Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Embarkation in Bergen
Ports of call: Bergen
Cruise starts in the lovely city of Bergen — Gateway to the Fjords. Before you check-in, explore the charming port and Hanseatic city of Bergen founded in 1070 A.D. Visit the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with colorful wharfs dating back to the 14th century, visit the Hanseatic Museum or take a trip on the Fløibanen funicular or a visit to the famous Fish Market. stroll among the stalls at the fish market. Take the funicular railway 320m up Mount Fløyen, located just outside the city, and you'll enjoy the best view of Bergen and its fjords. In the evening your Hurtigruten voyage sets off through the Hjeltefjord, following in the wake of the Vikings who sailed from here to the Shetland Islands and beyond.
Day 2: A Day for Architectural and Natural Masterpieces
Ports of call: Florø – Måløy – Torvik – Alesund – Geiranger summer | Hjørunfjorden/Urke autumn – Alesund – Molde
Enjoy an early morning in the breathtaking Nordfjord - followed by a delicious breakfast. We then sail past West Cape for our approach to Ålesund — Art Nouveau city. Alesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and famed Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. Marvel at the inspiring architecture in the Apotekergate and Kongensgate pedestrian precinct. Our tour to the aquarium includes a visit to see resident penguins before we continue to nearby Mount Aksla for an amazing view, but beware there are 418 steps to the top!
In the summer months, the next destination will be the spectacular UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. En route to the end of this beautiful fjord, you pass sheer, 800m cliffs, and impressive waterfalls. In autumn, we explore Hjørundfjord in the majestic Sunnmøre Alps. The fjord’s pristine natural landscape of steep rock walls, lush green meadows, lonely mountain farms, and tiny villages is unforgettable.
Molde is known as the ‘City of Roses’ because of its lovely municipal gardens. This attractive coastal town has an amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called ’the Molde Panorama.’
Day 3: Discover Medieval Spirit in the Old Capital
Ports of call: Kristiansund – Trondheim – Rørvik
Charming Trondheim is home to a great history and rich cultural life. Get a good view from the Gamle Bybrua ("Old Town Bridge"). Dating from 1861, this neo-gothic wooden bridge used to be the only way into the town center. Join the optional excursion to the soaring Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s only Gothic cathedral, and the burial place of St. Olav. Marvel at the cathedral’s exquisite works of art, architectural details, and medieval statues.
In Trondheim itself, the Hanseatic, waterside storehouses built on wooden stilts are just as charming as the Rococo-style Stiftsgården, the largest wooden building in Norway and residence for the Royal Family when visiting Trondheim. In spring and summer, we continue to Ringve Museum of Musical History, where Norwegian music´s past is brought to life in a grand manor with a fantastic view.
In the afternoon, the ship sails northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær lighthouse, islets, and rocky reefs. After sailing through the narrow channel of Stokksund, we head toward charming Rørvik.
Day 4: Welcome to the Arctic Region!
Ports of call: Brønnøysund – Sandnessjøen – Nesna – Ørnes – Bodø – Stamsund – Svolvær
Welcome to the Arctic! – Today we cross the Arctic Circle, increasing your chances to see the northern lights in winter and experience the midnight sun in summer. We mark the occasion with a fun Arctic Circle ceremony on deck.
Ørnes is the site of Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen. In summer, join us for a trip to the Svartisen Tourist Center to admire this enigmatic world of ice, and visit a moose farm. We then sail along the beautiful coast of Helgeland to Bodø, where you can experience Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful maelstrom, by small boat.
Majestic Lofoten – That afternoon, the 3,300 foot high Lofoten Wall looms on the horizon, ushering us toward majestic granite cliffs and white-sand beaches. At Stamsund, visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you are welcomed into the chieftain’s house for a real Viking feast. Between Stamsund and Svolvær, you can experience life on an organic herb and cheese farm, or visit the Lofoten’s only craft brewery, in Svolvær.
In winter, crossing the Arctic Circle means an intense hunt for the northern lights, and we present a multimedia show, “The Magic Light, Aurora Borealis.” As we sail through the narrow Raftsund, we stop at the entrance to Trollfjord, a dramatic natural wonder that should not be missed.
