Scandinavian Capitals by Rail

Depart London on Eurostar to Brussels and continue to Cologne, arriving by late afternoon. There’s time to explore the historic centre, dominated by Kolner Dom – Cologne’s grand Gothic cathedral. Famed for its soaring twin spires, this masterpiece of medieval stained-glass and flying buttresses contains a gilded sarcophagus said to hold the remains of the three kings who followed the star to Bethlehem. Overnight in Cologne.

Travel by train to Hamburg and onwards to Copenhagen, arriving in time for dinner at the first of the Scandinavian capitals on this tour. Spend two nights in Copenhagen.

The beautiful Danish capital is easily explored on foot or by electric bike, readily available to rent around the city. The Tivoli Gardens are a good place to start. Dating from 1843, this nostalgic mix of parks, lakes, historic buildings and amusement rides includes a classic wooden rollercoaster from 1914. There’s also a great choice of bars, restaurants and cafés. Return at nightfall and you will find the gardens lit up by thousands of colourful lights.

Other city highlights include the iconic Little Mermaid – a bronze statue perched on a rock at the water’s edge. The nearby 17th-century harbour, Nyhavn, is lined with colourful townhouses and waterfront bars and restaurants, while Denmark’s ancient monarchy is evident in the city’s many royal palaces and castles – the most famous being Amalienborg, Christiansborg and Kronborg.

To fully experience Danish hygge, chill out in the soulful neighbourhood of Christianshavn, spread across a cluster of small islands. This colourful, historic area is probably best known for the self-governing community of Freetown Christiania. Its cafés and restaurants serve delicious Nordic cuisine.

Leaving Copenhagen, travel by train across the 8km-long Oresund Bridge to Sweden and continue north to reach Gothenburg in just under four hours. A coastal city with a real buzz, Gothenburg has a vibrant waterfront, cobbled streets, canals and a superb art museum. Explore the neighbourhood of Haga with its traditional wooden houses and local artisan boutiques selling chocolates, fashion, antiques and Swedish delicacies. Haga is the perfect place for fika, a traditional Swedish coffee break typically accompanied by freshly-baked cake or a cinnamon bun. Afterwards, take a walk up to the 17th-century fort of Skansen Kronan for 360-degree views of the city.

Dining options in Gothenburg range from tasty street markets to mouth-watering Michelin-starred restaurants. There is plenty of choice, from vegan and organic cuisine to dishes rich in locally-foraged produce. Overnight in Gothenburg.

Today’s rail journey takes you north along the coastline of West Sweden and on to the Norwegian capital of Oslo. A fascinating mixture of old and new, Oslo is one of its most striking modern buildings, the harbourside Opera House has a rakish roof that appears to slope out of the water – like an iceberg that’s drifted ashore. It’s designed so you can easily walk up the incline for views of the city and surrounding fjord. In complete contrast, the Akershus Fortress takes you back to medieval times, while the outstanding museums in the waterside Aker Brygge district showcase ceremonial Viking longships and the 39m-long schooner Fram, used by Norway’s legendary polar explorers Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. Nearby, you will find Oslo’s best shopping and dining opportunities, including some superb seafood restaurants. Spend two nights in Oslo.

Take a morning stroll in Frogner Park, viewing the 212 bronze and granite works by Norway’s best-loved sculptor Gustav Vigeland, including The Monolith, The Angry Boy and Wheel of Life. Explore more of the maritime treasures in Aker Brygge’s museums, or admire the traditional and contemporary art in Oslo’s many galleries. For a break from sightseeing, visit the The Well, Scandinavian’s largest spa and bathhouse with numerous pools, saunas and steam rooms, as well as massage and treatments to indulge in. Overnight Oslo.

Enjoy the scenic six-hour rail journey, weaving through unspoilt Scandinavian countryside before reaching the stunning capital city of Sweden. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’, Stockholm is spread across 14 islands. Stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets of Gamla Stan – the impeccably preserved medieval centre – and marvel at the beautiful and colourful buildings on Stortoget, the city’s most historic square. You will find ample choice of cafés, bistros and restaurants, each offering local gastronomic specialities. Spend two nights in Stockholm.

Visit the world’s oldest open-air museum at Skansen (with its 150 historic buildings) and the nearby Vasa Museum, which displays the amazing relic of the Vasa, a warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. The interactive ABBA Museum is another favourite among visitors. We also recommend a visit to the 600-room Royal Palace, or a trip to Drottningholm Castle – the private residence of the Swedish royal family.

There is a superb choice of restaurants in Stockholm offering international and traditional Swedish cuisine, such as classic Scandinavian fare of pickled herring, cured salmon, open shrimp sandwich, moose and reindeer.

Travel by rail south through the lush forests and fields of Skane to arrive in Malmo for your next overnight stay. Admire the city’s innovative architecture, especially the ‘Turning Torso’, the world’s first twisted skyscraper. In contrast, you will find Dutch-Renaissance architecture in the old town – a warren of cobblestone streets and medieval squares lined with cafés, galleries and designer boutiques. Malmo has more bars and restaurants per capita than anywhere else in Sweden, so you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out. Overnight in Malmo.

Alternatively, choose to fly home from Stockholm should you prefer.

Travel back over the Oresund Bridge to Copenhagen and onwards to Hamburg for an overnight stay. You’ll have the evening to explore Hamburg, Germany’s bustling port-city. The striking, scallop-roofed concert hall Elbphilharmonie dominates the skyline, while the St Pauli district is renowned for its restaurants and nightlife. Overnight Hamburg.

Take the morning train to Cologne and on to Brussels, before changing to the Eurostar service to London St Pancras.