Scandinavia · TOUR REVIEWS

15 Northern Day Trips Worth Building a Trip Around

1,633 tours  ·  from $4

Three countries, two seasons and a lot of water in between. The 15 below are the days out that survive a real itinerary, priced and timed, with the full catalogue underneath when you want to go deeper.

Stockholm: City Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise with Guide - Boarding a classic ship, not a sightseeing bus on water
Archipelago Tours, Boat Tours in Stockholm, Boat Tours in Sweden, City Tours, City Tours in Stockholm, City Tours in Sweden, Cruises & Boat Tours, Guided, Stockholm Tours, Sweden Tours, Tour Reviews

Stockholm: City Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise with Guide

1.City Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise with Guide

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 10,798 reviews · 1.5 - 3 hours · from $41Our pick

See Stockholm from the water on a classic Stromma archipelago ship, with live commentary in English and Swedish. Choose a 1.5, 2.5, or 3-hour cruise through the city’s island-dotted waters. Guides such as Erik, David, and Christopher have made these trips lively and informative, while the onboard café, restrooms, WiFi, and indoor seating add comfort.

“4xA Amazing views Amazing guide Amazing fun Amazon time ❤️”

Check availability →Read our full review

Copenhagen: Canal Cruise with Guide - From Ved Stranden to Christiansborg Palace
Boat Tours in Copenhagen, Canal Cruises, Canal Cruises in Copenhagen, Copenhagen Tours, Cruises & Boat Tours, Denmark Tours, Guided, Tour Reviews

Copenhagen: Canal Cruise with Guide

2.Canal Cruise with Guide

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 9,115 reviews · from $26Best value

Cruise Copenhagen’s harbor and canals for one hour with an English or Danish guide. You’ll pass Christiansborg and Amalienborg palaces, the Opera House, the Little Mermaid, the Royal Library, and the old Stock Exchange. Guides such as Peter, Tony, Ali, and Kristian have earned praise for lively storytelling. Boats may be open, so dress for the weather.

“we had a great trip with Kristian, and Captain Max, great banter, so friendly and very informative in a fun way! would recommend! 😊”

Check availability →Read our full review

From Bergen: The Original Fjord Cruise to Mostraumen - The first stretch through Osterfjord
Bergen Tours, Boat Tours in Bergen, Boat Tours in Norway, Cruises & Boat Tours, Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Bergen, Norway Tours, Tour Reviews

From Bergen: The Original Fjord Cruise to Mostraumen

3.The Original Fjord Cruise to Mostraumen

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 8,440 reviews · 3.5 hours · from $93

Join Rødne Fjord Cruise at Bergen’s Fish Market for a 3.5-hour round trip through Osterfjord to Mostraumen. You’ll pass Bryggen, watch for eagles, feel waterfall spray from the sun deck, and warm up inside with coffee, waffles, or cinnamon buns. English and Norwegian audio commentary is included.

“Good view. But a little bit cold and windy on the deck in winter due to the weather.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Tromsø: Reindeer Sledding & Feeding with a Sami Guide - Meeting the herd and learning how reindeer live
Guided, Norway Tours, Reindeer Experiences, Reindeer Experiences in Tromsø, Sami Culture Tours, Sami Culture Tours in Tromsø, Tour Reviews, Tromsø Tours

Tromsø: Reindeer Sledding & Feeding with a Sami Guide

4.Reindeer Sledding & Feeding with a Sami Guide

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 6,417 reviews · 4 hours · from $198

From Tromsø’s Prostneset bus terminal, ride to a Sami reindeer camp for a sled ride, hands-on feeding, hot stew, and stories by the fire. English-speaking Sami guides such as Ilya, Inga, Maria, and Ana have led recent departures. Plan on four hours, warm layers, and time outside in serious Arctic cold.

“was a big group so there was a bit of waiying around.ilya the sami guide was absolutely fantastic.the talk on sami culture was really interesting.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Stavanger: Scenic Fjord Cruise to Lysefjord and Preikestolen - Fantahålå and the stories behind the rocks
Boat Tours in Norway, Cruises & Boat Tours, Fjord Cruises, Norway Tours, Pulpit Rock Hikes, Stavanger Tours, Tour Reviews

Stavanger: Scenic Fjord Cruise to Lysefjord and Preikestolen

5.Scenic Fjord Cruise to Lysefjord and Preikestolen

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 5,791 reviews · from $82

From Strandkaien in Stavanger, you’ll ride Rødne’s electric catamaran into Lysefjord for 3.5 hours. Expect clear English or Norwegian commentary, panoramic windows, sun decks, a kiosk, and close views of Preikestolen, Fantahålå, waterfalls, and sometimes seals.