Day 5: Tromsø, Gateway to the Arctic
Ports of call: Stokmarknes – Sortland – Risøyhamn – Harstad – Finnsnes – Tromsø – Skjervøy
During the night the ship navigates the narrow Raftsund strait. In the Footsteps of Polar Heroes, briefly dock at Risøyhamn, Harstad, and Finnsnes in the morning. We then sail to the Polar Capital of Norway — Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Join our ’Polar History Walk’ in winter to learn more about explorers and Arctic hunters, and taste beer from the world’s second northernmost brewery. Ishavskatedralen, the Arctic Cathedral, is the most famous landmark with its modern design and extraordinary stained glass window. Tromsø is also home to the world's northernmost university and the large number of people arriving here has created a vibrant cultural scene with numerous restaurants and cafes constantly teeming with life. In winter and spring, you can complete your stay in Tromsø with a thrilling dog sled ride, as huskies pull you over the frozen landscape past stunning views on the snowy plateaus. The only light during the polar night comes from our headlamps, the starry sky, and, if we’re lucky, the magical northern lights.
Sailing from Tromsø, we continue to search for the northern lights from September to March.
Day 6: At the Top of the World - North Cape
Ports of call: Øksfjord – Hammerfest – Havøysund – Honningsvåg – Kjøllefjord – Mehamn – Berlevåg
Enjoy magnificent landscapes as we sail to the North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent. In summer, you may see herds of reindeer and small camps of indigenous Sámi people in the area. After a brief stop in Hammerfest, we arrive in Havøysund. Join a small boat excursion here to see the North Cape from the sea, visit the world’s northernmost fishing village, and ride by bus to the North Cape plateau. The ship continues to Honningsvåg, from where you can join a birdwatching excursion to Gjesværstappan, home to millions of birds during nesting season. The ship continues north into the heartland of the Sámi people. Visit Kjøllefjord, where you can learn about the Sámi way of life and hear traditional joiking (song).
In winter, you can join an unforgettable snowmobile trip across snowy plains and perhaps spot the northern lights in the starry sky. ’Sámi Autumn’ is a fall excursion to learn about the Arctic’s natural ’pantry and pharmacy,’ sampling dried-reindeer meat, crowberry juice, herbal tea (nettle), and roseroot tincture. You may also feel the presence of the Sámi shaman, Noaidi.
Day 7: Capital of the Barents Region and the Turning Point
Ports of call: Båtsfjord – Kirkenes – Berlevåg
Today arrive early in Vadsø, and just after breakfast, dock at Kirkenes. At 30° East, Kirkenes is farther east than St. Petersburg and Istanbul! It is also Hurtigruten’s turning point for the return trip west southbound along the coast. Kirkenes is known as the capital of the Barents Region and the gateway to the east. There are a number of fascinating things to do and see in Kirkenes, which is located near the Russian border. You’ll notice the local road signs are written in both Norwegian and Russian. There are many ways to visit the Russian frontier, depending on the season. You can take a bus year-round, or join a riverboat safari, canoeing, border hikes, or ATV/quad-bike adventure in summer.
In winter, explore the classic wintertime activities to choose from, including dog sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Join an excursion to catch and eat giant king crab from the Barents Sea. In summer, you can join an excursion where you catch and eat giant king crabs from the Barents Sea.
As the ship starts its journey southward, you can enjoy lunch, followed by viewing the surrounding Arctic landscapes from out on the deck or from the panorama lounge. As we depart Kirkenes, you’ve only seen half of what the Norwegian coastline cruise has to offer! Prepare yourself for many new experiences. The ports visited at night on the northbound trip are now seen by day. In the afternoon, the ship again docks at Vardø, Norway’s easternmost port. Weather permitting, we may invite you to experience ice swimming in the Arctic Ocean in winter. In spring, onboard we show a presentation about shorebirds along the Nordic coastline. Heading west, we cruise along the Varanger Peninsula to Båtsfjord before reaching Berlevåg in the evening. Berlevåg is home to one of Norway’s most famous male choirs, consisting mainly of local fishermen.
Day 8: Hammerfest and Tromsø: Surrounded by Excitement
Ports of call: Mehamn – Kjøllefjord – Honningsvåg – Havøysund – Hammerfest – Øksfjord – Skjervøy – Tromsø.
In the middle of the night, we dock at Mehamn. During wintertime, you can join an unforgettable snowmobile trip through one of Europe's most extreme and exciting natural areas. Experience snow-clad valleys, fresh winter air, and perhaps even the mesmerizing northern lights in the clear, starry sky.
