Experience Norway And The Northern Lights

about this tour

In northwest Europe lies a gem called the Scandinavian Peninsula. This February tour covers two locations in Sweden before heading west to Norway north of the Arctic Circle, then back south to Oslo by way of Trondheim. While this is a winter tour, the presence of the Gulf Stream helps moderate temperatures, and making for ice-free coastlines and fjords.

Our starting point is Stockholm, largest city of Scandinavia. Located on a series of islands, each sector has its distinctions. Places we will plan to visit include the Vasa Museum, named for the only intact recovered ship from the 17th Century. This warship, with 64 guns, sank during its maiden voyage in 1628. Music fans might like the ABBA Museum. There are over a dozen world-class historic sites, so we will see a small bit of what this city has to offer before heading north on the overnight train to Lulea, one degree shy of the Arctic Circle. This was home to the world’s first indoor mall in 1955. It still exists, following several refurbishments. We are definitely in range for 80 – 90% chance of seeing the northern lights if skies cooperate here and during the next week. We will ride a regional two- hour train to Haparanda on the border with Finland, which we should be able to visit briefly with a ride on the dual gauge bridge. Finland uses Russian 5-foot gauge on their railroads.

A truly spectacular ride takes us to Narvik, Norway, as we say farewell to Sweden. We will ride the Iron Ore Line to the border, continuing on the short Ofotbanen into Narvik. The mines are in Sweden, but the port of Lulea has limitations as to depth and ice in winter, whereas Narvik is ice free year-round. We will see the transport heritage, and learn about WWII battles fought for control of this strategic port. If skies are clear, there should be some good chances for a memorable light show.

The Lofoten Islands were a major highlight on the 2026 winter tour, and we will visit several points of interest around the five main islands with a private guide and van. Our hotel is in the only city here, Svolvaer. This is one of the great fisheries of the world, with cod racks being a common sight. Cod is hung to dry for about three months. Fisherman’s cabins are everywhere, along with other unique buildings. This is truly a magical and beautiful place.

Back on the mainland, we head south from Bodo to Trondheim on the Northlands Railway. Much of this line was constructed by German forces in the 40s, and finally completed in 1962. In Trondheim, our city tour will include a ride on the world’s northernmost tram line, visit a major Gothic cathedral, and stroll the colorful canal district with homes from the 1800s. From here we enjoy the pleasant ride to Oslo, veering off the main Dvore Line to ride the alternate route via Roros, rejoining the main at Hamar for the final jaunt into Oslo. We will tour Oslo on our final day, Feb. 27 jointly with the new group which will have arrived on the 26th.

After our city tour on the 27th, we ride the renowned Bergen Line over the highest glacial plateau in Europe. We will detrain at Myrdal for the direct connection to the Flam Railway for the one-hour descent to Flam, where we spend the night. A combination of ferry, bus, and train take us on to Bergen, which is Norway’s number two city. We will have plenty of time to see the sights, and climb high above on the incline railway. On our final full day, we ride the complete seven-hour Bergen Line back to Oslo, enjoying the winterscapes as only the train can reveal. The fjords, friendly people, history and great train and tram rides should all leave a wonderful impression, urging one to return in other seasons.

Norway is fantastic anytime of the year! However, winter adds a great new dimension for those who have only traveled during peak summer season. Wintertime travel brings with it the opportunity to gaze upward and take in a great natural wonder of the Northern Lights, which even local Norwegians never take for granted.