Nordic Wonders<br>9 days

Board your overnight flight to Stockholm today. Meals: In-flight Hey there, fellow explorers! Welcome to Stockholm, the heart of Sweden's vibrant culture. Get ready to experience a perfect blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation. From the historic streets of Gamla Stan to the trendy neighborhoods like Södermalm, Stockholm offers a dynamic mix of art, music, and nightlife that's perfect for the adventurous spirit in you. And don't miss the chance to indulge in Swedish fika culture - those coffee breaks are a must-try! So, get ready to dive into a city that's as stylish as it is historic - Stockholm is waiting to show you an unforgettable time! Meals: Dinner Inclusions: Airport transfer with purchased AESU group airfare Welcome orientation and dinner Get your walking shoes on for an unforgettable journey through Stockholm's most iconic sites! Wander the charming, cobbled streets of the Old Town (Gamla Stan,) where history comes to life around every corner. Marvel at the majestic Royal Palace that stands as a testament to Sweden's regal past. Hop on a ferry to Djurgården, an oasis of culture and nature, where you can explore the optional delights of the ABBA Museum or the Nordic Museum, each offering a unique glimpse into Scandinavian pop culture or heritage. It's a walking tour that blends history, royalty, and entertainment in the most captivating way. Meals: Breakfast Inclusions: 24-hour Stockholm travel card, valid on buses, underground trains, trams, and certain ferry lines, including Djurgarden Half-day walking tour with local English-speaking guide Stockholm sights include, Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace, Djurgarden and more Embark on an exciting train journey from Stockholm to Copenhagen, passing through stunning landscapes that connect these two dynamic Scandinavian cities. Our adventure lands us in the heart of Denmark's capital, nestled along the eastern coast. Copenhagen's unique fusion of historical charm and cutting-edge creativity sets the stage for a vibrant cultural scene, top-notch dining experiences, and a strong focus on sustainability, all of which combined create an irresistible destination for explorers. During free time tonight, consider exploring Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks. The park features a charming blend of classic and modern rides, beautiful gardens, and live entertainment, and it is particularly magical in the evening when the lights come on. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Inclusions: Train ticket Stockholm to Copenhagen, standard class Danish specialty welcome dinner Step into the heart of Copenhagen's charm on our captivating walking tour. We'll begin by wandering along the cobblestone lanes of Nyhavn, where the colorful 17th-century townhouses and bustling waterfront cafés capture the city's maritime spirit. Don't miss the chance to stand in awe of the iconic Little Mermaid statue, a symbol of Copenhagen's allure set against the sparkling harbor. On our walk, we also see the magnificent Christiansborg Palace, a regal residence that houses the Danish Parliament, Prime Minister's Office, and Supreme Court. Enjoy a Smorrebrod, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich for lunch, then, you're up for an extra treat: a guided tour of the Carlsberg Brewery for a taste of Danish brewing heritage and culture. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Inclusions: Guided walking tour of Copenhagen with a local English-speaking expert Copenhagen sights, such as the neighborhood of Nyhavn, the Little Mermaid, Christiansborg Palace Carlsberg Brewery, guided tour Smorrebrod lunch Optional activity: Canal sightseeing cruise Experience the magic of the Baltic Sea's sweeping vistas as we set sail on an overnight ferry journey to Oslo. Savor a delectable dinner on board while soaking in the serene expanse of open waters and the blissful coastal views. As night falls, just have a relaxing night or enjoy some of the varied evening entertainment on board. