Back to Classic Short Breaks in Norway

A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North

Svinoya Rorbuer | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights
@ Svinoya Rorbuer
Svinoya Rorbuer | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights
@ Svinoya Rorbuer
Svinoya Rorbuer | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights
Svinoya Rorbuer | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights

A winter escape through Norway that blends culture, Arctic adventure and some of the best Northern Lights viewing in Europe. Beginning in Oslo, the journey introduces Norway’s festive traditions with private guided experiences, historic museums and elegant spa relaxation. The adventure continues north to the Lofoten Islands where dramatic fjords, fishing villages and snow covered landscapes create a striking Arctic backdrop. Tromsø adds a vibrant northern city atmosphere with reindeer sledding, Sami culture and a memorable Northern Lights dinner cruise. The journey concludes in Alta where guests stay at a family run lodge, experience dog sledding with huskies, whale watching in the Altafjord and guided Aurora hunting. Carefully curated accommodations, immersive activities and seamless private transfers create a balanced winter itinerary that combines comfort, authenticity and unforgettable natural experiences across Norway’s most iconic winter destinations.

This journey blends cultural discovery with immersive Arctic experiences. Highlights include a private Christmas themed walking tour in Oslo, a scenic exploration of the Lofoten Islands and an atmospheric snowshoe hike beneath Arctic skies.

Guests enjoy a Northern Lights dinner cruise in Tromsø, reindeer sledding with Sami hosts and unforgettable dog sledding from a wilderness lodge in Alta.

Whale watching in the Altafjord and expert guided Aurora hunts maximise chances of witnessing the Northern Lights while learning about Arctic nature and traditions.

Location Norway
Duration 9 Nights
Available dates Dec - Apr
Price per person (excl. flights)
£7,087*

Itinerary Inspiration

Day 1

Arrival in Oslo and Art Deco Indulgence

Arrive in Norway’s elegant capital where a private premium transfer awaits to take you directly to your centrally located hotel, Sommerro House. After check in, take time to settle into your surroundings before enjoying three hours of all inclusive access to the historic Vestkantbadet spa. This beautifully restored Art Deco bathing complex offers a serene introduction to Scandinavian wellness, with saunas, plunge pools and relaxation areas providing the perfect antidote to travel fatigue. As evening falls, a reserved dinner at Ekspedisjonshallen awaits, where classic brasserie style dishes are served in a relaxed yet refined setting. This first evening sets the tone for a journey that blends comfort, culture and understated luxury.

Day 2

Festive Oslo Traditions and Christmas Market Magic

After breakfast, enjoy a private guided walking tour that reveals Oslo through the lens of its festive traditions. Begin at the Norsk Folkemuseum where historic buildings, seasonal decorations and storytelling bring Norwegian Christmas customs to life. Warm mulled wine and intimate cultural insights create a truly immersive experience. Returning to the city centre, stroll past Oslo’s key landmarks illuminated by festive lights while learning about local traditions such as Lille Julaften and Julebord. The afternoon is free to explore Oslo’s Christmas market at your own pace, browse artisan stalls or enjoy ice skating. Dinner is reserved in the city, allowing you to experience Oslo’s vibrant winter dining scene.

Day 3

Journey North to Lofoten and Arctic Sauna Serenity

This morning, transfer privately to the airport for your flight north into the Arctic Circle. Upon arrival in Svolvær, the gateway to the Lofoten Islands, a short private transfer takes you to your traditional rorbu cabin, perched on the water with views of dramatic mountains and fjords. After settling in, enjoy dinner at Børsen Spiseri, a historic restaurant housed in a former quayside warehouse. Later, unwind in a private floating sauna on the fjord. As steam rises into the cold Arctic air, keep watch for the Northern Lights shimmering across the night sky.

Day 4

Iconic Lofoten Landscapes and Snowshoe Adventure

Following breakfast, embark on a full day shared driving tour through the Lofoten Islands. Travel along scenic coastal roads framed by towering peaks, tranquil fjords and traditional fishing villages. Highlights include stops at some of Norway’s most photographed locations, including Reine and surrounding hamlets, where red cabins contrast vividly against snow covered mountains. Lunch is taken at leisure during the tour. In the evening, return to Svolvær for dinner before heading out on a guided snowshoe hike. Walking beneath Arctic skies, you will reach a mountain shelter where warm drinks and storytelling await, with the possibility of Northern Lights appearing overhead.

Day 5

From Fjords to Fjord City and Northern Lights at Sea

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Svolvær, perfect for souvenir shopping or taking in the harbour views before your onward journey. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Tromsø, often referred to as the capital of the Arctic. (Flights are not included) A scenic train journey can also be arranged as an alternative to flights. A private transfer brings you to your stylish waterfront hotel where you can settle in before the evening’s highlight. Board a Northern Lights dinner cruise and sail silently through fjords aboard a modern hybrid electric vessel. A carefully crafted three course dinner is served while panoramic windows frame snow covered mountains and dark Arctic waters, offering an unforgettable evening at sea.

