Finland's Winter Wonderland: Helsinki, Lapland & Glass Igloo Experience
Partially Escorted Tour
Immerse yourself in the enchanting winter wonderland of Helsinki at leisure, then experience an escorted tour of snowy Lapland, Finland’s far north. A true highlight will be one night spend in a private, heated glass igloo, providing the ideal surroundings to search for the Northern Lights! From reindeer sleigh rides and visits to Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle, to husky sledding through pristine, postcard-worthy scenery, this is a journey straight out of a fairytale.
Partially escorted tours offer the perfect balance of freedom and guidance. Enjoy some time for independent exploration mixed with an expertly guided tour that provides deep local insights and fully planned itineraries.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Helsinki (HEL) and from Rovaniemi (RVN)
- Arrival transfer from Helsinki Airport to hotel
- 1 night in Helsinki at the Sokos Presidentii Hotel, or similar
- Helsinki Panorama Bus Tour
- 1 night overnight accommodations on the Santa Claus Express Train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi
- 4-night guided Aurora Borealis and Glass Igloo Tour, including:
- Transfer from Rovaniemi rail station to your Rovaniemi hotel
- 3 nights at the Post Hotel Rovaniemi, or similar
- Reindeer sled ride
- Visit to Santa Claus Village, with lunch
- Visit to Husky Park with husky sled ride
- Evening Aurora hunt
- Guided tour of the Ranua Wildlife Zoo Park, with lunch
- 1 night in a private, heated Glass Igloo
- Dinner in the Igloo Village
- Breakfast daily
This seasonal escape is designed and offered specifically for winter departures.
Great Ways to Explore
Spend time exploring Finland's cool seaside capital city, Helsinki.
Cross the Arctic Circle and enjoy the enchanting Santa Claus Village.
Experience the magic of a charming reindeer sled ride.
Say hello to packs of beautiful huskies in their natural snowy habitats.
Look for the Northern Lights from the comfort of your private glass igloo.
Begin with a night in Helsinki, a dynamic city filled with bustling streets, charming cafes, and a beautiful waterfront. Enjoy an included Panorama Bus Tour, experience the coastal beauty that defines Finland’s capital, then head north to Rovaniemi via an overnight Santa Claus Express Train.
In Rovaniemi, you’ll begin the escorted portion of your vacation and cross the Arctic Circle to the enchanting Santa Claus Village. Write letters at Santa’s post office, warm up with hot drinks, and perhaps even meet Santa himself! Cap off the day with a magical reindeer sled ride, making you feel like you're on a Christmas Eve journey.
Next, visit the breathtaking Husky Park, where you’ll watch these energetic dogs race through the snow and even enjoy a thrilling mini safari ride with a musher. Don’t miss the chance to explore the northernmost zoo in the world.
Then, head to your next accommodation: a secluded and heated glass igloo deep in the wilderness. Spend the evening surrounded by nature, and if the conditions are right (and with the help of an automated "Aurora Alarm"), marvel at the vibrant Northern Lights dancing across the sky through your igloo’s glass roof.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Helsinki (HEL) and from Rovaniemi (RVN)
- Arrival transfer from Helsinki Airport to hotel
- 1 night in Helsinki at the Sokos Presidentii Hotel, or similar
- Helsinki Panorama Bus Tour
- 1 night overnight accommodations on the Santa Claus Express Train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi
- 4-night guided Aurora Borealis and Glass Igloo Tour, including:
- Transfer from Rovaniemi rail station to your Rovaniemi hotel
- 3 nights at the Post Hotel Rovaniemi, or similar
- Reindeer sled ride
- Visit to Santa Claus Village, with lunch
- Visit to Husky Park with husky sled ride
- Evening Aurora hunt
- Guided tour of the Ranua Wildlife Zoo Park, with lunch
- 1 night in a private, heated Glass Igloo
- Dinner in the Igloo Village
- Breakfast daily
This seasonal escape is designed and offered specifically for winter departures.
Spend time exploring Finland's cool seaside capital city, Helsinki.
Cross the Arctic Circle and enjoy the enchanting Santa Claus Village.
Experience the magic of a charming reindeer sled ride.
Say hello to packs of beautiful huskies in their natural snowy habitats.
Look for the Northern Lights from the comfort of your private glass igloo.
Begin with a night in Helsinki, a dynamic city filled with bustling streets, charming cafes, and a beautiful waterfront. Enjoy an included Panorama Bus Tour, experience the coastal beauty that defines Finland’s capital, then head north to Rovaniemi via an overnight Santa Claus Express Train.
