Scandinavia & Best of Baltics | Summer | 2025
Scandinavia & Best of Baltics | Summer | 2025
Scandinavia & Best of Baltics | Summer | 2025
19 Days Starting in Copenhagen, Denmark and ending in Vilnius, Lithuania
Visiting: Copenhagen, Oslo, Voss, Sognefjord, Lillehammer, Dalarna County, Stockholm, Tallinn, Tartu, Riga, Kaunas, Vilnius
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SBBBP20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Scandinavia and the Baltics with this 19-day cultural tour in summer 2025. Begin in Copenhagen, exploring its Renaissance architecture and vibrant nightlife, before venturing to Oslo's riverside metropolis. Experience Norway's rugged landscapes, from the adventure capital of Voss to the breathtaking Geiranger Fjord. Discover Stockholm's medieval streets and the Royal Palace, then fly to Tallinn to explore its charming old town. Continue through Latvia, visiting the iconic Cesis Castle and vibrant Riga, before reaching Lithuania's Hill of Crosses and fairy tale-like Trakai Castle. Enjoy scenic coach travel, a flight from Stockholm to Tallinn, and comfortable accommodations throughout. With included meals, orientation tours, and local dinners, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty across Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Copenhagen
Location: Copenhagen
Accommodation Name: Scandic Sydhaven (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Good afternoon globe-roamers and welcome to your first stop of memory-making magic. After a bit of a mingle with the new squad we'll be getting into the spirit of our imminent adventures in Copenhagen. We've got all day tomorrow to suss out the city, so after an orientation tour, tonight can stay reserved for Contiki hangs if you're feeling social.
Day 2: Copenhagen
Location: Copenhagen
Accommodation Name: Scandic Sydhaven (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Constantly named amongst the most liveable cities in the world, Copenhagen is an artwork of locals on bicycles, Danish pastries in cute café windows, & Renaissance architecture. Being a bustling university town and home to the hippie hood of Freetown Christiania, nightlife and unique culture can be found at every turn.
Day 3: Copenhagen To Oslo
Location: Oslo
Accommodation Name: Scandic Helsfyr (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before you go bursting out of your travel clothes thanks to your new-found pastry dependency, we're bailing on Denmark. Next stop: Norway! To the call of castles, fresh seafood, & pretty parks, we respond! Today we're taking on Norway. We'll be surrounded by 200 bronze statues eating Krumkaker pastries before we can say "jeg elsker Norge!" (that's "I love Norway," folks).
Day 4: Oslo
Location: Oslo
Accommodation Name: Scandic Helsfyr (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Oslo, both the capital and biggest city of Norway, is a riverside metropolis back-dropped by mountains of greenery and filled with easy-going culture. Pottering around museums and pretty buildings will keep us busy by day, while taking a stroll through the city should keep you busy by night.
Day 5: Oslo To Voss Via Hardangervidda
Location: Voss
Accommodation Name: Scandic Voss (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Though you'll feel like you know Norway inside out by now, you can't really grasp the country until you've witnessed its great open plains & small country towns...Before we arrive in our overnight hub, we'll coast through the rugged river and rock landscapes of Telemark and Hardangervidda regions, with nature worthy of an Instagram or two...Tonight's stop, Voss is the adventure capital of Norway. We'll take the chilled out approach here, with a night of relaxing and getting to know the crew in our lakefront lodge, it's like waking up in a movie.
Day 6: Voss
Location: Voss
Accommodation Name: Scandic Voss (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The adventure capital of Norway is ours to explore today! We recommend getting the endorphins pumping with a good ol’ hike. There’s also white water rafting for the hardcore adventurers, plus the option to visit the legendary Voss Gondola. After a breathless day of adventure, you'll enjoy a delicious Scandi dinner.
Day 7: Voss To Grotli Via Sognefjord And Geiranger
Location: Sognefjord
Accommodation Name: Grotli Høyfjellshotell (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The outdoor vibes don't end today, we'll be getting back to nature from sun up 'til sun down. Wild animals and spectacular scenery are on the cards so keep that camera of yours charged to full. Norwegian countryside and pretty waterfalls will highlight our journey to the 200km long Sognefjord, a sight set to take your breath away. After visiting Boyabreen glacier - which will see you pondering more rural life goals - we'll continue our journey to the UNESCO listed Geiranger Fjord, where we'll head out for a cruise. We'll make our way to Grotli to spend the night surrounded by some of mother nature's finest.
