Design, Architecture & Nature of Norway

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Oslo, Alesund & Atlantic Road, Norangsfjorden, Geirangerfjord, Storfjorden

This private Norway tour features some of the country’s most spectacular design, architecture and landscapes. It includes private cultural touring with your own guide and driver and accommodation in Norway’s best and most charming fjord hotels.

Begin in Oslo, the attractive seaside capital of Norway. During flexible private touring, learn about Viking customs at the Viking Ship Museum, marvel at the remarkable sculptures in Vigeland Park, see fascinating murals describing Norwegian history and customs inside City Hall, take in panoramic views of the harbor from the historic Akershus Fortress, walk on the roof of the iconic Opera House, and peruse masterpieces by Edvard Munch and other Norwegian artists at the National Gallery. Other options include visiting the Nobel Peace Center, learning about rural traditions at the Norwegian Folk Museum, touring the Royal Palace or Oscarshall, delving into the life of one of Norway's most renowned playwrights at the Ibsen Museum, seeing Norwegian modernist architecture at Villa Stenersen, learning about the World War II history of Norway at the Holocaust Museum or Resistance Museum, visiting Holmenkollen ski jump and the Ski Museum, and biking along the Akerselva River. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can also arrange tickets to performances at the Oslo Opera House and other venues around the city.

Next, fly to Alesund, a beautiful port town built on islands along the coast. During private touring, explore the historic center—a showcase of Art Nouveau architecture—and visit small museums such as the Jugendstilsenteret to learn more about the history and culture of the region. If desired, also learn about Viking history, visit popular cafes and small boutiques, and venture up Aksla viewpoint for panoramas of the city and surrounding archipelago.

One day, travel by private vehicle and ferries through scenic landscapes to the stunning Atlantic Road, an engineering tour-de-force that connects a chain of small islands with curving bridges. Also take a short cruise to picture-perfect Haholmen, a fishing village on a tiny island, where you might like to enjoy lunch.

Next, travel by boat to Christian Gaard, a family-owned farm and restaurant on a remote section of scenic Hjorundfjord, for an off-the-beaten-path lunch. Continue to Hotel Union Oye, a historic hotel in a peaceful setting with fjord and mountain views, for an overnight stay.

Continue through the spectacular Norang Valley with your private driver-guide through spectacular Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the surrounding region. Cruise by ferry through the beautiful fjord, admiring waterfalls streaming hundreds of feet down high rock walls, and looking for farm buildings perched on precipitous cliffs. Also drive along the famous Eagle Road, a winding route with overhead views of Geirangerfjord, and through other classic Norwegian scenery of fjords and hills. Another highlight is driving on Trollstigen, a dramatic road that winds down steep slopes past waterfalls and towering peaks.

Next, drive through stunning landscapes to Storfjorden and enjoy time at leisure as well as the option to go fishing, enjoy a hike, visit a local farm or embark on a wildlife sea safari.

This private Norway tour can be further customized with additional time or destinations in Norway or in neighboring countries such as Sweden and Denmark. Contact one of our Scandinavia specialists to start planning.