Set out on a truly unforgettable winter adventure bringing the magic of Christmas to life. Your journey begins in the beautiful Finnish city of Helsinki, before boarding the legendary Santa Claus Express for a magical overnight train ride north into the snowy landscapes of Lapland.
Now the real adventure begins – meet Santa Claus in his winter home, glide quietly through the forest on a traditional reindeer sleigh, and feel the thrill of driving your own husky sled across sparkling snow-covered trails. You’ll also visit the magical Lampivaara Amethyst Mine, where you can dig for your very own lucky amethyst to take home.
As night falls, keep an eye on the sky — the Arctic wilderness is one of the best places in the world to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, dancing across the dark winter sky.
Filled with snowy landscapes, magical moments and unforgettable experiences, this is a Christmas adventure the whole family will remember forever.
Arrive in Helsinki and transfer to your hotel. The festive season is a magical time to be here — streets glow with countless lights, shop windows sparkle with colourful displays, and the air is filled with the spirit of Christmas.
Enjoy a scenic return ferry journey across the Baltic Sea to Tallinn, where you will step into a magical winter setting in the heart of the Old Town. Wander through the charming Christmas Market, filled with festive stalls, traditional treats, and handcrafted gifts, before taking time to explore the cobbled medieval streets at your own pace. After soaking up the atmosphere, return to Helsinki by ferry late afternoon.
This morning, your guided tour will showcase the city’s most fascinating sights: the historic centre, stunning library, impressive City Hall, Parliament buildings, and the unique Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church.
Don’t miss the Christmas window displays in Stockman!
Later, the excitement really starts to build as we head to the station to board the legendary Santa Claus Express. Settle into your cosy sleeper cabin as the train slowly pulls away from Helsinki and begins its overnight journey north. If you haven’t had dinner yet, head to the restaurant and try a traditional Finnish dinner like the famous meatballs and mash with lingonberries. Later, relax in your cabin and watch the snowy landscape roll by before drifting off to sleep.
Cabins have two single bunk beds 200 x 75cm. Children under 12 travel free but need to share a bed. If you would like a second cabin, please request this on reservation.
Arrive Lapland and and transfer to Santa Village.
Step into the fairytale world of Santa Claus Village. Illuminated with thousands of warm lights, wooden cabins, decorated Christmas trees, and festive music, the atmosphere is magical. Don’t forget to take that Insta picture at the Arctic Circle Line and receive a certificate marking the moment they stepped into the Arctic region — a memorable souvenir from the trip.
Another unique attraction is the Santa Claus Main Post Office – don’t forget to send a postcard with an Arctic Circle stamp to envious family and friends back home. How about scheduling a letter to be delivered to someone next Christmas?
After a busy few hours at Santa Village, you’ll welcome the comfortable 1.5 coach transfer to Pyhätunturi. Time to take a nap or enjoy the scenic countryside.
Because December falls during the Arctic winter, daylight hours are short and the sun doesn’t appear above the horison. This creates a soft blue twilight known as the polar night or in Finnish, kaamos, giving a dreamy and cosy atmosphere.
Ever dreamed of being a husky musher? Huskies are spirited and strong — able to pull up to five times their own weight with ease! Your adventure begins with an introductory talk about the huskies and some driving instruction. Then it’s time to put your musher skills to the test as you set off through the forest with a passenger in your sleigh. Hold on to your beanie — it’s going to be a thrilling ride!
Optional Activity: Snowmobiling
Experience the thrill of snowmobiling through breathtaking winter landscapes, surrounded by snowy forests. Under the guidance of professional instructors, you’ll learn how to handle your snowmobile safely before setting off on an unforgettable ride through the Arctic wilderness.
Please note: drivers must hold a valid driving licence.
This evening the adventure continues as you head out in search of one of nature’s most magical displays — the Northern Lights. Wrapped up warm and seated in a heated sleigh, you’ll travel quietly into the Arctic wilderness, far away from artificial light. Here the night skies are incredibly dark and clear, the perfect stage for the aurora to appear.
Some nights the lights glow softly like a mist across the stars, while on others they ripple and move in dramatic waves overhead. It’s a breathtaking sight — one of those rare moments in nature that makes you feel truly privileged to view this phenomenon of nature.
Just 20 minutes from Pyhätunturi, in the village of Luosto, lies the world’s northernmost Amethyst Mine. Perched atop the fell, the Mine offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Even getting there is part of the adventure — a scenic ride in a carriage pulled by a snow tractor. After an informative presentation about the mine, it’s your turn to dig for your very own lucky stone — a sure hit with the kids!
