Scandinavian Rail Journey

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply

• 11 nights of hotel accommodation

• Daily breakfast throughout the tour

• English-speaking tour leader (Day 3-11)
• Local guides for city tours where outlined in the itinerary

• Travel by rail throughout Northern Europe
• Transportation by air-conditioned private vehicles from Luleå to Rovaniemi

• Rail transfers as outlined in the itinerary

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location (see checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)
• Guaranteed Airline: Fly with a guaranteed airline (see checkout for details)

Today depart from Australia (or New Zealand) to Stockholm, Sweden

Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some customers may be required to depart on day 2, to arrive on day 2. Flight times will be indicated on your final documentation, which you will receive 4 - 6 weeks prior to departure.

Meals included: In-Flight

Upon arrival in Stockholm, Sweden make your own way to the hotel. If it is too early for check in then luggage can be stored whilst you explore this magnificent city.

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden is located on the east coast of the country. Known for the beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, museums, retail, design, restaurants and cultural experiences.

Overnight: Elite Palace Hotel or Similar

Meals included: None

After breakfast at the hotel, be met by a local tour guide before embarking on an exciting city tour of Stockholm.

The tour of Stockholm, known as Venice of the North, starts at Fjällgatan to see the magnificent view of the Swedish capital, spread out on 14 islands with Lake Mälar on one side and the Baltic Sea on the other. See the Old Town with its fascinating, narrow cobble-stoned alleys, the Royal Palace, the Cathedral, and City Hall, where the festivities of the annual Nobel Prize award take place. The visit will also take you to the recreational island Djurgården where many of the city's fine museums are found.

Continue to the Vasa Museum [entrance included], the Vasa ship capsized and sank in Stockholm in 1628. After 333 years on the sea bed the warship was salvaged and the voyage could continue. Today Vasa is the world's only preserved 17th century ship and the most visited museum in Scandinavia. Next visit the Stockholm City Hall with the local guide before returning to the hotel.

Overnight: Elite Palace Hotel or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, check out of the hotel and be transferred to the train station. Board the train in Stockholm ready for the 11:20 departure, led by the tour leader, and relax on the 3hr35 minute journey to Sundsvall whilst enjoying the scenery. Upon arrival in Sundsvall, you will be transferred to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Sundsvall is a bustling city located in Northern Sweden, known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including forests, mountains, and waterfalls. The city is also home to a variety of museums, theaters and galleries. Be sure to try some traditional Swedish delicacies including Raggmunk, Skagen and Arctic Char which are served in most of the restaurants!

Overnight: Quality Sundsvall or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before continuing to Umeå. Be transferred to the nearby train station in time to board the train for the 10:13 departure, approximately 3hr journey. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Umeå is situated on the Ume River and is the largest city in the region, offering a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful natural surroundings and a strong focus on sustainability. Umeå is a great destination for those interested in culture, nature, and food. The city offers a wide range of food options that showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of northern Sweden. Stroll around the charming coastal town at leisure, have the opportunity to visit the interesting picture museum for contemporary art (optional - not included), then enjoy a leisurely tour of the culturally and scenically appealing city of Umeå.

Overnight: Scandic Plaza Umeå or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, board the train departing at 08:15 to Luleå, Sweden, the city at the northernmost tip of the Baltic Sea, approximately a 4hr 50 minutes rail journey. Luleå is a coastal city, very close to the Arctic Circle and is a city filled with exciting activities throughout summer and winter. The Arctic Circle is a circle of latitude that runs 66°33′49.4″ north of the Equator. It marks the southernmost latitude where the sun can stay in summer continuously above the horizon for 24 hours. Luleå is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, bike, hike, swim or sail, there really is something for everyone. Whether it's summer or autumn, explore the largest islands on the Luleå archipelago by one of the local tour boats.

Overnight: Quality Hotel Luleå or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, check out of the hotel and board the coach to Rovaniemi, Finland (approximately 255 KM day). Later, visit Santa Claus’ Village which is located on the Arctic Circle and pay a visit to the man himself, Santa Claus. This magical destination is not just for winter. Meet Santa and his joyful elves and reindeers whilst they work hard getting ready for Christmas! Explore Mr & Mrs Claus' cottage along with their hardworking reindeer and catch a glimpse of Santa’s secrets. Head to Santa’s office and embrace the colourful world of beautiful cards, unique stamps and gifts. The cosy atmosphere invites you to write your greetings to friends and family all over the world. Here they will be stamped by hand with a special postmark of the Santa Claus Post Office. Browse the gift shops for unique Finnish handicrafts, souvenirs and gifts and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime Lapland Experience.