Day 6

Tromsø Culture, Sami Heritage and Reindeer Sledding

Today is free to explore Tromsø at your own pace. Visit the Polar Museum to learn about Arctic exploration, stroll along the harbour or take the Fjellheisen cable car for sweeping views across the city and surrounding islands. In the evening, travel outside the city to a traditional reindeer camp. Here, Sami hosts welcome you into their world, introducing you to reindeer herding traditions. Enjoy a gentle reindeer sledding experience before gathering inside a warm gamme for a traditional dinner and storytelling, accompanied by joiking, the haunting Sami folk song. Clear skies may reveal the Northern Lights above the camp.

Day 7

Into the Arctic Wilderness of Alta

After breakfast, transfer privately to Tromsø Airport for your flight to Alta in Northern Norway (Flights not included). On arrival, continue by private transfer to Trasti and Trine, a family run wilderness lodge surrounded by forest and river landscapes. Check in to your cosy cabin and take time to explore the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a three course country style dinner showcasing local flavours. Afterwards, relax in the wood fired sauna before stepping outside to scan the skies for Northern Lights, far from artificial light and deep in Arctic wilderness.

Day 8

Huskies, Snow Trails and Aurora Hunting

Begin the day with an unforgettable dog sledding adventure starting directly from the lodge. After a thorough introduction, meet your team of Alaskan huskies and learn how to harness and drive the sled. Glide through forests and open landscapes, swapping driving roles and stopping for photographs along the way. Return to the lodge for lunch and time to relax. In the evening, venture out with an expert guide on a Northern Lights hunting tour. Travel through the Arctic night in search of clear skies, enjoying hot drinks and photography guidance as you chase one of nature’s most mesmerising phenomena.

Day 9

Whales, Ancient Rock Art and Arctic Fine Dining

After breakfast, transfer to the harbour for a whale watching cruise in the Altafjord. From heated indoor lounges or the open deck, scan the waters for humpback and killer whales while guides share insights into the region’s marine life. Later, visit the Alta Museum, home to UNESCO listed rock art that dates back thousands of years, with a guided introduction offering fascinating context. Return to the lodge for an elegant three course dinner. Your final evening is spent enjoying the tranquillity of the Arctic night, with further opportunities to witness the Northern Lights from the comfort of your surroundings.

Whale Watching in Alta Norway | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights
Day 10

Farewell to Norway’s Arctic North

Enjoy a final breakfast before a private transfer to Alta Airport for your return flight to Oslo and onward travel. Depart with lasting memories of Norway’s winter landscapes, Arctic wildlife and unforgettable Northern Lights experiences.

Alta Norway | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights

Where You'll Stay

Sommero House Hotel | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights
Sommerro House Hotel
Situated just moments from vibrant districts like Aker Brygge and Karl Johans gate, this thoughtfully restored property feels like a private residence opened to guests — an elegant base from which to explore Norway’s capital.
Celebrate Beneath the Aurora in Arctic Norway and Finland | Travel with Aurora Nights
The Dock 69°39 by Scandic
Wrapped in fjord views and local flair, this sleek hotel is designed for explorers who crave both energy and escape—all under the glow of the northern sky.
Svinoya Rorbuer | A Winter Journey Through Norway’s Arctic North | Luxury Holidays in Norway | Travel with Aurora Nights
Svinøya Rorbuer
All 30 original, and the more recently-built rorbu cabins, are of a high standard. Each cabin has one to three double bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen-cum-lounge, and a modern bathroom with shower and toilet.
Trasti & Trine Boutique Hotel Alta Norway | Aurora Nights
Trasti and Trine
Surrounded by pine woods with trails straight from your doorstep, this lodge and cabin collection offers an intimate and characterful base for exploration.

Designed for you

What’s included

  • Premium private transfers throughout
  • Handpicked hotels and lodges in Oslo, Lofoten, Tromsø and Alta
  • Daily breakfast and selected lunches and dinners
  • Private guided Oslo walking tour and Christmas traditions experience
  • Spa access at historic Vestkantbadet
  • Floating sauna with Northern Lights opportunities
  • Full day Lofoten scenic driving tour
  • Snowshoe hiking experience
  • Northern Lights dinner cruise
  • Reindeer sledding with Sami hosts
  • Dog sledding with Alaskan huskies
  • Whale watching cruise in Altafjord
  • Guided Northern Lights chasing tour
  • Alta Museum visit with guided introduction
  • Support when travelling 8am-9pm 7 days a week

A note on flights

While flights are not included in the holiday price, our team will happily provide a quote and arrange them for you. Simply ask one of our Travel Experts for details of the available options.

"*" indicates required fields

1
2
3

Start Your Journey

Please fill out the enquiry form to receive a quote for this sample itinerary.

Contact Us

Opening hours (UK time) Monday to Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Telephone +44 203 769 3140
WhatsApp Chat now
Video Call Schedule now
trusted for 15 years as aurora holiday specialist

Northern lights tour reviews