Overview
What's included?
- Transfers: Private airport transfer on arrival in Oslo and departure from Bergen, all activity transfers where required and private transfer from Gudvangen to Bergen
- Accommodation: 2 nights in the Amerikalinjen in Oslo, 1 night in the Fretheim Hotel in Flåm and 3 nights in the Opus XVI in Bergen
- Meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
- The following activities are included in the holiday price: Guided tour of Oslo, Private sauna on the Oslo-fjord, Flåmsbana, Stegastein viewpoint, Nærøyfjord Fjord Cruise, Njardarheimr Viking Village, Bergen Guided Tour, Mount Fløien funicular, Mostraumen Fjord Cruise
- Fully qualified guides and instructors during activities
- 24/7 assistance from our UK based operations team and in destination support from our local partners
Your adventure begins in Oslo, where visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and culture. A guided tour will introduce you to the iconic landmarks and history of the Tiger City, including how it earnt its unlikely nickname, while a private sauna on the Oslo Fjord provides a relaxing escape.
From Oslo, you will journey west into the fjords via the picturesque Flåmsbana Railway, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and myriad waterfalls. A stay at the charming Fretheim Hotel allows you to explore the Stegastein viewpoint, with its gravity defying observation platform, and experience the unique atmosphere of the Ægir Viking Restaurant.
You will leave Flåm as the Vikings did, by taking to the waters on a cruise through the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a visit to the Njardarheimr Viking Village. A private transfer takes you to Bergen, where you can admire your stunning hotel, The Opus XVI and enjoy a meal in the beautifully decorated Frescohallen.
In Bergen, your itinerary includes a guided city tour, a scenic ride on the Mount Fløien funicular, and a delicious seafood dinner at Cornelius Seafood Restaurant. A Mostraumen Fjord Cruise offers another opportunity to appreciate Norway's natural beauty.
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
This holiday is in essence a multi-city break and as such operates quite differently to some of our other holidays in more remote locations. Because you will often be based in a central city hotel, your activities will start at various meeting points (full details and directions will be provided in your final travel documents) which you will need to walk to (or arrange your own taxi unless otherwise stated) in good time for the activity to begin. You will then normally be met by a guide or bus which will either take you directly out on your activity or to a central meeting point from where you will then head out on your adventure.
Please note that the prices below are “from” prices and subject to change due to availability at the respective hotels. This also applies to cabins on the Hurtigruten; supplements may apply.
Prices
Departure dates between | ||
---|---|---|
Sun 15 Dec 2024
to Mon 31 Mar 2025 |
Adults £ 3,435 To £ 3,845 |
Next season’s dates and prices
Our dates and prices for 2025/26 are now available to book, so get in early and secure your places now. Our Travel Experts will happily provide you with a full quotation including any additional activities or accommodation upgrades. We will advise you of your flight details when they are confirmed. This will normally be around nine months prior to departure.
Dates | ||
---|---|---|
Tue 01 Apr 2025
to Tue 31 Mar 2026 |
Adults £ 3,955 To £ 4,555 |
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20
Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival
On arriving at the airport, your private transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel – The Amerikalinjen – which is ideally located in the centre of the city. This former shipping office has now been re-imagined as a luxury hotel boasting a restaurant, cocktail bar and even an excellent bakery.
For dinner why not try one of the restaurants with view over the waterfront at Aker Brygge of or sample fine dining in the trendy Grünerløkka district.
Included Meals: None
Included Meals: None -
DAY 2
Guided City tour and sauna
This morning you will take a guided tour of Oslo, exploring the city's rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks. Oslo is the northernmost capital in Europe and is the envy of many others with its abundant green spaces, striking coastline and mountainous backdrop.
