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Finnish Winter Wonderland

8 Days / 7 Nights

Helsinki, Rovaniemi, Helsinki

from$3,350 per person

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

This one-week itinerary across the charms of Finland is the ultimate winter adventure. Your journey starts in Helsinki, Finland's exciting capital, where you'll stroll through the most enchanting Christmas markets and enjoy pleasant walks along the city's streets. Then, you'll fly to Rovaniemi for a chance to witness one of nature's most thrilling spectacles: the Northern Lights. But even if you don't, there's someone who'll welcome you to his village and offer you plenty of joy: Santa Claus himself. You'll also visit a reindeer farm, drive a snowmobile, and explore the edge of Finland, the otherworldy region of Lapland in the Arctic Circle. If that's not the perfect winter escape, we don't know what is.

One of our team members will be available to answer any questions and arrange local services leading up to and during your trip. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best Finland has to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data you can use throughout your trip to reach your local JayWay contact. In all our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with a local ambiance.

Route for Helsinki, Rovaniemi, Helsinki tour

2 Nights in Helsinki

2 Nights in Helsinki

3 days in Helsinki
3 days in Helsinki

2 Nights in Helsinki

Helsinki offers an eclectic mix of architecture, activities, and moods. It’s the buildings you’ll notice first, as the city features design from Nordic Minimalism, Byzantine-Russian, Austrian-influenced Art Nouveau, Neoclassical and striking modernist influences. Amidst this stunning architectural medley, you’ll find a hip and energetic city with world-class gastronomy and cultural offerings. You’ll definitely want to spend time exploring the city, and the incredible churches are some of the most impressive structures in Helsinki. The Esplanade offers excellent window shopping and also a park that’s perfect for relaxing. Don’t miss the monument to Sibelius, the famous Finnish composer, and the bustling South Harbor market. Our top recommendation for Helsinki isn’t even in the city however: the UNESCO-listed maritime fortress island of Suomenlinna. The city is rather spread out, so you might want to take a private driving tour. Just 30 minutes from Helsinki, Porvoo is an idyllic UNESCO-listed town that feels out of a fairytale. You can also hop aboard a boat and enjoy a guided tour of the city’s canals.

Helsinki offers an eclectic mix of architecture, activities, and moods. It’s the buildings you’ll notice first, as the city features design from Nordic Minimalism, Byzantine-Russian, Austrian-influenced Art Nouveau, Neoclassical and striking modernist influences. Amidst this stunning architectural medley, you’ll find a hip and energetic city with world-class gastronomy and cultural offerings. You’ll definitely want to spend time exploring the city, and the incredible churches are some of the most impressive structures in Helsinki. The Esplanade offers excellent window shopping and also a park that’s perfect for relaxing. Don’t miss the monument to Sibelius, the famous Finnish composer, and the bustling South Harbor market. Our top recommendation for Helsinki isn’t even in the city however: the UNESCO-listed maritime fortress island of Suomenlinna. The city is rather spread out, so you might want to take a private driving tour. Just 30 minutes from Helsinki, Porvoo is an idyllic UNESCO-listed town that feels out of a fairytale. You can also hop aboard a boat and enjoy a guided tour of the city’s canals.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Helsinki

When you arrive at Helsinki's airport, your driver will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your centrally located accommodation. Your driver will be holding a JayWay sign or a sign with your name. The journey time is around 30 minutes.

Helsinki Christmas Markets

Suggestion to explore on your own

Helsinki’s Christmas markets provide a cozy Nordic holiday atmosphere with festive lights and seasonal treats. The most popular is the Helsinki Christmas Market (Tuomaan Markkinat) in Senate Square, featuring wooden stalls with Finnish handicrafts, decorations, and delights like glögi (mulled wine) and piparkakut (gingerbread cookies). For a more local experience, visit the Old Market Hall to sample traditional Finnish foods like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) and smoked salmon. The Korjaamo Christmas Market offers unique design gifts and handcrafted items. Finish your day with a visit to the Winter Circus or relax in a sauna, soaking in the city’s magical holiday atmosphere.