For those keen to hit the slopes, Pyhä ski area is perfect for beginners learning downhill skiing. If skiing isn’t your style, try something equally active and scenic — cross-country skiing. The ski shop has all the equipment you need, and English-speaking instructors are available. With floodlit slopes and tracks, the fun continues before the Arctic sunrise and after sunset.
This may also be a good chance to use your included chair lift ticket to ride to the top of the fell for breathtaking views over Pyhä and the edge of the national park.
At the summit, you’ll find Restaurant Tsokka and a scenic hut where you can relax by the fireplace — perfect places to warm up and take in the scenery.
Something truly magical is about to happen today —we’ve received a very special invitation to visit Santa! Since we’ve travelled from so far away, he’s especially excited to see us. But there’s one very important rule: you must be on his special list to meet him!
This is the list carefully kept by Santa’s hardworking elves, filled with the names of those who have shown kindness, generosity, and caring throughout the year. If you’ve been spreading a little Christmas cheer, your name’s going to be there don’t worry.
We’ve also received some inside information from the elves: Santa loves the traditional Finnish pipari biscuits.. So let’s surprise him with some of those as our present to him.
Optional activity: Lakeside Sauna & Swim in Ice Hole
Experience a true Finnish tradition with an invigorating dip in a frozen lake followed by the soothing heat of the sauna. A hole is cut through the thick ice, allowing you to take a quick, refreshing plunge before retreating to the heat of the lakeside sauna.
The contrast between icy water and gentle steam is both revitalising and deeply relaxing — a practice cherished in Finland for its health benefits and sense of wellbeing. Step outside, breathe in the crisp winter air, and feel completely renewed.
It’s time to meet Lapland’s most iconic animal — the reindeer! Snuggle into a sleigh pulled by a reindeer and glide gently through the snow-covered forest, soaking in the peaceful beauty of your pristine surroundings.
Free time in between activities? Grab a tobaggan and head for the toboggan run.
Every Christmas Eve, Finnish cities announce the Declaration of Christmas Peace — a cherished tradition marking the official start of Christmas. The oldest and most famous ceremony takes place at noon in Turku’s Old Great Square, where it has been read almost every year since the 1320s. The declaration reminds everyone to spend the festive season in harmony, warns against disturbing the peace, and wishes all a merry Christmas.
Join us for a short walk across the ski slopes to Tajukangas for share in this special event.
Optional Activity: Ice Floating
Experience the unique sensation of floating in icy water while staying completely warm and dry. After being fitted with a thermal dry suit and given clear instructions, step carefully into a frozen lake and with the support of the water beneath the ice.
Surrounded by the quiet of nature, take a moment to slow down, breathe, and simply be present. After your floating session, warm up and unwind in a traditional lakeside sauna — the perfect balance of calm and rejuvenation.
Please bring: warm layers (base layer and mid layer) under the dry suit, towel and swimming suit.
In Finland, Christmas Eve is the heart of the festive season — a time for family, warmth, and tradition. As snow falls outside, enjoy a traditional Finnish Christmas dinner.
The evening is filled with candlelight, music, and anticipation, as this is the night Santa Claus (Joulupukki) arrives from his home in Lapland to deliver gifts. It’s a magical celebration of good food, togetherness, and the joyful spirit of a true Finnish Christmas.
Day at leisure for activities of choice.
Optional Ice Climbing:
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to try ice climbing in a safe and stunning winter environment. Meet your professional guide, get equipped, and take a short walk to the climbing site to begin your adventure.
After a demonstration of correct technique, it’s your turn to climb. With axes in hand, challenge yourself on the frozen wall and take in the spectacular views as you ascend. Between climbs, relax by a bonfire and enjoy warm berry drinks while soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.
This activity is suitable for anyone with moderate fitness — if you can enjoy a brisk walk, you can enjoy ice climbing too.
Sadly, it’s time to say goodbye to Pyhatunturi.
Check out and transfer to Rovaniemi for free time to explore the town.
Before heading off to the train station, enjoy a final dinner in Lapland.
Early evening departure for Helsinki on the overnight train.
Early morning arrival at the central station or airport (please let us know your preferred option). From here, you will continue with your own onward arrangements.
Your holiday in the Winter Wonderland of Lapland may be over but your memories will last a lifetime!
Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we would love to talk with you.
