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In Search of the Northern Lights with Magnificent Europe

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Operated by APT
Tripcode: EUMCNL23
Overview
Destination:
Netherlands
Norway
Duration:23 days
Type:Group tour (max 45)
Style:
Small Group Tour,
Travel Period
November 2027 - December 2027
Tromso → Budapest

Your Small Group Tour of a maximum of 24 guests begins above the Arctic Circle in Tromsø, a picturesque town framed by soaring mountains and fjords. Visit a husky farm and enjoy an exhilarating sled ride through snow-blanketed mountains. Delight in an unforgettable stay in a glass-domed igloo, offering a rare opportunity to perhaps witness the northern lights from the comfort of your bed. Then, continue your journey to Amsterdam, where you'll board APT's new-generation luxury river vessel for an unforgettable 14-night cruise to Budapest.

Highlights
  • Visit a local homestead for a unique experience, where tradition and nature intertwine. Meet the family's diverse herd of reindeer, including those who are in training and those who've already graduated from 'sledding school'. After an opportunity to feed the reindeer, step inside a traditional log cabin to enjoy morning tea by an open fire. Here, you'll learn about the rich traditions of the indigenous Sámi culture. The Sámi language contains a wealth of vocabulary relating to nature and the surrounding environment, and they are also known to have precise terms related to reindeer descriptions.

  • Set out on an unforgettable snowmobile journey through the breathtaking Arctic landscapes of Levi. Glide across pristine snowfields and silent forests as your guide leads you deep into the wilderness. Stop for a truly special cultural encounter, as you are introduced to the ancient tradition of Joik, the spiritual singing of the Sámi people.

  • Venture out into the wilderness with a visit to a husky farm. Here, take a thrilling sled adventure into snowy mountains and exquisite forest scenery, before enjoying lunch on the farm.

  • Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens during this exclusive Signature Experience, you’ll attend a cocktail party, where a pianist sets the mood.

  • Head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of the Austrian capital of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. During this extraordinary Signature Experience, a full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital.

  • On this incredible Signature Experience in Austria, be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’.

Highlights:
Itinerary
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Day 1 - Arrive Tromsø

Arrive in Tromsø, the gateway to the Arctic. We'll meet you at the airport before transferring you to your hotel. Later, join your fellow travellers and meet your Tour Director at a welcome reception.

Day 2 - Tromsø, Sommarøy

Begin your morning with a discovery of the quaint fishing village of Sommarøy. Favoured by local Norwegians yet largely untouched by mainstream tourism, it remains a well-kept secret. Here, the scenery is wild, unspoilt, and utterly captivating — a true delight to explore.

In the evening, embark on a dinner cruise around the waters of Tromsø. Savour the distinctive culinary flavours of northern Norway as you glide past dramatic Arctic landscapes and snow-dusted mountains, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

Day 3 - Tromsø, Kilpisjärvi

Venture into the pristine wilderness with a visit to a husky farm. Embark on an exhilarating sled ride through snow-covered mountains and serene forest landscapes, then savour lunch on the farm. Afterwards, cross the border into Finland and conclude the day with a relaxing dinner at your hotel.

Day 4 - Kilpisjärvi, Levi

This morning, journey to a family homestead for a truly special experience. Arrive in Levi, where a unique stay in a glass igloo awaits. Snuggle in and hope for a clear, dark night sky to perhaps glimpse the mesmerising northern lights from the comfort of your dome.

Signature Experience – A Sámi Homestead Encounter

Visit a local homestead where tradition and nature intertwine. Meet the family’s diverse herd of reindeer, from those in training to seasoned sledding professionals, and enjoy the opportunity to feed them. Step inside a traditional log cabin to enjoy morning tea by an open fire, while learning about the rich traditions of the Indigenous Sámi culture. Discover how the Sámi language reflects their intimate connection with nature, including precise terms used to describe their reindeer.

Day 5 - Levi

Prepare for a thrilling Signature Experience this morning, followed by a relaxing evening at leisure at your hotel in Levi.

Signature Experience – Snowmobile Adventure and Joik Shaman

Embark on an exhilarating snowmobile journey through Levi’s stunning arctic landscapes. Glide across pristine snowfields and through silent forests as your guide leads you deep into the wilderness. Pause for a unique cultural encounter, experiencing the ancient tradition of Joik, the spiritual singing of the Sámi people — a truly unforgettable connection to the region’s heritage.

Day 6 - Levi, Luleå

Embark on a cross‑border journey from Levi to the coastal city of Luleå in Sweden. Travel through the tranquil landscapes of Lapland, before arriving in Sweden’s northern Gulf of Bothnia region. In Luleå, check-in to your hotel and some free time, followed by dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Day 7 - Luleå, Stockholm

This morning, transfer to the airport for your included flight to Stockholm, Sweden's capital. On arrival, you'll enjoy the remainder of the day to explore the city at your own pace.

Day 8 - Stockholm

This morning, embark on a guided tour of Stockholm, featuring a visit to the renowned Vasa Museum, one of Scandinavia’s most visited attractions. Explore the region’s rich maritime history and marvel at the world’s only 17th-century ship, the museum’s centerpiece, while learning about life aboard a historic warship.

Conclude your day with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating your time in this vibrant Scandinavian capital.

Day 9 - Stockholm, Amsterdam, Embark Ship

This morning, transfer to the airport and take an included flight to the vibrant city of Amsterdam. Board your new-generation river ship docked in the heart of the city and spend the rest of the day settling into your home for the next two weeks.