In Rovaniemi, you’ll begin the escorted portion of your vacation and cross the Arctic Circle to the enchanting Santa Claus Village. Write letters at Santa’s post office, warm up with hot drinks, and perhaps even meet Santa himself! Cap off the day with a magical reindeer sled ride, making you feel like you're on a Christmas Eve journey.
Next, visit the breathtaking Husky Park, where you’ll watch these energetic dogs race through the snow and even enjoy a thrilling mini safari ride with a musher. Don’t miss the chance to explore the northernmost zoo in the world.
Then, head to your next accommodation: a secluded and heated glass igloo deep in the wilderness. Spend the evening surrounded by nature, and if the conditions are right (and with the help of an automated "Aurora Alarm"), marvel at the vibrant Northern Lights dancing across the sky through your igloo’s glass roof.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Number of Nights:
- 6
What travelers are saying about our trips to Finland
Day 1. Welcome to Helsinki!
Welcome to Finland, the Land of a Thousand Lakes! Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your centrally located hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Take a walk around this lively seaside city, discovering its stunning islands and lush green spaces. Helsinki has a distinctive charm, blending dynamic food, cutting-edge design, striking architecture – and of course, the beloved sauna culture!
Transfer from Helsinki Airport to hotel
Check-in - Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti
The Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti welcomes its guests with an innovative approach to interior design and hosts a diverse range of events from parties to exhibitions to seminars. In close proximity to the city's attractions such as the Kamppi shopping center, the Parliament building, and the Museum of Natural History, this opulent property is something to write home about!
Day 2. Helsinki (overnight train to Rovaniemi)
Today, embark on a shared Panorama tour of Helsinki, a sightseeing journey that showcases the city's key landmarks while offering insights into its rich history and vibrant present.
Later tonight, board your overnight Santa Claus Express Train.
Experience a magical overnight journey aboard the Santa Claus Express train!
Enjoy private sleeper cabins for 1-2 people, complete with two beds, an en-suite bathroom and shower, and secure locks with keycards. Your cabin is equipped with air conditioning, individual temperature control, blackout curtains, a full-length mirror, and charging sockets. You'll also find essentials like bath towels, a hairdryer, and free Wi-Fi.
Porterage is provided to help with your luggage, and breakfast is included. For extra treats, visit the dining car for additional food and beverages.
Enjoy Helsinki's most popular sights and get an excellent view of the city's past and present, on the Helsinki Panorama Tour. This bus tour will point out the most interesting parts of the city, including the historical center, City Hall, The Parliament Buildings, Finlandia Hall, and the Opera House, as well as the Temppeliaukio Church, and if that is closed, the Sibelius Monument.
Day 3. Rovaniemi
Step into a magical winter paradise! Rovaniemi, the gateway to Finnish Lapland, is a realm of enchanting snow-covered forests, lively ski resorts, and breathtaking scenery. You might have heard whispers that it's "always light" or "always dark." Amazingly, both are true! Summer brings endless daylight, while winter is marked by long nights with only a glimpse of light.
Settle into your comfortable room and relax for a bit, before immersing yourself in the tranquil serenity of Lapland's untouched wilderness.
Transfer from Rovaniemi rail station to Rovaniemi hotel
Escape to the heart of Finnish Lapland at the Post Hotel Rovaniemi, where modern comfort meets Arctic wilderness. Located near the Ounasjoki River, this boutique hotel offers a peaceful retreat with stylish rooms and authentic Finnish design.
Wake up to stunning snowy landscapes, and enjoy activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and Northern Lights tours. After a day of adventure, relax in the hotel's sauna or unwind by the fireplace with a warm drink.
The hotel's restaurant serves up local cuisine, making it a perfect place to experience Lapland's culinary delights. Whether you seek relaxation or excitement, the Post Hotel Rovaniemi provides an unforgettable stay.
Located near the Arctic Circle in central Rovaniemi, this hotel is conveniently situated just a 10-minute drive from Santa Claus Village. It offers generously sized and well-appointed rooms, with most featuring 12-foot-high ceilings, equipped with air conditioning, a TV, minibar, electric kettle, and ironing facilities. The modern private bathrooms come with a shower and bath tub.
Guests can indulge in Lapland delicacies and modern Finnish cuisine at Restaurant Gaissa, or enjoy a buffet lunch and à la carte dinner menu at Bar & Grill ZoomUp. For those seeking a more casual setting, the Café & Bar Zoomit serves light snacks and drinks until late evening. During the summer months, the hotel's terrace offers an inviting space for al fresco dining or drinks.
