Get ready to experience the best of Scandinavia’s great Capitals —Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, and Helsinki with our 14 day itinerary with your private driver guide to ensure the last word in luxury and comfort.
With specialist curated experiences each day, you’ll explore royal palaces, Viking history, modern design districts, and coastal fortresses at a relaxed, immersive pace. From candlelit dinners by the fjord to strolls through medieval old towns and world-class museums, every moment is tailored for connection, comfort, and discovery.
Destinations on Our 14-Day Scandinavian Capitals Itinerary
Day 1 – 3: Copenhagen, Denmark
Day 4: North Zealand (Frederiksborg, Kronborg & Louisiana), Denmark
Day 12 – 14: Helsinki, Finland
Day 1: Arrival in Copenhagen
Upon arrival at Copenhagen Airport, your driver-guide will greet you with a warm welcome and assist with your luggage before escorting you into the city in comfort and style. As you settle into your private vehicle, enjoy an introductory orientation drive through Copenhagen’s key neighborhoods—from the leafy boulevards of Frederiksberg to the historic center around Indre By.
Your guide will share local insights, dining suggestions, and cultural etiquette along the way, giving you a feel for Copenhagen’s balance of tradition and modernity. Arrive at your centrally located hotel, where check-in is handled with ease.
Guided Walk Through Nyhavn & the Royal Amalienborg Palace
After a chance to rest, meet your guide for a gentle walking tour through Copenhagen’s most iconic waterfront district: Nyhavn. With its colorful 17th-century buildings, wooden ships, and buzzing café scene, it’s a postcard-perfect introduction to the city.
Continue toward Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family. Your guide will take you through the palace square, framed by four identical rococo buildings, and explain the ceremonial traditions surrounding the Royal Guard. If timing allows, you may witness the changing of the guard and hear stories about Queen Margrethe and the history of the Danish monarchy.
Rooftop Sunset Views from the Round Tower
Conclude your first evening with a walk to the Round Tower (Rundetårn), a 17th-century observatory offering a unique spiral ramp to the top. Your guide will lead you up the gradual incline, pointing out architectural features and historical trivia as you ascend.
At the top, enjoy sweeping views over Copenhagen’s rooftops, church spires, and harbor.
Day 2: Classical Copenhagen – Castles, Canals & Culinary Delights
Delve into Copenhagen’s classical heart with a day of royal treasures, tranquil canals, and a guided tasting tour through the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Guided Tour of Rosenborg Castle and the Danish Crown Jewels
Begin your day with a privately guided visit to Rosenborg Castle, a fairytale Renaissance palace in the King’s Garden.
Explore the dazzling Crown Jewels housed in the palace vaults—an extraordinary collection of royal regalia still used on formal state occasions.
Canal Boat Cruise Through Christianshavn & the Inner Harbor
Afterward, board a private canal boat for a relaxing cruise through Christianshavn and the scenic inner harbor. Glide beneath low bridges, past old warehouses and modern architecture, and enjoy front-row views of some of Copenhagen’s most stunning waterfront landmarks, including the Opera House, Royal Library, and historic naval buildings.
Your guide will share stories of the city’s maritime legacy and modern sustainability efforts as you enjoy this tranquil, photogenic journey through the heart of the capital.
Visit Torvehallerne Market with Tastings and Local Lunch
Conclude the day with a guided experience at Torvehallerne Market, Copenhagen’s premier food hall. Walk through rows of artisan cheese stands, fresh seafood counters, and bakeries filled with cinnamon buns and Danish rye bread. With your guide leading the way, sample local delicacies such as open-faced smørrebrød, pickled herring, or a glass of aquavit.
Settle into one of the market’s cozy dining corners for a light lunch curated around your preferences. It’s the perfect way to experience Danish culinary culture—lively, seasonal, and flavorful.