Helsinki Christmas Markets

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Helsinki

Helsinki Private Walking Tour

Helsinki Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Visit the must-see sights of Helsinki's core with your own private guide. Along the way, you'll hear about the past and present of Finland and its capital, and find the best ways to spend your free time. You'll learn about hidden gems and places known only to locals. You can also taste Finnish cuisine at the Market Square, where you can find everything from local food to artisanal crafts. There's no better way to get acquainted with this extraordinary city.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 2 hours

Winter Day in Helsinki

Suggestion to explore on your own

An active winter day in Helsinki offers adventure and Nordic charm. Start with ice skating at the Ice Park near Central Railway Station, perfect for all skill levels. Warm up with a cup of glögi (mulled wine) before heading to Seurasaari Island for a scenic winter hike along snow-covered trails. For lunch, enjoy salmon soup at Café Regatta, then spend the afternoon sledding at Kaivopuisto Park or try ice swimming, followed by a Finnish sauna at Löyly. As evening approaches, take a snowshoeing or cross-country skiing tour in Nuuksio National Park. End the day with a hearty Finnish dinner and a relaxing sauna.

Winter Day in Helsinki

Day 3

Day 3 - Traveling to Rovaniemi by Airplane

Today you're leaving Helsinki and heading to Rovaniemi. We'll arrange for a driver to take you to the airport with plenty of time for your departing flight. We've included economy one-way tickets to Rovaniemi, on a short direct flight as listed below:


Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

Rovaniemi by Air
We also offer the following excursions in Helsinki

Design District Private Walking Tour
Light3 hours
Finnish Food and Beer Private Tour
Light2 hours 30 minutes
Helsinki Highlights by Bike Private Tour
Moderate3 hours
Porvoo and Loviisa Private Day trip
Light7 hours

4 Nights in Rovaniemi

4 Nights in Rovaniemi

5 days in Rovaniemi
5 days in Rovaniemi

4 Nights in Rovaniemi

If Rovaniemi was just Santa Claus and the Northern Lights, that would already be enough, but fortunately it's much more! The capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is just a few miles south of the Arctic Circle, and a great hub for exploring, in winter and summer, whether you're into hiking, or riding a dogsled. Almost completely destroyed by German troops during World War II, famed architect Alvar Aalto redesigned the city in the shape of a reindeer's head, though you need to do a lot of squinting at maps to see it (Rovaniemi's stadium forms the "eye!") Aalto also designed several of the city's landmarks, including the impressive Arktikum museum. It's a clear tourist trap, but few can resist the siren call of the Santa Claus Village, located on the Arctic Circle, thanks to its most famous inhabitant. Home to the EU's northernmost universities, Rovaniemi is youthful at heart, and provides plenty of ways to enjoy the long winter nights and midnight sun.

If Rovaniemi was just Santa Claus and the Northern Lights, that would already be enough, but fortunately it's much more! The capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is just a few miles south of the Arctic Circle, and a great hub for exploring, in winter and summer, whether you're into hiking, or riding a dogsled. Almost completely destroyed by German troops during World War II, famed architect Alvar Aalto redesigned the city in the shape of a reindeer's head, though you need to do a lot of squinting at maps to see it (Rovaniemi's stadium forms the "eye!") Aalto also designed several of the city's landmarks, including the impressive Arktikum museum. It's a clear tourist trap, but few can resist the siren call of the Santa Claus Village, located on the Arctic Circle, thanks to its most famous inhabitant. Home to the EU's northernmost universities, Rovaniemi is youthful at heart, and provides plenty of ways to enjoy the long winter nights and midnight sun.

Day 3

Day 3 - Arrival in Rovaniemi

We will arrange for a driver to meet you upon your arrival at Rovaniemi airport and take you to your accommodations.