Hotel Santa Claus also features a free sauna, perfect for relaxation. The staff are available to assist with arranging nearby activities and excursions, including snowmobile trips, reindeer safaris, and husky dog tours. The popular Arktikum Science Museum is a mere 10-minute walk away.
Escape to this cozy hotel that boasts luxurious comfort and stylish elegance. As soon as you walk through its doors, feel welcomed by a friendly reception team, traditional decor, and the comforting smell of a fireplace. Make your way up to your room and find large cozy beds, flat-screen TVs, internet connection, and more.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the sparkling pool! Jump in and make a splash, relax in a comfy poolside lounge chair, or find tranquility in the sauna. Unwind with a cocktail next to the fireplace, then indulge in a delicious dinner at the sophisticated on-site restaurant. After your meal, make your way down the the trendy karaoke bar and sing your favorite tune! Keep your ears out for live musical performers and dance your way into the on-site nightclub.
Day 4. Rovaniemi
Ho, ho, ho! It doesn't have to be Christmas to visit Santa's Village and play with reindeer! After breakfast, your first stop of the day will be at a reindeer farm, where you'll experience a traditional reindeer ride amidst the snowy landscape. Your next stop will be the storybook-like Santa Claus Village, located on the Arctic Circle. Here you'll have lunch, then can visit Santa's post office and enjoy the magic atmosphere of the village as you spend some free time exploring on your own.
The pace then quickens with a 1.5 mile husky safari, where you'll travel on a sled led by a professional musher. And then this evening, you'll set out on an Aurora hunting excursion in the Ounasvaara area, to hopefully view the spectacular Northern Lights!
Immerse yourself in the magic of Lapland today - with your first stop being at a reindeer farm, where you'll experience a traditional reindeer ride, providing a peaceful introduction to the local culture and the snowy landscape.
The journey continues with a visit to the world-famous Santa Claus Village, where you'll have lunch. Visit Santa's post office to send a letter home with his official stamp, then enjoy the magic atmosphere of the village as you spend some free time exploring on your own. The pace then quickens with a 1.5 mile husky safari, where you'll travel on a sled led by a professional musher!
This evening, you'll set out with your tour leader on an Aurora hunting excursion in the Ounasvaara area, where the dark, elevated viewpoints provide a strong chance of seeing the Northern Lights!
Day 5. Rovaniemi
Spend the day with the animals of the Arctic! You'll visit Ranua Wildlife Zoo Park, which specializes in Arctic species, and on your guide tour will get a close-up look at a wide variety of Arctic wildlife within their natural, spacious forest enclosures.
After enjoying a delicious buffet lunch at Ranua you'll return to Rovaniemi. where you have the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure!
Today you will visit Ranua Wildlife Zoo Park, the northernmost zoo in the world! On your guided tour you'll get a close-up look at a wide variety of native Arctic species within a natural, spacious forest enclosure environment. You'll enjoy a full lunch buffet at Ranua before returning to Rovaniemi, where you have the rest of the day to explore at leisure!
Day 6. Rovaniemi - Glass Igloo Village
Spend a relaxed morning exploring Rovaniemi at your own pace, taking in its unique charm. You might want to visit the impressive Arktikum Museum to discover more about the Sami, the indigenous people of Lapland. For those seeking adventure, a snowmobile ride or a trip on the iconic icebreaker Sampo might be just what you need! Stroll through town, or enjoy a scenic walk along the picturesque Ounasjoki River.
In the afternoon, prepare to enter a world of magic. Arrive at a glass igloo village, where your heated igloo offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape right from your bed. Fingers crossed - and with the assistance of the room's "Aurora Alarm" - watch the vibrant Northern Lights dance across the sky from the front-row seat of your unique glass-ceilinged accommodations.
Check-in - Arctic Glass Igloos
Cozy up in your very own glass igloo! Located far away from the light and noise of town, this remote location serves as the ideal spot for viewing the magical Northern Lights. Search for the colorful spectacle from the warmth of your comfy bed, staring up at the mesmerizing starry sky above, or step outside and watch in amazement from the surrounding magical field of pine trees.
These igloo accommodations offer a unique opportunity for experiencing Lapland's ever-changing nature while enjoying the comforts of a hotel room. Each includes air conditioning, floor and glass ceiling heating, private bathroom with shower, mini-fridge, kettle, television, bathrobes, hair dryer and more. And very importantly, each igloo comes equipped with a tablet and "Aurora Alarm" - which alerts you immediately when the Northern Lights become visible!
Day 7. Depart Finland
Enjoy one last breakfast in the wilderness, then head to the airport.
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.
Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.
Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to /travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.