12 nights. Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Finland

Day 1

amsterdam, holland

Departure: 17:00

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city that consistently enchants visitors with its captivating canals, historic architecture, and lively culture. This stunning city has something for everyone, from art enthusiasts and history aficionados to food connoisseurs and party animals. One of the most emblematic features of Amsterdam is its canal system, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a boat tour or saunter along the canals to appreciate the scenic bridges and vibrant houseboats that line the waterways. The city also hosts many globally recognized museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, which boasts an extensive collection of Dutch art and artifacts. For those seeking some retail therapy, Amsterdam offers a plethora of options. The city's primary shopping district is centered around Dam Square, where you can find everything from luxury fashion to eccentric boutiques. When it comes to food, Amsterdam is a gastronome's dream. From traditional Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels and bitterballen to international cuisine from every corner of the world, there's something to satisfy every palate. As the sun sets, Amsterdam comes to life with a vibrant nightlife. Venture to the infamous Red Light District for a glimpse of the city's more daring offerings, or visit one of the many bars and clubs scattered throughout the city's streets. Regardless of your interests, Amsterdam is a city that's guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable experiences.

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Day 3

oslo, norway

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

Oslo is lively and contemporary, featuring a mix of architectural styles, a cutting-edge nightlife, and top-tier museums. Situated between the Oslofjord and the forests, nature is a focal point in the capital, where you can enjoy sailing, skiing, and hiking just a short distance from the city center. This is certainly a destination for those who love the outdoors and wildlife. As you sail past lush green islands and towering rock formations, the city reveals itself - spreading out from its compact center around the docks to the forested sides of the nearby hills. Oslo's beauty is enhanced by its diversity, with a mix of modern and ancient buildings that give the city a unique feel. The steel-and-glass Munch Museum contrasts with the old-world charm of the City Museum and the rugged medieval walls of the Akershus Fortress, which looms over the fjord. Most visitors will find it hard to choose from Oslo's many museums, which cater to nearly every interest: a close encounter with Edvard Munch’s The Scream at the National Gallery, an opportunity to experience the life of an Olympic ski-jumper at the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, or a glimpse into history and culture at the unforgettable Viking Ship, Polarship Fram or Folk Museums on Bygdøy. Oslo is undoubtedly the cosmopolitan center of Norway, with a rapidly expanding café and bar scene, top-quality restaurants, and nightlife options that range from world-class opera and jazz to indie rock. The capital's flourishing restaurant scene has earned it four Michelin stars. The Grünerløkka district, located near the Munch Museum, is filled with bustling sidewalk cafés and stylish bars. A thriving, truly lively city, the cosmopolitan center of Norway truly offers something for everyone.

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Day 4

skagen - denmark

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 15:00

Skagen (pronounced "skay-gen" in Danish) is the northernmost town in Denmark, located on the east coast of the Skagen Odde peninsula in the far north of Jutland. It's part of the Frederikshavn Municipality in Nordjylland, 25 miles north of Frederikshavn and 67 miles northeast of Aalborg. The Port of Skagen is Denmark's primary fishing port and also boasts a thriving tourism industry, drawing 2 million visitors each year. Skagen is the best place in Denmark for birdwatching, with a total of 367 out of the country's 471 bird species found here (as of 2017). Birdwatchers from all over Denmark, as well as from Sweden, Norway, and Germany, visit the area around Skagen, especially Grenen, throughout the year. The peak times for birdwatching are in April-May and early June, with a smaller influx in August-November. Popular birdwatching spots include Ellekrattet, Nordstrand (near Batterivej), Skagen Harbour, and Flagbakken southwest of the town, as well as the horse fields and brushwood near Fyrvej, Bøjlevejen, and Buttervej. The Skagen Bird Observatory monitors bird migration on Grenen every day of the year from the highest sand dune, known as "The World's End," located between the parking lot and Grenen. Skagen is also known for its artistic community, which contributes significantly to the local economy and job market. Art and crafts are sold in galleries like the Galerie Skagen on Trondsvej. Sankt Laurentii Vej, a main street away from the harbor area, is famous for its glass and pottery shops, including Skagen Glasvaerksted, known for some of Jutland's finest glass pieces, and Skagen Potteri. The town also has a variety of other shops, including those selling jewelry, clothing, shoes, handbags, souvenirs, flowers, and gardening equipment. Food stores include butchers, bakers, a cheese shop, fishmongers, and numerous restaurants and cafes. Skagen has a 11,000 square foot branch of the EuroSpar supermarket, which opened in 1998. Skagen Cementstøberi A/S is a local cement company that produces concrete, paving stones, tiles, granite, and other items.

