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Arctic Norway & Midnight Sun on The Lofoten Isles

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20252026
13 days From $4,695 $4,495 per person
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Experience Norway’s celebrated cities, superb railways, breathtaking fjords and remote Lofoten islands, and witness the stunning natural phenomenon of the Midnight Sun

Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Mobility Rating 4

2025 Tour code: AYJ25

About the tour

Join us on a journey across the length of Norway - from sophisticated Oslo to the Arctic Circle - travelling on four of the country's world-renowned rail routes, the Flåm, Bergen, Nordland, and Rauma railways - cruising across the exquisite Geirangerfjord, discovering otherworldly landscapes and stunning archipelagos along the way.

On this exceptional tour of Norway's beautiful cities and Arctic Norway, we experience a taste of life in the spellbinding north, visit historic Viking cities and ancient ports, and witness the surreal summer phenomenon of the Midnight Sun.

Unforgettable Experiences

Riding the Nordland Railway into the enchanting Arctic Circle
Riding the Nordland Railway into the enchanting Arctic Circle
Boarding the Nordland Railway in Trondheim we travel north to Bodø, watching breathtaking valleys, tranquil fjords and magical glaciers roll past the panoramic windows of our comfortable carriage, as we cross the Arctic Circle on the magical ‘Polar Express’.
A once-in-a lifetime journey on the fabulous Flåm Railway
A once-in-a lifetime journey on the fabulous Flåm Railway
Regarded as one of the world’s most stunning railways, the gorgeous Flåm Railway rises from beside a fjord to a height of more than 2,800 feet, passing verdant valleys and the dramatic Kjosfossen waterfall.
Travelling the full length of the stunning Bergen Railway
Travelling the full length of the stunning Bergen Railway
Admire the amazing Hardangerjøkule Glacier as you travel from Oslo along the Bergen Railway, the highest in northern Europe, on a jaw-dropping journey into Norway’s untamed wilderness.
Experiencing the Midnight Sun in the remote Lofoten Isles
Experiencing the Midnight Sun in the remote Lofoten Isles
Witness the breathtaking phenomena of the Midnight Sun on a late-night excursion to Gimsoy Beach, on the Lofoten Islands - a beautiful white sandy beach which overlooks a range of spectacular mountains.
Cruising across the peaceful waters of the glorious Geirangerfjord
Cruising across the peaceful waters of the glorious Geirangerfjord
Norway’s fjordlands are world famous, but the Geirangerfjord is known as the ‘jewel in the crown’. We experience it on a serene boat trip, sailing into a spectacular panorama of glacial water, towering cliffs, and plunging waterfalls.
Enjoying a sea eagle safari off Norway’s wild northern coast
Enjoying a sea eagle safari off Norway’s wild northern coast
Take an extraordinary trip into sea eagle territory on this unique boat safari, making a fishing stop enroute to attract sea eagles and, while looking out for these majestic, endangered creatures, possibly spotting heron, seals, dolphins and even whales.
Uncovering the history of Norway’s Viking cities
Uncovering the history of Norway’s Viking cities
Explore the painted wooden buildings of Norway’s first capital, Trondheim, and the wonderful UNESCO-listed waterfront of Bergen – all of which played an important part in Viking history.

What’s included

Itinerary

Days 1 - Arrive in Oslo

Your tour begins as you fly into Oslo, making your way independently to your centrally located hotel to meet your fellow travelers and Tour Manager.

Our 4-Star hotel is directly outside the station and only a short distance from Oslo's famous 17th-century cathedral. Used for state occasions, it is encircled on three sides by the beautiful Romanesque Revival bazaars - a charming, curved arcade built in the mid-1800s to house butchers stalls, they now contain independent stores and cozy restaurants. This afternoon you are free to relax or orientate yourself with the neighborhood, before dinner together. This evening, we take a short walk from our central hotel to a local restaurant where we get to know each other better during a three-course meal.

Includes
  • Dinner
Day 2 - Discovering Oslo, one of the world’s most walkable capitals

After breakfast, we begin to explore the Norwegian capital with a local guide by coach, visiting some of its most renowned sights. We start at Oslo's incredible opera house, with its unique angled exterior of marble and white granite, which visitors are encouraged to walk on the roof for great views across Oslofjord, if the weather is suitable. We see the City Hall and the neoclassical Royal Palace, then continue to Vigeland Sculpture Park to walk among the extraordinary art of Gustav Vigeland. Our tour ends at lunchtime, and you are at leisure for the rest of the day.

