HELSINKI TO KIRKENES – BEYOND THE ARCTIC CIRCLE

Begin your Arctic adventure by arriving in Helsinki, where you'll stay in a centrally located hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you'll have the rest of the day free to start exploring the vibrant culture and picturesque streets of the Finnish capital. Pre-tour accommodation or optional transfers are available upon request. Overnight in Helsinki.

Helsinki: City Tour and Overnight Train to Rovaniemi

After breakfast, meet your local Helsinki guide at 10:00 AM for a comprehensive city tour.

Begin with a visit to the iconic Sibelius Monument, followed by a panoramic view of the Olympic Stadium and the Finnish National Opera. Next, discover the award-winning Oodi Library, surrounded by the modern architecture of the Parliament Building, Finlandia Hall, and the Sibelius Academy.

The tour continues on foot through the historic city center: the elegant Senate Square, the imposing Helsinki Cathedral, the lively Central Market Hall, and the harbor area.

The afternoon is free for shopping, coffee, or further exploring the Finnish capital at your own pace. In the evening, board the sleeper train to Rovaniemi, the official Santa Claus town and gateway to Finnish Lapland.

Overnight on the overnight train

Arrive early in the morning at Rovaniemi train station, where your driver will meet you and transfer you to your centrally located hotel in the heart of Finnish Lapland. The day is free for you to relax and explore the city at your own pace: discover local attractions, sample Lappish cuisine, or visit nearby museums and shops. For a unique Arctic experience, you can optionally join an Icebreaker Cruise, where you'll see the ship cut through the icy waters and even float on the frozen sea in a thermal survival suit—an unforgettable adventure in the far north.

Today you'll immerse yourself in the magical world of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. Meet Santa Claus in person, cross the Arctic Circle, and send a postcard from Santa's Official Post Office—an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Continue your Lapland adventure with a visit to a traditional reindeer farm, where you'll discover Sami culture and the close relationship between this indigenous people and their reindeer. Enjoy a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forest—a quintessential Arctic experience.

In the evening, head out into nature for a cozy picnic under the Northern Lights. Gather around a campfire under the starry sky, enjoy hot drinks and snacks, and, weather permitting, witness the breathtaking dance of the aurora borealis.

Experience the thrill of a snowmobile safari as you traverse frozen rivers and snow-covered forests—an unforgettable way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Finnish Lapland.

After your adventure, continue to Saariselkä, a charming Arctic village renowned for its natural beauty. There, you'll stay in a glass cabin, designed to offer panoramic views of the starry sky. Relax in a warm and inviting atmosphere while you await the magic of the Northern Lights, which you can admire right from your bed.

Note: Stays in the Glass Igloo or Glass Cabin are subject to availability at the time of booking.

After breakfast, you'll travel to Inari, the cultural heart of Finnish Lapland. You'll visit the renowned Sámi Siida Museum, where you'll delve into the history, traditions, and way of life of the Sámi people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Arctic. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of a husky sled safari through the stunning Lappish wilderness. Take the reins and guide your own team of huskies as they traverse the snowy trails for an authentic experience.

Travel to Kirkenes for an unforgettable King Crab Safari, one of the Arctic's greatest experiences. Cross the frozen fjord on a snowmobile-pulled sled, guided by local experts who will take you to the best fishing spots under the ice. Participate in the exciting capture of these impressive Arctic king crabs and then warm up with a delicious meal prepared with your own catch of the day. Enjoy this authentic feast in a cozy country restaurant by the fjord, where local flavors blend with a spectacular winter landscape. An experience that combines adventure and gastronomy to savor the very best of the Norwegian Arctic. Overnight in Kirkenes.

After breakfast, your Arctic adventure comes to an end. From Kirkenes, you can fly to Helsinki, Oslo, or Tromsø, depending on your travel plans. If you'd like to extend your experience, you can choose from these unforgettable extensions: Flight to Tromsø: Continue exploring the Norwegian Arctic by flying to the vibrant city of Tromsø, known for its Northern Lights, cultural scene, and spectacular scenery.

Fjord Cruise Extension: Embark on a scenic cruise from Kirkenes to Tromsø or Bergen. Sail along Norway's stunning coastline, passing dramatic fjords, charming fishing villages, and breathtaking Arctic landscapes.