Arrive in Copenhagen and transfer by your own arrangement to your central hotel.

Copenhagen effortlessly blends it’s royal heritage with modern Scandinavian style.

Colourful canals, cobbled streets, grand palaces, designer shops and cosy cafés create a vibrant, walkable city filled with culture, charm and effortless elegance.

This morning you’ll set off on your walking tour with a guide taking you to the Copenhagen ‘Must Sees’.

Lots to see, stories to be told and picturesque houses with their splashes of colour.

And who knows, you may even get a sighting of our own Princess Mary when you wander past the Palace.

Afternoon at leisure.

Time to leave Copenhagen behind and travel by train to Stockholm.

Stockholm spreads across 14 islands, where elegant architecture meets waterfront views.

Cobblestone lanes, royal palaces, chic boutiques and world-class museums create a sophisticated Nordic city rich in culture, history and charm.

This morning join your guide for a walking tour to see the sights of Stockholm.

Free time after your tour to explore on your own and wander the Old Town (Gamla Stan), browse the Christmas markets and soak up the festive atmosphere with a glass of hot glögg.

Late afternoon transfer to the port for your overnight cruise.

Tallinn capitvates the essence of fairytales with its beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure of cobblestone streets, medieval walls and Gothic spires.

Highlights include Toompea Hill, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Town Hall Square, ancient guild houses and panoramic viewpoints overlooking red rooftops and the Baltic Sea.

A charming blend of history and modern flair. Here you will join your guide for a walking tour of the Old Town and immerse yourself in its history and character.

Day at leisure in Tallinn to explore this intriguing city on your own.

There’s always a surprise around the next corner. Don’t miss a visit to the vibrant Balti Jaama Turg market with it’s three levels of fresh food, clothing, antiques vendors and hip eateries.

Check out after breakfast and transfer to the port for your two hour ferry crossing to Helsinki. This is no run of the mill ferry – it’s a modern cruise liner with duty free shopping, entertainment and restaurant. Never a dull moment on this crossing!

The festive season is a special time to visit Helsinki – it’s a time where streets are illuminated with myriads of lights and store fronts dressed with beautiful festive displays. Afternoon at leisure to visit the Christmas Market.

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.

How long is the journey from Helsinki to Rovaniemi?
The journey takes approximately 12 hours, departing in the evening and arriving the following morning.

What are the sleeper cabins like?
Sleeper cabins are compact but comfortable, typically configured for 1–2 adults or 2 adults and 1 or 2 small children (sharing bunk beds). The cabins include beds (bunk-style), a private bathroom with toilet and shower in newer cabins, and power outlets with storage space.

Is there food available onboard?
Yes, there is a restaurant carriage where you can purchase meals, snacks, and drinks. Many travellers choose to have dinner or a drink before heading to bed.

Do I need to bring my own food?
No, but you can if you prefer. There are also supermarkets at Helsinki station if you’d like to bring snacks onboard.

Are there showers on the train?
Most modern sleeper cabins include a private bathroom with a shower. Some older cabins may have shared facilities.

Can you see the scenery?
Yes, especially in the morning. You’ll wake up to snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and classic Lapland landscapes.

Do we need to carry our luggage onboard?
Yes, you take your luggage into your cabin. There is space for suitcases, but packing efficiently is recommended.

Arrive in 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.

How physically demanding are the activities?
Most activities are suitable for beginners and require only a moderate level of fitness. Snowmobiling and husky safaris include full instruction, and guides are there to assist throughout.

Do we need prior experience for activities like snowmobiling or husky sledding?
No prior experience is required. Full safety briefings and instructions are provided, and all activities are guided by experienced professionals.

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.

Do I need experience to drive a snowmobile?
No experience is required. A full safety briefing is provided. However, a valid driver’s licence is required to operate a snowmobile.

Can two people share a snowmobile?
Yes, snowmobiles are usually shared between two adults, with the option to switch drivers during the activity.

For those keen to hit the slopes, Pyhä ski area is perfect for beginners learning downhill skiing as an optional extra activity.

If downhill 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 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.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights can be seen from September through March, with peak conditions during the darker winter months. December offers a magical festive atmosphere, while January to March typically provides more daylight hours and strong aurora activity.

Will we definitely see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. However, your stay in remote Salla, away from light pollution, offers excellent viewing opportunities, and guided searches are included to maximise your chances.

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.