For lunch you will visit Vippa, Oslo’s newest food hall offering a multitude of street food styles in a former warehouse on the waterfront. You will round off your day with a relaxing experience at Oslo’s floating sauna, where you can relax whilst enjoying views over the of the city and its surrounding waters.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 3
Oslo to Myrdal, Flåmsbana and Stegastein Viewpoint
This morning, following breakfast, you will take advantage of the Amerikalinjen’s proximity to the station in Oslo, and board a train for points west! You will journey on the mainline from Oslo to Myrdal which will take approximately 5 hours. You can bring your own food and snacks onto the train, but there is also a café serving hot and cold meals and drinks (including alcohol for consumption in the café area only).
At Myrdal, you are in for a real treat as you change on to the Flåmsbana (Flåm Railway) which is one of the world’s steepest train rides built on standard tracks. The railway takes you from the high mountains surrounding Myrdal station to the foot of the Aurlandsfjord, through the Flåm valley. The journey is 20km and offers panoramic views of some of the wildest and most magnificent nature in the Fjord region.
Another local highlight is the Stegastein viewpoint, an engineering marvel jutting out above the Aurlandsfjord and providing unparalleled views.
You will spend this evening in Flåm, at the refined Fretheim Hotel, and enjoy dinner at the uniquely styled Ægir Restaurant and Brewery. Inspired by Norse mythology, the restaurant is built like a great hall with a 9 metre chimney at its centre. The menu also hails back to the Viking Age, offering dishes with their roots in the storied past of the region.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
DAY 4
Nærøyfjord Fjord Cruise, Njardarheimr Viking Village and Bergen
This morning you will take to the waters as you depart Flåm and Aurlandsfjord, on a cruise into the Nærøyfjord (a UNESCO World Heritage site). You will soon understand why this fjord has been called one of Nature’s masterpieces.
Your destination is Gudvangen, a tiny village which sits at the end of the majestic Nærøyfjord and is dwarfed by the sheer scale of the landscape around it. Gudvangen is also home to the Njardarheimr Viking Village – a “living” exhibit offering a fascinating insight into the daily life of the Vikings, the farmers and fishermen turned raiders whose seafaring prowess and ambition re-shaped Europe’s history.
Following lunch at Njardarheimr, you will take a private transfer to Bergen (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes) and check in at your hotel the historic Opus XVI.
This evening you will dine at Frescohallen, a stunningly decorated vaulted building (the former stock exchange) famed for its signature local dishes and seafood.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 5
Bergen City Tour and Mount Floien
This morning you will be met at your hotel by your guide, who will escort you on a private guided tour of Bergen. You will cover Torgallmenningen square, the Hanseatic Quarter and Bryggen (another UNESCO World Heritage site!) and the fishmarket.
After your tour you will be able to visit Mount Floien, most definitely one of the city’s must sees! The funicular “Fløien” takes you from downtown area to the top in just six minutes, ascending 320 meters on merely 850 meters of rail. This funicular railway is one of Norway's most visited attractions, and the trip up the hillside is a thrilling experience by itself.
In addition to the stunning views, at the top there is a restaurant, cafeteria and a souvenir shop. Meet the world’s friendliest goats, or try the delicious homemade cinnamon rolls, and take the opportunity for a leisurely hike on the mountain’s many and varied trails.
If you are feeling athletic, you could walk up (or down) along the charming footpaths that zigzag all the way from the city centre to the top of Mount Fløien. Frequently used by the locals, this walk takes approximately 40 minutes and is highly recommended as an alternative to riding the funicular.
To round off your day you will enjoy more excellent seafood at the wonderful Cornelius restaurant which is situated on the island of Holmen in the fjord, and can only be reached by an enjoyable 25 minute boat trip, showcasing the seven mountains surrounding the city.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
DAY 6
Mostraumen Fjord Cruise
Mostraumen is another of Norway’s scenic gems and today you have a fantastic cruise tour taking you through the 27 kilometre long Østerfjord. Once underway, you will see how the fjord narrows between steep mountains as you sail safely through the powerful currents of the shallow and narrow Mostraumen strait.
