Nordic Harmony: Ultimate Summer Journey to Norway, Iceland & Greenland - 21 Days

Highlights

• Cruise the UNESCO-listed fjords of Norway, from Oslo to Ålesund
• Enjoy zipline rides, mountain hikes, and kayaking in the Fjordland
• Experience Iceland's landmark waterfalls, glaciers, geysers and more
• Soak in Iceland's geothermal pools, including the famous Blue Lagoon
• Hop over to Greenland for helicopter flights and boat tours

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo, Self-Guided Tour & Dinner Cruise

Welcome to Norway and Oslo! What began as a Viking outpost in the 11th century has grown into a grand European capital that blends its historic roots with modern urban landscapes. Situated on the country's southern coast at the head of the Oslofjord, this city is the center of the nation's finance, trade, and shipping industries. But there's plenty of culture here, too. With a host of museums, galleries, and world-class restaurants sprinkled along the fun waterfront areas, you'll never want for things to do.

Upon arrival at the airport, you'll hop on a train to the city center and your hotel. After checking in, feel free to stretch your legs on a self-guided tour. You'll quickly discover Oslo retains its small-city energy due to the surrounding mountains and tranquil seaside. The charismatic downtown area is made for walking, and its fun outlying neighborhoods are easily accessible by public transportation. Don't miss Aker Brygge, a scenic waterfront area home to a boardwalk lined with museums, bars, and restaurants. Highlights include the Nobel Peace Center and Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art.

Norway is also famous for its scenic fjords, and this evening, you'll be introduced to these natural wonders on an intimate dinner cruise. Transfer to the pier at the Oslofjord, where you'll board a ship and get underway. During this three-hour dining and sailing experience, you'll enjoy a three-course meal featuring locally sourced Norwegian ingredients complemented by views of the beautiful Oslo skyline. As you eat, look for famous landmarks in and around the city, like the modernist Opera House and the 19th-century Dyna Fir lighthouse. 

Day 2: Oslo Like a Local Tour, Aquavit Tasting

After a good night's rest, enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then meet up with a local guide for a custom private tour of Oslo. There's much to see and do in this highly walkable city, and your expert guide will tailor this experience according to your interests. You can opt for a half-day or full-day tour, but whatever you choose, expect to hit Oslo's most famous highlights.

Options include a cultural excursion along the Akerselva River, a vital waterway abounding local history. Start with the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology, then head south to the Labour Museum (part of the Oslo City Museum). Or, choose a "fjord to forest" tour, where you'll visit islands near Oslo's harbor and the lakes and wilderness just outside the city. You can also head to the steep hills of Holmenkollen in the north of the city. Known for hosting international skiing competitions, there's an observatory here that offers panoramic views of Oslo.

Later, say goodbye to one local guide and meet up with another for a three-hour tasting tour of Norway's most famous spirit: aquavit. Meaning "water of life" in Latin, this local liquor is distilled from grain or potatoes and infused with herbs and spices like caraway and dill. It packs quite a punch (aquavit contains at least 37.5% alcohol), but your expert guide will be there every step of the way, leading you to the best bars and restaurants to sample the finest quality aquavit. Besides drinking, the hosts and proprietors you meet during the tour will reveal the history of this cherished local spirit.

Day 3: Fly to Ålesund, Hiking & Kayaking

Say goodbye to Oslo as you transfer to the airport by taxi and catch a one-hour flight north to Ålesund. Located at the edge of Norway's UNESCO-listed western fjord region (Fiordland), Ålesund is known as one of the most charming places in all of Scandinavia. The impressive Art Nouveau architecture here resulted from rebuilding efforts following a devastating fire in 1904. Upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel in town.

Then, head out to get a sense of Ålesund's grandeur on a scenic hike up to one of the many viewpoints around town. One of the best is Fjellstu. Climb the 418 steps (or hop on the tourist train) to reach the summit, where panoramic vistas of the town, islands, and the Sunnmøre Alps await. After snapping a few Instagrammable pics, you can discover Ålesund's rich maritime heritage at the Sunnmøre Museum, an open-air wonderland where the town's seafaring past comes to life through interactive exhibits—you can even climb aboard a historic fishing vessel!