Overnight: Arctic City Hotel Rovaniemi or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast, check out of the hotel and be met by the tour leader. Visit the Arktikum Museum in Rovaniemi which is a science centre, attraction and popular culture destination. The exhibitions lead guests on an adventure through Finnish Lapland and the Arctic region.

Later in the day at 13:00, board the train to Oulu, approximately 2HR 30 minute journey. Upon arrival be transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. Oulu is a perfect mix of northern nature, urban city culture and original local flavour. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, possibly visit the Hailuoto Lighthouse, located on an island close to Oulu. Explore the botanical gardens, hire a bike or possibly hire a Kayak or SUP board.

Overnight: Scandic Oulu City Hotel or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, check out of the hotel and be transferred to the station for the next rail journey departing at 09:16 to Tampere, approximately 4HR 39 minutes. Upon arrival, disembark the train and walk the short distance to the hotel (approximately 50 metres). Check in or store the luggage until the room is ready and embark on a visit to the Pyynikki Tower (optional entrance - not included) with breathtaking views of the surroundings. Be sure to try the delicious donuts that have been served in the small tower cafe for generations!

Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.

Overnight: Scandic Tampere City Hotel or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, make your way back to the train station by foot and board the train departing at 09:10 to Turku (approximately. 1HR 45 minutes), the oldest city in Finland with history dating back to the 13th century. Turku is situated at the mouth of the Aura River, which flows into the Archipelago Sea. Known for its rich history and iconic landmarks including Turku Castle, the Turku Cathedral, and the Turku Art Museum, the city is also famous for its archipelago, which consists of over 20,000 islands and islets. Visit Turku castle (entrance included), the Main Castle's passages, halls and chapels bear testament to the fascinating history of Turku, Finland, Sweden and the other Nordic countries. After, enjoy free time in the former state capital Turku - visit to the imposing mediaeval fortress of Turku Castle (optional, not included in the price).

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, one of Turku's best-known landmarks is a little orange city ferry called Fori. It takes a couple of minutes to sail from shore to shore, offering great views free of charge. Explore the bars and restaurants that this historic city has to offer.

Overnight: Scandic Plaza Turku or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the train station and make your way to Helsinki departing at 09:05 (Approximately. 3HR 30 minute journey). Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in Helsinki, the capital of Finland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, unique architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city has fascinating iconic landmarks including the Helsinki Cathedral, the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, the Temppeliaukio Church, and the Sibelius Monument. Popular for shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, with many parks, beaches, and recreational areas to choose from.

Overnight: Scandic Grand Marina or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, be met by a local english-speaking tour guide and embark on a 3 hour city tour of Helsinki. During the tour of the Finnish capital admire the major sights such as the Rock Church, the Senate Square surrounded by the Lutheran Cathedral of Helsinki, the Senate, the University and Library of Helsinki, the Sibelius monument, the Olympic stadium, and the new Opera House.

Later in the day, enjoy entry to the Temppeliaukio Rock Church. Quarried out of the natural bedrock, Temppeliaukio Church is one of Helsinki’s most popular tourist attractions. The interior walls are created naturally by the rock.

Overnight: Scandic Grand Marina or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, after breakfast, check out of your hotel and make your own way to the airport to correspond with your international flight back home.

Please note: Some guests may depart later in the day and will be able to store their luggage at the hotel until they are ready to depart.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some customers may arrive +1 day.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

CANCELLATION POLICY 
Qantas Tours packages are non-refundable. If your Qantas Tour package is affected by Covid-19 related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other Qantas Tour or package available via the TripADeal website.

Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.

We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.

Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated).

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 14th October 2024.

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.

Single Traveller Supplement

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement of $1000 applies. 

Please note: accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

Departure Dates

2024

May: 20

August: *19

September: 30

October: 07

Please note: see checkout for live dates and availability.

Surcharges

Please note: 

• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $550 per person.