Day 10 - Amsterdam

Spend the day in the Dutch capital on your preferred activity. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise 

Step aboard a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam's iconic maze of World Heritage-listed canals, admiring the unique gable facades of the buildings, and 17th-century architecture along the way - a tranquil way to experience the city.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Discovery

Discover the culinary favourites of The Netherlands. See and taste a variety of Dutch delicacies as you visit local producers.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride 

Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum.

Freedom of Choice – Keukenhof Gardens in Spring 

On select spring departures, you also have the option to visit Keukenhof Gardens. Explore more than 70 acres of world-renowned gardens and admire the spectacular display of more than seven million flowering bulbs in bloom, including colourful tulips.

Day 11 - Andernach

This morning will be spent cruising through Germany. Spend time enjoying the range of facilities on board. Perhaps indulge in a spa treatment or relax on the Daystar Deck and read a book. Disembark in Andernach, where an exclusive Signature Experience awaits. 

Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens, you’ll attend a cocktail party, where a pianist sets the mood.   

Day 12 - Rüdesheim

Today you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards. Dock in Rüdesheim, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, you’ll set out on your chosen activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.  

Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum 

Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This eccentric and unique museum is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar 

Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions. 

Day 13 - Miltenberg

This morning, delight in a relaxing cruise along the Main River before arriving in Miltenberg. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Here, set out on your chosen sightseeing activity.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Walking Tour and Liqueur Tasting

Embark on a guided exploration of Miltenberg. Discover the town's remarkably preserved buildings and lively squares, offering a unique glimpse into Germany’s rich history. Then, visit one of Franconia's oldest wine cellars for a tasting of local liqueurs.

Freedom of Choice – Local Monastery Visit

Travel to the hills overlooking Miltenberg for a visit to a local monastery. Here, you'll meet with a Franciscan friar to hear about life in the monastery. You'll also sample some homemade sausages, cheese and bread before free time to wander through the gardens and vineyard.

Day 14 - Würzburg

Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.  

Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence 

Be enchanted by the immense architectural beauty of Würzburg as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

Freedom of Choice – Tastes of Franconia

Travel to the Volkacher Mainschleife, the largest wine-growing region in Franconia and home to one of the most famous Franconian whisky distilleries. Here, enjoy a guided tour and meet the whisky and winemaker to uncover the art of making whisky. Savour a tasting of their finest creations paired with freshly baked bread from a local bakery.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg 

Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful houses. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wohlfahrt’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest selection of German Christmas decorations in the world. 

Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress 

Enjoy a hike to Würzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Fortress, an imposing castle overlooking the city, which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

Day 15 - Bamberg

This morning, your ship will arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another one of the few German cities that was not destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the Regnitz River. Following your tour, rejoin your ship to cruise onto the Main-Danube Canal. 

Day 16 - Nuremberg

This morning gives you the chance to choose your sightseeing activity. This afternoon, continue cruising along the Main-Danube Canal while indulging in a Bavarian beer, sausage and pretzel tasting on the Daystar Deck. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas.

Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites 

Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.  

Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour

Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and the main market square, as well as its 14th century Gothic church.

Day 17 - Regensburg

Discover Regensburg on your chosen sightseeing activity today.  

Freedom of Choice – Explore Regensburg’s World Heritage-Listed City Centre

Set out on a guided tour to explore Regensburg's atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. Your tour will finish with a tasting at Regensburg’s historic sausage kitchen, thought to be one of the oldest working restaurants in the world. 

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial 

Get active and take a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Day 18 - Passau, Salzburg, Linz

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show 

Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, The Sound of Music

Day 19 - Melk, Dürnstein

Visit the spectacular Melk Abbey, one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. Then, it’s up to you how you get to the next port of call. In Dürnstein, perhaps view the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was imprisoned in 1192.

Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley 

Enjoy a cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, where you’ll roam its cobblestone lanes at your leisure.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Melk to Dürnstein 

Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Melk to Dürnstein and take in the beautiful scenery of Wachau Valley along the way. 

Day 20 - Vienna

Arrive in Vienna and set out on a city tour. Take in the Austrian capital's many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore. This evening is set aside for your magical Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital. 

Day 21 - Vienna

Head out on your choice of tours, then set sail for Hungary.

Freedom of Choice – Schönbrunn Palace Visit 

Delve into royal history as you wander the lavishly furnished rooms and beautiful gardens of the famous Schönbrunn Palace.  

Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia 

Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.

Freedom of Choice – Vienna Culinary Tour

Immerse yourself in Viennese cuisine on a culinary tour of Vienna's narrow streets. Visit a traditional cafe, try a classic Viennese sausage, and sample a sweet treat from one of the city's famous patisseries.

Day 22 - Budapest

Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today. The afternoon is yours at leisure to further explore. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a farewell to remember. Enjoy a performance of Hungarian folk music while you indulge in local brandy, as well as artisan meats and cheeses.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour 

Set out on a city tour of Budapest and take in its historic monuments, including Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Tour

Eat your way through Budapest as you embark on a tour of the Great Market Hall. Wander through this large indoor market and discover a variety of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Freedom of Choice – Fisherman’s Bastion 

Enjoy a funicular ride up to Castle Hill and take in the sweeping views over the river, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion, a beautiful historical monument.

Day 23 - Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest

Your extraordinary European adventure concludes today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.

Dates

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Travellers

Operator
APT

APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.

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Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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