Norway’s Fjords & Midnight Sun – air credit + stay + cruise

Departing from Australia, relax and enjoy an overnight flight to Copenhagen.

You’ll arrive in Copenhagen where your private transfer awaits to take you from the airport to your hotel. You have 3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Cophenagen, with breakfast included.

Copenhagen is often referred to as the city of spires, with the skyline of its medieval core dominated by the steeples of churches and towers of palaces. Today, Copenhagen is renowned for its high quality of life and strong environmental ethos. The city boasts numerous parks, making it not only green in the literal sense but also in the contemporary sense of the word. Additionally, Copenhagen is incredibly bike-friendly, with dedicated bike paths lining almost every major street. After exploring the charming old town, visitors can treat themselves to a local meal of Smørrebrød, traditional open-face sandwiches, or indulge in a delectable Danish pastry. The day is yours to enjoy the vibrant culture and friendly atmosphere of this beautiful city in whateve way you please!

Today you could explore the charming streets of Nyhavn, adorned with colorful 17th-century townhouses, or enjoy a leisurely canal tour to experience the city’s beauty from a different perspective. Dive into history at the Amalienborg Palace, the residence of the Danish royal family, and don’t miss the chance to see the iconic Little Mermaid statue along the waterfront. And art lovers should definitely make a stop at the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek to admire its remarkable collection of sculptures and paintings.

It’s cruise day! Today, your private transfer will take you from your hotel to the port to join your ship, Azamara Journey, a boutique hotel at sea. Sail away is set for 5pm, so take some time to settle in to your stateroom, wander the ship, and then wave goodbye to Copenhagen as you set sail for your first port of call.

This charming seaside town is one of Denmark’s main fishing ports, offering a peaceful getaway with beautiful beaches. In the late 19th century, the stunning landscape and unique lighting attracted artists to come paint and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. These artists, known as the Skagen School, gained fame for their work, some of which is displayed in the local art museum.

Stavanger is a captivating mix of old and new – from the Middle Ages when Vikings ruled the seas, to today’s North Sea drilling platforms that have made Norway one of the world’s leading oil producers. This contrast is reflected in the modern architecture and trendy cafés that co-exist alongside ancient cobblestone walkways and rows of 18th-century whitewashed wooden houses. As you explore the town, be on the lookout for the 23 identical cast iron figures by sculptor Antony Gormley that are scattered around. Standing at six feet tall, they all face 10° west.

The village of Olden peacefully sits at the edge of the colossal Jostedal Glacier, Europe’s largest ice floe covering 188 square miles and 200 feet at its thickest. However, this park is not just home to one glacier. For those with energy to spare, why not consider a trip to the million-year-old Briksdal Glacier? You can hike the last portion, crossing a wooden bridge over a waterfall, through a stunning mountain valley, right up to the glacier’s face. If that sounds like too much effort, you could always opt for a leisurely boat journey on an emerald green lake surrounded by ancient mountains. You will spend tonight in port in Olden, so you can enjoy an extended evening on shore, and explore even further in the morning.

With Olden surrounded by stunning fjords and glistening glaciers, there are a variety of activities on offer to suit all preferences, from leisurely hikes to exploring nature on a bike. After a day of outdoor adventures, you can unwind and relax at the luxurious Spa and pool facilities at Hotel Alexandra in Loen, just a short drive from Olden.

Alesund is renowned for its unique architecture that is admired far and wide. The town’s whimsical Art Nouveau touches, such as turrets and spires, give it a distinctive charm reminiscent of a fairytale. Just a short distance from this picturesque town is the breathtaking Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most famous attractions.

A day at sea is the perfect opportunity indulge in a variety of enriching activities tailored to your interests. Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session or a stimulating fitness class in the state-of-the-art gym. Unleash your creativity with art classes or expand your culinary skills with cooking demonstrations led by expert chefs. Dive into a good book in the well-stocked library, or simply relax by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand, soaking up the sun and breathtaking ocean views.

The scenery of the Lofoten archipelago is among the most dramatic in Norway. Its spectacular glacial rock formations are always visible, looming large behind beaches and green fields. Located 200 km (124 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, the landscape is wild and life is simple. The coast is ringed with fishing hamlets and picturesque cabins on stilts that have attracted artists for centuries. Birdlife is abundant, with large colonies of co-habiting species nesting on towering cliffs. Six miles offshore, the continental shelf drops away to depths of 3,000 feet, where massive sperm whales can be spotted feeding in the deep, nutrient-rich waters. It is truly a natural paradise waiting to be explored.

Located between the picturesque Lofoten Islands and Vesteralen Archipelago, Trollfjord is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and immersive travel experience. With Azamara, you can explore Norway’s stunning Arctic fjords in a way that larger ships simply cannot match. This narrow two-kilometer strip of the Raftsundet Strait is a hidden gem in the Arctic Circle that larger cruise ships just can’t fit in to. Just 3,724 feet wide, this breathtaking passage offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers of all kinds. As you sail through Trollfjord, be on the lookout for the magnificent sea eagles that call this area home. Listen to their haunting calls and marvel at their graceful flight. Keep your eyes peeled for puffins, otters, seals, and other seabirds that inhabit the steep cliffs and rugged mountainsides surrounding the fjord.

