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Across Finland by Rail & Under the Northern Lights

Highlights

Discover Finland’s most iconic winter experiences, from traditional saunas and Baltic cities to icebreaker cruises, husky safaris and magical aurora-filled skies.

At a Glance

A 10-day journey across Finland by rail, from the Baltic shores of Helsinki to the snowy fells of Finnish Lapland, combining vibrant cities, Arctic adventures, authentic Sámi culture and unforgettable northern lights.

Price

From £ 6,096 per person

Every journey is tailor-made and can be personalised to your travel style, preferred accommodation and budget.

All highlights

Journey across Finland from south to north on an unforgettable winter adventure that combines vibrant Nordic cities, Arctic landscapes and some of the country’s most iconic experiences. Begin in Helsinki, where design-led neighbourhoods, historic waterfronts and traditional Finnish saunas offer the perfect introduction to Finnish culture. Cross the Baltic Sea for a day exploring medieval Tallinn before boarding an overnight sleeper train and travelling deep into the Arctic north.

In Finnish Lapland, discover a landscape transformed by winter. Cruise through the frozen Gulf of Bothnia aboard the legendary Sampo Icebreaker, walk on sea ice and experience the thrill of floating among the Arctic waters in a survival suit. Continue north to the peaceful fells of Ylläs, where husky sledding, reindeer encounters and authentic Sámi culture reveal the traditions and beauty of Lapland.

Designed for travellers seeking both comfort and adventure, this tailor-made itinerary combines scenic rail travel, carefully selected accommodation and meaningful local experiences. From Helsinki’s Baltic charm to the wilderness of the Arctic Circle, you’ll experience Finland’s most spectacular winter landscapes while searching for the magical northern lights beneath some of Europe’s darkest skies.

Like all High Point Holidays itineraries, this journey is fully personalised by our travel specialists, allowing you to discover Finland at your own pace and in a way that reflects your interests and travel style.

Reindeer and moose experience in Luleå, Swedish Lapland

Northern Lights over Ylläs in Finnish Lapland

Kemi SnowCastle made from snow and ice in Finnish Lapland

Across Finland by Rail & Under the Northern Lights - Image 5

Couple relaxing in a traditional Finnish sauna during a winter journey through Finland

Helsinki Design District in Punavuori, Finland, showcasing Nordic architecture and Finnish design

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Helsinki !

Arrive in Finland's stylish capital and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax and settle in after your flight. For the perfect introduction to Finnish culture, why not unwind with a traditional sauna before beginning your adventure through Finland.

Day 2: Helsinki's Design District & Baltic Waterfront

Spend the morning exploring Helsinki's Design District around Punavuori, home to independent boutiques, design studios and galleries showcasing Finland's renowned creativity. In the afternoon, head to the Baltic waterfront and Market Square before stopping for lunch at the historic Old Market Hall. Finish the day with a visit to the peaceful Kamppi Chapel or experience a traditional harbour-side public sauna overlooking the sea.

Day 3: Day Trip to Tallinn

This morning, board a fast ferry for the two-hour crossing to Tallinn. Explore Estonia's beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, with its cobbled streets, merchant houses and historic squares. Enjoy lunch in an atmospheric cellar restaurant before returning to Helsinki on the evening ferry.

Overnight train journey from Helsinki through snowy Finnish forests towards Finnish Lapland

Day 4: Overnight Journey to Lapland

Enjoy a slow morning and one last chance to experience Helsinki before making your way to the station. This evening, board the overnight train north and settle into your private sleeper cabin. As you travel through Finland's vast forests and snowy landscapes, you'll wake up tomorrow in the Arctic.

Day 5: Arrival in Kemi & The SnowCastle

Arrive in Kemi this morning and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the famous SnowCastle, an extraordinary fortress rebuilt entirely from snow and ice each winter. For travellers seeking the full Arctic experience, there's also the option to spend a night in one of the ice rooms.

Day 6: Sampo Icebreaker Experience

Today's highlight is a cruise aboard the legendary Sampo Icebreaker. Venture onto the frozen Gulf of Bothnia aboard a working icebreaker as it carves its way through the sea ice. The experience includes the unforgettable opportunity to float among the ice in a survival suit. Return to Kemi later in the day, with the evening free for an aurora watch should conditions be favourable.

Day 7: Train to Kolari & Arrival in Ylläs

Travel further north this morning by train to Kolari before continuing by private transfer into the heart of Finnish Lapland. Arrive in Ylläs and settle into your cosy fell-side cabin surrounded by forests and Arctic wilderness. Your first evening is free to relax and perhaps watch for the Northern Lights from your doorstep.

Dog sledding through the snowy landscapes of Swedish Lapland on an Arctic Scandinavia journey

Day 8 : Husky Safari & Aurora Hunting

Experience one of Lapland's most iconic activities with a husky safari through snow-covered forests and pristine winter landscapes. Later, enjoy free time on Ylläs' extensive cross-country trails or downhill ski slopes. After dark, head away from the lights in search of the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.

Day 9: Reindeer Farm & Sámi Culture

Visit a traditional reindeer farm and discover life in a genuine Lappish village, far removed from the region's larger resort areas. Meet a Sámi host and learn more about the traditions and culture of Finland's Indigenous people. Enjoy a final afternoon at leisure before spending one last evening beneath the Arctic sky, with another opportunity to spot the aurora.

Northern Lights and husky sledding in Lapland

Day 10: Time to say Goodbye !

After breakfast, begin your journey home. Leave Finland with unforgettable memories of Helsinki's vibrant atmosphere, the romance of Arctic rail travel, adventures on frozen seas and magical nights beneath the Northern Lights.