Later, hop in a kayak for a scenic ride around the western fjords. Leave from Ålesund on a two-hour trip along the waterfront. During the trip, you'll pass famous Art Nouveau buildings while learning fascinating info about the area from your expert guide. Of course, there will be plenty of stops at prime vantage points to snap photos. In the evening, visit one of the town's fine gastropubs or fine-dining restaurants for a dinner of classic Norwegian cuisine utilizing local ingredients (expect fresh seafood).

Day 4: Drive to Geiranger, Zipline Tour

Rise and shine! This morning, you'll pick up your rental car and set off on a scenic 2.5-hour drive south into Fjordland and Geiranger. This postcard Norwegian town sits at the end of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, one of the most beautiful fjords in a nation with no shortage of such landmarks. In the summer months, Geiranger comes alive with a range of exciting outdoor activities and cultural experiences for visitors of all ages.

Popular summer activities include hiking and kayaking, which you'll do soon enough. However, first things first: Upon arrival in Geiranger, you'll transfer to an elevated spot just outside town for a thrilling zipline tour. Strap into a harness and take a flying leap off a platform. Then, enjoy the ride as you soar over the Geirangerfjord, enjoying a bird' s-eye view of some of Norway's most dazzling scenery. At the end of the tour, you'll continue to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Day 5: Geiranger Kayak Tour & Waterfall Hike

It wouldn't be a trip to Geiranger without an aquatic adventure on its famous fjord. To that end, you'll walk down to the shore, grab a paddle, and hop in a kayak for a three-hour scenic ride around one of the country's most beautiful waterways. Follow the shoreline to hidden coves and secluded inlets as sea eagles and cormorants soar gracefully overhead. Get lucky, and you might even glimpse a rainbow arcing over the fjord. 

Afterward, leave the kayak behind and lace up your boots for a jaunt along the region's most famous hike: the Fosseråsa National Trail. Packed with memorable scenery, this route will take you from the center of Geiranger up to Storsæterfossen, an epic waterfall nestled in the mountains at 1,804 feet (550 m) above sea level. The route is divided into three sections, with the first two leading up past hillside farms—keep an eye out for wildlife like red squirrels and deer—on stone steps built by Nepali Sherpas.

The last leg continues up to Storsæterfossen. Take a walk behind these thundering cascades and cool down as you're hit with refreshing spray. There are also incredible viewpoints from which to snap panoramic photos of the fjord and town below. After a little while, you'll head back down the mountain and return to your hotel.

Day 6: Drive to Åndalsnes via the Troll's Path

After breakfast, continue the road trip adventure through the western fjords, heading north from Geiranger to the town of Åndalsnes. The drive takes about 2.5 hours and is packed with amazing scenery.

Undoubtedly, the main highlight is Trollstigen (Troll's Path): Known as one of Norway's most scenic drives, Trollstigen is a winding mountain road with a whopping eleven hairpin bends that ascends into the heart of the Romsdal Alps. After ascending to the top at 2,814 feet (858 m) above sea level, you'll be rewarded with panoramic viewpoints offering jaw-dropping vistas of the landscapes below.

Later, you'll arrive in Åndalsnes. Located at the crossroads of fjords and towering mountains, this small town of around 3,000 people sits at the mouth of the Rauma River. Despite its ample charm, Åndalsnes is more famous as a hub for adventures and excursions—including the drive up Troll's Path. Upon arrival, you'll check into your accommodation and have the rest of the day free. 

Day 7: Hike Mount Saksa, Drive to Ålesund

Get ready for another epic hike today, as this morning, you'll head out to conquer Mount Saksa. Leave early and transfer southwest to the small village of Urke, where the trailhead is located. From there, embark on a 1-mile (3 km) path that works its way up 3,520 feet (1,072 m), crossing wooden bridges and following switchbacks to the summit. As you go, you'll be treated to views of crystal-clear fjords and rolling hills. Make no mistake; this is a demanding hike that will prove difficult for those without a good level of physical fitness.