“The boat was spacious. They stopped and slowed down for us to take pictures.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Oslo: Scenic Fjord Cruise with Audio Guide Commentary - Akershus Fortress and Oslo’s historic waterfront
Boat Tours in Norway, Boat Tours in Oslo, Cruises & Boat Tours, Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Oslo, Guided, Norway Tours, Oslo Tours, Tour Reviews

Oslo: Scenic Fjord Cruise with Audio Guide Commentary

6.Scenic Fjord Cruise with Audio Guide Commentary

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 5,375 reviews · 1.5 hours · from $44

Cruise Oslo’s inner fjord for 90 minutes on a modern electric ship. From the meeting point by the Opera House, you pass Akershus Fortress, Bygdøy, Gressholmen, Hovedøya, Sørenga, and more. Use the Voice of Norway app for commentary, or simply enjoy the quiet ride, wide windows, open deck, café, and bar.

“Really enjoyable tour, the boat was very new and allowed good views all round while remaining warm. (I think it was -6 on my tour) The audio guide was helpful, though a little clunky knowing which parts went for where you are which could have been my fault not understanding it correctly.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat - Meeting the boat beside Skarven Kro
Boat Tours in Norway, Boat Tours in Tromsø, Cruises & Boat Tours, Norway Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tromsø Tours, Whale Watching, Whale Watching Trips in Tromsø

Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat

7.Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 4,217 reviews · from $195

Set out from Tromsø on Brim Explorer’s hybrid-electric catamaran for a full day in Arctic fjords. Expect heated lounges, panoramic windows, English-speaking guides, and roughly 1 to 1.5 hours near whale-feeding grounds. Guides such as Connor, Bee, Adrian, and Ivan may share whale facts and local stories while you search for orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and sperm whales.

“I really enjoyed this experience! The combination of bus and boat was a great arrangement, especially for someone like me who gets a bit seasick. The views from the bus were incredible and offered a completely different perspective compared to the boat. I initially brought some reading material to pass the time since it was a long journey, but I ended up just admiring the scenery and relaxing. Seeing whales multiple times was truly unforgettable! The guide was excellent, providing introductions to the places we visited and sharing fascinating stories about the whales along the way. A big thank you to the driver and captain for making the trip smooth…”

Check availability →Read our full review

From Tromsø: Aurora Borealis Tour - Meeting outside Scandic Hotel The Dock
Northern Lights Tours, Northern Lights Tours in Tromsø, Norway Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tromsø Tours

From Tromsø: Aurora Borealis Tour

8.Aurora Borealis Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 4,206 reviews · from $181

Join Arctic Breeze AS for a six-hour Aurora hunt from Tromsø in a comfortable 19-seat coach. Guides such as Brynjar, Oscar, Andy, and Mattia use weather reports and local knowledge to search for clear skies, sometimes driving toward Finland. Thermal suits, hot drinks, tripods, camera help, portraits, and central hotel drop-off are included.

“What an incredible evening! We were so lucky and saw the northern lights for hours and at every stop. Brynjar was our guide and looked after us so well. He was incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming. The bus was very comfortable and the pick up location was clear and easy to find. Hot chocolate and biscuits were provided during the tour, which was perfect! Would highly recommend to anyone looking to take a tour like this! Thank you!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Copenhagen: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Boat Tour Option - Route guide: from Central Station to Islands Brygge
Boat Tours in Copenhagen, Copenhagen Tours, Cruises & Boat Tours, Denmark Tours, Hop-On Hop-Off Tours, Sightseeing Bus Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours

Copenhagen: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Boat Tour Option

9.Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Boat Tour Option

★★★★★★★★★★3.9 · 4,122 reviews · 1 - 3 days · from $35

Use a 24 or 48-hour RED Sightseeing ticket to explore Copenhagen by open-air double-decker bus, with 22 stops, WiFi, and commentary in 10 languages. Add the one-hour blue Nettobådene canal cruise from Nyhavn to pass Christianshavn, Amalienborg, and the Little Mermaid. The app tracks buses and boats in real time.