Day 8: Grotli To Elverum Via Lillehammer
Location: Lillehammer
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Thon Hotel Elgstua (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We've got more spectacular natural beauty to check out today. We'll pass by wild waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and vibrant green foliage, before making a morning tea stop in Lom. After managing to close our jaws again, we'll stop at the alpine ski resort of Lillehammer. Upon arrival we'll have the chance to hop on the Lillehammer Olympic Track bobsleigh, Northern Europe's only artificial frozen bob, before taking a stroll through the city and grabbing a bite to eat. We've got more epic surprises tomorrow, so we'll head to our hotel in Elverum to rest up.
Day 9: Elverum To Torgås
Location: Dalarna County
Accommodation Name: Torgåsgården (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine! More adventures await. Today we're crossing the border from Norway to Sweden, so keep an eye out for the famous Vasaloppet start line. Dalarna County is set to take our breath away upon arrival. The centrepiece is the shimmering lake, so we'll let you enjoy this for a few hours (canoeing, kicking a ball or maybe just relaxing, depending on your vibe). Want to experience more of the area's natural beauty? You’ll have the chance to take a short hike through the forest with fika and huskies in between. Bask in your surroundings and learn all about Swedish history and folklore from a local guide.
Day 10: Torgås To Stockholm
Location: Stockholm
Accommodation Name: Generator Stockholm (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving Dalarna behind and bidding farewell to the orange Dala horse (Sweden's national symbol), we're headed to the capital today. Stockholm, here we come! After checking into our stylish Generator accommodation, it’s off for an orientation tour of the city before dinner.
Day 11: Stockholm
Location: Stockholm
Accommodation Name: Generator Stockholm (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wander the quaint medieval streets of Gamla Stan & try to catch the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace. All that ground covered will earn you some Swedish salmon & an Absolut on the rocks – but don’t forget to save room for your evening meatballs….
Day 12: Stockholm To Tallinn
Location: Tallinn
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Tallinn Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we'll leave Sweden behind and fly across the Baltic Sea to Estonia. Welcome to Tallinn, Estonia's elegant capital. We'll let you explore this beautiful Baltic city for a few hours, after which our TM will give you an orientation tour, followed by a local dinner at F HOONE, with its menu of healthy but seriously delicious local delicacies.
Day 13: Tallinn
Location: Tallinn
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Tallinn Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tallinn is all yours for the day, so go out and find out what makes this place so special. One of Europe's hidden gems, this early medieval era creation is now a fascinating mix of old and new.With one of the best preserved old towns in the world, a charming coastline, and gothic towers scattered around, this city will win your heart in an instant. Stop by the Estonian Open-Air Museum or take a walk to Toompea Hill for a chance to see the Old Town in all its splendour.
Day 14: Tallinn To Tartu
Location: Tartu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tartu (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we're setting our sights on Tartu... A town known for its upbeat nightlife, bunting-clad town square, its wealth of cultural activities, and its 17th Century university, Tartu is an Estonian hidden gem. Take the day to explore every nook and cranny alongside your new pals and TM and we'll meet back in the evening for a locally prepared meal full of cultural specialties.
Day 15: Tartu To Riga Via Valmiermuiza And Cesis
Location: Riga
Accommodation Name: Rixwell Konventa Seta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Tartu, it's been emotional, but today we're heading for Latvia. An iconic tour, tasting & lunch awaits at Valmiermuiža Brewery, where we'll become acquainted with the cornerstones of brewing beer. Next, we'll stop by to visit the Cēsis Castle, one of the most iconic and best preserved castles in Latvia. Here we are in Riga! Enjoy a free evening around Latvia's capital, resting quietly on the Baltic Sea. Sitting at the border between tradition and cutting edge modernism, this city will no doubt charm you with its art nouveau architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Day 16: Riga
Location: Riga
Accommodation Name: Rixwell Konventa Seta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You've got beautiful Riga all to yourself today, so make the most of it! Take a stroll through the Old Town and discover the House of the Black Heads (a 14th century landmark), some of the many shops and restaurants that fill the cobblestoned streets and the timeless charm of a capital steeped in over 800 years of history.
Day 17: Riga To Kaunas Via Jurgaiciai
Location: Kaunas
Accommodation Name: Moxy Kaunas Center (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
...and we're on the road again. Today we're visiting the Hill of Crosses, an epic pilgrimage site which boasts a collection of over 200,000 ornate crosses, statues and effigies erected on a small hill in Northern Lithuania. Well hello, Kaunas! Here in this southern Lithuanian gem, we'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to river views and impressive cathedrals. Don't miss Kaunas Castle or the epic 9th Fort.