Still, the difficulty will cease to matter once you reach the viewpoints at the south peak. From here, you can see the Hjørundfjorden end in one direction and all the way out to Ålesund in the other. After admiring the scenery at the top, you'll head down the trail to your car and continue south back to Ålesund, where you'll overnight.

Day 8: Fly to Reykjavík (Iceland), Visit Sky Lagoon & Food Tour

Say goodbye to Norway and hello to Iceland, as this morning, you'll drive to the airport, drop off your car, and catch a connecting flight to Reykjavík. Welcome to Iceland! Inhabited for barely a millennium, much of this volcanic island remains an untamed wonderland of geothermal activity. Whether it's fiery volcanoes, vast lava fields, thundering waterfalls, or relaxing hot springs, there's no shortage of adventures to enjoy here.

You'll arrive in southwest Iceland, on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Pick up your rental car, and from there, it's about an hour's drive to Reykjavík. Iceland as a whole may be untamed, but this city is a shining example of a modern, progressive European capital. Upon arrival, you'll check in to your hotel. Then, drive a few minutes outside Reykjavík to the famous Sky Lagoon, where you can take the edge off the day's travels with a soak in its outdoor thermal spa. The waters in these natural pools hover around 104°F (40°C), so expect total relaxation.

Afterward, head to downtown Reykjavík for a bit of culture and cuisine. This highly walkable area features attractions ranging from street art to the famous Hallgrimskirkja, Iceland's tallest church. There are also plenty of museums here. One great option is the Whales of Iceland Museum, an immersive exhibition featuring life-size replicas of various whale species that inhabit the surrounding Arctic waters. Later, meet a local guide for a foodie tour around Reykjavík, stopping at famous eateries and markets where you can sample everything from traditional Icelandic foods to fusion cuisine.

Day 9: Drive to Hella via Golden Circle

Let the grand tour of Iceland begin! Set off southeast on Route 1 (Ring Road) out of Reykjavík along the famous Golden Circle. This 190-mile (300 km) route features some of southern Iceland's most popular natural attractions. First up is Þingvellir National Park and the Silfra fissure, a rift located in a crystalline lake on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. It's the only place in the world where you can dive between two continents. Also here is Brúarárfoss, a small waterfall on the Brúará River whose rushing cascades are a vivid ice blue.

Next is the Geysir geothermal area. With its bubbling mud pits and steam vents, this is one of the most impressive geothermal zones in the country. The geyser is rarely active these days but can reach up to 230 feet (70 m) when it does erupt. However, the area is also home to the Strokkur Geyser, which erupts like clockwork every 5-10 minutes and reaches up to 130 feet (40 m). For lunch, stop at Efstidalur II, a combined dairy farm and bistro. Run by a group of siblings, the land here has been in the same family since 1750. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a home-cooked farm-to-table meal.

After eating, continue on to Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls. Another highlight is Kerið, a 180-foot (55 m) volcanic crater lake whose steep slopes resemble an ancient amphitheater. End the day's drive with a visit to the Secret Lagoon. Created in 1891 in the geothermal area of Hverahólmi, this is the oldest human-made swimming pool in Iceland. The water here is between 86-104°F (38-40°C) year-round and is fed by a nearby geyser. Afterward, drive to the nearby town of Hella, where you'll overnight.

Day 10: Drive to Vík via Southern Coast & Waterfalls

Enjoy a hearty breakfast because in store for you today is another scenic drive down Route 1. As you approach the southern coast, one of the first highlights you'll pass is Urriðafoss, a waterfall on Iceland's longest river of Þjórsá. The falls here aren't large, but they do cascade at high speeds over rugged lava rocks. You can also stretch your legs at Kvernufoss, a small canyon near Seljalandsfoss, a romantic waterfall that plunges 200 feet (60 m) into a lagoon.

