Rhine, Fjords, and Nordic Wonders - 10 Days

Welcome as you arrive in Frankfurt, where we�ll ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. Once checked in, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your leisure. Frankfurt offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and charming historic sites, so there�s plenty to discover in your downtime. Later in the day, keep an eye on the hotel reception boards for detailed information regarding the start of your tour. As this is your first evening, take the opportunity to rest and prepare for the exciting adventure that awaits. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Today, we delve into the heart of the Rhine and Moselle Valleys, celebrated for their historical depth and quaint villages. Our day begins with a leisurely cruise on the Rhine, navigating the stretch between R�desheim and Sankt Goar � often regarded as the river�s most scenic section. Continuing to the Moselle River, we pause for lunch in the charismatic village of Cochem. Perched above is a thousand-year-old castle that watches over the Rhine riverbank.

Our travels then take us to Cologne, where you�ll be greeted by its magnificent Gothic cathedral. At 154 metres tall, it held the title of the world�s tallest building until the late 19th century. There�s also time for a stroll along the Rhine and through the bustling city centre. Afterwards, we journey on to our hotel in Dortmund. Please note that during fairs or congresses, accommodation might be arranged in a nearby city.

On the third day of our journey, we immerse ourselves in the enchanting world of the Brothers Grimm as we traverse the renowned Fairy Tale Route. Our adventure begins with a visit to Trendelburg, a charming village encircled by ancient walls. Here, we explore the grand medieval castle and its famed Rapunzel Tower � admission included. We then continue our travels along picturesque roads, passing through forests reminiscent of the Hansel and Gretel tale. Our midday stop is in H�xter, a lively town where we savour lunch and take in the historic Corvey Abbey, a 9th-century monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site � admission included. Our route then leads us to Polle, home to the ruins of Cinderella's Castle, where we include admission for your enjoyment. Our day concludes in Hamelin, celebrated for the Pied Piper legend. After discovering its fabled mouse tracks, we proceed to Hanover, where you'll have the opportunity to wander near the old town hall for a glimpse of local history. Please note that during fairs or conferences, accommodation may be arranged in cities nearby. Corvey Abbey remains closed from November to February.

Following a hearty breakfast, we set off towards Hamburg. Upon arrival, you�ll be captivated by the vibrant energy of the city�s bustling port, which provides a delightful contrast to the serene waters of the surrounding lake. After lunch, our adventure continues as we journey to Flensburg, a picturesque coastal village nestled on the Danish border. Here, you can take in the maritime charm at the local marina. As the day unfolds, we press onward through the scenic landscapes of the Jutland Peninsula, eventually reaching Aarhus. This thriving urban centre is Denmark's second-largest city, offering a blend of contemporary culture and historical intrigue.

On day five of our journey, we travel to Hirtshals, where we embark on a scenic ferry crossing of the North Sea to Norway, a voyage lasting approximately three hours. Once in Kristiansand, we venture along Norway�s striking southern coastline, famed for its rugged beauty. Our next stop is the delightful town of Flekkefjord, offering a taste of Norwegian charm. We then make our way to Stavanger, a picturesque town renowned for its vibrant port nestled by the fjord. Please note that the ferry schedule can vary depending on the time of year, but you'll typically have time to enjoy lunch during the crossing.

Departing from the vibrant city of Stavanger, we will make a stop at the remarkable Swords in Rock monument, honouring the Viking legacy. We then continue our journey along Norway�s stunning fjord coastline, with the path weaving its way through intricate tunnels and bridges � including the world's deepest undersea tunnel. The journey also features two scenic boat trips, providing a serene and awe-inspiring viewing experience. Around lunchtime, we reach Bergen, where we will take a cable car ride up Mount Fl�yen. Here, you can soak in the magnificent panoramic views of the town and the surrounding fjord. Following this, you will have leisure time to discover Bergen at your own pace, exploring this vibrant city often hailed as the capital of Norway's fjords.

Today, we will be treated to some of Norway's most stunning landscapes, including its renowned fjords, glaciers, lakes, and forests. Our journey begins with a visit to Sognefjord, Norway's largest fjord. En route, we will pause to marvel at the breathtaking Tvindefossen Waterfall. Next, we embark on a delightful cruise from Gudvangen to Aurland, where you'll be captivated by the beautiful scenery during this hour-and-a-half voyage�consider enjoying lunch on board. Our adventure continues through splendid snow-covered terrains, as we pass through the Aurland Tunnel, the longest of its kind in the world. A brief stop at the Borgund Stave Church allows us to admire the exterior of this exceptionally preserved medieval wooden church. As the day draws to a close, we arrive in Oslo, where you'll have free time to explore the bustling port, vibrant main streets, and the artistic displays in Frogner Park.

In Oslo, our day begins with an engaging panoramic tour of Norway�s capital with a knowledgeable local guide. This vibrant city, celebrated as the European Green Capital, seamlessly marries modern architecture with classical structures, set against stunning natural scenery and expansive parks dotted with artistic sculptures. After the guided exploration, you�ll have leisure time to delve into Oslo�s unique offerings at your own pace.

We then journey onwards to Sweden, taking in picturesque landscapes of dense forests and serene lakes. Our route leads us to �rebro, a town steeped in history beside a beautiful lake. Here, you'll find time to explore the quaint old town and its impressive castle, providing a taste of Swedish charm. As the day continues, we head to Stockholm, arriving in the evening, where the city�s exquisite charm awaits your discovery.

Today, we will take you on a panoramic tour of Stockholm, a stunning city spread across 14 interconnected islands. Our exploration includes a visit to Gamla Stan, the vibrant old quarter often referred to as "the city between bridges." Here, you will discover the Nobel Prize Museum, located in Stockholm's main square, Stortorget, which pays tribute to Nobel Prize laureates. During our tour, we'll also see the magnificent Cathedral and grand Royal Palace. Whenever possible, we'll pause to take in breathtaking views from Fj�llgatan, a perfect spot for photography. Following this, you'll have some free time to explore at your leisure. We highly recommend visiting the city�s museums and parks, or you may choose to pay an optional visit to the City Hall and the Vasa Museum.

Following breakfast, our tour reaches its conclusion, leaving you with a wealth of cherished memories from your journey.