Day 1 - Bergen

Bergen, Norway: Surrounded by mountains and shimmering fjords, the waterside city of Bergen boasts a spectacular setting. This historic city has roots going back to medieval times, exemplified by the colourful buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, which testify to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s most renowned medieval settlement, Bryggen has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a comprehensive selection of excursions available, visitors can explore the various facets of Bergen, from the bustling fish market to the narrow cobbled streets and the breathtaking vistas from Mt Fløyen. For those who have visited before, there are tours that venture further afield. Just a short distance from the main piers lies the Fortress Museum, housing an intriguing collection of World War II artefacts.

Day 2 - Ålesund

Ålesund, Norway: The coastal town of Ålesund serves as the commercial heart of the Møre og Romsdal district. Its claim to fame, however, rests on its distinctive Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) architecture, which some argue makes Ålesund one of Norway's most beautiful towns. This architectural style emerged following a devastating fire in 1904, during which nearly 800 buildings were destroyed, and 10,000 residents left homeless. The town was subsequently rebuilt with the input of many young, foreign architects who infused it with a blend of German Jugendstil and Viking influences. Today, its narrow streets are brimming with turrets, spires, and gables adorned with dragonheads and curlicues. Recognised for preserving its unique architecture, Ålesund received the Houens National Memorial Prize in 1998.

Day 3 - Geiranger

Geiranger, Norway: The Geirangerfjord, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005, is Norway's most famous and spectacular fjord. This 16-km-long, 960-foot-deep natural wonder is renowned for its roaring waterfalls, including the Seven Sisters, the Bridal Veil, and the Suitor. Perched on mountain ledges along the fjord, you’ll find the restored farms of Skageflå and Knivsflå, preserved by local enthusiasts. The village of Geiranger may only have around 300 permanent residents, but during the spring and summer, its population swells with visitors arriving from Hellesylt. In winter, the area can become isolated due to snow on the mountain roads.

Day 3 - Hellesylt

Hellesylt, Norway: Since the end of the last ice age, people have been passing through Hellesylt, but it wasn’t until 1875 that tourists began to stay overnight with the opening of its first hotel. Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen’s play 'Brand' was inspired by this village. Although many tourists and cruise ships visit annually, there’s little to see beyond the village centre’s waterfall. A few visitors come for the mountain walks, climbing, boating, and fishing, but most utilise Hellesylt as an embarkation point for the drive to Geiranger, while some opt to cruise into the fjord.

Day 4 - Olden

Olden, Norway: Witness the magnificent aqua blue ice of the Jostedal Glacier cascading down the serene Oldedalen Valley as you sail through the intricate fjords of Norway. The village of Olden is a portal to some of Norway's most majestic natural wonders; from the glacier, which is mainland Europe's largest, to the cascading waterfalls that flow from it amid bowing forests. Olden is a paradise for those seeking thrilling panoramas and hiking trails sprinkled with wildflowers. The Briksdalsbreen, a glacial arm, is around an hour’s walk from Olden or easily accessible by bus, allowing you to encounter the natural wonder up close.

Day 5 - Stavanger

Stavanger, Norway: Overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean, Stavanger thrived as a 19th-century fishing port. While other Norwegian towns have faced economic decline due to the waning fishing industry, Stavanger has prospered through its shift into shipbuilding and oil. This has resulted in a city showcasing both modern high-rise buildings and a historic centre with cobbled streets and old wooden houses. The city, the birthplace of novelist Alexander Kielland, boasts significant historical sites such as Stavanger Cathedral, which remains mostly unaltered since its completion in 1125. From Stavanger, explore the splendid Lysefjord with its towering cliffs or visit Hafrsfjord, where Viking King Harald secured Norway’s unification.

Day 6 - Arendal

Arendal, Norway: Passing twinkling lighthouses and idyllic islands, you arrive at the charming coastal town of Arendal. A reflection of slow-paced Norwegian life, Arendal spans seven islands along the southern coast and offers abundant exploration opportunities, whether by ferry, boat, foot, or bike. Take in the sight of Arendal’s lighthouses, such as Store Torungen, which still aids navigation for ships amongst the islands and skerries. The town’s cafes and shellfish vendors greet you warmly upon arrival, offering the perfect ambiance for a leisurely stroll by the water or a cycling adventure through its lovely countryside.

Day 7 - Gothenburg

Gothenburg, Sweden: Gothenburg, locally known as Göteborg, doesn't suffer from second-city syndrome despite its size compared to Stockholm. Renowned for its friendliness, it offers a rich cultural scene with an opera house, theatre, a leading art museum, and a renowned applied-arts museum. Gothenburg's history extends from an ancient port to 19th-century factories and workers’ houses pivotal to its development. Nature lovers can journey to the wild-west coast or lush green fields nearby, while food enthusiasts will delight in the city’s celebrated culinary scene, which has produced numerous winners of the Swedish Chef of the Year competition.

Day 8 - Oslo

Oslo, Norway: Concluding your voyage, Oslo, Norway’s capital and largest city, awaits you. Nestled at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by lush hills and forests, Oslo shines with its diverse offerings, including 50 museums, numerous galleries, a sculpture park, and the Royal Palace. This vibrant city, steeped in 1,000 years of captivating history, highlights its rich seafaring tradition, from Viking times to Thor Heyerdahl’s voyages. A rich array of excursions enables you to uncover the many attractions and history of this fascinating city.