Santa Claus Express: The Magical Train of Lapland

Flight or train to Helsinki, additional night on request.

Individual arrival in Helsinki. Welcome and transfer to the hotel, located in the city centre, not far from the train station.

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a human-scale city set by the sea, nestled between pine forests and the Baltic islands. Modern and elegant, it charms visitors with its Nordic architecture, blending minimalist design, Art Nouveau buildings, and contemporary constructions. You can stroll between lively markets, cosy cafés, and traditional saunas.

Overnight at the hotel.

In the morning, you will meet your French-speaking guide in Senate Square, the historic heart of the city.

Surrounded by imposing neoclassical buildings, this is where you can admire the majestic white Lutheran cathedral, the capital’s symbol. The guide will tell you the story of this square designed by architect Carl Ludvig Engel.

A stop at the Kauppahalli covered market or its open-air equivalent at Market Square (Kauppatori). It’s an opportunity to try a few local specialities such as smoked salmon or arctic berries, while discussing Finnish eating habits.

Next, you’ll continue your discovery in front of the striking Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, perched on a hill—a reminder of the Russian influence in the country’s history. The stroll continues through the lively downtown districts, especially Esplanadi, an elegant avenue lined with Finnish design boutiques and cafés. It’s also a vibrant place where locals and street musicians mingle.

Afternoon free to wander around the city.

At the beginning of the evening, your railway discovery of Finland begins. Head to Helsinki Central Station to take the famous Santa Claus Express. This modern and ultra-comfortable train runs all year round, with private cabins equipped with showers and toilets, ideal for a peaceful night as the landscapes of the Great North pass by. Whether for a winter escape or a summer in Lapland, it’s the most practical—and magical—way to reach the Arctic Circle while you sleep!

Overnight on board the train. (B&B)

Light breakfast on board the train. Arrival in Rovaniemi, gateway to Lapland.

Welcome at the station and transfer to the hotel in the city centre, where you can leave your luggage at the reception.

Immerse yourself in an authentic experience at a family-owned reindeer farm and discover the ancestral traditions of herding in Lapland. Accompanied by a local French-speaking guide, you’ll have the chance to approach, feed, and observe these iconic animals in a preserved natural setting. This friendly experience is ideal for families and nature lovers alike.

Next, you’ll be invited to join a kota—a traditional wooden cabin typical of Lapland—where the herders will share their knowledge and daily life with you, as you sit comfortably around a warm fire.

Return to town, check in to the hotel, and enjoy some free time.

In the afternoon, you can join the Northern Lights workshop (optional).
Settle in comfortably for a captivating moment with a Northern Lights specialist. In this cosy space, you’ll discover the mysteries of this fascinating celestial phenomenon: how they are formed, why they dance, and where to observe them. This time together will also allow you to ask questions and benefit from valuable tips for seeking them out, either on your own or on one of our guided outings. A warm moment, mixing scientific discovery and shared experiences.

Overnight at the hotel. (B&B)

From Rovaniemi, set off for the enchanting world of Santa Claus! In just a few minutes, you’ll reach the famous Santa Claus Village, located right on the Arctic Circle. From the moment you arrive, the magic sets in: fairy lights, wooden chalets, and a warm atmosphere set the scene.

You will have the chance to meet the real Santa Claus in his office—an unforgettable moment for both young and old. While you’re there, take the opportunity to send a letter stamped with the official Arctic Circle postmark from the village post office. Stroll through the many local craft shops and admire the year-round Christmas decorations.

Optionally, you can round out your day with a classic Lapland activity: a sleigh ride pulled by reindeer or huskies, or even a snowmobile outing for those who love adventure.

From September 1 to April 7

– Excursion to the Ranua Nature Reserve
At the Ranua Reserve, you’ll see endangered arctic species up close, such as the polar bear or the arctic fox, and learn about efforts for their protection and reintroduction.

From January 7 to April 7:

– Reindeer safari to Santa Claus Village

In Lapland, the magic of Christmas comes alive in the heart of snowy forests. Starting from a traditional farm, board a sleigh pulled by a reindeer and enjoy a peaceful ride through the white landscapes to the famous Santa Claus Village. Free time in the village to greet Santa Claus in his office, send a postcard from his own post office, and explore the shops filled with crafts. A certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle will be given at the end of your visit. Transport to and from Rovaniemi is by coach.

– Snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm

On a snowmobile, set off for adventure across the icy landscapes to reach a reindeer farm and dive into the ancestral traditions of Lapland. Crossing the Arctic Circle and a coffee break will enhance the authentic experience before heading back to town.

– Meet the huskies (3km or 10km)

Want to share a great family moment? Hop into a sled pulled by an enthusiastic team of huskies and head out for an energetic escapade through Lappish landscapes. Once the adventure is over, enjoy a well-deserved break with a hot berry juice while your guide tells you about the lively and endearing lives of these dogs.

Christmas period on request.

In the evening, set out to hunt the Northern Lights (Wednesday or Friday).

Leaving the city lights behind to follow the river north, you’ll reach one of the best spots to observe the Northern Lights. The arctic sky becomes your stage, as these natural wonders often appear suddenly—and like to keep you waiting.

While you wait for the show, enjoy a friendly moment around a campfire: grilled sausages, melting marshmallows, and the delicious smell of burning wood will make this a timeless experience. A sensory and soothing evening, where winter chills meet celestial thrills. Return to the hotel around midnight.

Overnight at the hotel (B&B).

In the morning, private transfer to the train station. Departure by train heading south to the city of Tampere.

It’s a true journey through the soul of Finland.

As you continue south, the landscape subtly changes by the hour. The forests become lighter, the terrain gentler, and the wide open spaces are gradually replaced by farmland and small villages. The lakes, ever-present in Finland, accompany the journey, bordered by reeds or small wooden piers.

Arrival in Tampere, located between two great lakes, Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, is the third largest city in Finland.

Check-in at the hotel and free time.

Overnight at the hotel (B&B).

In the morning discover this captivating city with your English-speaking guide. Nicknamed the “Manchester of the North” for its red-brick architecture and industrial past, Tampere is also famous as the sauna capital of the world.

Your walking tour will take you along the impressive Tammerkoski rapids, through districts with stunning Art Nouveau buildings, and to the city’s iconic covered market – the largest in the Nordic countries – where you can taste local specialties in an authentic atmosphere.

Your afternoon is at leisure. Enjoy the evening in one of the city’s public saunas.

Overnight at the hotel (B&B).

Depending on your flight times, take the train to Helsinki airport.

(B&B).

Additional night, return flight or train from Helsinki available on request.