Day 3: Contemporary Culture & Seaside Relaxation – Modern Art, Bohemian Spirit & Coastal Charm
Experience the creative edge of Copenhagen with cutting-edge art, countercultural enclaves, and a serene seaside evening by the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Design Museum Denmark or SMK – The National Gallery of Denmark
Begin the day with a private guided visit to one of Copenhagen’s premier cultural institutions tailored to your interests. At the Design Museum Denmark, explore the evolution of Danish aesthetics through furniture, textiles, and industrial design. Your guide will highlight works by icons like Arne Jacobsen and explain how Denmark helped define the principles of modern minimalism.
Alternatively, for fine art lovers, the Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK) offers a sweeping collection of Nordic and European masterpieces. Stroll through light-filled galleries featuring everything from Golden Age paintings to abstract works by Danish contemporaries. Your guide will curate a path through the museum that aligns with your artistic preferences.
Walk or Cycle Through Freetown Christiania
In the afternoon, shift gears and explore the bohemian enclave of Christiania—Copenhagen’s famously independent, self-governed neighborhood. Set off on a walking or cycling tour through this creative community, set along tranquil canals and colorful streetscapes.
Evening Stroll & Dinner at the Langelinie Waterfront
As the day winds down, head to the Langelinie waterfront, where locals come to relax and take in the sea air. Begin with a peaceful stroll along the promenade to visit the Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen’s most iconic (and surprisingly petite) landmark, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale.
Continue to one of the harbor’s elegant seafood restaurants for a waterfront dinner. Whether you prefer local mussels, fresh herring, or a New Nordic tasting menu, your guide will ensure you’re well taken care of with a table that pairs fine dining with harbor views.
Day 4: Day Trip to North Zealand – Castles, Legends & Coastal Art
Escape the city for a day filled with royal grandeur, Shakespearean drama, and modern art along Denmark’s scenic northern coast.
Private Excursion to Frederiksborg Castle – Museum of National History
Travel north in your private vehicle to Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark’s grandest Renaissance palace, set on three islets in a lake surrounded by manicured gardens. With your guide, explore the lavish interiors of the Museum of National History, home to royal portraits, ornate ballrooms, and intricately painted ceilings.
Stroll through the baroque gardens, reflecting on the symbolism embedded in their geometric design, and gain insight into the power and politics of the Danish monarchy during its most opulent era.
Kronborg Castle – Hamlet’s Elsinore & Coastal Walk
Next, continue to Kronborg Castle, dramatically located at the edge of the Øresund Strait and famously known as Hamlet’s Elsinore. Tour the castle’s grand halls, subterranean casemates, and chapel while your guide shares the real and imagined stories that have made this fortress legendary.
Afterward, take a coastal walk along Helsingør’s harbor, where views of Sweden across the water offer a striking sense of Denmark’s maritime geography. The fresh sea breeze and historic architecture make for a perfect pause before your return to the capital.
Optional Stop at Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
On your journey back to Copenhagen, consider an optional stop at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, one of Scandinavia’s most beloved art institutions. Nestled on a seaside bluff, the museum combines world-class exhibitions with sculpture gardens and glass-walled galleries that open to the sea.
With your guide, explore rotating exhibits featuring both Nordic and international artists, or simply wander the grounds for a moment of creative reflection before returning to the city. It’s a fitting cultural coda to a day steeped in Denmark’s past and present.
Day 5: Travel to Oslo – Gateway to the North
Settle into Oslo’s calm and confident rhythm with a scenic arrival and a first glimpse of its harborfront history and hillside views.
Morning Flight or Scenic Rail/Ferry to Oslo
Depending on your preferences, begin your transfer from Copenhagen to Oslo via a short morning flight or opt for a longer scenic train or ferry journey through the Danish and Swedish countryside.
Your driver-guide will assist with smooth check-in and travel logistics, ensuring your arrival in Oslo is comfortable and memorable.
Orientation Drive Upon Arrival and Check-In
Upon reaching Oslo, your private driver-guide will escort you through an orientation drive that introduces the city’s unique topography—where modernist architecture meets deep-water fjords and green hillsides. See the city’s iconic opera house rising from the harbor, drive past Parliament, and get your bearings with a relaxing overview before check-in at your hotel.
Your guide will provide local tips, adjust timing to your energy level, and ensure you’re well-positioned for a seamless Oslo experience.
