
Customer Highlight: The Northern Lights & Lapland
Aug 01, 2026 · By Kira Whitaker
Explore the stunning features of Scandinavia through the eyes of our customers while reading about Great Rail Journeys’ tour The Northern Lights & Lapland.
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A Viking country at the edge of civilization and the wild Arctic Circle, Norway sets the stage for a wealth of captivating adventures. Norway is known for its breathtaking scenery - most famously, its fjords. These deep coastal valleys formed over millennia as icebergs retreated, and while truly awe-inspiring, they are just the beginning of the beauty we present on our thoughtfully planned Norwegian vacations, each backed by more than 20 years of travel expertise.
Travel to cities where history is preserved and culture runs deep, or venture into the heart of spectacular scenery to witness forces of nature firsthand. Board the Flåm Railway for a scenic journey showcasing racing rapids, deep ravines, tumbling waterfalls, and sheer cliffs, or travel on the iconic Bergen Railway for views of glaciers and ice fields, conifer forests, snowy mountain ranges, and the rocky coastline. Taking to the water instead, the world-famous Sognefjord, Norway's longest fjord, is a wonderland of dramatic cliffs and waterfalls and idyllic villages. Let your ideal journey unfold in Norway.



The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, create stunning displays of vibrant color in Norway's Arctic skies. These glowing ribbons of green, pink, and purple sweep across the dark sky, forming one of nature's most incredible shows. For the best Northern Lights experience, head to the remote regions of Tromsø or the Lofoten Islands.
During Norway's summer months, the Midnight Sun-a fascinating natural phenomenon-brings weeks of nonstop daylight. As the Earth tilts toward the sun, Norwegians enjoy extended daylight hours, especially above the Arctic Circle, where the sun doesn't set at all. This incredible event transforms the country's stunning landscapes into a dreamlike scene.
Norway offers a captivating mix of charming cities. The capital, Oslo, stands out with its modern architecture and lively cultural scene. Tucked into the breathtaking fjords, Flåm delights visitors with its scenic beauty and the famous Flåm Railway. In Bergen, you'll find colorful wharves and a rich maritime history that adds to the city's timeless charm.
Norwegian cuisine reflects the country's rich maritime and farming traditions. Seafood-especially salmon, cod, and herring-takes center stage. At breakfast, smørbrød is a must-try; these open-faced sandwiches come with a variety of toppings like fish, cheese, and cold cuts. For a sweet treat, sample krumkake-thin, crisp, waffle-like cookies.
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Norway's breathtaking Sognefjord is home to rich Viking traditions and some of the country's most fascinating cities. Its beautiful blue waters are surrounded by charming villages and varied terrain, complete with mountains, plateaus, waterfalls, and emerald forests. Explore this region by train and cruise on this eight-day journey through...





Discover glorious Norway in summer, combining guided city tours and a journey on the Bergen Railway from Oslo with a six-night cruise through some of the world's most magical fjords into the land of the Midnight Sun. An epic voyage north is marked by the crossing of the Arctic Circle, before continuing into northern Norway to marvel at...





Experience the beauty of Norway in winter on an unforgettable journey through breathtaking fjords and colorful cities. Travel on one of the world's most famous rail journeys - the Flåm Railway - crossing snowy plateaus and winding past cascading waterfalls, before soaking up the scenery of Norway's wild landscapes aboard two fjord cruises. Step...
Norway's railroads not only showcase engineering excellence but also allow travelers to immerse themselves in the country's natural wonders. The Bergen Line, which spans 308 miles from Oslo to Bergen, is considered one of the world's most picturesque train journeys, traveling through snow-covered mountains and deep valleys. The Flåm Line also offers a scenic journey descending from high mountains to Aurlandsfjord with stunning views of waterfalls and lush greenery. Meanwhile, the Dovre Line serves as a crucial north-south link connecting Oslo to Trondheim.