Next up is Skógarfoss. Located barely a mile outside the town of Skógar, this thundering waterfall cascades 200 feet (60 m) over a cliff into the Skógá River. Then, near the southernmost tip of Iceland, you'll stop at Dyrhólaey, a 393-foot (120 m) rock promontory whose name derives from its massive natural arch (Dyrhólaey translates to "door-hole"). After enjoying the views, you can stroll the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach, whose jagged rock formations lend it an otherworldly quality.

Capping the day is a visit to Seljavallalaug Pool, located just west of Skógar. This 82-foot (25 m) public pool was built in 1923, making it one of the oldest in the country. Situated next to a river and nestled between sloping hills, it's a great place to take a dip, relax, and enjoy the geothermal waters, which remain at 68-86°F (20-35°C). Afterward, you'll drive to your hotel in Vík, the southernmost town in Iceland. It's known for its scenic coastal cliffs and wide volcanic beaches.

Day 11: Drive to Höfn via River Canyons, Waterfalls & Zodiac Tour

Leave Vík this morning on a sightseeing road trip around the southeast coast of Iceland. One highlight is a stop at the viewpoints of the otherworldly Fjaðrárgljúfur river canyon. There are famous waterfalls on the way, including Skaftafell and Svartifoss. The latter plunges 65 feet (20 m) over basalt cliffs and is accessible via a scenic 3-mile (5 km) trail. Then, you can visit human-made wonders in the form of Iceland's historic turf dwellings (including a turf church). The practice of covering the roof with turf dates back to medieval times throughout Europe to protect from the harsh weather.

Continue on to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon on the coast. At 656 feet (200 m), this is the deepest lake in Iceland. The icebergs floating on its surface are over 1,000 years old, and you'll see them up close on a thrilling Zodiac boat tour across the lagoon. If you're lucky, you might even spot seals and small whales.

After the boat trip, you'll continue to the adjacent Diamond Beach. This black-sand beach is famous for the iceberg fragments that drift ashore from the lagoon and gleam like diamonds in the sunlight. Enjoy a stroll on the beach, then continue driving about an hour up the coast to your hotel in Höfn, a charming fishing village on a narrow peninsula.

Day 12: Drive to Egilsstaðir via Fishing Villages, Valleys & Fjords

Today, you'll venture into the heart of the remote and untamed Eastfjords on your way to Egilsstaðir, the main town in the region. The route is a real treat, as few travelers see the east side of Iceland, which boasts a ruggedly beautiful coastline, vast fjords, charming fishing villages, and a rich history. For example, on today's drive, you'll visit Hvalnes, a village with a black-pebble beach backed by soaring mountains.

As you continue driving up the coast, make more stops to snap photos, go hiking, or enjoy a horseback ride or boat trip. Another fun stop is at Breiðdalsvík, a fishing town on a cove of the same name. You can stop here for lunch and try regional cuisine like locally-raised reindeer and fjord-fresh seafood. You'll find some of the most spectacular scenery in the surrounding Breiðdalur Valley, including countless waterfalls cascading down soaring mountain peaks that rise 3,280 feet (1,000 m).

Eventually, you'll arrive in Egilsstaðir, which claims a population of around 3,000 people. After checking in to your hotel, spend the rest of the day exploring the area. Egilsstaðir is a great hub for exploration–a few minutes east is Seydisfjordur, another colorful fjord town. Here, you'll find several scenic trails leading to waterfalls, each taking just a few minutes. Another highlight in the area is the Vök Baths, geothermal pools where you can relax after a day of hiking.

Day 13: Drive to Lake Mývatn via Geothermal Areas & Grjótagjá Cave

Continue the adventure on a drive to the far north of Iceland and the geothermal wonderland at Lake Mývatn. There will be plenty of stops along the way, including at Stuðlagil canyon, a vivid blue glacial river that flows between sheer walls of polygonal basalt columns. Here, you can take a brief hike to an observation platform to snap photos and enjoy panoramic canyon views.

