Flight time
The flight from Auckland to Sweden takes roughly 27 hours with a stopover. You might need a nap when you get there but those gorgeous landscapes will soon make you forget any tiredness.
From fika to forests – fall for Sweden
It’s hard not to associate Sweden with stylish fashion and sleek, modern design. But there’s so much more to this captivating country than impeccably dressed locals and clean-lined architecture.
Beyond the cities, Sweden’s great outdoors will leave you speechless – paddle across glassy lakes, hike through emerald-green forests, or bask in the golden glow of the midnight sun. In winter, wrap up for a cosy fika (think coffee and cinnamon buns) before wandering the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, where history whispers from every crooked lane and stone façade.
Craving urban inspiration? You’ll find cutting-edge galleries, boutique design stores and buzzing waterfront cafés in the cities. But if it’s wild outdoor bliss you’re chasing, head north to the alpine beauty of Lappland or the dramatic wonder of Skuleskogen National Park, where ancient coastlines rise nearly 300 metres above the sea, and forest, mountain and ocean come together in spectacular style.
Start planning your Scandinavian escape with our Europe specialists – Sweden is waiting.
Best time to go
Sweden shines in summer with endless daylight and vibrant festivals, but winter brings snowy landscapes and northern lights. Visit June–August for midnight sun adventures, or November–March for magical aurora displays.
Time difference
Sweden is 10-12 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving at both ends. But don't worry about lost time if you're going in summer - daylight hours go on forever over there.
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
Explore Scandinavian Capitals & Fjords Tour in Autumn
Scandinavia
Scandinavian Capitals & Fjords Tour in Autumn
15 nights
Small group tour
from
$
12,388
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Iconic Northern Lights
Norway & Sweden
Iconic Northern Lights
7 Nights
Small group tour
from
$
11,084
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Cruising in Sweden 3
EXCLUSIVE ONBOARD CREDIT
Explore Follow the Midnight Sun - Norway, Sweden & Finland
Follow the Midnight Sun - Norway, Sweden & Finland
Bask in long, summer days as you explore the Finnish Lapland and take in Norwegian coastal towns on this flight-inclusive escorted small-group tour.
From Stockholm, an overnight ferry brings us to Helsinki. We spend the next few days exploring Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus, and Saariselka, cultural centre of the indigenous Sámi.
Crossing over to northern Norway, you’ll join the ship in Kirkenes for a southbound voyage along the Norwegian coast. Visit places like Hammerfest and Tromsø and experience the beauty of the Lofoten islands and the Helgeland coast on our way to Bergen.
14 Night Cruise & Tour Package
from
$
10,165
per person share twin
Polar Inside Cabin
Flights are additional
Polar Inside Cabin
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Hurtigruten
Departs 30 May 2027
Explore Baltic Capitals & Coastlines
Baltic Capitals & Coastlines
Explore the cultural treasures of Northern Europe on an 11-night Baltic Intensive cruise visiting Stockholm, Helsinki and Copenhagen. Discover charming old towns, striking architecture and rich Scandinavian heritage, from royal palaces to vibrant waterfronts. With extended time in port, enjoy deeper, more immersive experiences across the Baltics.
Cruise on Azamara Journey, your boutique hotel at sea, where practically everything is included and the atmosphere is laid-back. You can relax onboard on sun-drenched decks, in the refreshing pool, and revitalizing spa. There's never a dull moment onboard with celebrations, cultural performances, and cocktails!
11 Night Cruise
from
$
7269
per person share twin
Oceanview Stateroom
Flights are additional
Oceanview Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Azamara Cruises
Departs 6 Aug 2027
Explore Europe with Aurora Expeditions
Europe with Aurora Expeditions
Sail Europe the Aurora way — with curiosity, comfort, and connection at the heart of every journey. Whether tracing Viking routes, exploring remote isles off Scotland, or basking in Mediterranean charm, these expeditions offer rare perspectives of Europe’s coastlines. With small ships and expert guides, you’ll enjoy a relaxed yet enriching voyage where every day feels like a discovery.
Sailing 'The Med': A Mediterranean Feast
15 Nights Cruise from Valletta, Malta
19 May 27 - 05 Jun 27
From $25,899 per person share twin, Aurora Stateroom
From $38,845 per person single, Aurora Stateroom
Ports of Call: Valletta, Syracuse, Messina, Palermo, Cagliari, Olbia, Bonifacio, Mahón, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona
Save up to 50%*
Limited Availability
Aboard Aurora’s small expedition ships, you’ll travel with a team of naturalists, historians, and local experts who bring each destination to life. Enjoy flexible itineraries that adapt to the weather, wildlife, and the unexpected — because true exploration is about following curiosity.
12 to 15 Night Cruises
from
$
25,899
per person share twin Aurora Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Aurora Expeditions
Departs 19 May 2027
Our Europe specialists
Bridget Hanrahan
House of Travel Prestons
Bridget has an amazing collection of knowledge from 21 years creating wonderful itineraries for all her clients. She takes the role of research very seriously from finding the finest cocktail to ensuring everyone has the best activity tips!