At Honningsvåg, you can join a coach excursion that features breakfast at the North Cape, and discover hidden parts of Finnmark along the way between May and October. Before arriving in Hammerfest, you may want to enjoy an 'energy coffee' and a short onboard introduction to nearby Melkøya – the world's northernmost natural gas terminal. In autumn, we invite you out on deck to taste dried reindeer meat. The town of Hammerfest was founded in 1789, and over time became Norway's polar capital, serving as a base for hunting expeditions into the High Arctic. Here you can see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, erected in 1854 to commemorate the first precise geographic measurement of the globe. In winter, you can also join a mini-mountain expedition to experience the Arctic outdoors and learn about local polar hero and cook, Adolf Henrik Lindstrøm.
We then continue south to Øksfjord. In winter, our crew teaches you how to tie maritime knots out on the deck. After crossing open water, we make a brief stop at the old trading post of Skjervøy. In spring, we sail through the beautiful Lyngenfjord, surrounded by the snowy peaks of the Lyngen Alps, and where a local fisherman may visit and share fresh, locally caught prawns. We then dock at Tromsø, just in time to enjoy a magical midnight concert at the Arctic Cathedral. In summer, you can join a midnight excursion under the midnight sun, and explore Tromsø by the sea in a RIB boat. Or, a walk around the town provides you the chance to enjoy a local brew at one of the city’s many friendly pubs.
In summer, you can also join the expedition team for small explorer boat activities to discover more of Tromsø and its surroundings.
Day 9: Vesterålen, Trollfjord and Lofoten Islands – Where Nature Amazes
Ports of call: Tromsø – Finnsnes – Harstad – Risøyhamn – Sortland – Stokmarknes – Svolvær – Stamsund
This morning we arrive at Harstad, where you can participate in one of Hurtigruten's most beloved and renowned excursions: A Taste of Vesterålen. Experience history, beautiful scenery, and a selection of breathtaking sights, including Trondenes Church, one of Norway's premier cultural heritage sites from the late Middle Ages. Those who choose to stay on board can admire views of this old church as we sail toward the Risøyrenna, a shallow, 23 ft deep channel made for Hurtigruten in the 1920s to provide an 'inside route' between Harstad and Sortland. Sandbanks along the Risøyrenna are visible through the clear, green water. The island groups of Lofoten and Vesterålen offer some of the most stunning scenery you see during the entire coastal cruise. The Lofoten region is renowned for its natural beauty with steep mountains, wild nature, and small, picturesque fishing villages. The daylight sailing route through the Lofoten Islands is a highlight for many of our guests.
Risøyhamn is a small village with only 200 inhabitants, and we make a short stop here to deliver passengers, groceries, and mail. As a springtime tribute to the region's fishing heritage, our chef shows guests how to fillet the catch of the day on deck. We then continue south via Sortland to Stokmarknes, where Hurtigruten was founded more than 125 years ago. Go ashore and visit the Hurtigruten museum here. Continuing southward, it looks like we are sailing straight into a mountain wall, but we slip through an opening leading to the narrow Raftsund. This 12-mile passage between Lofoten and Vesterålen takes you through mountains soaring 3,300 ft directly out of the sea.
Then we reach the spectacular Trollfjord, only one mile long, 330 ft wide, and surrounded by majestic mountains. If weather and time permit, the captain will make a detour into the fjord. Steep cliffs hug the ship's sides, and the dramatic landscape conjures images of an imaginary land of trolls. The Trollfjord is also the realm of the sea eagle. Should you choose to take the optional sea eagle safari to see these magnificent birds up close, you will be transferred to a smaller vessel before we reach the Trollfjord. If there is time, you will see the Hurtigruten ship turns around in the narrow fjord, a magnificent sight! The sea eagle safari begins in earnest after leaving the Trollfjord, passing through narrow channels flanked by steep mountains where the birds dwell and can be viewed. These beautiful, rare birds of prey circle the boat a few times before we toss fish into the sea for them to snatch and devour. Be sure to take along your camera!
Reaching Svolvær, you can choose from several excursion options. Join our Lofoten Islands tour to learn more about the archipelago's fishing communities, beautiful scenery, and local art. You can also join a horseback ride and experience a sunset trot through powdery white sand on a beach along the Norwegian Sea. If you want more of an adrenaline rush, join one of our excursions by RIB. If you prefer dry land, a guided fishing village walk provides insights into local history and culture. From Svolvær, we continue to Stamsund, where we see the majestic peaks of the huge Lofoten Wall. We leave Lofoten during the evening and set course for the mainland.
