Scandinavia Self-Drive Road Tour

We will arrive in Helsinki, the capital of Finland, which blends modernity with tradition on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Afterward, we will swiftly check into our accommodations, allowing us to settle in before embarking on our exploration. Depending on the time of your arrival, you can dedicate your time to immerse yourselves in the city's charm, taking in its sea-facing landscape, diverse architecture, and renowned Nordic cuisine. As evening approaches, we will also collect our vehicle, ensuring we're ready to continue our journey with ease the following day. We will end the day with a delectable welcome dinner and some great conversations with your fellow travelers.

On day two of our Scandinavia road trip, we will drive to Kajaani, in the heart of Finland. Leaving the city behind, the open road invites us to explore Finland’s breathtaking countryside, with shimmering lakes and charming villages adding magic to the drive. Traditional Finnish farmsteads dot the route, making the journey itself a highlight of the trip. By the time we reach Kajaani, we will be ready to enjoy dinner and unwind for the night.

Our drive continues from Kajaani to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, further north. As we 33 drive, you will see the landscape and climate shift, embracing the northern wilderness along the way. We will make a memorable stop at Ranua Wildlife Park, nestled in the northern forests. The park is home to about 50 arctic and northern animal species, including Venus the polar bear, Malla the brown bear, and the wolverines Khurma and Julle. After this enriching visit, we will continue to Rovaniemi, where we will settle into our accommodations for the night.

Our self-drive adventure through Scandinavia takes us into the peaceful wilderness of Inari. Leaving behind the festive Santa Claus Village, we will journey through beautiful Arctic landscapes. The road winds through forests glowing with golden autumn leaves, creating a stunning view at every turn. You might even spot wildlife like reindeer or foxes along the way, adding to the magic of the drive. As we reach Inari, you will look forward to staying in cozy igloos, surrounded by nature. From the warmth of your igloo, you can enjoy the incredible northern lights dancing across the night sky, making this experience truly unforgettable.

Today is all about relaxing and exploring the peaceful charm of Inari, right in the heart of Finnish Lapland.

Take a stroll through the village, where cozy wooden houses and stunning views of Lake Inari set the perfect scene. You can visit the Siida Museum to learn about the fascinating Sami culture, the region’s history, and its Arctic environment.

For those who love the outdoors, nearby trails offer a chance to walk through untouched wilderness and maybe even spot some local wildlife.

As the day winds down, unwind in your warm accommodations. If the night sky is clear, keep an eye out for the magical Northern Lights—a perfect way to end your day in Inari!

Today, we embark on an epic journey from the wilderness of Inari to Norway’s Honningsvåg, the northernmost point in Europe and the gateway to the famous North Cape. The drive offers breathtaking views of fjords, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. As we travel, the landscape transforms dramatically, shifting from the warm autumn colors to the crisp white beauty of the Arctic winter.

Once we arrive in Honningsvåg, we will settle in for the evening, taking time to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this incredible destination.

Today, our Scandinavia drive takes us to the iconic Nordkapp, the northernmost tip of Europe. The journey to Nordkapp is nothing short of thrilling, with rugged terrain, winding roads, and stunning Arctic landscapes all around. As we drive, the scenery transforms into a breathtaking display of snow-capped mountains and icy fjords.

At Nordkapp, you will stand at the edge of Europe, where sheer cliffs plunge into icy waters, and the Barents Sea meets the Arctic Ocean. The views are unforgettable, and the experience of being at this remote landmark is truly awe-inspiring. After soaking in the scenery and capturing memories, we will begin our drive to Alta.

The snow-covered roads wind through rugged terrain, offering new perspectives of the vast Arctic landscape with every turn. You might spot wildlife along the way or even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights lighting up the sky. The drive combines the thrill of adventure with the serenity of the Arctic, making it an unforgettable experience.

In Alta, you are free to spend the rest of the evening at leisure. You can explore the Northern Light Cathedral or visit the Alta Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock carvings, before calling it a day.

Our Scandinavia road trip continues as we head to Tromsø, a city celebrated for its Arctic charm and stunning coastal beauty. 

Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø welcomes us with its vibrant and lively atmosphere. After checking into our accommodations, we can spend the evening strolling through the city’s charming streets and along its scenic waterfront. Tromsø’s cozy cafes, inviting restaurants, and unique cultural attractions make it a delightful place to explore.

For a spectacular view of the city, a visit to Tromsø’s famous viewpoint is a must. From the hilltop, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of colorful rooftops, sparkling fjords, and distant snow-capped mountains. It’s the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the Arctic and capture unforgettable memories of this incredible journey.