Located far north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of snow-capped peaks, scattered islands, and fjords, best appreciated by taking the cable car up Storsteinen Mountain. In town, the striking Arctic Cathedral reflects the surroundings in glass and concrete, with its triangular facade resembling an iceberg reaching towards the sky. This region is also home to the Sami, Norway’s indigenous people, who have their own language, culture, and traditional activities such as fishing, hunting, and reindeer herding. Be sure to visit the Wilderness Center to meet Tove, Tore, their children, and over 100 Alaskan huskies.

Honningsvag, with a population of 400, is the final village before reaching the North Cape. Here, the Midnight Sun shines continuously from mid-May to the end of July, attracting visitors as the Sami people and their reindeer herds settle on the outskirts of town. Although no one resides permanently at the North Cape itself, it is a popular destination for many to explore. The majestic cliff rises over 100 feet above the sea, offering a breathtaking view of the limitless panorama that extends all the way to the North Pole. Hidden within the cliff is North Cape Hall, where visitors can comfortably ponder the vastness of the surroundings.

The North Cape is the northernmost point of mainland Europe. A cape, by definition, is a headland or high point of land that stretches out into a body of water. The North Cape is a majestic 307-meter-high (1,007 ft) cliff with a vast flat plateau on top that reaches into the Arctic Ocean, where the Norwegian Sea meets the Barents Sea. Located in Northern Norway on the northern coast of the island of Magerøya in the region of Finnmark, also known as the Norwegian Lapland, the North Cape is a place of unparalleled beauty. During the summer months between May and July, the sun stays above the horizon at the North Cape for over 1,800 hours without setting. This natural phenomenon allows visitors to witness the enchanting midnight sun over the Barents Sea. The midnight sun creates a magical atmosphere where the sun remains visible at midnight, providing 24-hour periods of sunlight for an unforgettable experience.

Experience the magic of Alta, a breathtaking destination above the Arctic Circle like no other. Nestled in the Altafjord, this charming town boasts a milder and drier climate compared to other ports in Northern Norway. Picture-perfect rugged landscapes gently meet the serene waters of the sheltered harbor, while the vibrant Sami culture thrives in one of the world’s most northern cities. Make sure to visit the remarkable Northern Lights Cathedral and marvel at its unique steel sheet design that perfectly captures the essence of aurora borealis. Step inside to explore captivating illuminated artwork and interactive exhibits that delve deeper into the enchanting world of the Northern Lights.

Welcome to the picturesque Nordic port of Harstad, where quaint, primary-colored houses and church steeples dot the treed hillside overlooking the deep blue waters of the Atlantic. Known locally as “The Pearl of Vågsfjorden,” this charming city was named after the old farm upon which it was built. Experience the magic of the midnight sun in Norway. Embrace the endless daylight by exploring the beauty of Harstad.

Located just north of the Arctic Circle, Bodø is one of Norway’s rapidly growing cities, offering a perfect blend of urban excitement and a deep connection to its stunning natural surroundings. This vibrant city is home to a diverse community of artists, eager to capture the breathtaking seaside beauty, a bustling music scene, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

With a rich history spanning over 1,000 years, Trondheim is a city that truly embodies the essence of culture and tradition. As Norway’s third largest municipality and former capital, Trondheim has witnessed countless coronations and remains a significant pilgrimage site for Christian worshipers. Today, the city exudes a youthful energy and a relaxed Scandinavian charm that is hard to resist. Despite its laid-back lifestyle, Trondheim is anything but dull. Hidden beneath its calm exterior lies a vibrant city waiting to be explored. From its historic landmarks to its bustling streets, there is always something new to discover in Trondheim.

Enjoy all that Azamara Journey has to offer during your day at sea as you make your way to Eidfjord in Vestland county, Norway.

Nestled in a quiet little hamlet, in Eidfjord you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including towering fjord walls, glistening glaciers, rushing waterfalls, and vast expanses of mountain tundra where reindeer roam. One of the must-see sights here is the Vøringsfossen Waterfall, a popular natural wonder in Norway. This spectacular waterfall is actually a combination of cascades that plunge 600 feet into the fjord below, creating a mesmerizing sight. With long summer days at this latitude, you’ll have plenty of daylight hours to marvel at the beauty that surrounds you.

Enjoy all that Azamara Journey has to offer during your day at sea as you make your way back to Copenhagen, your final port of call.

Your journey finishes in Copenhagen as you disembark from Azamara Journey in the morning. Your private transfer will take you from the port to the airport for your flight home. Thinking of extending your stay and exploring more of Europe? Speak to our expert Cruise Travel Advisors about our flexible airfares and incredible European accommodation packages.