You could visit the Aker Brygge district known for its pier and interesting eateries. Oslo offers many world-class museums including the Munch Museum and the National Museum, containing works by the expressionist painter Edvard Munch, renowned for 'The Scream'. Another option is to take a gentle cruise around idyllic Oslofjord, possibly stopping at the Fram Museum to view a 19th-century ship used for polar exploration or visiting the Norsk Folk Museum. Dinner is on your own tonight, and you could try new Nordic, international cuisine, or fresh seafood in Aker Brygge.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 3 - A journey on the Bergen Railway, one of the world’s greatest rail journeys

This morning we take a short walk to the station for an epic rail journey from Oslo to Bergen. Travelling on the world-famous Bergen Railway, the highest in northern Europe, we enjoy views of the wild Norwegian countryside, passing breathtaking glaciers, mountains, and spectacular fjords. Our route enters deep forest, and we can look out for wild reindeer and arctic foxes as we cross the Hardanger Plateau. As we approach the summit of the route, Finse, it feels as if we are completely alone in nature. Set 4,000 feet above sea level, this has been a popular training ground for arctic explorers including Scott and Shackleton.

Arriving into Bergen at the end of the afternoon, we are transferred by coach to our hotel, which is just steps away from the waterfront and Bergen's main square. After checking in, there's time to settle in and view your surroundings in this fascinating harbor city, before dinner with our group at our hotel this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 4 - Exploring Bergen, a beautiful city in the heart of the fjords

We embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Bergen by coach, visiting the Bryggen Waterfront, a World Heritage site. These brightly painted wooden buildings were once the center of the old Hanseatic port that played a key role in trade between Norway and the rest of Europe. The city's narrow streets and bustling fish market give us a sense of life here for merchants in the 13th century.

After our tour, this afternoon is free to continue exploring on your own. You could visit the Bryggen Museum to view the world's largest collection of runic inscriptions, or you might like to take a ride on the Fløibanen funicular to enjoy spectacular views across countless scenic islands, providing a great sense of why Bergen is called the 'capital of the fjords'.

This evening you are free to dine independently and, as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Bergen has some excellent restaurants for you to choose from. Popular local dishes are all based on fresh seafood - Bergen fish soup, fish cakes and traditional steamed cod.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 - A picturesque ride on the Flåm Railway, 12 miles of beauty

Two scenic rail journeys await us today, beginning with the Bergen Railway. Leaving Bergen, our train climbs into the craggy mountains, travelling alongside deep fjords and through tunnels hewn out of solid rock, before arriving in remote Myrdal - 2,840 feet above sea level.

In Myrdal, we board the famous Flåm Railway for an unforgettable ride along one of the steepest lines in the world. As we descend to the fjord-side village of Flåm for the night, tucked away in the innermost corner of Aurlandsfjord, our train negotiates horseshoe curves, twists, turns and 20 tunnels. Along this dramatic route we are treated to a moving picture of rushing rivers, tumbling waterfalls and snow-capped mountains passing by our window.

We make a photo stop at the cascading Kjosfossen waterfall as it bounces down the hillside. Our train arrives into Flåm this afternoon, just a few hundred meters from our hotel, where we enjoy a buffet dinner this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 - Loen, a tiny village beneath a mighty glacier

Today we travel by coach to Loen, an idyllic village located in the innermost area of the Nordfjord region, a tiny spot on the landscape in contrast to the glorious green-blue fjord, the mighty Jostedalsbreen Glacier and looming snow-dusted mountains.

Along our way to Loen, we stop at the Fjaerland Glacier Museum where entrance is include and you are free to look around. Housed in a building designed by the architect Sverre Fehn, the museum's external design reflects the surrounding landscape of jagged mountains and angular glaciers. Inside, award-winning exhibits tell the story of Norway's glacial landscapes and history of glaciology.

We continue our scenic journey by coach, taking a short trip on the Mannheller-Fodnes ferry to Fodnes, before transferring to our hotel in Loen for two nights, set between magnificent fjords. Arriving this afternoon, there's time to refresh and enjoy the stunning scenery, before a buffet dinner at our hotel.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 - Cruise into the deep blue World Heritage Geirangerfjord

After breakfast in the beautiful surroundings of Loen, we make our way by coach to the 'jewel in the crown' of Norway's fjords - Geirangerfjord - on a journey which passes the Dalsnibba viewpoint, Europe's highest fjord view at a staggering 4,500 feet.