Evening Walk to Akershus Fortress & Oslo Harborfront
As twilight sets in, enjoy a gentle guided walk along the city’s revitalized waterfront. Explore the stone ramparts and courtyards of Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle with sweeping views across Oslofjord and a storied past of royal defense and wartime resilience.
Continue your stroll past the harbor promenade, lined with contemporary art, restaurants, and maritime museums. Your guide will share stories of Oslo’s maritime evolution—from Viking trade routes to modern cruise terminals—before leaving you to enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront’s stylish bistros or traditional seafood spots.
Day 6: Oslo’s Historic Heart – Vikings, Kings & Cultural Boulevards
Immerse yourself in Oslo’s rich past with a day of Norse exploration, royal splendor, and grand city streets alive with culture.
Private Tour of the Viking Ship & Fram Museums on Bygdøy Peninsula
This morning, travel with your guide to the Bygdøy Peninsula, Oslo’s museum district, where you’ll begin with a private tour of the Viking Ship Museum (note: if under renovation, your guide will substitute with the Museum of the Viking Age). Here, stand in awe before remarkably preserved 9th-century longships and burial treasures that unveil the craftsmanship and mythology of early Norse seafarers.
Continue to the nearby Fram Museum, home to the world’s strongest wooden polar ship. Walk aboard the legendary vessel that carried Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen to the Arctic and Antarctic, and learn how Norway’s polar exploration shaped its identity. These museums deliver a gripping connection to the country’s adventurous spirit.
Guided Visit to the Royal Palace and Gardens
Return to the city center for a private tour of The Royal Palace, the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. While the interior is open seasonally, your guide will share the palace’s architectural and political significance and guide you through the surrounding Slottsparken (Palace Gardens).
Meander through tree-lined paths, fountains, and statues while discussing Norway‘s royal history, constitutional monarchy, and the understated charm of its contemporary royal family.
Walk Through Karl Johans Gate & National Theatre District
End your afternoon with a relaxed walk along Karl Johans Gate, Oslo’s central boulevard, connecting the Royal Palace to the Central Station. Pass grand cafés, historic buildings, and cultural institutions like the National Theatre, where Ibsen’s plays first came to life.
Your guide will highlight the street’s evolution—from a royal processional route to a lively public promenade—before giving you the option to continue exploring independently or return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Day 7: Outdoor Art & Nordic Design – Sculpture, Skyline & Modern Masters
Celebrate your final day in Oslo with a deep dive into its artistic identity, set against sweeping views and landmark architecture.
Stroll Through Vigeland Sculpture Park with Guide
Begin your day with a private guided walk through Vigeland Sculpture Park, the world’s largest sculpture installation by a single artist. As you pass more than 200 life-sized bronze and granite figures by Gustav Vigeland, your guide will help you interpret the emotional range and symbolic depth of the works—exploring themes of love, aging, and the human experience.
You’ll learn about Vigeland’s visionary approach to public art, the meaning behind the striking Monolith and Wheel of Life, and how this beloved park has become a cultural cornerstone of the city.
Visit to the MUNCH Museum or Astrup Fearnley Modern Art Museum
The MUNCH Museum, housed in a stunning waterfront tower, offers the world’s most extensive collection of works by Edvard Munch—including multiple versions of The Scream. Your private guide will provide deeper insight into Munch’s turbulent life, his innovations in expressionism, and his influence on modern art.
Alternatively, explore the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, located in a striking Renzo Piano-designed building at the tip of Tjuvholmen. Here, your guide will walk you through bold works by international artists like Damien Hirst, Cindy Sherman, and local Nordic creators—all set against dramatic Oslofjord views.
Funicular Ride to Holmenkollen Ski Jump with Panoramic Views
Wrap up your day with a scenic ascent to Holmenkollen, Oslo’s iconic ski jump and one of the oldest in the world. Take the funicular or private transfer to the top of the hill, where your guide will share stories of Norway’s skiing legacy and the role Holmenkollen has played in national pride and Olympic history.