Day 18: Kaunas To Vilnius Via Trakai Castle
Location: Vilnius
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Vilnius Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
So long, Kaunas. We’re making our way to our next awesome destination today, and it’s none other than vibrant Vilnius! Welcome to Trakai Castle, a 14th century fortress built on an island on the glittering Lake Galve. This place looks just like a fairy tale, so cameras at the ready… Our journey ends here in Vilnius but not without a tour of the stunning baroque architecture that'll inspire you to remodel your own home. Take advantage of the street art lining the cobblestone streets and exchange details with all your new best friends. Time to lock in your next adventure!
Day 19: End Vilnius
Location: Vilnius
Meals Included: Breakfast
...and this is where our journey sadly ends. Exchange contact information with your fellow travellers, who have now probably become friends. Time to lock in your next adventure!
What's Included
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Meals
Meals provided include breakfast and dinner on various days throughout the tour.
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Orientation Tours
Orientation tours in cities such as Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, Tallinn, and Vilnius.
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Kayaking
Kayaking in the breathtaking Geiranger Fjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Cruise
Cruise through the stunning Geiranger Fjord.
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Special Stay
Special stay at Pakruojo Dvaras, an elegant 16th century manor.
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Historical Sightseeing
Historical sightseeing tours in cities such as Stockholm and Vilnius.
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Local Dinners
Local dinners at places like F HOONE in Tallinn and other cultural specialty meals.
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Transportation
Transportation includes coach travel between destinations, with scenic routes through regions like Telemark and Hardangervidda, and a flight from Stockholm to Tallinn.
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels such as Scandic Sydhaven, Scandic Helsfyr, Scandic Voss, Grotli Høyfjellshotell, Thon Hotel Elgstua, Torgåsgården, Generator Stockholm, Ibis Tallinn Center, Hotel Tartu, Rixwell Konventa Seta, Pakroja Dvaras Hotel, and Ibis Vilnius Center.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as white water rafting in Voss and the Lillehammer Olympic Track bobsleigh are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and other travel documentation costs are not included.
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 18 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Included Experience
- Copenhagen:
- Oslo: Get your sculpture culture on! It’s hard to believe that one artist created all of these masterpieces.
- Geirangerfjord: Cruise on the world's most famous fjord! Sheer mountain cliffs, waterfalls, and abandoned farms will no doubt leave a lasting impression.
- Sognefjord: See this branch of Europe's largest continental glacier IRL. Don’t forget your camera.
- Stockholm: Admire the kaleidoscopic buildings in Gamla Stan (the old town) and watch the changing of the guards at the Royal Palace
- Stockholm: Walk the streets of Stockholm with your Trip Manager, to get a feel for the city, before exploring solo.
- Tallinn: Get to know your new Contiki fam over a welcome dinner and drinks in arty Telliskivi.
- Valmiermuiza: Get together with the Contiki crew for a tour, tasting and lunch at this Latvian brew-house.
- Cesis: Take a jaunt around this medieval Latvian castle with an expert. And learn more about the Livonian Order that built it.
- Riga: Take an orientation around the colourful streets of the Latvian capital. We’ll show you the highlights and the best places for a night out.
- Jurgaiciai: It’s not every day you see a hill blanketed with over 200,000 wooden crosses. Don’t forget your camera for this Lithuanian landmark.
- Trakai Island Castle: This 14th century Lithuanian castle on an island in Lake Galve is so picturesque it’s almost not real. Pics or it didn’t happen!
- Vilnius: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER EXPERIENCE®, we'll pay a visit to Pirmas Blynhas - a cafe that provides employment and empowerment for people with disabilities.
- Oslo: Take an orientation around the friendly Norwegian capital. Soak up the Viking and maritime legacy, see city highlights and discover where to get the best seafood.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes coach travel between destinations, with scenic routes through regions like Telemark and Hardangervidda, and a flight from Stockholm to Tallinn.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, meals are provided, including breakfast and dinner on various days throughout the tour.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
Accommodation is provided in various hotels such as Scandic Sydhaven, Scandic Helsfyr, Scandic Voss, Grotli Høyfjellshotell, Thon Hotel Elgstua, Torgåsgården, Generator Stockholm, Ibis Tallinn Center, Hotel Tartu, Rixwell Konventa Seta, Pakroja Dvaras Hotel, and Ibis Vilnius Center.
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Is there any special accommodation experience included in the tour?
Yes, there is a special stay at Pakruojo Dvaras, an elegant 16th century manor.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as white water rafting in Voss and the Lillehammer Olympic Track bobsleigh are available but not included in the tour package.
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What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes historical sightseeing tours in cities such as Stockholm and Vilnius, as well as local dinners at places like F HOONE in Tallinn and other cultural specialty meals.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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What is the starting and ending point of the tour?
The tour starts in Copenhagen and ends in Vilnius.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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We look after you every step of the way.