Norway by Rail and Sea: A Tailor-Made Journey
11 days from $10,695
Encounter the majesty of Norway’s dramatic peaks and fjords by rail and by sea—discovering villages and waterways not easily accessible by road. Zigzag into the mountains on the breathtaking Flåm Railway, glide between towering cliffs on the World Heritage‑listed Nærøyfjord, and embark on a spectacular rail journey across the Arctic Circle. Delve into history and culture Oslo and Bergen, and sail to the Viking capital of Trondheim.
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Highlights
- Travel through Norway’s dramatic mountains and fjords on one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys.
- Cruise the UNESCO‑listed Nærøyfjord, where towering cliffs rise above serene, glass‑smooth waters.
- Step back in time with an immersive visit to a traditional Viking village, exploring Norway’s seafaring heritage.
- Discover Bergen on a private walking tour through its colorful streets, historic Bryggen wharf, and coastal neighborhoods.
Sample Itinerary
To see itinerary, please click on an option below.
The following itinerary is a sampling of the experiences that we offer on a Tailor-Made Journey. Working with our country specialists, you can customize your itinerary to fit your timing, your budget, and your interests, including accommodations, activities, and the places you visit.
Day 1 — Oslo
Arrive in Oslo, where you are met at the airport by your private driver and transferred to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to rest after your international flight or begin exploring Norway’s capital at your own pace.
Day 2 — Oslo
This morning, meet your private driver and expert local guide for a comprehensive city and waterfront tour. Over the next three hours, discover Oslo’s history and modern identity while visiting highlights such as the Royal Palace, Parliament Building, National Theatre, City Hall, Akershus Fortress, and the lively harbor area of Aker Brygge. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy independently.(B)
Day 3 — Flåm Railway
Bid farewell to Oslo and board the train bound for the heart of Norway’s fjord country. Change trains in Myrdal to ride the celebrated Flåm Railway, widely regarded as one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Travel through the dramatic Flåmsdalen valley, passing waterfalls, rivers, mountain farms, and tunnels carved into steep mountainsides. On arrival in Flåm, nestled at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, meet your private driver for the short transfer to your hotel, where you will stay for the next two nights.(B)
Day 4 — Flåm
Depart from the village of Flåm on a memorable cruise through the Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO‑listed Nærøyfjord, famed for its soaring cliffs rising up to 1,700 meters above the water. After cruising past waterfalls and remote fjord villages, arrive in Gudvangen to explore the Viking Village of Njardarheimer, offering an immersive glimpse into Norway’s seafaring past. Return to Flåm later in the day with time to relax.(B)
Day 5 — Bergen
Board the Flåm Railway once again as you journey toward Bergen, known as the Gateway to the Fjords. Framed by seven mountains and seven fjords, Bergen combines dramatic natural scenery with a rich maritime history. Upon arrival, meet your private driver and transfer to your hotel.(B)
Day 6 — Bergen
Discover Bergen’s culture and history on a private walking tour through its atmospheric streets. Visit the UNESCO‑listed Bryggen Wharf, explore the lively fish market, and wander cobbled lanes lined with artisan workshops. Your guide will also escort you on the Fløibanen funicular to Mount Fløyen, where sweeping views of the city, fjords, and surrounding islands await. This evening, enjoy Bergen’s vibrant food scene, with excellent restaurants within walking distance of your hotel.(B)
Day 7 — Hardangerfjord Region
Set out with your private driver‑guide to explore the nearby Hardangerfjord region, renowned for its apple orchards and cider traditions. Travel along fjord roads framed by waterfalls and fruit trees, meet a local cider producer, and enjoy tastings paired with a homemade lunch at an award‑winning farm. Later, embark on a silent, sustainable catamaran cruise across Hardangerfjord, offering striking views of orchards, mountains, and the Folgefonna Glacier.
Day 8 — Bergen and Coastal Cruise
Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Bergen’s port. Board your coastal cruise ship and begin sailing north along Norway’s spectacular coastline. Spend the next two nights on board, enjoying the ship’s facilities, included meals, and ever‑changing views of fjords, islands, and open sea from your private cabin.(B,D)
Havila Ship
Day 9 — Ålesund
Dock in the charming coastal town of Ålesund, where you have most of the day to explore independently. Famous for its Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) architecture, Ålesund is defined by ornate stone buildings, whimsical towers, and a dramatic setting between steep mountains and deep blue fjords. Return to the ship in the evening and continue sailing north overnight.(B,L,D)
Havila Ship
Day 10 — Trondheim
Disembark in Trondheim, Norway’s historic Viking capital. Meet your private driver at the port and transfer to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore this walkable riverside city, known for the colorful wharf buildings of Bakklandet, the impressive Nidaros Cathedral, and its growing reputation as a center of Nordic cuisine.(B)
Day 11 — Bodø and the Nordland Railway
Early this morning, your private driver escorts you to the train station to board the Nordland Railway, one of Norway’s most spectacular long‑distance rail routes. Travel north for approximately 450 miles, crossing the Arctic Circle en route to the port town of Bodø. On arrival, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel for your final night.(B)
Day 12 — Return home
Meet your driver for the transfer to the airport in time for your return flight home, concluding your journey through Norway’s fjords, railways, and coastal landscapes.(B)
Included meals are denoted as follows: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Reception (R), Dinner (D)
Starting Price
Dates
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Price
Choose the dates that work for you
Available
from $10,695
| Occupancy | Double |
|---|---|
| Estimated Price | $10,695 |
Prices shown are per person based on double occupancy, and do not include international air. Reduced pricing may be available for triple or quad accommodations, or for parties of six or more travelers.
