NORDIC ROUTE: SCANDINAVIA AND GERMANY

After your arrival at Berlin Brandenburg Willy Brandt Airport, one of our vehicles will be waiting to transfer you to the hotel.

The rest of the afternoon will be free to start enjoying this impressive city.

Berlin is the capital of Germany and is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern artistic scene.

It's a city that has undergone significant transformation over time and has emerged as a place where history meets modernity in a unique way. Its creative energy, complex history, and welcoming atmosphere make Berlin a fascinating destination for visitors from around the world.

Greca Tip: Berlin's art scene is vibrant and experimental. Numerous galleries, artist studios, art events, and street art adorn its most famous neighborhoods.

After breakfast, we set out to deeply explore the vibrant capital of Germany. Berlin is a city that blends its profound historical past with a modern and dynamic present. We will begin with a panoramic tour through its historic center, where you’ll be able to admire some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll head to the famous Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of German reunification, and continue to the Reichstag, home of the German Parliament—an important site both politically and historically.

Next, we’ll explore Museum Island, a group of world-renowned museums where you can admire masterpieces of both ancient and modern art. We will also visit the Holocaust Memorial, a moving reminder of the horrors of World War II, and the Berlin Wall Memorial and Museum, which tells the story of the city’s division during the Cold War and its later reunification.

Berlin is also known for its vast parks and modern shopping streets. You’ll have time to stroll through them and discover the city’s quieter corners, such as the Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest urban park—perfect for a peaceful walk.

The afternoon is free for you to continue discovering Berlin at your own pace. You can choose to explore more museums, relax in cozy cafés, or do some shopping in the city’s stylish boutiques.

Greca Tip: If you want a more unique perspective of Berlin, we recommend taking a boat ride on the Spree River. From the water, you’ll be able to admire some of the city’s most impressive buildings, such as the Berlin Cathedral and the Bellevue Palace.

After a delicious breakfast, we begin our journey toward Dresden, the capital of Saxony, renowned for its stunning Baroque and Renaissance architecture. Between its palaces and the beautiful promenades along the Elbe River, Dresden offers a visually captivating experience. We will have time to explore and enjoy its historic landmarks.

We continue toward Bavaria, arriving in Bamberg—a lively and picturesque city. One of the most charming spots is "Little Venice", a scenic riverside district that is a must-see during our visit.

Our journey then takes us to Nuremberg, the second-largest city in Bavaria, known for its rich history. We suggest visiting the site where Hitler’s Colosseum once stood—an emblematic location tied to World War II.

Greca Tip: In Bamberg, take the opportunity to stroll through the Little Venice district and enjoy a good Bavarian beer in one of its traditional taverns.

After breakfast, we embark on an exciting day full of surprises. From Kelheim, we take a short cruise along the Danube Valley, one of the most spectacular areas, known for its impressive Danube gorges. Upon arriving at Kloster Weltenburg, we visit this beautiful Benedictine monastery, founded in the year 1040, with its medieval architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

We then continue to Dachau, where we visit the Nazi concentration camp museum, a place that offers a deep reflection on history. After this visit, we will have time for lunch.

Early in the afternoon, we arrive in Munich. We begin our exploration with a visit to BMW Welt (BMW World), a modern multifunctional facility of the famous German automotive group, which offers interactive exhibits on their models and technology. Next, we head to the Olympiastadion, a majestic example of architecture and the venue for the 1972 Olympic Games.

In the afternoon, you will have free time in Munich's historic center. You can stroll through Marientplatz, the heart of the city, explore the famous Viktualienmarkt market, relax in the Englischer Garten, or, if you prefer, enjoy a beer at one of the traditional Bavarian beer halls.

Please note that in winter or if the Danube's water level is too low, the cruise will not take place. Instead, the tour will be done by road.

Greca Tip: In Munich, if you enjoy beer, be sure to visit one of the traditional taverns and try a Helles, the local beer, while soaking up the Bavarian atmosphere.

After a nutritious breakfast, we get ready to start our day.

Today promises a journey filled with unforgettable landscapes and places steeped in history. We travel through two of Germany’s most charming river valleys: the Rhine and the Moselle.

We begin with a cruise along the Rhine, between the picturesque towns of Rüdesheim and St. Goar. This is undoubtedly the most scenic stretch of the river: medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and delightful villages line the banks in what feels like a storybook setting.

Next, we head to the beautiful Moselle Valley and make a stop in Cochem, a medieval gem featuring half-timbered houses and a majestic castle towering over the river. You'll have time for lunch and to stroll through its charming streets.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Cologne, a vibrant city known for its Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in Europe and an iconic symbol of the city. At 154 meters tall, it was the tallest building in the world until 1884. You’ll have time to walk through the lively city center and enjoy views of the Rhine before we continue to our hotel in Dortmund.

Greca Tip: If you’d like to experience an authentic taste of Cologne, try a glass of Kölsch, the local beer, in one of the city’s traditional taverns. It’s served in tall, narrow glasses—and always very cold!

