Trip Dec 20, 2025 Day 1
Arriving in Helsinki
Our first day in Helsinki, from the overnight flight and airport train to Kauppatori, station lockers, brunch, Suomenlinna, sauna and the Santa Claus Express.
Trip
Northern Europe 2025
6 articles
Place Dec 20, 2025 Day 1
Suomenlinna
A visit to Suomenlinna, covering the HSL ferry, our route around the islands, historic sights, winter conditions and practical tips for a Helsinki day trip.
Transport Dec 20, 2025 Day 1
Santa Claus Express: The Reality of Standard Seats
An honest overnight journey from Helsinki to Rovaniemi in a standard seat, covering tickets, luggage, onboard facilities, the restaurant car and morning views.
Trip Dec 21, 2025 Day 2
Arriving in Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village
Arriving in Rovaniemi, visiting Santa Claus Village, joining a husky and reindeer sled tour, meeting Santa Claus, eating salmon and ending the day with the Northern Lights.
Trip Dec 22, 2025 Day 3
Leaving Rovaniemi for Tromsø by Bus
Taking the long-distance bus from Rovaniemi to Tromsø, with morning souvenirs, snowy road views, a border-area bus transfer, hotel arrival, dinner and a night walk in Tromsø.
Trip Dec 23, 2025 Day 4
Mack Brewery and Fjellheisen Northern Lights Trip
A day exploring Tromsø, touring Mack Brewery, then taking the Fjellheisen cable car up the mountain to see the Northern Lights and Tromsø at night.