What is a lakeside sauna and cold plunge?
A traditional Nordic experience where you warm up in a sauna and then cool down in icy water or snow

Do I have to do the cold plunge?
No, it is completely optional and you can just enjoy the sauna

How cold is the water?
Usually between 0°C and 4°C in winter

What should I wear?
A swimsuit is recommended

How long do you stay in the sauna?
Around 10 to 15 minutes at a time, repeated in cycles

Is it suitable for children?
It is recommended for older children aged 8 years and older.

Is the sauna private or shared?
The sauna is privately booked for our tour group and has a maximum allowed of 8 people and mixed males and females.

Do I need to book in advance
Yes, especially during winter as it is very popular and has limited availablity.

Snow surfing represents a return to the timeless pleasure of gliding, propelled only by gravity.

The lack of bindings allows free exploration of how stance and position affect the ride. The experience is simple yet infinitely enjoyable.

We always choose the spot according to the current weather and snow conditions and try to find nice untouched powder snowfields or forest parts. We use Ilahu boards that are designed and made in Finnish Lapland with a love of crafting natural materials. The boards are carefully finished by hand to ensure the highest quality. 

This adventure is suitable for beginners too. 

Long season and about one meter of snow mean that there is always something to shred.

Please note that for this tour, you need to have valid insurance covering the activity. The supplier does not offer insurance for this activity.

Children under 18 years old can participate with parents or caretakers.

This adventure is suitable for beginners too.  

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.

Sadly, it's time to say goodbye to Pyhatunturi.

Check out and transfer to Rovaniemi for free time to explore the town.

After exploring Rovaniemi, and 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!

How far in advance should we book?
Lapland is extremely popular during the Christmas period, and availability is limited. We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred accommodation.

Is this tour crowded?
No. This itinerary is designed to take you away from the busiest areas into a more remote and authentic part of Lapland, offering a quieter and more immersive experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is ideal for families. Activities such as meeting Santa, reindeer sleigh rides, and husky safaris are particularly memorable for children. We recommend this experience for children aged 5 years and above.

Do we need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers to cover unexpected events such as cancellations, delays, or medical needs.

We are agents for Go Insurance - let us know if you would like to include a quote for your travel insurance.

What meals are included?
Breakfast daily in Lapland, two dinners and Christmas dinner.

Hotels stays with breakfast indicated.

If the meal is not indicated in the itinerary, it is at your leisure.

Can dietary requirements be catered for?
Yes, dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Additional experiences can be added:

Cruise down Norway Coastline

Include Copenhagen,

Norway in a Nutshell and Flåm Fjord Experience

Tromsø - Famous for the Northern Lights

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.

Pure Scandinavia is a family-run travel business specialising in curated journeys through Scandinavia and the Nordic region. With over 35 years of experience, the business is built on the expertise of founder Claudia Pallaspuro, who created and ran Snowbound Adventures and Lapland Magic in Finland. After relocating to Australia in 2010, Claudia brought her passion for Lapland with her and steadily developed Scandinavian travel experiences tailored for Australian travellers.

In 2025, her daughter Elaine joined the business and has extensive first-hand experience. Elaine has travelled throughout Scandinavia and has personally inspected all hotels featured in the itineraries, ensuring each meets the standard and experience expected by Pure Scandinavia clients.

What sets Pure Scandinavia apart is its deeply rooted local knowledge. Every member of the team has lived and worked in Finland, offering genuine insight, trusted relationships, and a personal, hands-on approach to designing authentic Nordic travel experiences.

WHAT OUR TRAVELLERS SAY

★★★★★ Overall 4.7-star rating from verified travellers 

“Our trip was a very unique experience, so well planned and organised. We enjoyed a very balanced itinerary with first-class experiences and wonderful accommodation.”
Michelle Collett – January 2026

“She went above and beyond to create such a magical experience for our whole family. I highly recommend Pure Scandinavia.”
Dani W – November 2025

“Pure Scandinavia organised a fabulous trip for our group of six… her attention to detail was brilliant. Everything went without a hitch.”
Rosie McArdle – October 2025

“The hotels and tours were awesome and exceeded our expectations.”
Heather Taylor – July 2024

“We travelled on trains, a bus, boats and planes all without a hitch or stress.”
Sandra Chamberlain – June 2024

“We were very fortunate to see the Northern Lights on three different occasions.”
Michael Gigliotti – February 2024