Begin your day in Tromso with an unforgettable adventure with the popular fjords boat tour. The Norwegian fjords are renowned for their breathtaking beauty, with deep blue waters crashing against towering peaks. Cruising around the fjords in classic wooden boats provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the Arctic Sea's beauty. Keep your camera ready to capture the incredible photo opportunities that await at every turn.

After the cruise, we return to Tromso Harbor, where the tour concludes. For those seeking more adventure, an optional activity awaits the polar plunge. You can take a dip into the Arctic waters for an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

In the evening, you can opt for the Fjellheisen Cable Car ride as the views during sunset are simply stunning or you can also go cafe hopping and indulge yourself in some hot cocoa.

The drive towards Fauske promises a captivating adventure through Norway's scenic landscapes. Afterwards, we will hit the road once more, continuing our drive towards Fauske where the changing landscape serves as a constant source of fascination, with snow-covered peaks giving way to verdant valleys and shimmering lakes.

Once we arrive in Fauske, we will simply retire for the night.

Leaving behind Fauske, we drive towards Trondheim through Norway’s picturesque landscapes retracing our marks on the Arctic Circle once again.

Once we hit the road again, we will pass through the charming town of Rognan, renowned for its salmon farms, where we may catch a glimpse of these majestic fish in their natural habitat. Continuing our drive, We will traverse the beautiful towns of Grong, Trones, and Trofors, each offering unique charm and stunning vistas.

Nestled along the shores of the Trondheim Fjord, the city of Trondheim boasts a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of attractions to explore. From its iconic Nidaros Cathedral to its picturesque waterfront the city is extremely lively.

Upon our arrival, we will check into the Hotel Britannia. Afterwards, you arefreeto spend the evening with pub hopping.

Today is a relaxed day to enjoy the charm of Trondheim, one of Norway’s most historic and vibrant cities.

Take a leisurely stroll through the city’s colorful streets, where past and present blend seamlessly. Visit the iconic Nidaros Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a must-see landmark. If you’re in the mood for a scenic walk, head to the Old Town Bridge, which offers picture-perfect views of the Nidelva River and the famous wooden wharf buildings.

You can also explore the local museums or simply soak in the lively atmosphere at one of the many cozy cafes and restaurants. Whether you spend your day sightseeing, relaxing by the waterfront, or exploring the city’s hidden gems, Trondheim’s laid-back vibe is sure to leave you refreshed and inspired.

We set off towards Alesund, eagerly anticipating the highlight of our journey: the Atlantic Ocean Road. 

This renowned stretch of County Road 64 winds through the picturesque archipelago of Hustadvika and Averøy, offering unparalleled views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. As we navigate this iconic route, each curve presents a new breathtaking scene, making it a truly unforgettable driving experience.

After crossing the Atlantic Ocean Road, our journey continues southward, with ferries providing scenic crossings of the majestic fjords along the way. Finally, we arrive in Alesund, a coastal gem known for its art nouveau architecture and panoramic views. As we settle in for the night, we reflect on the thrill of driving through Norway's stunning landscapes and look forward to exploring Alesund's charm firsthand.

Our Scandinavia road trip continues as we head towards Flam, promising another day of scenic driving through Norway's breathtaking landscapes. As we bid farewell to the coastal charm of Alesund, we embark on a route that winds its way through the heart of Norway's fjord region.

As we journey to Trondheim, our drive takes us through the breathtaking Norwegian countryside, passing through charming villages and lush valleys that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Along the way, we’ll travel through the remarkable Lærdal Tunnel, the world’s longest road tunnel. Spanning an impressive 24.5 kilometers, this engineering marvel is not just a passage but an experience, with its artistically lit rest areas that make the journey through the mountain both fascinating and memorable.

Every moment of this drive immerses us in Norway’s awe-inspiring landscapes, making the journey as extraordinary as the destination.

Finally, as we approach Flam, anticipation builds for the adventures that await us in this picturesque village nestled at the foot of towering mountains. As we settle in for the night, we look forward to the experiences in this enchanting corner of Norway.

Start your day with a half-day boat tour, cruising through Norway's stunning fjords, framed by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls as a part of our Scandinavia road trip itinerary.

For adventure seekers, optional activities includeFlam train journey, ziplining for panoramic views, kayaking along the coastline, or visiting the cheese factory for a taste of local culture.