“We had wonderful 2 days getting to the different places in the city riding on hop on- hop off . Very happy that booked and we will do it again”

Check availability →Read our full review

Tromsø’s Top-Rated Fjord & Fishing Cruise – All-Inclusive - Ryøya and the search for white-tailed eagles
Boat Tours in Norway, Boat Tours in Tromsø, Cruises & Boat Tours, Fishing, Fishing Trips in Tromsø, Norway Tours, Tour Reviews, Tromsø Tours

Tromsø’s Top-Rated Fjord & Fishing Cruise – All-Inclusive

10.Tromsø’s Top-Rated Fjord & Fishing Cruise – All-Inclusive

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 4,017 reviews · from $142

Spend five hours aboard Capella with an English-speaking crew, cruising Tromsø’s fjords and straits, fishing in Ramfjorden, and watching for eagles, dolphins, otters, and seasonal puffins. Warm up with fish or vegan soup, hot drinks, and biscuits while guides such as Thomas, Jack, and Estefania share local stories.

“It was our last day in Tromso, and it exceeding our expectations! We had closed the Tromso chapter with an amazing memory, amazing views, experience and the people! We had chance to fishing in the fjords which might be unbelievable to imagine before. Didn't want to miss any moment, that's why we stayed outside the boat, and observed every corner in the landscape. And very lucky the weather was very bright, chill and warm. Couldn't imagine any other boat tour if you visit Tromso. The crew of the ship was also very friendly, warm and informative. We are very happy that we met these people. Eventhough I am not a…”

Check availability →Read our full review

Private Walking Grand Tour of Copenhagen - Strøget and Magasin Du Nord: shopping streets with a local angle
Copenhagen Tours, Denmark Tours, Private, Tour Reviews, Tours, Walking Tours, Walking Tours in Copenhagen

Private Walking Grand Tour of Copenhagen

11.Private Walking Grand Tour of Copenhagen

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3,953 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) Top rated

Walk from Rådhuspladsen to Amalienborg Palace with a private English-speaking guide. You’ll see Strøget, Nyhavn, Marble Church, Christiansborg, and royal landmarks while learning about Danish life, politics, architecture, and customs. Guides may include Paula, Fran, Jack, Laura, Wayne, Luca, or Gabriela.

“Paula was a fantastic guide - informative, funny, and kind. Since we have kids (5 and 8 year olds), we felt best about booking a private tour so we could go at a pace that worked for the kids. I have to say, the tour is doable with kids, with Copenhagen being very walkable. It’s flat, and the sites on the tour are not a long distance from start to end. It helps to have an accommodating guide like Paula who allowed us to stop for a restroom break or to pick up some bottles of water along the way.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Tromsø: Fjords and Sommarøy Islands Tour with Salmon Picnic - Leaving Tromsø by comfortable bus
Norway Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tromsø Tours

Tromsø: Fjords and Sommarøy Islands Tour with Salmon Picnic

12.Fjords and Sommarøy Islands Tour with Salmon Picnic

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 3,922 reviews · 4.5 hours · from $112

Ride from central Tromsø to fjords and Sommarøy with an English or Spanish-speaking guide such as Andreas, Cande, or Joana. Stop for views, local treats, and a beach tasting of smoked salmon, cheese, fruit, sweets, and reindeer or moose sausage. Bring swimwear and a towel if you want a quick Arctic dip.

“I loved the excursion! It was punctual, very well organized, and super interesting. I learned a lot about the local culture. Our guide, Cande, was lovely and very attentive, and she did everything possible to make the experience truly unique. The picnic was amazing as well, and guides took some beautiful photos of us. 100% recommended. I’d love to do the excursion again in summer!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure - Learning to Drive Before the Dogs Pull
Dog Sledding Tours, Dog Sledding Tours in Norway, Dog Sledding Tours in Tromsø, Norway Tours, Tour Reviews, Tromsø Tours

Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure

13.Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 3,498 reviews · from $328

Meet more than 130 Alaskan huskies on Kvaløya, learn to handle your own sled, and take turns driving across snowy Arctic trails. A guide leads the way while you help the dogs on hills and fresh snow. After roughly 70 to 80 minutes on the trail, warm up in a Sami lavvo with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and Hege’s famous chocolate cake.