Her knowledge in cruising, as well as other adventure and family travel combined with her easy approachable manner takes the pain out of planning your trip of a lifetime.
"Designing unique travel experiences is my passion. My attention to detail and always looking for exclusive options ensures that all client's experiences are seamless right from the initial enquiry".
When Bridget is not pouring over brochures for inspiration, you can find her having a game of tennis, finding the next best HOT Chocolate, or spending time with her family.
Years in the industry: 21+
No. of countries visited: 26
Favourite place to visit: Africa
"Travel is the healthiest addiction" - Anonymous
Why I love travel:
For me life is about experiences, not things! I love exploring new places, cultures, environments. I see travel for me as an addiction - I just can't stay away and helping people is so rewarding.
My travel tips:
- Travel as soon as you can, don't delay as life is too short.
- If you want an adventure head to Antarctica or the Arctic before anywhere else.
- Always carry a change of clothes, any valuables and medication in your carry-on luggage. The House of Travel online brochures are a great source of information when planning your journey then we can finetune your holiday for you.
My top 5 destinations:
- Africa- Serengeti plains!!! Perfect place to go to create family memories with our young adult kids! Adventure to encounter wildlife and camping in the Serengeti!
- Dubai- the mix of culture, sights, architecture, markets, desert and the malls - even though shopping is not my thing.
- Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska - I was incredibly fortunate to have a family holiday in Canada, Alaska, Las Vegas and California and I'll never forget rafting on the Nenana River, rounding a bend to see a moose and her two calves taking a drink …. we all forgot to keep paddling; it was an incredible sight!
- Rome - the history and the chaos of a bustling city it offers so much culture with a cool vibe.
- Thailand - I lived near Chiang Mai as an exchange student many years ago and have been back to the country three times. It is great for families, couples, singles with so much to see and do.
What's in my suitcase?
- Happiness - I'm always in my happy place as soon as I travel.
- Active wear - Our holidays always include adventure and plenty of travel.
- A copy of my passport and insurance policy number and phone number, in case I lose my carryon bag and phone.
Bridget
Mya Dunlop
House of Travel High Street Lanes, Christchurch CBD
Hi I'm Mya!
In my few years of experience in the travel industry, I have had the privilege
of helping clients explore some of the most beautiful and unique destinations
around the world. Specialising in the Pacific Islands, Australia, Bali, and
Southeast Asia, I bring an in-depth knowledge of these regions and a personal
passion for travel.
One of the highlights of my career so far has been escorting a group through
Vietnam and Cambodia – an unforgettable experience that deepened my expertise
in curating high-end, tailored travel experiences.
I’m driven by a deep love for travel and a commitment to crafting exceptional
journeys for every one of my clients. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach
getaway, an adventurous tour, or a luxurious cruise, I focus on creating trips
that are perfectly suited to your interests and preferences. Let’s make your
dream holiday a reality!
Mya
Carol Stratford
House of Travel Lower Hutt
Travel has been my passion for more than 20 years. While I took time out to raise my family, I couldn't stay away from an industry I truly love.
Whether you're dreaming of a family getaway, a cruise, a special celebration, or an adventure somewhere new, I'm here to help make it happen. I love getting to know my clients and creating holidays that are as unique as they are. Whether you're one of my valued long-standing clients or we're yet to meet, I'm here to help bring your travel dreams to life.
I'd love to hear about the adventures you have planned and work with you to create your Best Holiday Ever. Give me a call, send me an email, or pop into the store for a chat, I look forward to meeting you and helping you start your next journey.
Carol
Courtney McCormack
House of Travel Morrinsville
Travel is truly in my blood. My grandparents sparked the travel bug in my mum, and she passed that passion on to me. From the moment I took my very first holiday at age three, a magical trip to Disneyland, I was hooked. Growing up, I listened to my mum’s stories from her OE, my cousins’ globe-trotting adventures, and my sister’s explorations, all of which fueled my own wanderlust.
Over the years, I’ve lived in Scotland, as well as in England and Ireland, soaking up different cultures and ways of life. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively, exploring incredible destinations including Jordan, Israel, the USA, Australia & Europe. I’ve experienced the security and ease of organised solo travel with Contiki and Topdeck tours, but I’ve also embraced the challenge and freedom of planning my own trips, like eloping in Denmark, which remains one of my most cherished adventures.
With a background in hospitality, I combine practical knowledge with genuine care to craft holidays that are personalised, meaningful, and seamless. I love getting to know your unique travel style and what matters most to you, whether that’s family fun, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list adventure.
I’m not just your travel consultant; I’m your travel cheerleader. I’ll celebrate every countdown with you, smooth out any bumps along the way, and be just as excited when everything comes together perfectly. My goal is to take the stress out of travel planning, so you can focus on making memories.
Let’s work together to create a travel experience that’s not only unforgettable but uniquely yours.
Courtney
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