Day 1
Welcome to Helsinki
Helsinki kick-starts your hunt for the mystical Northern Lights. On arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel. There's time to freshen up before joining your Local Specialist for a city sightseeing tour and Welcome Reception.
Day 2
Journey to Saariselkä Dive Into Culture
Today our flight takes us north from Helsinki, across the Arctic Circle to Ivalo. Later, a short drive brings us to the enchanting snowy escape of Saariselkä, our home for the next two nights.
Day 3
Discover the Arctic Dive Into Culture
Enjoy a relaxing day in the picturesque Arctic village of Saariselkä. For those looking for adventure, consider joining an Optional Experience to go snowshoeing along the scenic Aurora Path, and later opt in to feel the thrill of a snowmobiling excursion across the frozen Ivalo River. As night falls, don’t miss the chance to participate in another Optional Experience—a magical Northern Lights hunt.
Day 4
Off to Santa Claus Village and Rovaniemi Dive Into Culture Stays With Stories
Visit Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Celebrate the magic of Christmas when you Dive Into Culture and share yuletide greetings with Santa at his post office. Dive Into Culture once again as we visit a reindeer farm to meet Santa’s sleigh-pullers.
Day 5
Venture to Luleå in Swedish Lapland
Bid farewell to Finland, bound for Sweden. Your first stop is the historic church village of Gammelstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its 424 wooden houses surrounding an early 15th-century stone church. Explore the village with a Local Specialist who will bring its fascinating history to life. Afterward, continue on to Luleå, the largest city in Swedish Lapland.
Day 6
Onwards to Kiruna Connect with Locals
This morning we venture north to Jokkmokk, an historic meeting place for the indigenous Sámi people for trade and festivals alike. Enjoy a guided tour through the fascinating Ájtte museum and delve into the centuries-old traditions and heritage of the Sámi people on our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Immerse yourself in the Sámi culture shaped by Northern Lapland’s unique natural environment. See how this community has survived and indeed thrived in the Arctic's extremes. Later, enjoy a traditional Sámi meal as part of the Be My Guest experience.
Day 7
Kiruna Your Way
Today you have a free day to get acquainted with this Swedish mining centre, which is in the process of being relocated a few miles from its original location due to the growing size of the iron mine beneath its surface. Perhaps join a unique Optional Experience, navigating the snowy landscape on a husky safari, holding on tight as the eager dogs race across the white landscape. This exhilarating encounter with one of the most special canine breeds in the world is an experience you'll never forget. Tonight, be sure to take the last chance to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Day 8
Enjoy Stunning Stockholm
This morning leave the Arctic behind to fly to Stockholm. Enjoy an orientation tour led by a Local Specialist, exploring the city known as 'beauty on the water.' Walk the cobbled streets of the Old Town, and visit the impressive Stockholm City Hall. Tonight, your journey in search of the Northern Lights concludes with a memorable dinner.
Day 9
Farewell Stockholm
As our journey in the snowy Arctic lands of reindeer and Father Christmas comes to an end, the memories of ancient Sámi culture and Nordic traditions in our hearts, we bid a fond farewell to newfound friends.
Dining Summary
8 Breakfast (B)
5 Dinner (D)
Be My Guest
Kiruna: Join a Sami reindeer herder family in their homestead for a traditional meal in their lavvu (tepee) with insights into the way of life of a reindeer herder, their traditions and history.
Dive into Culture
Rovaniemi: Visit Rovaniemi, the hometown of Santa Claus, and meet its famous resident.
Rovaniemi: Ride an authentic Sámi reindeer-drawn sleigh, the traditional means of transport in snowy northern Finland.
Iconic Experience
Helsinki: Your Local Specialist will show you the sights of the harbour city. Wander through the aromatic stalls of a traditional food market and sample local produce like liquorice or smoked reindeer before enjoying free time to explore the harbour of this fascinating city of design.
Gammelstad: Visit the immaculately-preseved historic trading settlement of Gammelstad. Gain insight into the customs and development of this region as you view the wooden cottages and central stone church.
Stockholm (Solna): With your Local Specialist, visit the Stockholm City Hall and enjoy a panoramic tour of the city with your fellow travelling companions.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Jokkmokk: Learn about the Sámi traditions, culture and history at the Ájtte Sámi Museum in northern Sweden.
Must-see Highlights
Explore Helsinki, Gammelstad and Stockholm
Visit Saariselkä, Rovaniemi, Gammelstad Church Town, Kiruna and Stockholm City Hall
View the Northern Lights (weather permitting)
See the Sibelius Monument, the Olympic Stadium, the Opera House and Finlandia Hall in Helsinki, Riddarholmen Church and the Royal Palace in Stockholm