Home Bespoke Tours 8-Day Luxury Lofoten and Bergen Tour: Rorbu Stays, Fjord Cruises, and Private Food Walks Embark on a private Lofoten Islands tour for a curated 8-day escape, seamlessly combining luxury rorbuer stays, private drives, and the cultural exploration of Norway’s two largest cities. Best time of year: Spring, summer Suggested duration: 7 nights Traveller type: Arctic explorers, for families, for seniors, hidden gems, fast pace Join a bespoke Arctic Norway trip that seamlessly combines the raw adventure of the north with the refined culture of the country’s largest cities, Oslo and Bergen. This luxury Lofoten itinerary begins with a seamless airport meet-and-greet in Oslo. A private transfer whisks you to high-end accommodation before you embark on Nordiva’s signature sightseeing programme — a curated journey that transitions from a guided stroll through the historic centre to an expansive three-hour exploration of the capital’s most iconic landmarks on a private drive. The true soul of your journey reveals itself as you fly north to experience the pinnacle of this itinerary — the Arctic archipelago private tour. Here, you will reside in premium, traditional rorbuer with modern amenities in the picturesque villages of Svolvær and Reine. This segment of your Norway fjord and Arctic tour is defined by “bucket-list” moments: gliding through the enigmatic Trollfjord on a silent electric ship and navigating the legendary currents of the Maelstrom to discover ancient sea caves near Reine. The best part of your time in the north is a full-day, immersive exploration of the islands — an experience where a private chauffeur takes you to discover the archipelago’s hidden corners. Finally, a quick Lofoten to Bergen flight brings you south to the Hanseatic beauty of Norway’s second-largest city. After an immersive private food walk through the colourful wharf district, your journey reaches its crescendo with the essential day trip to the Sognefjord. This spectacular finale begins with a pickup by a private fjord country chauffeur, who will take you through dramatic valleys to the shores of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord for a silent cruise and the world-famous Flåm Railway ride. Experience exclusive Lofoten travel and turn your dream of the North into a reality. Secure the trip of a lifetime with professional Norway tour planning from the experts at Nordiva. Previous tour itinerary Day 1 Arrival in Oslo: Private city exploration and a contemporary waterfront sanctuary. Your 8-day Norway luxury tour begins in the country’s vibrant capital, where a private transfer whisks you to a bold, urban retreat situated in Oslo’s most exclusive waterfront district. Once you have settled in, your chauffeur and a dedicated guide will pick you up near the hotel for a three-hour Oslo private city drive, taking you to the remarkable attractions situated beyond the historic centre, including the Vigeland Park, Holmenkollen, or the renowned museums at Bygdøy. The sightseeing programme concludes with a leisurely hour-long walk through the pedestrian heart of the city, providing a profound insight into Oslo’s long and dramatic history. Day 2 The gateway to the North: A scenic flight to the historic Svolvær rorbuer. Today, you embark on the central chapter of your itinerary — the memorable Oslo to Lofoten private tour. Following an early transfer to the airport and a swift flight to Svolvær, a short taxi ride brings you to your accommodation. Here, you will have the rest of the day to unwind in some of the best luxury cabins Lofoten has to offer, choosing from a collection of luxury-grade fisherman’s rorbuer perched on the edge of the sea. It is yours to decide how to spend the afternoon — be it exploring the charming Svolvær, relaxing within your authentic rorbu, or enjoying a restorative sauna at the on-site facilities. Day 3 The Trollfjord: A captivating cruise through the narrow reaches of the Arctic wild. The morning of your fast-paced luxury Norway tour begins with a captivating Trollfjord cruise from Svolvær. The electric boat navigates into a fjord of dramatic scale — merely two kilometres long with a mouth barely 100 metres wide — where the absence of roads ensures a pristine silence. This relaxing cruise also offers an incredible opportunity to spot white-tailed sea eagles soaring overhead. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy, be it relaxing in town or joining an optional Lofoten midnight sun tour on a kayak. Day 4 The Reine silhouette: A private eight-hour drive through the Lofoten archipelago. In the morning, check out from your cosy rorbu to embark on a genuine pinnacle of your exclusive Lofoten travel — an eight-hour chauffeur-driven Arctic expedition through the archipelago’s most remarkable corners. This Lofoten Islands private day trip by car begins with a visit to the fishing village of Henningsvær — affectionately known as the “Venice of the North” — before proceeding to the immersive Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg. Following the E10 National Scenic Route, you will pause to marvel at the most fascinating vistas, including the pristine white sands of Uttakleiv and Haukland beaches. This luxury car tour around Lofoten concludes in the archipelago’s most storied landscape — the village of Reine — where you will stay in a charming, converted fisherman’s cabin set against the world-famous backdrop of the Reinefjord. Day 5 Peaks and sea caves: Immersion in the wild beauty of Lofotodden National Park. Following a relaxing evening after your private drive around the Lofoten Islands, the next morning begins with a moderate yet steep Reinebringen hike. Reached in the company of a private guide or independently, the summit offers spectacular panoramic views of the village, the Reinefjord, and the surrounding peaks. In the afternoon, you will join a true specialty of your luxury Arctic expedition — the Lofotodden National Park tour that includes the Refsvika cave exploration. During this unique five-hour activity, you will navigate wild waters by RIB boat, visit the abandoned settlement of Refsvika, and venture into a massive, 3000-year-old cave featuring prehistoric paintings of human figures. Day 6 Hanseatic heritage: Transition from the Arctic heights to the cultural elegance of Bergen. Your high-end fishing village stay concludes as you trade your luxury accommodation in Reine for a refined retreat in the heart of Norway’s second-largest city, following a private transfer to Leknes Airport and a short flight south. There, a luxury Bergen city break begins with a seamless transfer to your sophisticated boutique hotel, after which you will explore the city’s Hanseatic heritage with a guide. Our Bergen private walking tour not only showcases the city’s highlights but also includes the experience of authentic food tastings at the historic fish market. The day concludes with a funicular ride to Mount Fløyen and leisure time in the late evening. Day 7 The King of Fjords: A classic discovery of the Nærøyfjord and the Flåmsbana railway. Today, you embark on the most essential private day trip from Bergen — an adventure to the Sognefjord, the colossal “King of the Fjords.” Your morning begins with a scenic private drive through Norway’s fjords that enthusiasts dream of, transitioning from Bergen's urban vibrancy into the deep valleys of Western Norway. Our private chauffeur tour in Norway runs through the heart of Nærøydalen, descending a spectacular serpentine route flanked by towering peaks. In Gudvangen, you will have time to explore the recreated Viking Village before boarding a silent electric ship to cruise the majestic, UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. This memorable day concludes with the world-famous Flåm Railway journey before you take the return train to Bergen. Day 8 Farewell Bergen: A final transfer from the heart of the fjords. It is time to conclude your exclusive Nordic journey. As you enjoy a final breakfast overlooking the Hanseatic wharf, a private, seamless transfer to Bergen Airport brings this bespoke 8-day Lofoten and Bergen itinerary to a close. Get in touch Explore Norwaywithout the effort. We’re here to help you escape reality — seeing incredible landscapes without the admin required to get there. Get in touch for custom tours tailored to you. Begin your Journey Discover the fishing village of Reine — Norway’s most breathtaking coastal sanctuary. Tour highlights Our favourite stops The Royal Palace of Oslo The remarkable Neoclassical palace stands majestically on a rise at the end of Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s main thoroughfare. This magnificent building is the official residence of the Norwegian monarchs and boasts a truly dramatic history. It was erected for the very person the street is named after, King Karl III Johan, but the Swedish monarch who had conquered Norway never had the opportunity to reside within its walls. Comprising 173 rooms, including a banqueting hall and a private chapel, the 19th-century palace is surrounded by a beautifully designed Slottsparken, featuring picturesque ponds and classical statues. Travellers can explore this major attraction by joining one of the public guided tours, available only during summer and requiring advance booking (tickets sell out quickly). However, visitors unable to secure a tour can still witness the elaborate changing of the guard ceremony, held daily at 13:30 outside the palace. Haukland beach 1aukland, one of Lofoten’s most popular beaches, boasts a long stretch of pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and a backdrop of towering mountains. No wonder this beach attracts numerous travellers — from swimmers and sunbathers to hikers and photographers. Its calm waters are perfect for kayaking, while the steady winds provide ideal conditions for surfing. Travellers can reach Haukland on a short, scenic drive from Leknes and take memorable photos in this picturesque place. Lofotr Viking Museum Located in the village of Borg on the Vestvågøya island, this immersive museum is home to the world’s largest Viking longhouse, stretching an impressive 83 metres long. Visitors can travel back in time, explore the daily life of the legendary Nordic warriors, and even witness several replicas of Viking ships. The museum was built on the actual excavation site and is brimming with interactive exhibits, making it a must-visit place for anyone interested in the Nordic culture, Vikings, and history. Bryggen Bryggen is a colourful waterfront district that dates back to the era of the Hanseatic League, a powerful medieval network of German merchants. It is one of Norway’s most popular tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can even stop by the local Hanseatic Museum to gain valuable insights into the history of Bryggen and that influential merchant guild. Nærøydalen Nærøydalen, a breathtaking glacier-carved valley in Western Norway, serves as the dramatic gateway to the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord on the route from Bergen to Gudvangen. Framed by towering peaks reaching 1,800 metres and draped in plunging waterfalls, the valley holds a storied history as part of the 500-year-old postal path between Oslo and Bergen. While the historic Stalheimskleiva — Northern Europe’s steepest serpentine road — remains a legendary landmark of the valley’s rugged past, modern-day travellers experience Nærøydalen’s scale best through a scenic drive that offers sweeping vistas of the Stalheimsfossen and Sivlefossen falls, capturing the raw power of the Norwegian wilderness. The Viking Village of Njardarheimr Located at the end of the idyllic Nærøydalen Valley and on the shore of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, Njardarheimr is a one-of-a-kind recreated Viking Village. Its residents — who are not actors but enthusiastic re-enactors — live traditionally as their ancestors did many centuries ago. In the village, visitors can learn about the Vikings on a guided tour (included in the entrance fee) and witness the inhabitants’ craftmanship, including blacksmithing, textile techniques, woodworking, and traditional cooking. Guests can also try their hand at exciting traditional Viking activities, such as archery, axe throwing, and ancient board and dice games. Njardarheimr — where visitors can purchase handmade products from the local gift shop and even sample authentic Viking food in summer — promises an unforgettable experience for those interested in the ancient Nordic history. Tour activities Curated experiences Sightseeing programme in Oslo Nordiva’s signature experience in Oslo begins with a guided stroll through the pedestrian-friendly historic centre, where the city’s architectural evolution comes to life through expert storytelling. The journey then transitions into a private chauffeured exploration of the capital’s more distant yet equally spectacular landmarks, including the world-renowned Vigeland Park. The private programme concludes with a tailored visit to a museum of your choice — such as the Norsk Folkemuseum, the Fram, or the Kon-Tiki — offering a profound and insightful introduction to the city. Trollfjord cruise A centerpiece of any visit to the Lofoten archipelago, the Trollfjord cruise glides through the waters on a silent electric ship to one of Norway’s most mythical fjords — a hidden gem barely two kilometres long with an entrance less than 100 metres wide. These state-of-the-art vessels feature panoramic warm lounges, a cosy café, and underwater drones, ensuring an immersive and comfortable experience even during the peak colds of the Arctic winter. For many, the true highlight of this 3.5-hour adventure is the opportunity to witness sea eagles soaring above the craggy peaks, all while conveniently departing directly from the docks of Svolvær, Lofoten’s unofficial capital. Reinebringen hike Reinebringen, towering 448 metres above the picturesque fishing villages of Reine and Hamnøy, is widely considered the most iconic hike in the Lofoten Islands — whether guided or independent. The ascent is a rewarding challenge, gaining nearly 400 metres of elevation over a short distance via a remarkable stone staircase. Comprising roughly 2,000 steps handcrafted by Nepalese Sherpas, this architectural feat leads travellers to a summit that offers what is