Another highlight of the region is Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall. This cascade is 144 feet (44 m) high and 330 feet (100 m) wide, and its thundering water can be heard from afar. You'll also stop at Ásbyrgi, a forested glacial canyon. It's accessible via a network of hiking trails leading to viewpoints where you can marvel at this vast gorge's unique horseshoe shape.

Later, explore more of the area's top sites, including the mud pools and steaming sulfuric vents at Hverir, located in the famous Námafjall Geothermal Area. Next up is Grjótagjá cave, filled with a crystal-clear azure hot spring made famous as a romantic setting in the HBO series "Game of Thrones." Eventually, you'll arrive in the town at Lake Mývatn. If you like, end the day with another soak, this time at the Mývatn Nature Baths, a series of geothermally heated pools and steam baths. 

Day 14: Lake Mývatn Highlights, Drive to Akureyri via Goðafoss

Spend the morning hiking around the otherworldly wonders in and around the Lake Mývatn area. Highlights include the jumbled lava-rock formations of nearby Dimmuborgir and the bizarre Skútustaðagígar "pseudocraters." These dimple-like cones were formed 2,300 years ago when superheated steam trapped beneath the surface bubbled up in gaseous explosions. Another highlight is Ásbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped canyon that, as the story goes, was created when god Odin's eight-legged horse galloped across the land.

Later, drive around the top of Iceland, stopping at another major landmark: Goðafoss. Known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," the cascades here drop 39 feet (12 m) into a river gorge. After the waterfall, continue to Akureyri, the "capital of the north." it earned this nickname for being the largest metropolis on this side of Iceland (it boasts a whopping 18,000 people). Once you've checked into your accommodation, you'll have the rest of the day free. Perhaps take a walk on the waterfront or head to the city center to see the Swiss-inspired Akureyrarkirkja, a twin-steepled Lutheran church.

Day 15: Húsavík Whale Watching, Horseback Ride & Geothermal Baths

Leave after breakfast on an hourlong drive north to Húsavík, a lovely fishing town and the whale watching capital of Iceland. The reason it's so popular is that you don't need to venture far out to sea to view these animals—you can see them right in the harbor. Various species of whales have been sighted here, including humpback, minke, and (occasionally) blue whales. Upon arrival, you'll have time to do some wildlife spotting. 

Later, transfer to a remote spot just outside of town. On a long section of pristine coast, you'll saddle up for a 1.5-hour ride along the waterfront. It's a fun and leisurely excursion, and eventually, the trail will take you from the coast up into the hills to a local farm. There, you can relax, take some pictures, and learn a bit about the area from your expert guide. Afterward, you'll visit the nearby GeoSea Baths to soak in more geothermal pools. Then, drive back to Akureyri.

Day 16: Drive to Snæfellsnes Peninsula via Farms & Seal Center

Say goodbye to the north this morning as you travel into western Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive takes 4-5 hours, but you'll stop at plenty of fascinating towns, landmarks, and attractions along the way. First up is the village of Hvammstangi and the Icelandic Seal Center, a research facility offering education on the various species of seals in Iceland. Then, take a side trip along the Vatnsnes Peninsula to see Hvítserkur, large black and white basalt formations rising from the sea. Legend has it the rock was once a troll, turned to stone by the sun.

For more info about how Icelanders used to live, you'll stop in at Glaumbær Farm and tour the original turf houses that locals once called home. You can also visit the Víðimýrarkirkja turf church, which was built in 1834 and is one of the only remaining preserved turf churches in Iceland. Continue to the famous Snæfellsnes Peninsula. One of the country's most scenic regions, Snæfellsnes is often referred to as "Iceland in miniature" due to its wealth of geological marvels. You'll overnight in one of the peninsula's charming coastal towns, like Stykkishólmur.

Day 17: Snæfellsnes & Fishing Tour, Drive to Reykjavík

Take the first part of the day to explore the highlights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. First, travel to the southwest and Lóndrangar. The unique lava rock formations and coastal sea cliffs here are the remains of a volcanic crater that the ocean has shaped over time. Its most famous landmarks are two towering rock pillars, which rise as high as 246 feet (75 m). The peninsula's visitor center is farther up the road, where you can learn more about this area's volcanic system.