Today will be a day full of magic and nostalgia as we follow in the footsteps of the famous tales and legends that marked our childhood, exploring the Fairy Tale Route, which winds through several villages that inspired the Brothers Grimm. We’ll begin our adventure in Trendelburg, a picturesque walled village dominated by its impressive medieval castle, where we’ll visit Rapunzel’s tower (entrance included)—a place filled with charm and mystery.

Next, we’ll travel along secondary roads, crossing enchanted forests as we imagine the stories of Hansel and Gretel. We’ll arrive in Höxter, a lively small town known for the Corvey Abbey (entrance included), a 9th-century monastery and UNESCO World Heritage Site. We then head to Polle, where we’ll explore the ruins of Cinderella’s Castle (entrance included)—an ideal setting to dive deeper into the world of classic fairy tales.

Our next stop will be Hamelin, famous for the legendary tale of the Pied Piper. Here, we’ll walk through its streets, following the trail of mice and soaking in the magical atmosphere of the city. Finally, we continue our journey to Hanover, where we’ll have time for a relaxing stroll around the Old Town Hall, a site full of history and charm.

Greca Tip: If you wish to immerse yourself even further in classic fairy tales, we recommend joining one of the optional excursions that will take us deep into the Brothers Grimm forests—a place where stories come to life around every corner.

After a delightful breakfast, we head north to Germany, with our first stop in Hamburg, one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the country.

We will take a tour of its harbor, one of the largest in Europe, which borders the beautiful Alster Lake and offers a unique combination of maritime tradition and modernity. You will have free time to stroll through the historic city center, explore the famous Speicherstadt district, known for its old red-brick warehouses, or enjoy lunch at one of its waterfront restaurants.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey north to Flensburg, a charming coastal town located on the border with Denmark. Its marina, surrounded by historic houses and traditional boats, is the perfect spot to enjoy the sea breeze and take a relaxing walk through its streets filled with history and culture.

After the visit, we cross the Danish border and travel through the Jutland Peninsula, enjoying the Scandinavian landscapes along the way to Aarhus, the second-largest city in Denmark. This vibrant city blends history and modernity, with a lively historic center, renowned museums, and a thriving cultural scene. Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel and have free time to start exploring the city.

Greca Tip: In Hamburg, be sure to try a Fischbrötchen, the traditional fish sandwich. In Flensburg, a great option is to taste one of its local beers, famous throughout Germany.

After a delightful breakfast, we depart towards the north of Denmark, heading to Hirtshals, an important port from where we will take a ferry to cross the North Sea to Norway.

During the approximately three-hour journey, you can enjoy the views of the sea, relax in the common areas of the ship, and, depending on the schedule, take the opportunity to have lunch onboard.

Upon our arrival in Kristiansand, located on the southern coast of Norway, we continue our tour of this region with its stunning maritime landscapes. Following the coast, we will stop in Flekkefjord, a small and picturesque village with white wooden houses and a welcoming atmosphere. Here, you’ll have the chance to stroll through its charming streets and admire the traditional Norwegian architecture.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Stavanger, one of the most beautiful cities in Norway, located beside a stunning fjord with a very active port. Upon arrival, you will have free time to explore its historic center, known as Gamle Stavanger, with its cobbled streets and perfectly preserved wooden houses, or relax at the lively waterfront full of cafés and restaurants.

Please note that ferry schedules may vary depending on the season. Normally, time is allotted for lunch during the ferry journey.

Greca Tip: In Stavanger, be sure to try klippfisk, the traditional Norwegian dried cod, or enjoy a coffee with views of the harbor to experience authentic local life.

After a delightful breakfast, we leave Stavanger and make our first stop at the iconic monument "Swords in the Rock" (Sverd i fjell), an impressive tribute to Norway’s Viking history.

These three giant bronze swords embedded in the rock commemorate the Battle of Hafrsfjord, which marked the unification of the country in the 9th century.

We continue our journey through one of the most scenic stages of the trip, crossing the majestic Norwegian fjord coast. Along the way, we will pass through deep tunnels, including the world’s deepest underwater tunnel, and traverse stunning bridges that connect the islands and peninsulas of the region. Additionally, we will take two ferry crossings, which will make the journey more relaxing and allow us to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains.

We will arrive in Bergen around lunchtime. Known as the capital of the fjords, this historic city greets us with its unique charm. A highlight of our visit includes a ride on the Fløyen funicular, which will take us to the top of Mount Fløyen, where we can admire breathtaking views of the city, its fjord, and the surrounding natural landscape.

After this experience, you will have free time to continue exploring Bergen at your own pace. We recommend strolling through Bryggen, the old Hanseatic district with its colorful wooden houses, visiting the fish market to try local specialties like smoked salmon and king crab, or getting lost in the charming streets of the historic center.

Greca Tip: Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views from Mount Fløyen. And if you’re looking for a special souvenir, Norwegian wool garments with traditional patterns make an excellent choice.

After a delightful breakfast, we embark on one of the most spectacular days of the journey, crossing the breathtaking landscapes of inland Norway, where fjords, glaciers, lakes, and forests will gift us with unforgettable postcard views.