In the evening, you can soak in the charming atmosphere of Flam, enjoying fresh seafood and strolls along the waterfront. Flam offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences for an unforgettable day.

Today we get back on the road as we head toward Oslo, driving past the scenic town of Eidfjord, we will be treated to dramatic landscapes and winding roads.

As we hit the road, we will be leaving the Nordic wilderness behind and once again moving towards city life. As we approach Oslo, anticipation grows for the city's green spaces and renowned museums. With attractions like the Norwegian Maritime Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, Oslo promises to be a cultural delight. By the time we arrive in Oslo, it will already be nighttime and hence we will check into our Victorian-style Grand Hotel and retire for the night.

Start your day at leisure before venturing out to explore Oslo, the oldest capital of the Scandinavian countries. Guided by an expert, stroll through iconic landmarks such as the Opera House, Karl Johans Gate, and Aker Brygge, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Take in the historic sights of Old Town Christiania and the imposing Akershus Castle and Fortress, tracing Oslo's rich heritage. Then, wander through the stunning Vigeland Sculpture Park, marveling at Gustav Vigeland's renowned sculptures that capture the essence of human emotion including the famous angry boy sculpture. In the evening spend the night with your fellow travelers as you relish in delectable dinner and some amazing conversations.

Leaving Oslo behind, we will get back on the road to head towards Copenhagen. The landscapes are definitely to die for with the highlight of our journey being the Øresund Bridge, linking Sweden and Denmark. What makes it even more exciting is that it’s partly underwater!

One moment, we would be driving high above the sparkling waters, with the coastline stretching out in the distance and the next, we would descend into the underwater tunnel section, for a completely different experience. 

Emerging on the other side, Copenhagen awaits in all its glory. As the day ends, we will check into our accommodation in Copenhagen and retire for the night.

After a delicious breakfast, it's time to explore Copenhagen's highlights! 

We will start at the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, where ancient treasures from Egypt, Rome, and Greece await. Then, we will visit the Grand National Museum before heading to Christiansborg Palace, home to Denmark's Parliament.

At noon, we will catch the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace, a royal spectacle not to be missed. Next up, we will visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue by the ocean, a must-see for any traveler going on a Scandinavia road trip.

Finally, we will wander through Nyhavn, a charming waterfront district lined with colorful buildings and lively cafes. It's the perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere and snap some photos. But a city tour of Copenhagen is incomplete without a food walk consisting of treating yourself to their world-famous open sandwiches, and cinnamon rolls, and a visit to their Danish bakeries.

As the day ends, we will reflect on the beauty of Copenhagen and look forward to more adventures tomorrow!

Leaving Copenhagen behind, we will be off to Stockholm, Sweden, marking the end of our Norwegian adventure. Along the way, we will pass through charming towns like Karlstad, Vaxnos, and Orebro, each offering scenic beauty.

As we approach Stockholm, we will be greeted by the city's unique geography, with 14 islands and countless bridges connecting them. It's a sight to behold as we make our way through the Baltic Sea archipelago.

After a long day of driving and exploration, we will settle in for the night in Stockholm.

Before departing from Stockholm, we will take a brief tour of the city to soak in its beauty. We will explore the charming streets of Gamla Stan, visit iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, and stroll along the waterfront to capture stunning views of the city.

As the day transitions into the evening, we will embark on an overnight ferry journey to Helsinki making this adventure a full circle moment. Boarding the ferry, we will settle into our cabins and prepare for a night of relaxation and exploration on the water.

As the ferry sets sail, we will enjoy panoramic views of the Stockholm archipelago, with its countless islands and tranquil waters. With onboard amenities like restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, plenty keeps us entertained throughout the journey.

Arriving in Helsinki after our overnight ferry journey, be ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Finland's capital city. Here, we will bid farewell to our trusty vehicles, dropping them off before beginning our exploration.

Our day in Helsinki will be filled with discovery as we wander through its streets, from the iconic Senate Square to the bustling Market Square, there's no shortage of sights to see and experiences to enjoy.

As evening approaches, we will gather for a farewell dinner, reminiscing about the unforgettable moments we have shared throughout our Scandinavian drive. Surrounded by good food and even better company, we will toast the memories we have made and the friendships we have forged along the way before retiring for the night.

As our time in Helsinki comes to an end, we gather our belongings and bid farewell to the Finnish capital. With hearts full of memories and suitcases packed with souvenirs, we make our way to the airport, ready for the next chapter of our journey.

As we fly off into the horizon, we carry with us the spirit of adventure and the promise of new beginnings.