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 with the use of a 24hr Helsinki Card to explore, then takes you by train to Rovaniemi in Lapland. Here you stay for three nights and enjoy some great Arctic fun, with guided excursions searching for the fabled Aurora, visiting a reindeer farm and Santa Claus Village, and taking an exciting husky ride.
Arrive into Helsinki and make your own way to the hotel. Helsinki is truly located at the crossroads of Western and Eastern culture and this is reflected everywhere in this green and lively small city. Helsinki was founded in 1550 by the Swedish King Gustav Vasa, as a trading post to compete with Tallinn, to the south. In the beginning of the 19th century Finland became part of Russia, and Tsar Alexander I made Helsinki the capital in 1812. Two nights in Helsinki.
Today use your 24 hour Helsinki Card to explore. 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.
This morning make your own way to the central railway station and take the train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. On arrival in Rovaniemi, make your own way to the hotel. Time to explore the town, browse the shops or perhaps visit the fabulous Arktikum Museum. This evening enjoy a fabulous 3hr guided Aurora Borealis Picnic. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can sometimes be observed in the polar skies on clear nights, and Rovaniemi's location on the Arctic Circle gives you a good chance to hunt for the Lights. Your guide will drive you out of the city, searching for the best viewing spots, with a stop for a Lappish picnic. Includes transfers, hot snacks, and hot drinks. Three nights in Rovaniemi.
Today you will experience the fun of the Arctic with a 4hr guided safari. We start with a visit to a local reindeer farm to meet the reindeer herder and his husky friends, with the chance to take photos, and hear about life on the farm and the traditions of the Sami. Then it's off to Santa Claus Village where you can explore the quirky souvenir shops, visit Santa's Post Office and perhaps meet the man himself! Includes transport and hot drinks. 2nd overnight in Rovaniemi.
Today get ready to meet some more furry friends with a 2hr guided safari. Start with a visit to the kennel where you'll meet these amazing canine athletes, before a 4km drive down the forest trails on a wagon pulled by enthusiastic dogs - an unforgettable experience. If the snow conditions allow a sled will replace the wagon. Includes transfers, hot drinks, use of outer winter clothing and snacks. Tonight you might like to enjoy a wonderful optional 3hr Aurora Floating excursion. Dip into a frozen lake under the night sky on this amazing guided experience. You wear a high-quality rescue suit that covers your whole body and keeps you dry and afloat, with your own clothing under the suit so you will not get cold. If the sky is clear, gaze at the beautiful stars and may even the magnificent Northern Lights as you float. Minimum height 120cm. Includes transfers, use of suit, floating and hot drinks. 3rd overnight in Rovaniemi.
Arrangements end after breakfast with check out.
Prices may vary according to dates of travel
INCLUDES: 5 nights accommodation in standard room including breakfast with 2 nights in Helsinki at Hotel Glo Kluvvi or similar and 3 nights in Rovaniemi at Scandic Rovaniemi City Hotel or similar; 24 hour Helsinki city card; train one way Helsinki- Rovaniemi in standard seat with seat reservation; 3 guided excursions being Aurora Borealis Picnic, Visit to Reindeer Farm and Santa Claus Village, and Husky Farm Visit & Wagon Ride.
EXLUDES: optional activities