A short drive up the coast is Djupalonsandur. This beach is also dotted with towering rock formations, but its volcanic black sands are the real star. It claims an interesting history in the form of a shipwreck from 1948, and back in the Middle Ages, the area was a prominent fishing village. Speaking of fishing, part of your day will be spent on board a traditional Icelandic fishing vessel. The boat leaves from Stykkishólmur, and over a couple of hours, you'll join the local crew to fish for cod while spotting wildlife like whales and puffins.

Back on land, you'll visit the three-tiered waterfall of Kirkjufellsfoss, which is backed by the rounded peak of Mount Kirkjufell and was featured in "Game of Thrones." There will also be a quick detour to the Saxholar crater, where you can stretch your legs on a walk up to a viewpoint overlooking the countryside. Later in the afternoon, you'll drive a couple of hours south back to Reykjavík and have the evening free in the capital. 

Day 18: Fly to Ilulissat (Greenland), Optional Activities

That's right—this morning, you'll travel even farther north when you catch a 3.5-hour flight from Reykjavík to Ilulissat. This town on the west coast of Greenland sits north of the Arctic Circle and is famous for its rich Inuit culture and surrounding glaciers, including the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Funnily enough, Ilulissat is the perfect spot to enjoy endless summer days (literally), as during these months, the midnight sun is out 24/7.

Upon arrival, you'll check into your accommodation and have the rest of the day to explore. Many activities are available, including boat tours around the Ilulissat Icefjord and adjacent Disko Bay to see its floating icebergs. There are also plenty of hiking trails leading from town up to epic viewpoints, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Ilulissat, the coast, and the glacier. In the evening, dine at a local restaurant to sample traditional Greenlandic cuisine. Naturally, you'll find plenty of fresh seafood on the menu, as well as wild berries, game meat, and even whale fat. 

Day 19: Helicopter Flight & Glacier Boat Tour

Take to the skies again this morning on a scenic flight over the Ilulissat Icefjord. During this one-hour adventure, you'll soar over this vast natural wonder, which spans 25 miles (40 km) from the inland ice sheet to Disko Bay. You'll also fly over other glaciers, including the massive Sermeq Avangnardleq and the UNESCO Isua Glacier. The trip ends with a flight over Ilimanaq Bay (where you might spot whales breaching the surface) before descending into Ilulissat.

After disembarking the plane, you'll transfer to the harbor for another tour, this time by boat. Over about 2.5 hours, the vessel will weave between the bergs of Disko Bay, taking you right next to towering ice walls—don't forget your camera! At the end of the tour, you'll transfer back to your accommodation.

Day 20: Greenland Culture & Crafts, Fly to Reykjavík, Visit the Blue Lagoon

Today, you'll make the trip back to Iceland, but not before discovering the culture of local Inuit via their ornate handicrafts. Spend your last morning in Ilulissat at local markets, seeking authentic handmade souvenirs, like intricate sculptures, to take home. These artisanal items are part of the rich tapestry of Greenlandic culture, and many tell compelling stories of the land and its Indigenous residents. You can even purchase native tools, like the ulo, a multipurpose knife used by Inuit women.

Afterward, return to the airport for the flight back to Iceland. On the way from the airport to Reykjavík, you'll stop at the Reykjanes Peninsula, home to the world-famous Blue Lagoon. During a 2-3-hour visit to Iceland's premier hot spring, you'll soak in its milky blue waters, which hover around a luxurious 98-104°F (37-40°C). The water is rich in mineral content and, combined with its algae and silica, offers myriad health benefits, including as a psoriasis treatment. Newly refreshed, you'll later transfer to your hotel in the capital.

Day 21: Depart Reykjavík

You've traveled to the furthest reaches of the globe and had more than a few memorable adventures along the way. But alas, this chapter has reached its conclusion. In the morning, your driver will pick you up for the ride back to Keflavík Airport in time to catch your departing flight home. Safe travels!

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