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Day 6

stockholm, sweden

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 17:00

Sweden's capital, a picturesque blend of waterways, parks, and spire-dotted skylines, is rightfully celebrated as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Spanning across 14 islands and surrounded by thousands of smaller, rocky islets, it merges the dramatic landscapes and open skies of Scandinavia with the energy, dynamism, and urban chic of Western Europe. The city's essence is found in its diverse aspects: the stucco walls of the Old Town, the modern pulse of the galleries, the consumerist hum of the shopping districts, the tranquil serenity of the parks, the pulsating rhythm of the nightlife, and increasingly, the culinary allure of the restaurants. Stockholm's position on the Baltic Sea results in stark seasonal changes, and many locals will tell you that the only thing rivaling the beauty of a summer evening in Stockholm is the winter allure of its frozen lakes and snow-dusted skylines. Indeed, Stockholm's unique charm is a significant factor in its popularity among tourists, and in a continent brimming with captivating urban destinations, it speaks volumes that the city's cultural scene is dynamic enough to compete with any other in northern Europe. In addition to its exhibitions, museums, and concerts, it also offers a deeply romantic backdrop for a leisurely weekend getaway – the combination of preserved medieval architecture, expansive water views, and vibrant nightlife is irresistible. Most importantly, it's worth emphasizing that this city is truly unique. It's the most populated urban area in Scandinavia, yet two-thirds of it is still made up of water and green spaces. And if this seems unlikely, well, it provides the perfect reason to go and see for yourself.

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Day 7

tallinn, estonia

Arrival: 10:00 - Departure: 20:00

Tallinn, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, offers a perfect blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy. Its narrow cobbled streets are adorned with baroque architecture, while its nightlife is lively and exciting. Often referred to as the ‘New Prague,’ Estonia's capital city has a unique allure all its own. The World Heritage-listed Old Town is filled with attractions that will captivate even the most discerning traveler. Best explored on foot, Tallinn’s atmospheric Old Town is rich with castles, Russian Orthodox churches, and Dominican monasteries. These historical treasures coexist with old merchant houses and medieval meeting halls, where visitors can observe locals practicing centuries-old artisan crafts like glassblowing, weaving, and pottery. You might even find a unique souvenir to take home. As night falls, the Old Town transforms into a vibrant scene. Within its ancient walls, travelers can enjoy steamy nightclubs, stylish lounges, expat bars, and colorful gay clubs until the early hours. Beyond the medieval quarters, there is much to discover. A new district is emerging on the outskirts of the old borough, featuring gleaming hotels, offices, and a variety of restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and nightclubs. Anyone arriving in Tallinn expecting a drab Soviet Bloc city will be pleasantly surprised by the modern skyline and the charming historic center. Tallinn embraces its rich history while also being forward-thinking, vibrant, colorful, cultural, and lively.

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Day 8

helsinki, finland

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

Helsinki is located on a small peninsula at the southernmost point of Finland. When you approach Helsinki from the sea, you'll be greeted by the sight of elegant neoclassical buildings in soft hues, and a bustling marketplace filled with strawberries and salmon. The city has been developed with a focus on harmony. During the summer, many locals leave the city's peacefulness for their country homes, but in winter, the capital comes alive with theater, political institutions, and over 20,000 university students. Architecture enthusiasts will adore Helsinki. The beautiful neoclassical buildings around Senate Square were almost entirely designed by German architect Carl Ludwig Engel in the early 19th century, shortly after Helsinki took over as Finland's capital from Turku. The jewel in the crown is the Lutheran Cathedral, which has recently been renovated and looks better than ever, with the 12 apostles on the roof once again gazing down at the world below. Elsewhere in the city, the bold, minimalist designs of the city's renowned 20th-century architects, notably Aalto and Saarinen, complement the sleek neoclassical lines. The breathtaking Jean Sibelius Monument, dedicated to Finland's most famous composer, is made up of hundreds of steel pipes sculpted by Elia Hiltunen. The monument is located in Sibelius Park. The Kansallimuseo, or National Museum, showcases wonderful exhibits of Finnish culture. The City Museum's exhibits depict the city's history. The islands around Helsinki are perfect for day trips. The sandy beaches and smooth rocks of Pihlajasaari make it a favorite summer spot for sunbathing Finns. Every summer, numerous parks in the city host many free outdoor concerts. In the afternoons, all sorts of music can be heard on the leafy Esplanadi. While Helsinki may be a small city compared to the world's mega-cities, it still has a cosmopolitan vibe. Helsinki is a beautiful city, particularly in the summer. The streets are clean, and there's always a quiet spot to be found if you need one. Some people refer to Helsinki as "the world's largest village," and it's an excellent destination for tourism, history, museums, galleries, theater, music, shopping, dining, nightlife, and more, all in an environmentally friendly, pollution-free, and traffic-free setting.