Our first stop will be the majestic Tvindefossen waterfall, a beautiful cascade surrounded by lush vegetation and mountains, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

From here, we head towards the Sogn Fjord, the largest and deepest fjord in Norway, where we will enjoy an unforgettable experience aboard a cruise. For more than an hour and a half, we will sail between Gudvangen and Aurland (or, in some cases, Flåm), admiring the towering cliffs, waterfalls, and picturesque villages that line this arm of the fjord. We suggest taking this opportunity to have lunch onboard while soaking in the spectacular Norwegian landscapes.

We continue our journey through impressive mountains and snow-covered valleys. We will pass through the Aurland Tunnel, which, at 24.5 km long, holds the title of the longest road tunnel in the world.

On the way, we will make a brief stop to visit the Borgund Stave Church (admission included). Built in the 12th century, it is the best-preserved medieval wooden church in Norway and a magnificent example of Viking and Christian architecture fused in a unique style.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Oslo, the vibrant Norwegian capital. You will have free time to explore the city at your own pace: stroll along the harbor, wander through the lively central streets, or admire the iconic sculptures in Frogner Park, home to the famous Gustav Vigeland sculpture ensemble.

Please note that the usual disembarkation point for the fjord cruise is Aurland, but occasionally it may be Flåm.

Greca Tip: For an authentic culinary experience in Oslo, try rakfisk (fermented trout) or enjoy a traditional Norwegian hot dog from a street vendor—a popular option among the locals!

After a wonderful breakfast, we begin the day with a panoramic guided tour of Oslo, the dynamic capital of Norway.

This city blends vibrant modern architecture with historic buildings, surrounded by an impressive natural setting of fjords and forests. During our tour, we will visit some of its most iconic landmarks, such as the City Hall, where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded, the majestic Royal Palace, the futuristic Oslo Opera House, and Frogner Park, famous for its stunning sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Oslo has been recognized as the “European Green Capital” for its commitment to sustainability and nature.

After the visit, you will have free time to continue exploring the city at your own pace. You may take the opportunity to visit the Viking Ship Museum, stroll along the commercial Karl Johans Gate, or relax in a café with views of the fjord.

Late morning, we depart for Sweden, enjoying a journey surrounded by beautiful landscapes of forests and lakes. On the way, we will make a stop in the historic city of Örebro, located by the shores of a lake and famous for its impressive medieval castle, which reflects in the waters, creating a postcard-worthy scene. We will have time to take a walk through its historic center and admire its charming streets.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Stockholm, the majestic capital of Sweden, located in a Baltic Sea archipelago and connected by a network of bridges and ferries. We arrive at the end of the day, entering a city that perfectly combines history, stunning architecture, and modernity.

Greca Tip: In Örebro, be sure to try a kanelbulle, the traditional Swedish cinnamon bun. And in Stockholm, a great option is to enjoy a “fika,” the Swedish tradition of having coffee accompanied by a sweet treat, in one of its cozy cafés.

After a delicious breakfast, we begin the day with a panoramic tour of Stockholm, a beautiful capital built on 14 islands connected by a network of bridges. During the tour, we will explore Gamla Stan, the city’s old town, also known as the "City Between the Bridges," a labyrinth of cobbled streets and lively squares, home to many of Stockholm’s most monumental buildings.

We will visit the Nobel Museum, located next to the historic Stortorget Square, which honors the winners of the prestigious Nobel Prizes. We will also see the majestic Stockholm Cathedral and the imposing Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish royal family.

When conditions allow, we will stop at the Fjällgatan viewpoint, where one of the most spectacular views of the city and its maritime surroundings can be admired.

After the visit, you will have free time to continue discovering Stockholm at your own pace. We recommend exploring its famous museums such as the Vasa Museum, which houses a perfectly preserved 17th-century ship, or the ABBA Museum for music lovers. You can also relax in one of the many parks that adorn the city or enjoy its vibrant urban life.

If you wish, we suggest an optional visit to the Stockholm City Hall, an iconic building where the Nobel Prize ceremony is held, and to the Vasa Museum, where you can see the ship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered decades later.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss the smörgåsbord, featuring smoked salmon, köttbullar (Swedish meatballs), and kanelbulle (cinnamon rolls). If you’re feeling adventurous, try surströmming, fermented herring, a traditional Swedish delicacy.

After a delicious breakfast, we head south, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way. In the mid-afternoon, we’ll make a stop in Helsingborg, a lively Swedish coastal city, where we’ll have time to explore its vibrant atmosphere and bustling streets. From here, we’ll take a short ferry ride to Helsingør, in Denmark.

In Helsingør, known as the city of Hamlet, we’ll have time to admire the majestic Kronborg Castle, famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s play. Afterwards, we continue our journey to Copenhagen, the Danish capital, where we’ll arrive in the late afternoon, ready to discover this charming city.

Greca Tip: Don’t forget to try a smørrebrød, the traditional Danish open-faced sandwich—a delicious combination of rye bread topped with herring, meat, or fish.

After breakfast, and at the agreed time, you will be transferred to Berlin-Brandeburg Willy Brandt Airport.

Without a doubt, and after spending some fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see him soon to forge new and emotional moments that will never leave his memory.

Have a good trip! Or, as you will say: "Gute Reise!".