At the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Oslo, its forests, and the sparkling fjord. You’ll have time for photos, a coffee at the mountaintop café, or even a visit to the Ski Museum before descending to relax or enjoy a farewell dinner in the city.
Day 8: Arrival in Stockholm – Old Town Stories & Waterfront Dining
Ease into the Swedish chapter of your journey with a historic walking tour and a scenic dinner by the water.
Private Transfer and Orientation Walk Through Gamla Stan (Old Town)
Upon arrival in Stockholm, your private driver will transfer you to your centrally located hotel. Once refreshed, join your local guide for a walking tour through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s medieval Old Town. Wander past narrow alleys, golden-hued townhouses, and cobbled courtyards as your guide recounts tales of Viking trade, royal scandals, and Swedish independence.
This charming, compact island is the beating heart of Stockholm’s past—filled with artisan shops, historic churches, and picturesque photo opportunities at every turn.
Visit to Stockholm Cathedral and Nobel Prize Museum
Within Gamla Stan, step inside Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral)—a Gothic beauty dating back to the 13th century. Your guide will share the cathedral’s significance in royal weddings and coronations and highlight its most famous treasures, including the wooden sculpture of Saint George and the Dragon.
Continue with a private visit to the Nobel Prize Museum, where the stories of brilliant minds and groundbreaking discoveries come to life. Through interactive exhibits and personal insights from your guide, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the impact of science, literature, and peace on global history.
Dinner with Waterfront Views at Skeppsholmen or Östermalm
End the day with a memorable dinner overlooking the water. Choose a historic restaurant on Skeppsholmen Island, or in Östermalm, Stockholm’s upscale district.
Your guide can reserve a table at one of the city’s best spots for seasonal Nordic cuisine—think cured arctic char, chanterelle risotto, or cloudberry parfait—paired with fine wine and serene views of the Stockholm archipelago.
Day 9: Royal & Historical Stockholm – Palaces, Warships & Cultural Icons
Today, you’ll uncover Stockholm’s regal heart and maritime legacy with immersive private tours bringing Sweden‘s history and pop culture to life.
Tour of the Royal Palace and Changing of the Guard
Begin your day at Kungliga Slottet (The Royal Palace), one of Europe’s largest working palaces.
With your private guide, explore its opulent interiors, including the Royal Apartments, the Hall of State, and the Treasury. As you pass ornate tapestries, baroque halls, and royal portraits, learn how Sweden’s monarchy blends ceremonial tradition with modern constitutional values.
If timing permits, step outside for the Changing of the Guard, a spirited daily ritual accompanied by marching bands and crisp uniforms.
Guided Visit to the Vasa Museum on Djurgården Island
Next, travel to Djurgården Island, Stockholm’s leafy museum quarter, for a private visit to the world-renowned Vasa Museum. Here lies the only nearly intact 17th-century warship ever salvaged—a massive wooden vessel that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered centuries later.
Your guide will illuminate the Vasa’s engineering flaws, the political ambition behind its construction, and the extraordinary preservation techniques that make it a global maritime treasure. The scale and detail of the ship are breathtaking—this is a Stockholm must-see.
Afternoon Walk Through the ABBA Museum or Nordic Museum
Conclude your afternoon with a choice between two distinctly Swedish experiences. Fans of music and nostalgia will love the ABBA Museum. In this interactive exhibit, you can sing along, see original costumes, and relive the rise of Sweden’s most famous pop group.
Alternatively, visit the elegant Nordic Museum, housed in a grand castle-like building. Here, explore exhibitions on Swedish cultural history—from folk costumes and furniture design to holiday traditions and everyday life. Your guide will tailor the visit to your interests, whether you’re drawn to pop culture or deeper historical context.
Day 10: Local Life & Modern Culture – Taste, Vision & the Islands Beyond
Today offers a flavorful, artful, and scenic look into Stockholm’s contemporary pulse—tied together with a peaceful cruise through its iconic archipelago.