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Day 10-11

copenhagen, denmark

Arrival: 14:00 - Departure: 18:00

A decade ago, tourists flocked to Copenhagen solely for its canals, cobblestone squares, quaint streets, and pastel-colored homes. Today, the city is renowned for its innovative design, avant-garde architecture, and top-tier restaurants. This historic canal city has evolved into a trendy, cosmopolitan, and thrilling destination, all while preserving its old-world charm. The enchanting port of Nyhavn, the city's iconic waterfront, is Copenhagen's most traditional sight, where visitors can appreciate the cobblestone streets and vibrant houses that contrast with Langelinje quay, home to the city's most famous attraction, The Little Mermaid. As you stroll along the Langelinje quay, the contemporary opera house emerges on the horizon, transporting tourists back to the 21st century. Another of the city's modern waterfront landmarks is the Black Diamond entertainment complex, providing another reason to venture beyond the small tourist-centric center. The building itself is breathtaking and offers a unique opportunity to relax in a deckchair overlooking the water. Two of the city's hippest areas, Veesterbro and Norrebro, are tucked away from the throngs of tourists. These lively neighborhoods allow the most adventurous travelers to mingle with locals and experience the buzzing atmosphere of places like the Norrebro Food Hall, an indoor food market, or the Ralea, the restaurant where local chefs go to eat after work. Copenhagen's hippest district of trendy bars, design stores, and eateries, where visitors can experience the city's culinary revolution, is just a metro ride from the city center. The less frequented island neighborhood of Christianshavn offers a peaceful glimpse of residential life and canal-side strolls. It's also home to the "free town" of Christiana, a vibrant alternative community established by hippies in the 1970s, brimming with galleries and cafés, and governed by its own, strict set of rules. Copenhagen is clean, safe, and easy to navigate. It's also one of Europe's greenest cities, and its public transportation system would make New York envious. Its center is reserved for pedestrians and strict anti-pollution laws are enforced. It's an environmentally idyllic location with ample green space and bicycles often outnumber cars, so be cautious when stepping into bike lanes. Freely wander to the world-famous Tivoli amusement park and the city's delightful botanical garden, or join the locals at the sidewalk cafés and restaurants in the summer. Regardless of what you choose to do in the Danish capital, whether you're into design and dining, or simply exploring, Copenhagen will continually beckon you back like a siren.

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Day 13

amsterdam, holland

Arrival: 06:00

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city that consistently enchants visitors with its captivating canals, historic architecture, and lively culture. This stunning city has something for everyone, from art enthusiasts and history aficionados to food connoisseurs and party animals. One of the most emblematic features of Amsterdam is its canal system, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a boat tour or saunter along the canals to appreciate the scenic bridges and vibrant houseboats that line the waterways. The city also hosts many globally recognized museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, which boasts an extensive collection of Dutch art and artifacts. For those seeking some retail therapy, Amsterdam offers a plethora of options. The city's primary shopping district is centered around Dam Square, where you can find everything from luxury fashion to eccentric boutiques. When it comes to food, Amsterdam is a gastronome's dream. From traditional Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels and bitterballen to international cuisine from every corner of the world, there's something to satisfy every palate. As the sun sets, Amsterdam comes to life with a vibrant nightlife. Venture to the infamous Red Light District for a glimpse of the city's more daring offerings, or visit one of the many bars and clubs scattered throughout the city's streets. Regardless of your interests, Amsterdam is a city that's guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable experiences.

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