Departure Cities

Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, *Perth and *Auckland

Departure Cities surcharge

Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth: $350 per person

Auckland: $800 per person

International Full-Service Airline(s) Used

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• Airlines: Finnair, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Swiss, Austrian, Air France, KLM, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Scandinavian Airlines and partners (subject to availability).

Please note: Qantas Tours cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

Guaranteed Airline surcharge

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• Qatar Airways: $500 per person

• Singapore Airliens: $500 per person

Please note:

• Guaranteed airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.

• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.

Arrive Early Options  
Arrive early in Stockholm, Sweden
$300 per person, subject to availability
High season dates range up to $800 per person, subject to availability 
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• High season arrive early can be purchased for up to $800
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
18th March - 30th April 2024
1st June - 14th August 2024
23rd September - 20th October 2024

Stay behind in Helsinki, Finland   
$300 per person, subject to availability
High season dates: up to $800 per person, subject to availability 
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
High season stay behind can be purchased for up to $800 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone) 
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
1st June - 14th August 2024
23rd September - 20th October 2024

Stopover Packages  
Location:
* Doha
Twin share: $1000 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1500 one way
Location:
* Dubai
Twin share: $1000 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1500 one way
Includes:
• 2 Nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers 
Please note: 
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
18th March - 30th April 2024
1st June - 14th August 2024
23rd September - 20th October 2024
• Stopover not available during the following 2024 dates:
Doha Grand Prix: October 2024
Doha MotoGP: November 2024
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (for Dubai): November 2024

Flight Class Upgrades

Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.

Please note: 

• Flight upgrades are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded.

• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.

Accommodation Used

3-4 Star Properties (Self-Rated)

Stockholm: Elite Palace Hotel

Sundsvall: Quality Sundsvall

Umeå: Scandic Plaza

Luleå: Quality Hotel

Rovaniemi: Arctic City Hotel

Oulu: Scandic Oulu City Hotel 

Tampere: Scandic Tampere City Hotel

Turku: Scandic Plaza Turku

Helsinki: Scandic Grand Marina

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.

Extra Nights

Not available.

Maximum Room Capacity

2 people.

Child Policy

• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.

• Valid for Children 10 years old and over.

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Triple Share

Not available 

Bedding Configuration

Double or twin (subject to availability).

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 36 per vehicle

• Visa fees and requirements 

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer

• Recommended gratuities/tipping 

• Optional activities/tours 

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

• City Tax

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER

Tour Guide

Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

Tour Leader

An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES

- In spring, the days get longer, and the temperatures rise slowly; the first warm days, more likely in the second half of April. By mid-May, the maximum temperatures hover around 20/22°C.

- Summer is pleasant, with maximum temperatures hovering around 21/22°C - ideal for outdoor activities. The nights are still cool however, with minimum temperatures around 11/12 °C. August and September are hot months of the year with average temperatures around 18°C with highs of 23°C.

- October is a cooler month, with temperature highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C. Bring warmer clothing especially for the evenings. 

FLIGHTS

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points

At Qantas Tours, we do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity

Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

COACH TOUR

Meals

Daily breakfast is included in the package. For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify Qantas Tours of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage

You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER

Mobility

If you would love to travel with Qantas Tours and require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required

A moderate level of fitness will be required. 

Moderate is described as may involve more physical activity, including biking, longer day hikes or extended walking and standing, low-altitude treks, and water-based activities such as canoeing or low-grade kayaking. Guests using any walking aid other than a walking stick would be advised to reconsider as surfaces may be uneven.

Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Gratuities / Tipping

Land

Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is €‎5 per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour. 

Please note: tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

Sightseeing

Please note: If entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping

Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 

Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

A tourist visa is not required for Europe for stays up to 90 days if travelling on an Australian passport.

Important:

• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

Please note:

• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.

• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

• Changes - $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error

• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees

In the event the Qantas Tour you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Qantas Tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error

• If the incorrect name has been advised to Qantas Tours, charges of $100.00 per booking + any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees

In the event the Travel Offer you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Travel Offer due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. Qantas Tours has committed to these costs as your Agent and will endeavour to recover all funds committed and/or paid for your Travel Offer, but this may not be possible in all circumstances. If refunds are unavailable from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. If Qantas Tours cannot obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee. This fee is not revenue-raising and is paid to or withheld by our suppliers when recovering payments.