Guided Market Visit at Östermalmshallen or Södermalm Food Tour
Begin your morning with a local food experience. Choose between a guided stroll through Östermalmshallen, Stockholm’s most prestigious food hall filled with butchers, cheesemongers, and fishmongers serving generations of locals—or opt for a culinary walking tour in Södermalm, the city’s bohemian quarter.
Taste classic Swedish bites like gravlax, Västerbotten cheese, and cinnamon buns, while your guide explains how traditional flavors meet modern techniques in Stockholm’s evolving culinary scene.
Visit to Fotografiska – Contemporary Photography Museum
Continue with a visit to Fotografiska, one of Europe’s leading contemporary photography museums. Housed in a former industrial space along the waterfront, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions from world-renowned photographers, tackling themes from identity and fashion to climate and activism.
Your guide will walk you through the current collections, offering insight into each artist’s stories and visual language. Don’t miss the upstairs café, which features panoramic views of the harbor and one of the best organic menus in town.
Boat Tour Through Stockholm’s Archipelago
In the late afternoon, board a private or small-group boat for a serene cruise through the Stockholm Archipelago—a stunning collection of over 30,000 islands, islets, and rocky outcrops. Glide past summer cottages, forested shores, and glinting waters as your captain and guide share the history of island life and its importance in Swedish culture.
Depending on your preference, your boat experience can include refreshments or a stop at a scenic harbor for a short walk and coffee. Return to the city as the evening light reflects on the water—an unforgettable finish to your time in Stockholm.
Day 11: Day Trip Options – Royal Grandeur, Viking Lore or Spa Serenity
Today is yours to tailor—whether you’d like to explore palatial UNESCO sites, uncover Sweden’s ancient roots, or enjoy a restorative retreat in nature.
Excursion to Drottningholm Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Just outside Stockholm, join your guide for a private visit to Drottningholm Palace, the Swedish royal family’s residence and one of the best-preserved baroque complexes in Europe. Set on a lake island and surrounded by formal gardens, the palace is often compared to Versailles but with fewer crowds and more serenity.
Explore the lavishly decorated staterooms, gilded libraries, and the perfectly preserved 18th-century Court Theatre. Your guide will share stories of royal ceremonies, Enlightenment-era architecture, and how the palace continues to function as both a living residence and a national treasure.
Guided Walk in Uppsala with Cathedral & Viking Sites
Alternatively, opt for a private excursion to Uppsala, one of Sweden’s most historic cities and an academic hub since the Middle Ages. Begin with a visit to Uppsala Cathedral, the tallest in Scandinavia and the final resting place of Swedish kings and legendary scientist Carl Linnaeus.
Walk through the charming university quarter and continue to the Gamla Uppsala burial mounds, once the center of Viking religion and mythology. Your guide will bring ancient sagas to life as you explore this fascinating landscape of Nordic legend and early Christian influence.
Optional Rest & Spa Afternoon at a Lakeside Retreat
If you prefer a slower pace, your guide can take you to a lakeside spa retreat outside the city. Unwind in Nordic saunas, dip in cool natural waters, and enjoy herbal tea or a massage with forest views.
Day 12: Arrival in Helsinki – Foundations of a Nordic Capital
Transition smoothly into the Finnish chapter with a scenic arrival and an afternoon dedicated to the city’s iconic landmarks and cool creative edge.
Ferry or Short Flight to Helsinki + Private Transfer
Travel to Helsinki via a short flight or ferry across the Baltic Sea (based on your preference and seasonal options). Upon arrival, meet your Finnish driver-guide for a private transfer into the city, with light commentary as you pass tree-lined avenues, modernist buildings, and the sparkling Gulf of Finland.
Check into your elegant downtown hotel, where Nordic design and warm hospitality set the tone for your final days.
Orientation Walk to Senate Square, Cathedral & Market Hall
Begin your Helsinki experience with a private walking tour starting at Senate Square, the city’s neoclassical heart. Your guide will introduce the architectural harmony between the Government Palace, Helsinki Cathedral, and the University Library—all part of the 19th-century city plan that shaped modern Helsinki.
