Stokmarknes - Tromso - Skjervoy

As we continue through the narrow fjords and wild mountains, we spend some time in Tromsø, an Arctic city once known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" for its rich history in hunting, fishing, and daring polar expeditions. It was from here that Roald Amundsen – legendary Norwegian explorer and the first person to reach the South Pole - often set sail, using the city as a launch point for his groundbreaking Arctic missions. But there's more here than arctic adventures. Tromsø is also a gateway to Sápmi - the homeland of the Sami, Norway’s Indigenous people. Their deep-rooted traditions, from reindeer herding and joik (a distinctive style of song) to a profound connection with nature, have shaped this region for centuries.

Day 9 - Hammerfest - Honningsvag (North Cape) - Berlevag

Welcome to the edge of the world. This part of the journey takes you as far north as land and sea allow. For many travellers, reaching the North Cape is a highlight. The landscape is simple and dramatic: vast, rugged, and shaped by Arctic forces. Here, nature takes centre stage. You could visit the North Cape plateau, which rises a steep 307m straight up from the Arctic Ocean. Or perhaps some birdwatching, ice fishing – maybe even try your hand at catching king crab.

Day 10 - Kirkenes

This morning, we say farewell to the ship and step into a true winter fairytale with a visit to the extraordinary Kirkenes Snowhotel. Each year, a staggering 25 tonnes of ice and 5 million litres of snow are transformed into a breathtaking work of art with the snow suites each uniquely designed and intricately sculpted. Our guided tour offers an up-close look at this ice masterpiece, along with a chance to meet some of the hotel’s most charming residents - huskies and reindeer, always happy to pose for a photo or two. The afternoon is yours to unwind - whether you choose to explore more of the surrounding landscape or simply relax at your leisure. We’ll come together this evening to enjoy a cosy dinner at our hotel, capping off the day with good food and great company.

Day 11 - Kirkenes - UK

We transfer to the airport and your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.