Scandinavian Northern Lights

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.

Today our flight takes us north from Helsinki, across the Arctic Circle to Ivalo. Later, a short drive brings us to the enchanting snowy escape of Saariselkä, our home for the next two nights.

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.

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.

Bid farewell to Finland, bound for Sweden. Your first stop is the historic church village of Gammelstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its 424 wooden houses surrounding an early 15th-century stone church. Explore the village with a Local Specialist who will bring its fascinating history to life. Afterward, continue on to Luleå, the largest city in Swedish Lapland.

This morning we venture north to Jokkmokk, an historic meeting place for the indigenous Sámi people for trade and festivals alike. Enjoy a guided tour through the fascinating Ájtte museum and delve into the centuries-old traditions and heritage of the Sámi people on our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Immerse yourself in the Sámi culture shaped by Northern Lapland’s unique natural environment. See how this community has survived and indeed thrived in the Arctic's extremes. Later, enjoy a traditional Sámi meal as part of the Be My Guest experience.

Today you have a free day to get acquainted with this Swedish mining center, 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.

This morning leave the Arctic behind to fly to Stockholm. Enjoy an orientation tour led by a Local Specialist, exploring the city known as 'beauty on the water.' Walk the cobbled streets of the Old Town, and visit the impressive Stockholm City Hall. Tonight, your journey in search of the Northern Lights concludes with a memorable dinner.

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.