There is no more glorious place to celebrate summer than Scandinavia, and this Classic Journey includes leisurely visits to Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Come with us and glide over waters in the deep blue shadows of a mind-boggling fjord. Feast on fish fresh from the North Sea with tart lingonberries for dessert. Wander through the lushest wildflower meadows you’ve ever seen. Then take an after-dinner stroll in the late-night sunlight. Thanks to their intense affection for the outdoors, the people here have a fine system of paths. We’ve scouted trails that trace the edge of fjords and the Baltic Sea, wind past stately castles and lead you to the quaintest of country villages. Of course, there are constant reminders of the Vikings, whose descendants are warm and supremely hospitable. You’ll explore this cool and colorful region in the company of native guides expert in the distinct culture, history and traditions of each country we visit.

DAY 1 - COPENHAGEN
Cozy Copenhagen (1 night) is our meeting point and a fine introduction to Scandinavia. On our introductory walk around the city, we’ll visit the Christiansborg Palace, home of the Danish Parliament and Royal Reception Rooms.

DAYS 2-4 - SNEKKERSTEN
In medieval Roskilde, we explore the remarkable Viking Ship Museum before settling into the fishing village of Snekkersten (3 nights).

An amble through the colorful countryside precedes a guided tour of the world-famous Fredericksborg Castle, known as the Danish Versailles. At the northern tip of Sjælland peninsula lies Helsingør – better known as Hamlet’s Elsinore – and the impressive Kronbørg Castle where our guide fills us in on the history during a fascinating walk.

It’s just a short ferry ride to Sweden’s southern shore. There, we wander the grounds of Krapperup Slott manor house, have lunch on a private cove reminiscent of Cape Cod near Molle, and take a scenic walk through a nature preserve to Kullen lighthouse.

DAYS 5-7 - BERGEN
Then we’re off to Bergen (2 nights), Norway’s gateway to the fjords. We’ll ascend by funicular for a high meadow stroll overlooking the sea. Aboard the Flåm Railway, one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, we chug to Gudvangen to cruise the pristine waters of Aurlandfjord and Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the narrowest fjords in Europe. The village of Vik gave the Vikings their name, and we’ll explore its carved 12th century church. Before parting company in Bergen, we’ll pick up and sample the fresh oysters and smoked salmon from the fishmongers in the city’s bustling harborside market.