Autumn is a great time to visit Finland - the summer crowds have gone and winter is yet to arrive. This short independent tour gives you two nights in charming Helsinki, then takes you by train to Rovaniemi in Lapland. Here you stay for two nights in a cosy Glass Igloo the Arctic SnowHotel. Search for the fabled Aurora and visit Santa Claus Village.
Itinerary
Day 1 Helsinki Arrival
Upon arrival in Helsinki, make your own way to Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti or similar and check in for two nights stay. Remainder of the day at leisure to explore. The many famous sights of the city include the Senate Square, Uspenski Cathedral, Parliament House, Finlandia Hall, Sibelius Park & Monument, Underground Temple, and much more.
Day 2 Helsinki
After breakfast at the hotel, day at leisure. Perhaps explore the marketplace area down by the harbour, where there are food, souvenir and handicraft stalls, and fine old timber boats. Explore the city with your 48 hour Helsinki Card - the card gives you access to many attractions including Helsinki Cathedral, the Sibelius Monument, The Church in the Rock, Finlandia Hall, Suomenlinna Maritime Sea Fortress and more. 2nd overnight in Helsinki at Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti or similar.
Day 3 Helsinki - Rovaniemi by Overnight Train
Day at leisure in Helsinki, using your 48 hour Helsinki Card. This evening, make your own way to the train station for overnight train to Rovaniemi in a private sleeping compartment with ensuite.
Day 4 Rovaniemi - Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos
Morning arrival at Rovaniemi station, time at leisure to explore Rovaniemi city. Afternoon shared shuttle transfer from the city centre to Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos. Two nights stay in a Glass Igloo. Staying overnight in a Glass Igloo feels like sleeping out in the open, but inside the igloo it is as warm and cosy as a hotel room. Have a good night's sleep as the Aurora Alarm searches the skies for you: if you are lucky enough for the Aurora Alarm to wake you up, all you need to do is open your eyes, look at the night sky and enjoy the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. Each Glass Igloo has a bathroom, thermal glass roof and heated floors. Small Igloos (1-3 people) or Family Glass Igloos (1-5 people) are available. Kota dinner tonight. Evening optional Traditional Finnish Sauna Experience (common use).
Day 5 Santa Claus Village Visit
Today, shuttle bus visit to Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle, where you can explore the quirky souvenir shops, visit Santa's Post Office and perhaps meet the man himself! Kota dinner and 2nd Glass Igloo overnight.
Day 6 Arctic SnowHotel - Rovaniemi Departure
Following breakfast and check-out, shuttle transfer to Rovaniemi airport and end of arrangements.
2024 departures: daily 01 September - 24 November
Notes:
Minimum 2 persons
Extra nights can be added - please enquire