Your captain will take the boat right up to a waterfall to catch a bucket of ice-cold mountain water for you to sample before turning back and returning to Bergen through the magnificent landscape. The boat has a sundeck and a kiosk offering refreshments, including beer and wine.
the rest of the day is for you to explore Bergen at your leisure and make the most of your last day in this enticing city. You could visit the Kode museum showcasing Norwegian Art, Design and Music, the Aquarium or Old Bergen museum for a slice of local history.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 7
Departure
Following breakfast, your private transfer will meet you at Opus XVI in order to take you to Bergen airport for your flight home.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Amerikalinjen Hotel
Nights: 1-2
The Amerikalinjen Hotel is a historic hotel located in the former offices of the Shipping Line of the same name. Known for its Art Deco architecture (which is reflected in room décor also) and its central location, it is just a short walk from the Oslo Opera House, the National Gallery, and the Royal Palace. The hotel offers standard, superior and deluxe rooms as well as suites – upgrades subject to availability and a supplement.
Amenities include:
- The hotel boasts a brasserie, cocktail bar, jazz club, relaxation lounge, bakery and even a floating bartender if you need a cocktail delivered direct to your door!
- Gym and Finnish Sauna
- Room service (within specified hours)
- Free Wi-Fi
- Rooms facilities include air conditioning, a minibar, flatscreen TV and a hairdryer
Fretheim Hotel
Nights: 3
The historical Fretheim Hotel lies in the centre of Flåm, not far from the edge of the fjord. The hotel was originally a farm nestled in the heart of the fjords. During the mid-1800s, many English lords and ladies came to this part of Norway to holiday, drawn to Flåm and the surrounding rivers which are renowned for salmon fishing.
As the English stayed for longer and longer, so the Fretheim Hotel was formed and it is since then that the hotel has been lovingly cared for and renovated to bring it up to a beautiful modern standard.
The hotel consists of 122 rooms consisting of several categories and split over different wings. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with the amazing view of the mountains and sea and the high quality local farm food make this an ideal place to stay in Flåm.
Hotel facilities:
- Cosy lobby bar with panoramic views that look out to the fjord, a large fireplace and a good selection of local and foreign drinks
- Restaurant Arven is on the second floor of the hotel, looking out to the fjord and centred around local produce and bold flavours
- Glasshouse viewpoint at the top of the hotel from which you can enjoy lovely views of Flåm and the fjord
- Laundry room open 24 hours
- Library
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Communal computers are also available for use free of charge in the lobby area
- Valuables can be stored in the hotel's guest safe at reception
Standard double/twin room
These rooms are located at the rear of the hotel, next to the hiking trails and foothills of the fjord area. The ground floor rooms have small patios.
Each room includes either a double or twin bed and an en-suite bathroom. Room facilities include TV, table and chairs, desktop with chair and a telephone.
Image credit: Visit Flam & Per Eide & Karina Lange, Fretheim Hotel
Opus XVI
Nights: 4-6
Combining elegant architecture with modern facilities in the heart of Bergen, the Opus XVI takes its name and inspiration from the works of the celebrated Romantic composer Edvard Grieg, one of Bergen’s most famous sons. The hotel even houses an exhibit on Concerto XVI.
The hotel has 65 rooms and suites, each with views with views towards either Mount Fløien, the historic fishmarket or Vågsallmenningen plaza
Amenities include:
- All rooms have wardrobe, desk, seating area, flat screen TV with chromecast, tablet for personal use, minibar with drinks and snacks, safe, coffee/tea making facilities, iron/ironing board and dedicated (complimentary) WiFi
- Each bathroom has a selection of toiletries and a walk-in rainfall shower
- Norwegian style buffet breakfast and a la carte breakfast dishes are included
- The hotel has its own restaurant serving three and five course menus as well as an afternoon tea service
- There is a luxuriously appointed hotel bar with live music performances