We see beautiful Geirangerfjord in the best way possible, on a cruise boat across the serene waters of this spectacular UNESCO-listed site. Acclaimed for its unique landscape, this nine-mile-long branch of Storfjord (meaning 'Great Fjord') has distinctive towering cliff walls and impressive waterfalls.

As we cruise, the scenery envelops us in a world of stunning color and beauty - the lush green of the trees contrasting with the blue water and brilliant white of the snow-capped distant peaks. When it rains, waterfalls appear seemingly from nowhere, cascading majestically into the water below. After disembarking at Hellesylt, we take a scenic drive back to Loen where your afternoon is free, to relax and possibly enjoy the facilities and mountain views at our hotel. We dine at the hotel restaurant this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 - A trip on ‘Europe’s most beautiful’ Rauma Railway, on to Trondheim

We set off by coach this morning on a journey to Åndalsnes on Romsdalfjord, travelling along the serpentine Trollstigen Mountain Road* and admiring cinematic views across deep green valleys and cascading waterfalls. We cross the fjord at Eidsdal to Linge by ferry. On arrival in Åndalsnes, we board the beloved Rauma Railway - described as Europe's most beautiful railway line' - a 71-mile-long journey filled with scenic views of magnificent and contrasting landscapes. We enter the jaw dropping Romsdal Valley, pause to admire the rushing Verma waterfall and cross the famous Kylling Bridge.

Following the course of the emerald green River Rauma, our train glides around the surrounding hillsides as we pass the insurmountable 'Troll Wall' and the banks of the peaceful Romsdal Fjord, finally reaching the picturesque hamlets and villages of Dombås. Here, we change trains and continue our journey to the historic city of Trondheim for two nights. We walk the short distance from the station to our four-star hotel on Trondheim's fjordside harbor, where we have a late dinner in the hotel.

*The opening date of Trollstigen Road varies due to road and snow conditions. Early departures before mid-June may travel on an alternative route.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 - Explore Trondheim, Norway’s Viking Capital

Awaking in the atmospheric harborside of Trondheim this morning, we discover this vibrant city's fascinating history on a guided tour. Once a major trading center, Trondheim is now a hub of technology and innovation. We walk through the city's Old Quarter, pass the colorful waterfront houses of Bakklandet, and admire the elegant Gothic architecture of Nidaros Cathedral. We also visit the sumptuous Royal Residence, the largest wooden building in Northern Europe with around 140 different rooms.

The afternoon is yours to continue sightseeing at your own pace. Among the city's broad avenues, old warehouses and pretty timber dwellings, there are a number of attractions waiting to be explored, such as the Ringve Music Museum, situated on a hill and surrounded by the city's botanical gardens, and the Archbishop's Palace Museum - a treasure trove of local archaeological finds. The old town has a number of charming bookstore cafés and bakeries with a reputation for relaxed lunches and great coffee. You dine independently tonight, and you'll find Trondheim's food culture is first class.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 10 - The Nordland Railway and Bodø

After an early breakfast, we depart Trondheim for an unforgettable journey north on the sensational Nordland Railway, a 452-mile journey to Bodø. Affectionately known as the Polar Express due to the picture-book scenes enroute, as we travel through some of Norway's most amazing landscapes, we experience a slideshow of mountain vistas, tranquil fjords and glimmering lakes rolling past the windows of our comfortable carriage.

The Nordland takes us through the beautiful and varied landscapes of northern Norway, and we cross the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees north shortly before reaching the town of Lonsdal, the highest point on the route. There is a chance we might see reindeer in the mountains or the elusive sea eagle soaring over the picturesque coast. In the height of summer, the sun may illuminate our entire journey, giving us the spectacular experience of nearly 24-hour daytime. The train reaches Fauske before turning west for the final approach to Bodø, our scenic base for the night. We are transferred by coach to our hotel where we have dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 - The Midnight Sun on the Lofoten Isles

This morning we are transferred to Bodø pier where we board a ferry to the picturesque port of Moskenes, arriving in the early afternoon. From here we take a scenic drive through idyllic fishing villages to Svolvær for a two-night stay, the tiny capital of the beautiful Lofoten Isles. Described as Europe's most dramatic and spectacular islands, the Lofoten archipelago is connected to mainland Norway by a series of bridges and ferries. These remote Arctic Circle islands are defined by jagged mountains with vivid green slopes extending to the aquamarine sea, white sandy beaches, and traditional red fishing huts.

