Railbookers
Essential Scandinavia
Independent rail trip across Denmark, Norway, and Sweden via the Flamsbana line
11 daysfrom $2,699
60% rail
Rail Escape
Highlights of Scandinavia: Nordic Capitals
Explore the Highlights of Scandinavia on our 11-day rail tour. Experience Nordic charm and modern design in Copenhagen, Gothenburg, and Stockholm.
Day by day
- Day 1overnight: Copenhagen
Arrive in Copenhagen
Welcome to the charming city of Copenhagen! Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic Nyhavn neighborhood, with its colorful 17th-century waterfront houses and lively canal-side cafés and restaurants. Take a stroll through the pedestrian streets of the city center, admiring the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
- Day 2overnight: Copenhagen
Explore Copenhagen Attractions
Begin your day by visiting the Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks and a beloved Copenhagen attraction. Afterward, head to the Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance-style palace that houses the Danish Crown Jewels and the Throne Room. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue, a tribute to the famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen.
- Day 3railovernight: Gothenburg
Depart Copenhagen for Gothenburg
After checking out of your hotel, take a train to Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's charming neighborhoods, such as Haga, with its cobblestone streets lined with charming wooden houses and cozy cafés. Visit the Gothenburg Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of Nordic and international art.
- Day 4overnight: Gothenburg
Explore Gothenburg Attractions
Start your day by visiting the Gothenburg Botanical Garden, one of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Europe. Afterward, explore the city's maritime heritage by visiting the Maritiman, a floating museum that showcases the history of seafaring in the region. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Avenyn, Gothenburg's main pedestrian street, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés.
- Day 5railovernight: Stockholm
Depart Gothenburg for Stockholm
After checking out of your hotel, take a train to Stockholm, the stunning capital of Sweden. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a three-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the Gamla Stan (Old Town), a charming island in the heart of the city, with its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Stockholm Cathedral.
- Day 6overnight: Stockholm
Explore Stockholm Attractions
Begin your day by visiting the Vasa Museum, home to the remarkably well-preserved 17th-century warship Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage. Afterward, explore the Skansen Open-Air Museum, a recreation of traditional Swedish life with historic buildings, craftspeople, and animals. In the afternoon, take a boat tour through the Stockholm Archipelago, a stunning cluster of islands in the Baltic Sea.
- Day 7overnight: Stockholm
More Stockholm Attractions
Start your day by visiting the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish monarchy and one of the largest palaces in Europe. Explore the palace's lavish interiors, including the Baroque-style Royal Chapel and the Treasury. In the afternoon, visit the ABBA Museum, a must-see for fans of the iconic Swedish pop group, featuring interactive exhibits and memorabilia.
- Day 8
Depart Stockholm
After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, spend the morning exploring any remaining sites or neighborhoods before heading to the airport for your departure.
- Day 9railovernight: Oslo
Depart Stockholm for Oslo
If you are making the most of this tour by adding the extra visit to Oslo: after checking out of your hotel, you will be taking a lovely train ride to Norway's capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the Vigeland Sculpture Park, featuring over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, set in a beautiful park setting.
- Day 10overnight: Oslo
Explore Oslo Attractions
Begin your day by visiting the Viking Ship Museum, which houses remarkably well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts. Afterward, explore the Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and Renaissance castle that has played a significant role in Norwegian history. In the afternoon, visit the Munch Museum, dedicated to the works of the renowned Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, famous for his iconic painting "The Scream."
- Day 11
Depart Oslo
After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, spend the morning exploring any remaining sites or neighborhoods before heading to the airport for your departure.
Included
- Welcome Package with travel essentials and detailed itinerary information
- First-Class Rail Travel throughout (some regional trains second-class only)
- 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation in all cities, near train stations
- Daily Breakfast at all hotel accommodations
- Airport Transfers on arrival and departure
Not included
- International Airfare
- Excursions, Activities and Entrance Fees
- Meals Beyond Breakfast
- Local taxes or fees (e.g. hotel tourism taxes)
- Personal Expenses
- Tips and Gratuities
- Local Transportation