arguably the most famous panoramic view in Norway’s Arctic. Refsvika cave tour This unique five-hour expedition is a true specialty of the archipelago, taking visitors from the sheltered bays of Reine into the wild heart of Lofotodden National Park. After navigating the complex currents of the Moskenesstraumen by RIB boat to reach the rugged “outer side” of the islands, travellers discover the hauntingly beautiful settlement of Refsvika that was abandoned in the 1950s. The journey culminates in a guided exploration of Kollhellaren Cave — a colossal 3,000-year-old sea cave where prehistoric paintings of human figures provide a profound connection to the island’s earliest inhabitants. Private food walk in Bergen This private food tour in Bergen offers a perfect combination of cultural immersion and culinary discovery. The journey begins with a leisurely exploration of the city’s Hanseatic heritage and dramatic history, taking visitors through the colourful wharf district. Then, the guide leads participants to the historic fish market for a series of authentic tastings, showcasing the very best of Norway’s coastal cuisine. This three-hour excursion concludes with a panoramic funicular ride to the summit of Mount Fløyen, where travellers can enjoy spectacular vistas of the city, the surrounding fjords, and the mountains. Places you’ll explore Review the route Oslo Svolvær Reine Lofoten Islands Bergen Gudvangen Flåm Myrdal Oslo Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture, rich history and cultural core — packed with museums, parks, and a stunning waterfront. Read more Svolvær Lofoten’s largest town and a popular transportation hub, Svolvær is nestled amidst the archipelago’s dramatic mountains on the island of Austvågøya, making it a perfect base for exploring the region. Read more Reine The idyllic, picture-perfect village of Reine is Lofoten’s most famous destination, offering a plethora of thrilling activities — from kayaking and fishing to hiking and cruising the stunning Reinefjord. Read more Lofoten Islands Lofoten, an archipelago off the coast of Northern Norway, is renowned for its charming fishing villages, stunning white-sand beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, and exciting outdoor activities. Read more Bergen Bergen, nicknamed “the city of seven mountains,” is the country’s second-largest city and the gateway to the West Norwegian fjords. Read more Gudvangen Nestled at the end of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, Gudvangen is famous for the reconstructed Viking village of Njardarheimr and the spectacular scenery of imposing mountains and cascading waterfalls that surround it. Read more Flåm Flåm, a small mountain village in western Norway, sits on the shore of the Aurlandsfjord and draws crowds of travellers thanks to the Flåmsbana, which many call the world’s most scenic train ride. Read more Myrdal Myrdal, a small mountain village and train station, is best known as the last stop of the Flåmsbana, one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Read more Oslo Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture, rich history and cultural core — packed with museums, parks, and a stunning waterfront. Read more Svolvær Lofoten’s largest town and a popular transportation hub, Svolvær is nestled amidst the archipelago’s dramatic mountains on the island of Austvågøya, making it a perfect base for exploring the region. Read more Reine The idyllic, picture-perfect village of Reine is Lofoten’s most famous destination, offering a plethora of thrilling activities — from kayaking and fishing to hiking and cruising the stunning Reinefjord. Read more Lofoten Islands Lofoten, an archipelago off the coast of Northern Norway, is renowned for its charming fishing villages, stunning white-sand beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, and exciting outdoor activities. Read more Bergen Bergen, nicknamed “the city of seven mountains,” is the country’s second-largest city and the gateway to the West Norwegian fjords. Read more Gudvangen Nestled at the end of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, Gudvangen is famous for the reconstructed Viking village of Njardarheimr and the spectacular scenery of imposing mountains and cascading waterfalls that surround it. Read more Flåm Flåm, a small mountain village in western Norway, sits on the shore of the Aurlandsfjord and draws crowds of travellers thanks to the Flåmsbana, which many call the world’s most scenic train ride. Read more Myrdal Myrdal, a small mountain village and train station, is best known as the last stop of the Flåmsbana, one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Read more Frequently asked questions How it works Pricing Travel support Can I book an itinerary exactly as it is on your website? Not quite. Every traveller is unique, and so is every itinerary we create. The sample itineraries on our website are meant to inspire you and give you an idea of what’s possible. Your personal Travel Consultant will design a bespoke trip tailored specifically to your preferences, interests, and travel style. What’s the difference between a private trip and a group tour? All our trips are private and tailor-made. We do not offer scheduled group tours. Instead, we focus on fully customized itineraries designed just for you and your travel companions. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, with family, or with friends, every detail will be crafted to suit your individual needs. How do we start planning a custom itinerary? It all begins with a conversation. Once you reach out to us, one of our Travel Consultants will get in touch to learn more about your travel style, interests, and must-sees. From there, we’ll craft a personalised itinerary, refining it with your feedback until it’s just right. Once confirmed, we handle all the logistics, so you can simply enjoy the journey. How long does the planning process take? It depends on the complexity of your itinerary and how much customisation is required. Some trips come together in a matter of days, while others – especially those with special arrangements or remote destinations – can take a few weeks. We recommend getting in touch as early as possible to ensure availability and a seamless experience. Can I make changes to my itinerary after booking? Absolutely. We understand that plans can evolve, and we’ll do our best to accommodate any adjustments. Changes may be subject to availability and potential additional costs, but we’ll always strive to make your trip as flexible as possible. What added value do you provide? Planning a seamless and memorable trip takes time and expertise – that’s where we come in. From itinerary design and booking to on-the-ground logistics, we take care of everything, ensuring a hassle-free experience. We work with trusted local partners, personally vet every element of your journey, and remain available 24/7 should you need assistance. With us, you’re not just booking a trip – you’re investing in a carefully curated travel experience. Can you arrange a rental car for my trip? Yes, we can arrange a rental car for you. Once we discuss the terms and pricing, you can decide whether to book through us or arrange it independently. We’ll ensure that you have the right vehicle for your itinerary and provide recommendations for driving routes and road conditions. Why aren’t all meals included in the price? We believe discovering local cuisine is an essential part of your journey, and everyone has different tastes. To give you flexibility, we typically include daily breakfast and occasional lunches or dinners. In remote areas, such as in hotels near fjords or remote villages, dinner is usually included. Your final itinerary will specify which meals are covered. How does your pricing work? The prices on our website are indicative and based on two or more travellers sharing the cost of accommodation, transport, and experiences. Once you get in touch, we will provide a customised quote based on your travel dates, group size, accommodation choices, and any special requests. Since every trip is tailor-made, the final cost will reflect your unique itinerary. Are international flights included in the price? No, international flights are not included. Many of our travellers prefer to book their own flights using frequent-flyer miles or loyalty points. However, if you need assistance finding the best routes or timings, we’re happy to help. All regional and domestic flights within your itinerary, as well as other transport, are included in the cost. What if my flight is delayed or cancelled? If your flight is delayed or cancelled, we recommend informing us as soon as possible so we can assist with any necessary changes to your itinerary. If you have booked your flights independently, you should contact your airline directly for rebooking options. However, we will do our best to adjust transfers, accommodations, and activities to keep your trip running smoothly. Do you provide electronic documents and itineraries? Yes! We are committed to sustainable travel, so we provide all travel documents, itineraries, and confirmations electronically. Your personalised itinerary will be accessible through a mobile-friendly application, ensuring you have all the details at your fingertips without the need for printed documents. What happens if I need assistance during my trip? We provide 24/7 support throughout your journey. Whether you have a last-minute question, need to adjust your itinerary, or require urgent assistance, our team is just a call or message away. We work closely with trusted local partners to ensure you always have someone to turn to, no matter where you are. Do I need an international driver’s licence for a self-drive tour? In most cases, a valid driving licence from your home country is sufficient for driving in the Nordic region. However, some rental companies may require an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your licence is not in English or does not use the Roman alphabet. We recommend checking in advance to ensure you have the correct documentation. You will also need to present your licence for activities such as snowmobile safaris. Do I need a visa to travel to the Nordic region? Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Many travellers from Europe, North America, and certain other regions can enter visa-free for short stays. However, starting in 2025, visitors from visa-exempt countries (such as the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.) will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) permit before entering the Schengen Area, which includes most Nordic countries. The ETIAS application is a quick online process and is valid for multiple trips over three years. Please note that the launch date of the system is currently unknown. Since entry requirements can change, we recommend checking with your local embassy or asking your Travel Consultant for guidance. While we can provide information, it is usually the traveller’s responsibility to arrange visas or travel authorisations. Our travel log We curate content, too Featured Tours Luxury Holidays in Norway It may seem challenging to plan luxury holidays in Norway, but rest assured — we are specialists in crafting exceptional journeys. Discover our best ideas for luxury travel in Norway — from thrilling fjord cruises and peaceful nature retreats to immersive wildlife safaris and strenuous yet scenic hikes. In this guide, you will find not only the best concepts and destinations for luxury trips to Norway, but also our handpicked selection of top-tier hotels, tours, and cruises. In short, everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. Adventures Featured Tours 4 Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Scandinavia and Finland Scandinavia and Finland are, arguably, among the best places on Earth to observe the Northern Lights — a truly mesmerising natural phenomenon that attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year. The reasons for this exceptional status extend beyond their prime geographical location and long, dark winters; the region also boasts top-notch infrastructure, a variety of exciting activities, and numerous major tourist attractions. Moreover, travel companies provide an excellent selection of tours specifically designed to complement your Aurora Borealis safaris. Featured Local tips Tours 13 Best Fjords in Norway to See and Visit Norway is almost synonymous with fjords. These stunning waterways, carved by ancient glaciers, snake inland from the dramatic coastline, creating landscapes of unparalleled beauty that draw visitors from across the globe. Deciding which are the most beautiful fjords in Norway is truly tough. And to help you navigate this breathtaking landscape, our article will explore some of the best fjords in Norway, their main destinations, and the top things to do in each area. Featured 10 Best Christmas Holiday Destinations in Northern Europe Looking for a white Christmas in Northern Europe? Planning to celebrate your Christmas holidays traveling? Look no further than our article! Adventures 11 Best Things To Do in Odda, Norway Odda, a small, picturesque town in Western Norway, has been a popular tourist destination for centuries — even Kaiser Wilheim II stayed there! In recent times, the town has become popular thanks to viral photos from Trolltunga (located nearby) and the release of the “Ragnarok” series on Netflix (which was filmed in Odda). In our new article, we will discuss all aspects of traveling to Odda and explore the best things to do in Odda, Norway. By the way, we have even added Odda to our list of the 17 most picturesque towns and villages in Norway — check out more fabulous destinations in our article. And now, let’s have a look at what to do in Odda, Norway. Tours Oslo On A Budget: Detailed City Guide to the Norwegian Capital Oslo is one of the most expensive cities in the world, yet many tourists seek to visit this wonderful Norwegian capital. Even if you don’t have a great stash of cash for your next visit, it is possible for you to enjoy your time in Oslo. As you will see from this page, visiting Oslo on a budget is possible – you should just know some tips and tricks on how to do it. You can also explore a rich selection of guided city tours in Oslo at Oslo Walking.