Helsinki to Lapland and Tromsø: 9-Day Arctic Winter & Northern Lights Holiday Package

From Finland's capital and the medieval streets of Tallinn to the snowy wilderness of Lapland and the spectacular fjords of Arctic Norway, this itinerary offers a varied mix of Nordic culture, Arctic scenery and winter experiences. Enjoy scenic rail and coach journeys, carefully selected 4-star hotels, and multiple opportunities to experience the Northern Lights in some of the world's most renowned Aurora destinations.

The journey begins in Helsinki, including a full-day cruise excursion to Tallinn, before travelling north aboard the Santa Claus Express through Finland's forests, frozen lakes and winter landscapes. In Rovaniemi, visit Santa Claus Village, meet reindeer and huskies, explore Ranua Arctic Wildlife Park and join a dedicated Northern Lights hunt. Then continue across the European Arctic to Tromsø, where stunning fjords, Arctic wildlife, Northern Lights excursions and an optional whale watching excursion completes this unforgettable Arctic holiday.

Throughout the journey, stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels chosen for their central locations, comfort and easy access to local attractions, restaurants and excursion departure points. This reduces transfer times and makes it easy to explore independently during free time.

Available travel dates:

Start in Helsinki November 25, 2026 - Finish in Tromsø December 3, 2026

Start in Helsinki January 5, 2027 - Finish in Tromsø January 13, 2027

Start in Helsinki January 14, 2027 - Finish in Tromsø January 22, 2027

Start in Helsinki January 28, 2027 - Finish in Tromsø February 05, 2027

Start in Helsinki March 7, 2027 - Finish in Tromsø March 15, 2027

You may arrive to Helsinki at any time of the day, and depart from Tromsø at any time of the day, as per the above dates.

Your itinerary in a nutshell:

Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki
Arrive in Helsinki and meet your private transfer to the city centre. Continue to 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel in Helsinki (or similar) for a two-night stay. Located near to Helsinki Central Railway Station, the hotel offers an excellent base for exploring the city on foot. Helsinki's waterfront, shopping streets, restaurants and major sights are all within easy reach.

Spend the remainder of the day at leisure enjoying Finland's capital, known for its elegant architecture, maritime setting and relaxed Nordic atmosphere.

Day 2: Day Cruise to Medieval Tallinn
Travel across the Gulf of Finland for a full-day visit to Tallinn, Estonia. Explore one of Northern Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, with historic merchant houses, church spires, defensive walls and cobbled lanes dating back to the Hanseatic trading period.

The Baltic Sea crossing provides views of both the Finnish and Estonian coastlines, while Tallinn offers a fascinating contrast to modern Helsinki. Return to Helsinki in the evening for a final night at the Helsinki hotel.

Day 3: Santa Claus Express to Rovaniemi & Northern Lights Hunt
Board the Santa Claus Express for a scenic daytime journey through Finland to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland. The landscapes gradually transition from southern Finnish towns to vast forests, frozen rivers and snow-covered wilderness areas. Premium seats are included for extra comfort during your trip.

Upon arrival, transfer to the 4-star Arctic City Hotel for a three-night stay. Located in the centre of Rovaniemi, the hotel provides easy access to restaurants, shops and excursion departure points. The property is known for its comfortable rooms and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for visitors exploring Lapland.

In the evening, join a small-group Northern Lights hunt by minibus. Travelling beyond the city in search of clear skies offers an excellent opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis.

Day 4: Reindeer, Huskies & Santa Claus Village
Experience some of Lapland's most iconic winter traditions.

Visit a reindeer farm and learn about the role reindeer herding continues to play in northern culture. Continue to a husky farm where powerful sled dogs provide transportation through snowy landscapes that remain frozen for much of the winter season.

The excursion also includes time at Santa Claus Village, located directly on the Arctic Circle. Guests can cross the famous latitude line, visit Santa's Post Office and enjoy free time to explore the village. Transfers and guide included.

Return to the Arctic City Hotel for a further night in Rovaniemi.

Day 5: Arctic Wildlife at Ranua Wildlife Park
Travel through the forests of Lapland to Ranua Arctic Wildlife Park.