“Excellent day. Loved meeting all the dogs. All the staff were super friendly and it was great to hear about the dogs life and training. Also the best hot chocolate we have ever had.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Stockholm: Skansen Open-Air Museum Admission Ticket - Walking through homes, farms, and old workplaces
Museum Visits in Stockholm, Museums, Stockholm Tours, Sweden Tours, Tickets, Tour Reviews

Stockholm: Skansen Open-Air Museum Admission Ticket

14.Skansen Open-Air Museum Admission Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 3,427 reviews · 1 day · from $27

Spend a full day at Skansen, Stockholm’s historic open-air museum, where old homes, farmsteads, workshops, Nordic animals, restaurants, and seasonal events bring Swedish life from the 16th century to the early 1900s into view. The grounds are large and hilly, so wear good shoes and allow more than two hours.

“The staff there we wonderful. We had so much fun and it was super interesting”

Check availability →Read our full review

Tromsø: Reindeer Camp and Sami Cultural Tour with Lunch - Meeting the herd of 250 to 300 reindeer
Historical Tours, Historical Tours in Norway, Historical Tours in Tromsø, Norway Tours, Reindeer Experiences, Reindeer Experiences in Tromsø, Sami Culture Tours, Sami Culture Tours in Tromsø, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tromsø Tours

Tromsø: Reindeer Camp and Sami Cultural Tour with Lunch

15.Reindeer Camp and Sami Cultural Tour with Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 3,326 reviews · 4 hours · from $141

Travel about 35 to 40 minutes from Tromsø to a Sami reindeer camp, where you feed a herd of roughly 250 to 300 animals. Warm up with hot drinks, cookies, and reindeer or vegetarian stew, then hear Sami stories and a traditional joik song from guides such as Johannes, Inga, or Daniel.

“The activity was not rushed at all. The location was superb and we got ample time to feed the reindeers. We were served hot chocolate, coffee, cookies and then reindeer stew as lunch. The food was very tasty. Then the Sami storytelling and song session went on. Got to learn many things. The trip is 100% recommended.”

Check availability →Read our full review

New in Tour Reviews

★ 5.0Sit Back and Relax Morning Husky TourFrom $18292 reviews
★ 5.0Traditional Persian Cooking Class in Stockholm with a LocalFrom $11220 reviews
★ 5.0Stockholm Top attractions all-inclusive Gran Tour Winter EditionFrom $3096 reviews
★ 4.0Karlskrona Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game3 reviews
★ 5.0Ice Climbing Experience with Certified GuideFrom $125204 reviews
★ 5.0Private snowmobile day toursFrom $27716 reviews
★ 5.0Husky Sled Ride Northern Lights Tour from KirunaFrom $19443 reviews
★ 5.0Husky Sledding TourFrom $30243 reviews
★ 5.0Northern Light snowmobile tour in Kiruna 7:30 pmFrom $26475 reviews
★ 5.0Explore the Norwegian Fjords and the Wildlife From AbiskoFrom $18155 reviews
★ 5.0Explore the Icehotel, Day Trip from AbiskoFrom $1686 reviews
★ 5.0Culinary Kayaking Adventure – Saint Anna Archipelago of SwedenFrom $1,9547 reviews
★ 5.0Grebbestad Boat TourFrom $1779 reviews
★ 4.0Airport Limousine Transfer: Arlanda Airport to Stockholm City 1-7 Passengers5 reviews
★ 5.04-Day Kayak & Wildcamp the Archipelago of Sweden – Self-guidedFrom $83316 reviews

Keep browsing

Northern Lights Tours107Fjord Cruises71Dog Sledding Tours30Old Town Walking Tours45Museums64Cruises & Boat Tours198
Scroll to Top

Explore Scandinavia

Pick a season, a coastline or a capital.

The Arctic night

Northern LightsDog SleddingReindeer CampsSami CultureSnowmobiles

Off the quay

Fjord CruisesRIB BoatsCanal BoatsArchipelagoWhale Safaris

Towns and history

Old Town WalksMuseumsCastlesViking SitesFood Walks

Out in the landscape

Guided HikesPulpit RockGlaciersWaterfallsThe Flåm Railway