After a 3-course dinner at our harborside hotel in Svolvaer, we take a Midnight Sun excursion to Gimsoy Beach, a beautiful white sandy beach with a range of spectacular mountains - a popular place to experience this natural phenomenon.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12 - Exploring the Lofoten Isles from Svolvær, and a sea eagle safari

Today we continue exploring the Lofoten archipelago, with a full morning of sightseeing on various islands. We begin by making a photo stop at the charming fishing village of Henningsvaer, then continue to the rugged yet beautiful Vestvågøy island and its town of Leknes - set between green meadows and dramatic mountains - where there's free time to find lunch. Our return journey includes a detour through the remote but scenic village of Kvalnes.

After returning to Svolvær this afternoon, we take a safari cruise into sea eagle territory. We make a short fishing stop, with the aim of attracting sea eagles close to the boat. On board we enjoy refreshments including fish soup, coffee, tea, and snacks. Our cruise boat offers warm thermal suits and comfortable places to sit out on deck or inside the salon. While we look out for the majestic, endangered sea eagle, other wildlife - such as heron, seals, dolphins and possibly even whales - may also make an appearance. Once back on land, we transfer back to our hotel where you are at leisure for the rest of the day and free to dine independently this evening in Svolvær.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13 - Homeward bound

We have an early start this morning, so our hotel provides us with a picnic breakfast as we transfer to Evenes airport for our flight to Oslo where you are free to make your onward journey.

*Due to an early afternoon arrival into Oslo, it is recommended that connecting flights are booking in the evening, or a post-trip hotel is secured. Speak with a rail specialist for details.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Hotels

Thon Hotel Bristol, Bergen

Thon Hotel Bristol, Bergen

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Radisson Blu Hotel, Bodø

Radisson Blu Hotel, Bodø

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Fretheim Hotel, Flåm

Fretheim Hotel, Flåm

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Alexandra Hotel, Loen

Alexandra Hotel, Loen

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Clarion Hotel, The Hub, Oslo

Clarion Hotel, The Hub, Oslo

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Thon Hotel Lofoten, Svolvaer

Thon Hotel Lofoten, Svolvaer

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Clarion Hotel, Trondheim

Clarion Hotel, Trondheim

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Thon Hotel Orion, Bergen

Thon Hotel Orion, Bergen

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Trains

Bergen Railway
Flåm Railway
Nordland Railway
The Raumabanen Railway

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Reviews

5.0 stars5.0 / 5 · 5 reviews

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Jean-Pascal Beaudoin

5 stars

Submitted 15/Jul

It was our second trip booked with VBR/GRJ and once again it didn’t disappoint: Easy to book. Good communications from booking to end of trip. Quality itinerary, accommodation and food. Tour manager there to make the experience as seamless as possible. Lofoten Islands are the highlight of this tour. I suggest arriving two days in advance in Oslo to explore the city in more depth. Lots to see.

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CYNTHIA MONTALVO

5 stars

Submitted 8/Jul

Outstanding beauty. Exceptional accommodations. Excellent, attentive tour manager.

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Edwin Woods Jr

5 stars

Submitted 21/Jun

A wonderful tour with just the right amount of train ,coach and boat excursions . Not to mention the expert tour guide Caroline, she made our tour a lifetime memory. Will consider Vacations By Rail for another venture in the future.

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J Ferrell

5 stars

Submitted 13/Jun

Great trip

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Don and Susan

5 stars

Submitted 26 Jun 2023

I have been waiting since pre-covid for this tour. I loved the itinerary, and the actual tour did not disappoint. It was great in every way. The hotels, the food (except for 1 ham dinner), the scheduling, the amount of activities, the buses, the trains, everything was spot on. I was pretty physically active tour, but everyone (almost all over 65) was ok. Not to forget the tour manager, Jeanette, who was just wonderful! Friendly, professional, more than capable of modifying things as needed. There was one issue with the bus, that had a mechanical issue, and Jeanette kept us informed every step of the way and got everything sorted out. We only lost about 3 hours waiting, but regained the time by reorganizing the next day's activities. Bottom line, we gained extra time to sleep in the morning and did not miss out on the boat tour in the afternoon. I liked this tour so much, I am booking another one (with a new friend from this tour) as I write this review. Great Job!

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