The park specialises in species adapted to northern climates and is home to polar bears, lynx, wolves, moose, wolverines and Arctic foxes. Set within a natural forest environment, the park allows visitors to observe Arctic wildlife while following scenic woodland trails through the snow.

Return to Rovaniemi in the afternoon and enjoy your final evening at the Arctic City Hotel.

Day 6: Scenic Arctic Journey to Tromsø
Transfer to the bus station (transfer included) and board the Arctic Route long-distance tourist coach to Tromsø.

This scenic overland journey is one of the highlights of the itinerary. Pass through remote Arctic landscapes featuring forests, frozen lakes, open tundra, mountain plateaus and eventually Norway's fjords and coastal scenery. The gradual transition from inland Lapland to the Norwegian coast creates a constantly changing landscape throughout the day.

Upon arrival in Tromsø, transfer to 4-star Home Hotel Aurora (or similar 4-star or 3-star hotel) for a three-night stay. Situated in the heart of Tromsø near the waterfront, the hotel offers comfortable accommodation within walking distance of the harbour, restaurants, museums and excursion departure points. Its central location makes it particularly convenient for exploring the city independently.

Day 7: Tromsø Northern Lights Tour. Optional Whale Watching Cruise or Sami and Reindeer Feeding Tour
Spend the day discovering Tromsø, often referred to as the Gateway to the Arctic. Explore the harbour district, visit museums, enjoy local cafés or simply take in the views of the surrounding mountains and waterways.

For travellers seeking an additional Arctic experience, an optional Whale Watching excursion or Sami and Reindeer Feeding tour is available. Cruise through the waters surrounding Tromsø in search of humpback whales and orcas when seasonal migration patterns permit. Or visit a Sami family campground, meet and feed the reindeer heard, and learn about the aboriginal way of life. The whale watching tour is operated from November tuntil February and lasts the full day from 08.00 to 16.00 hrs. The Sami and Reindeer Feeding tour lasts from 10.00 to 13.00. Contact us to book an optional tour.

In the evening, join a guided Northern Lights excursion, providing another opportunity to experience the Aurora Borealis beneath Arctic skies. This Northern Lights excursion includes a professional Aurora guide, professional photos, transfers, hot drinks, and transfers by minibus or coach. Timing will be approx. 19.00 hrs until late.

Day 8: Fjords, Coastal Landscapes & Arctic Wildlife
Discover the spectacular surroundings of Tromsø on a guided fjord excursion.

Travel through mountain landscapes, fishing villages, coastal roads and deep fjords carved by glaciers over thousands of years. The scenery constantly changes throughout the day, from sheltered bays and traditional fishing communities to dramatic viewpoints overlooking Arctic waters.

Depending on conditions, wildlife sightings may include sea eagles, seabirds and reindeer. A local lunch adds further insight into life in Northern Norway.

Day 9: Departure from Tromsø
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to Tromsø Airport for your onward flight.

Depart with memories of Helsinki, Tallinn, Finnish Lapland, Northern Norway, Arctic landscapes, winter traditions, wildlife encounters and multiple opportunities to experience the Northern Lights.

Accommodation

Helsinki (2 nights) Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Helsinki (or similar)
Historic 4-star hotel in the heart of the city, directly opposite Helsinki Central Railway Station and within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants and shopping areas.

Rovaniemi (3 nights) Arctic City Hotel
Well-regarded 4-star hotel in central Rovaniemi offering comfortable accommodation, excellent access to excursion departure points and a convenient location for exploring the capital of Finnish Lapland.

Tromsø (3 nights) Home Hotel Aurora (or similar)
Comfortable waterfront hotel in the centre of Tromsø with easy access to the harbour, city attractions, restaurants and Northern Lights excursion meeting points. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Arctic Norway.

Two guests who book together will be assigned either double or twin rooms. We will ask for your preference.

Three guests who book together will be assigned a triple room or family room, unless you contact us after booking to request two double or twin rooms (subject to single room fee of 490 EUR).

Solo travelers are welcome. Please contact us at help@booknordics.com for solo travel arrangements.