Day 10: Crossing the Arctic Circle, Admire the Seven Sisters
Ports of call: Bodø – Ørnes – Nesna – Sandnessjøen – Brønnøysund – Rørvik
Crossing the Arctic Circle at 66°33' N is an important rite of passage. Today we celebrate the event out on the deck with a taste of Arctic tradition – a spoonful of cod liver oil! Sailing along the Helgeland coast, we pass hundreds of islets, fertile farmland, and steep granite walls rich in local lore. On deck, you can see the strange mountain Torghatten (rising 850 ft above sea level), famous for its distinctive hole right through the middle. The hole is 525 ft long, 115 ft high, and 65 ft wide, and was created during the Ice Age.
Another highlight is sailing past the Seven Sisters mountain range. All seven peaks are between 2,800 and 3,600 ft high, and it is easy to understand how these 'ladies' led to an ancient myth.
Next, we make a short stop at Nesna, an idyllic old trading post, before moving on to Sandnessjøen. The UNESCO World Heritage site of the Vega Islands is nearby Sandnessjøen and can be visited on an optional excursion during summer. This unique cultural landscape consists of dozens of islands.
Brønnøysund is a vibrant and pretty little town. Spend some time strolling around and taking in the quaint small boats and bustling life of the archipelago. You can also join the excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre near Brønnøysund for an informative tour, and a taste of fresh salmon from April throughout October.
Day 11: Trondheim – In Cod We Trust
Ports of call: Trondheim
Disembark your Hurtigruten ship in Trondheim in the morning with plenty of time to discover this medieval city. Few large cities have managed to preserve their intimacy as effectively as Norway’s third-largest city, Trondheim. Viking King Olav Tryggvason, founded this ancient city in 997. The city has a number of historical and modern highlights to see. Marvel at the incredible architectural details and exquisite artwork of Nidaros Cathedral, the country's only Gothic-style cathedral, built over the burial place of St. Olav (Tryggvason), Norway's patron saint. If you're visiting in spring and summer, be sure to make a stop at Ringve Museum of Musical History, where the history of Norway’s music is brought to life. This beautiful manor house is surrounded by a wonderful botanical garden and provides fantastic views of both the city and the fjord.
Trondheim is also home to the world's northernmost cable car and the world's first bicycle lift.
EXTENSION OPTION: Trondheim – Oslo 4 days/3 nights
Complement your cruise with a 1 night stay in Trondheim to explore the medieval city before taking a wonderful scenic rail journey to Oslo, for 2 nights in Oslo to discover Norway's lively capital city before flying home.
Day 11: Medival Trondhiem
Disembark your Hurtigruten ship in Trondheim & transfer to a centrally located hotel in Trondheim. In the afternoon explore this medieval city, with most of the attractions are within walking distance of your hotel.
Overnight stay in Trondheim
Day 12: Trondheim – Oslo
Breakfast at the hotel. Hotel Check-out
Leave Trondheim in the morning by train "The Dovre Line" for Oslo, experiencing one of the world’s most spectacular journeys—a breathtaking weave between mountains, valleys, glaciers, fjords, and forests, especially good in summer. During the seven-hour ride through Gudbrandsdalen, Rondane, Jotunheimen, and Dovrefjell, you pass through some of Norway’s stunning national parks.
Upon arrival at Oslo Central station, walk to your hotel. Hotel Check-in. Rest of day at Leisure.
Overnight stay in Oslo
Day 13: Oslo
Breakfast at the hotel.
In the morning, embark on Oslo Discovery Tour – 5 hours guided tour by coach. Feel the cozy atmosphere in the city center, admire stunning views over Oslo fjord from Holmenkollen Ski Jump, get in touch with the art of the most prolific Norwegian sculptor as you stroll through Vigeland Park encompassing more than 200 sculptures. On Bygdøy Peninsula you will enhance your Oslo experience by visiting 2 unique museums: the Fram Museum and the Viking Ship Museum.
Overnight stay in Oslo
Day 14: Oslo Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Hotel Check-out
Depending on your flight details, you can still enjoy some last-minute shopping for Viking souvenirs, walk along the streets and explore the city of the royal family, and the main Karl Johan’s street, with many shops, bars, and cafes. (optional transfer to Airport available)
