Scandinavian Northern Lights

Visit Europe

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.

Learn about the indigenous Sámi people and the story of life and survival in the demanding northern climate. Later, a short drive brings us to the enchanting snowy escape of Saariselkä, our home for the next two nights. Delve into the centuries-old traditions and heritage of the Sámi people during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on a visit the Siida Sámi Museum.

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 in the church village of Gammelstad, UNESCO-listed for its 424 wooden houses built around an early 15th-century stone church. Continue to Luleå, the largest city in Swedish Lapland.

Day 6

Onwards to Kiruna Connect with Locals

Venture north to Kiruna, a unique town in the far north of Sweden, is renowned for its breathtaking Arctic landscapes, the mesmerising northern lights, and its rich history tied to one of the world’s largest and oldest iron ore mines, which has fuelled the town’s growth and is now driving a remarkable project to relocate the entire town to ensure its preservation for future generations.

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

Enjoy a morning at leisure before leaving the Arctic behind to fly to Stockholm.

Enjoy an orientation tour of the city locals refer to as 'beauty on the water', including a walk through the cobbled streets of the Old Town. Tonight, your journey in search of the Northern Lights comes to an end 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

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. 

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.

Stockholm: 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®

Inari: Learn about the Sámi peoples' traditions, culture and history at the Siida Sámi Museum in northern Finland.

Must-see Highlights

Explore Helsinki, Gammelstad and Stockholm

Visit Saariselkä, Siida Sámi Museum, Rovaniemi, Luleå, Ájtte Museum, 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

Stays With Stories

Kiruna: To keep Kiruna alive, the entire town has relocated 15 km from old Kiruna to New Kiruna due to land sinking caused by the largest and oldest iron ore mine, highlighting the community's resilience and commitment to preserving its rich heritage.

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