Starting price reflects the itinerary shown here, and are intended as a broad indication of how much you should budget for your trip. We can tailor your trip to match your budget by adjusting the trip duration or departure date, and choosing accommodations and activities that suit your needs and interests.
Prices are based on rates of exchange, airfare & fuel (where applicable), tariffs, taxes, and other costs as of the tour publication date. We reserve the right to correct errors and to increase program prices to cover increased costs, tariffs, and taxes received after prices are published and to reflect currency fluctuations.
Tour Details
Accommodations
Amerikalinjen Hotel
Oslo, Norway
Located in the heart of Oslo in the former headquarters of the Norwegian America Line, Amerikalinjen is a stylish boutique hotel just steps from the waterfront and Central Station. The hotel features a restaurant and bar, live jazz venue, fitness center, sauna, and complimentary Wi‑Fi. Guest rooms blend contemporary design with historic details and include private bath with hair dryer, minibar, TV, in‑room safe, and modern comforts, offering a refined and atmospheric base for exploring Norway’s capital.
Fretheim Hotel
Flåm, Norway
Set at the end of the Aurlandsfjord in the heart of Flåm, Fretheim Hotel combines historic charm with a spectacular fjord‑side setting. The hotel features a restaurant and bar, lounge areas with panoramic views, landscaped grounds, and complimentary Wi‑Fi. Guest rooms are comfortably appointed and include private bath with hair dryer, TV, and modern amenities, offering a welcoming base after days spent exploring the fjords and traveling on the iconic Flåm Railway.
Hotel Bergen Børs
Bergen, Norway
Located in a historic former stock exchange building in the heart of Bergen, Hotel Bergen Børs enjoys a prime location steps from Bryggen Wharf, the fish market, and the harborfront. The hotel features a restaurant and bar, fitness facilities, and complimentary Wi‑Fi. Guest rooms are contemporary and comfortable, with private bath with hair dryer, minibar, TV, in‑room safe, and modern amenities, offering an ideal base for exploring Bergen’s historic center and coastal surroundings.
Havila Ship
Sailing Norway’s legendary coastal route, the Havila ferry offers a modern and comfortable way to experience the country’s dramatic shoreline. The ship features a restaurant and café showcasing regional cuisine, lounge areas with panoramic windows, outdoor viewing decks, and complimentary Wi‑Fi in public spaces. Cabins are thoughtfully designed and include private bath, comfortable bedding, and modern amenities, providing a peaceful retreat as you travel north along fjords, islands, and remote coastal communities.
Britannia Hotel
Trondheim, Norway
Located in the heart of Trondheim, Britannia Hotel is a grand historic property offering refined comfort just steps from the city’s cultural landmarks. The hotel features several restaurants and bars, including fine‑dining options, a spa and wellness center with pool, fitness facilities, and complimentary Wi‑Fi. Guest rooms are elegant and well appointed, with private bath with hair dryer, minibar, TV, in‑room safe, and modern amenities, providing a luxurious base for exploring Trondheim’s historic center and riverside neighborhoods.
Wood Hotel Bodo
Bodo, Norway
Perched above the town of Bodø with sweeping views across mountains, sea, and sky, Wood Hotel Bodø is a contemporary design hotel that embraces its dramatic northern setting. The hotel features a restaurant and bar, wellness facilities including sauna, fitness center, and complimentary Wi‑Fi. Guest rooms are modern and comfortably appointed with private bath with hair dryer, TV, in‑room safe, and thoughtful amenities, offering a stylish and tranquil base for your final night in northern Norway.
Gift Membership – Friends of Smithsonian
When you travel on a Tailor-Made Journey, you will receive a Friends of the Smithsonian Archivist Circle membership*. Benefits include:
- An annual Smithsonian calendar with full-color images of exceptional art and artifacts, mailed in the fall.
- Subscription to Smithsonian, the award-winning magazine of the arts, sciences, and history.
- Invitations to four exclusive virtual programs for Friends of the Smithsonian members with Smithsonian experts.
- Access to special members‑only hours at select Smithsonian venues.
- 10% discount in Smithsonian Museum Stores (good on purchases up to $200); 10% discount with the SmithsonianStore.com, and Folkways Recordings
- Special member rate for tickets to the Smithsonian’s IMAX® theaters and Einstein Planetarium.
- Free admission to the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City.
- A complimentary copy of the Smithsonian annual pocket guide profiling exhibitions and work across the Institution.
- Invitation to a special welcome members-only tour at a Smithsonian Museum (offered one time to Archivists upon joining at this level).
*Offer only available for first-time Smithsonian members.
Travel Insurance
For the convenience of our travelers, Smithsonian Journeys includes a basic medical expense and evacuation plan through Trip Mate, a Generali Global Assistance & Insurance Services brand, at no additional charge. This plan provides post-departure Medical and Dental coverage of $250,000 per person and Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage of $1,000,000 per person (U.S. Residents Only). Note: For full details regarding these coverages please review the following Plan Documents here.
In addition, we recommend that travelers purchase a travel protection plan to help protect their travel investment from unforeseen events such as cancellation due to illness, flight delays due to adverse weather, baggage loss, and more. For your convenience, Smithsonian Journeys offers an optional Travel Protection Plan administered by Trip Mate, a Generali Global Assistance & Insurance Services brand. For those interested, optional "Cancel for Any Reason" coverage is available for an additional charge. Note: Certain eligibility requirements apply and Cancel for Any Reason coverage is not available to New York residents. For full details regarding this coverage please review the following Plan Documents here.
To learn more about the Travel Protection Plan, you may visit https://www.generalipartner.com/smithsonianjourneys or call the administrator, Trip Mate, a Generali Global Assistance & Insurance Services brand at (866) 501-3252.