Continue to the nearby Old Market Hall, where the scents of smoked fish, fresh berries, and Finnish pastries fill the air. Stop for a light snack or browse stalls filled with local specialties, from reindeer salami to cloudberry jam.
Visit to Temppeliaukio Rock Church and Esplanadi
Conclude your day with a visit to the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, a marvel of Finnish architecture carved directly into solid granite. The natural stone walls and copper dome create exceptional acoustics and a uniquely calming atmosphere—your guide will share how this church has become a symbol of Finland’s harmony with nature and innovation.
Stroll through the Esplanadi, Helsinki’s elegant shopping promenade lined with designer boutiques, cafés, and green boulevards. With your guide’s help, you can explore Nordic fashion or simply unwind at a sunny terrace before enjoying dinner at your leisure.
Day 13: Finnish Culture & Seaside Traditions – Heritage, Islands & Culinary Craft
Today offers a deeply Finnish experience—from windswept fortress walls and forested heritage parks to the refined flavors of New Nordic cuisine.
Ferry and Guided Visit to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Begin your day with a short ferry ride across Helsinki’s sparkling harbor to the UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a sprawling 18th-century bastion built across six interlinked islands. With your private guide, explore cobbled pathways, ancient ramparts, and underground passages once used to defend the city during Swedish and Russian rule.
Discover the layered history of this “fortress of Finland” as you stroll past pastel-painted barracks, naval dry docks, and artist studios now tucked into old garrison buildings. The blend of historical depth and serene island beauty makes Suomenlinna a highlight of Helsinki’s coastal identity.
Seurasaari Open-Air Museum & Coastal Walk
Return to the mainland for a quiet visit to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, set on a peaceful island just west of the city center. With your guide, wander among historic wooden buildings relocated from across Finland—traditional manors, farmsteads, and timber churches that reflect centuries of rural life.
As you explore these well-preserved homes, gain insight into Finnish customs, folklore, and seasonal rituals. End with a walk along the island’s natural shoreline paths, often dotted with swans and pine forests, offering a calm contrast to the urban pace.
Nordic Tasting Dinner at a Fine-Dining Restaurant
Celebrate your final evening in Scandinavia with a Nordic tasting menu at one of Helsinki’s premier fine-dining establishments. Your guide will help arrange a reservation at a restaurant known for its innovation and elegance—perhaps one inspired by foraged ingredients, open-fire cooking, or minimalist Finnish design.
Courses may include smoked arctic char, roasted reindeer, wild herbs, or cloudberry-infused desserts—all artfully plated and seasonally driven. It’s the perfect way to savor the spirit of Finland through flavor, paired with world-class wines or small-batch aquavit.
Day 14: Final Impressions & Departure – Art, Nature & a Smooth Farewell
Your final day invites you to reflect on the journey with time for meaningful last moments—whether in a gallery, a quiet park, or a favorite café.
Ateneum Art Museum or Optional Design Gallery Visit
Spend your last morning immersed in Finnish creativity. At the Ateneum Art Museum, explore the national collection of Finnish painting, sculpture, and photography—from romantic landscapes to modernist icons. Your guide can highlight standout works or tailor the visit to your interests.
Alternatively, opt for a private visit to one of Helsinki’s contemporary design galleries, where you’ll discover minimalist furniture, ceramics, and textiles that continue Finland‘s reputation for world-leading style.
Relaxation in Kaivopuisto Park or Seaside Cafés
Before your departure, enjoy a final stroll or coffee in Kaivopuisto Park, one of the city’s oldest and most elegant green spaces. Nestled between embassies and the Gulf of Finland, the park offers sweeping seaside views, walking trails, and spots to sit and savor your surroundings.
Alternatively, return to Helsinki’s harborfront to sip coffee or champagne at a terrace café, watching ferries glide across the bay—your last quiet moment in a region defined by beauty, balance, and design.
Private Transfer to the Airport with Departure Assistance
When it’s time to depart, your driver-guide will escort you to Helsinki Airport for a smooth, stress-free departure. Assistance with luggage, check-in, and VAT refunds is fully arranged, ensuring a graceful conclusion to your two-week journey through the Scandinavian capitals.
