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.
Fully escorted group tour
Travel dates:
17th - 26th Dec 2026
Please note that this is a provisional Itinerary and dates and timings for activities may change once service providers release their schedules later in the year. Final details will be included in your documents sent out during October.
How you would like to spend today is up to you - just choose your tour (included but must be pre-booked)
Option 1 – Guided Helsinki City Tour
Guided sightseeing tour of Helsinki
Discover key highlights, architecture, and local culture
Option 2 – Tallinn Christmas Market
Return ferry to Tallinn
Visit the Christmas Market and explore the Old Town
Free time to enjoy the festive atmosphere before returning to Helsinki
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!
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.
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.
Cabins are equipped with Wi-Fi and power sockets for a pleasant and restful journey north.
There is space for a medium-sized bag next to each bed; larger luggage can be stored securely in the luggage section of the train but must be done promptly when arriving as space is limited.
We recommend packing a small carry-on with your overnight essentials and a change of clothes for the next day.
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.
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 is 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.
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.
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 stillness and 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.
Not suitable for children under 12 and dependent on suit size.
Please bring: warm layers (base layer and mid layer) under the dry suit, towel and swimming suit.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
During breakfast on Christmas Eve, Finns usually have their most popular breakfast meal of warm rice porridge with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes butter and milk. But what is special about this breakfast meal is that one of the portions is special. Whoever finds an almond in their porridge is considered to be lucky!
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 by overnight train to Helsinki.
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!
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
Airport transfer from Helsinki Airport to Hotel
One night hotel accommodation in Helsinki inclusive of breakfast
Guided sightseeing tour of Helsinki
Return overnight train Helsinki to Rovaniemi
Return transfer to Lapland Resort
Six nights selected accommodation in Lapland
Breakfast daily in Lapland
Outdoor clothing and boots
Two dinners & Christmas Dinner
Scenic chairlift ride to top of fell
Husky Safari
Aurora Search in heated sleigh
Reindeer Safari
Amethyst Mine Visit
Meet Santa
Present from Santa
Biscuit decorating for children
Visit to Santa Village
Additional experiences can be added:
Visit Tallinn, Estonia;
Cruise down Norway Coastline;
Visit Copenhagen, Stockholm & Oslo;
Norway in a Nutshell and Flåm Fjord Cruise
All accommodation styles are situated at the Hotel Pyhätunturi, which is ideally situated near Pyhä-Luosto National Park, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at your doorstep, then unwind in the gym or sauna or savour local dishes at the cozy restaurant. With stunning views and easy access to hiking and skiing, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay.
Standard Rooms accommodate 2 adults the room features private facilities, a drying cupboard, and access to the hotel’s sauna and gym. Free WiFi.
Superior Rooms are ideal for families of 2 adults and 2 children. The room has private facilities, a drying cupboard, and access to the hotel’s sauna and gym. Free WiFi.
Located at the rear of the hotel, the PyhäSuites offer everything you need for a comfortable home-away-from-home stay. These compact apartments feature two, a fully equipped kitchen, lounge, bathroom and sauna. Access to the on-site laundromat. Free WiFi. Sleeps 2 adults, 3 children or 3 - 4 adults.
Located at the rear of the hotel, the PyhäSuites offer everything you need for a comfortable home-away-from-home stay. These compact apartments feature two, a fully equipped kitchen, lounge, bathroom and sauna. Access to the on-site laundromat. Free WiFi. Sleeps 2 adults, 3 children or 3 - 4 adults.
These compact studios are cosy and romantic with a fireplace but retain a feeling of space and light. Perfect for couples or family with one child. Studio has double/twin beds and couch which converts to single bed. Equipped with and a with modern kitchen, sauna and drying cupboard and access to on-site laundromat you’re assured of a comfortable stay. Free WiFi.
These compact studios are cosy and romantic but retain a feeling of space and light. Family Studios are a good option for families of 3 or 4 children. Equipped with modern kitchen, sauna and drying cupboard and access to on-site laundromat you’re assured of a comfortable stay. Studios have bunk beds for children. Free WiFi.
Compact family studios are located in the Kultakero Building and feature twin beds, a two-person sleeping loft, a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, lounge, bathroom, and drying cabinet and private sauna. A laundry facility is also available in the building. The apartment is 33 sqm. Access to on-site laundromat. Free WiFi.
Compact family studios are located in the Kultakero Building and feature twin beds, a two-person sleeping loft, a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, lounge, bathroom, and drying cabinet. A laundry facility is also available in the building. The apartment is 29 sqm. Access to on-site laundromat. Free WiFi.
Two-level apartment designed to maximise its stunning fell views, with large windows.
The apartment accommodates up to 10 guests across four bedrooms, with additional sleeping space in the upstairs lounge. It features a well-equipped kitchen, a dining area for ten, and a generous living space with a fireplace and double-height windows.
Guests can enjoy a private sauna with scenic views, multiple bathrooms, and a large surrounding terrace ideal for taking in the landscape. An outdoor jacuzzi is available for an additional charge.
Ideal for families or small groups, it comfortably accommodates up to 8 guests across three bedrooms, with additional sleeping space in the living area.
The apartment features a well-equipped open kitchen, spacious dining and living area, and a private master bedroom with ensuite and terrace access.
Highlights include a sauna with a window and an outdoor jacuzzi on the terrace, offering a relaxing and authentic Lapland experience.
Perfect for families or small groups, this spacious apartment accommodates up to five guests across two bedrooms, including a master bedroom with private ensuite.
The apartment features a well-equipped kitchen, open-plan dining and living area, and an L-shaped terrace offering views in two directions.
Highlights include a sauna with a window and an outdoor jacuzzi on the terrace, creating a relaxing and memorable Lapland experience.
Ideal for families or medium-sized groups, this apartment accommodates up to five guests across two bedrooms, including a master bedroom with private ensuite.
The apartment features a well-equipped kitchen, open-plan dining and living area, and a private terrace. Large windows offer dual-aspect views, with open northern horizons and southern exposure for sunlight.