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Inclusions: Overnight ferry Copenhagen to Oslo Ferry dinner Arrive in Oslo, Norway's capital, and find yourself in a city that effortlessly combines modern design and natural beauty. From its world-class museums to its stunning fjord views, Oslo offers a captivating blend of culture and nature that's waiting to be explored. During our guided tour of Oslo, we explore the historic grounds of Akershus Fortress, where echoes of the past meet panoramic harbor views, then wander through the vibrant heart of the city to witness the grandeur of the Royal Palace, a symbol of Norway's rich heritage. Consider a visit to the Munch Museum or the Vigeland Sculpture Park. If you are seeking a mix of excitement and safety, Grünerløkka stands out as Oslo's prime destination for nightlife. This vibrant district offers a diverse range of hip bars, live music venues, and cozy cafés, ensuring a lively and enjoyable night out. Meals: Breakfast Inclusions: Ground transportation by private motor coach Local English-speaking guide Half-day tour of Oslo Sights include the Akershus Fortress, the Royal Palace Delight in a day all to yourself in Oslo, brimming with opportunities for excitement and adventure. Dive into the vibrant rhythm of Aker Brygge, where the waterfront comes alive with stylish boutiques and scenic promenades. Let the peaceful waterfront and stunning views set the backdrop for a leisurely day of shopping, dining, and relaxation. After our farewell dinner of Norwegian specialties, venture to the spirited heart of Youngstorget, where the energy is infectious, and the choices are endless. Discover vibrant bars, bustling cafés, and live music venues that promise an evening of fun and socializing. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Inclusions: Independent exploration of Oslo Nordic farewell dinner Before we say "good-bye" to those leaving us today, we make plans to reunite on another young alumni journey in the near future. The rest of us gear up for an exciting adventure headed towards Bergen by train, with an overnight pit stop in the picturesque village of Flam. Our journey takes us through majestic mountain landscapes, and charming villages like Gol and Geile, each a unique piece of the Norwegian puzzle. As we reach Myrdal, get ready for a seamless transition onto the renowned Flam Railway (Flamsbana), an experience that promises awe-inspiring vistas as we wind our way to the quaint haven of Flam. Upon arrival, we'll find ourselves immersed in a world of relaxation. Consider embarking on leisure time activities, or perhaps following one of the many mountain trails, or diving into optional activities like kayaking, fjord sightseeing, or even venturing to the remarkable Stegastein platform. The stage is set for unforgettable fun amidst Norway's scenic beauty. Meals: Breakfast Inclusions: Train ride from Oslo to Myrdal (approx. 5 hours) Train from Myrdal to the picturesque village of Flam Kick off the day with a "chill" morning - relax at the hotel or take a mellow stroll by the fjord. Then it's time to hop on board and cruise along Aurlandsfjord, gliding into the World Heritage-listed Naroyfjord -Europe's slimmest fjord! Naroyfjord is like a slice of fjord heaven with its epic waterfalls and charming farms on the steep slopes. As our boat docks in Gudvangen, we hop on a private motorcoach to complete this epic journey all the way to Bergen. Meals: Breakfast Inclusions: Naroyfjorden Cruise - Flam to Gudvangen Aurlandsfjord Ground transportation by private motorcoach Tucked between cosmopolitan and small-town allure, Bergen, the charismatic "Capital of the Fjords," crafts a refined blend of experiences with a hint of playfulness. We join our local guide on a walking tour this morning. Immerse yourself in Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, and its impeccably preserved historical homes, narrating tales of eras gone by. The cheerful fish and flower market adds a modern twist to tradition, buzzing with an energy that transcends time. Elevating the experience are the cable cars that unveil stunning vistas. Later, opt to hop on the Floibanen Funicular to Mound Floyen for a panorama that's Instagram-worthy, or take a cable car ride to Mt Ulriken, where sophistication meets thrill. For the culture enthusiasts, Bergen's museums are gems that speak volumes, telling stories of history, maritime legacy, architectural brilliance, and the contemporary avant-garde. For the night owls, Bergen's hip nightlife scene is centered around the streets of Engen and Vetrlidsallmenningen, where you'll find an array of trendy bars, live music venues, and laid-back lounges, making it the perfect spot to unwind and have a blast after dark. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Inclusions: Guided tour of Bergen, led by a local English-speaking expert Sights include Bryggen, UNESCO World Heritage treasure, fish & flower markets Farewell Fjord dinner Our Nordic adventure ends this morning as we bid farewell to our amazing new friends and plan to prepare our next young alumni adventure together. Meals: Breakfast Inclusions: Airport transfer included with purchased AESU group airfare