Connect with Nature at Arktikum Park

Suggestion to explore on your own

Arktikum Park in Rovaniemi is a perfect place to experience the beauty of Arctic nature. Located along the Ounasjoki River, the park offers scenic walking paths, peaceful landscapes, and a true northern atmosphere. In summer, enjoy the warmth of the midnight sun, while in winter, the snow-covered scenery and dancing Northern Lights create a magical setting. The park is easily accessible on foot from Rovaniemi city center, just a short walk from Arktikum Science Centre. Whether for a relaxing stroll or a moment of quiet reflection, this park is an ideal escape.

Connect with Nature at Arktikum Park

Day 4

Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village Private Tour

Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

See Rovaniemi's most popular sights, and visit Santa Clause on this tour. You'll join an Arctic Circle crossing ceremony and enjoy the souvenir shops, snow activities in wintertime, cafés, and more.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 4 hours

Day 5

Day 5 - Your Second Full Day in Rovaniemi

Northern Lights Hunting Group Tour with a Minibus

Northern Lights Hunting Group Tour with a Minibus

Included in your vacation package price.

Experience the magic of Lapland and photograph the amazing Northern Lights! During our Northern Lights Hunting excursion our guide will pick you up from your accommodation and we will set out on a hunt for the celestial Aurora Borealis. You will drive to a place far away from the light pollution of the city and enjoy wonderful views of the starry skies. Sitting by the fire while cooking sausages you can search for the Northern Lights.Please note that Northern Lights are always unpredictable and there is no guarantee that we will find them every night. Minimum 2 people are required for this tour to take place.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 3 hours

Snowmobile Safari Into Arctic Wilderness Group Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

This snowmobile adventure offers fantastic opportunity to learn how to master the art of driving a snowmobile. There, open your senses to the silence and snow-covered scenery, and prepare for fantastic photography points. Admire the north pole with friends and families while enjoying hot drinks and cookies. A minimum 2 participants is required for this tour to take place.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 2 hours and 30 minutes

Day 6

Day 6 - Your Third Full Day in Rovaniemi

Reindeer Farm Visit and Short Safari Group Tour

Reindeer Farm Visit and Short Safari Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Meet the original Reindeer farm with a short safari. The owners of the Reindeer Farm live with their reindeer throughout the year, and the reindeer have provided their livelihood for more than 200 years. At the Reindeer Farm, the visitor will experience old and new reindeer husbandry culture working hand-in-hand. After learning about one of Lapland’s majestic and biggest animals, experience being pulled by these big hoofed reindeer by sled. Afterward, you'll be invited to the farmer’s house where snacks and warm drinks will be provided along with your reindeer driving license. The minimum number of participants for each safari is 2.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 2 hours and 30 minutes

A Taste of Lapland - Exploring Rovaniemi’s Arctic Flavors

Suggestion to explore on your own

Rovaniemi offers a unique culinary journey blending traditional Lappish flavors with modern Arctic cuisine. Start at Santa Claus Village, warming up with glögi (mulled wine) and freshly baked cinnamon buns at a cozy café. For an authentic meal, visit Lapland Restaurant Kotahovi, where you can try poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer) or loimulohi (flame-grilled salmon). In the city, Restaurant Nili serves rustic dishes like grilled Arctic char and cloudberry desserts. For street food, Roka Kitchen & Wine Bar offers gourmet sandwiches with slow-cooked meats and Arctic flavors. Finish with a tasting of Lappish cheeses and cloudberry liqueur, a true northern treat.

A Taste of Lapland - Exploring Rovaniemi’s Arctic Flavors

Day 7

Day 7 - Traveling to Helsinki by Airplane

Today you're leaving Rovaniemi and heading to Helsinki. We'll arrange for a driver to take you to the airport in plenty of time for your departing flight. We've included economy one-way tickets to Helsinki on a short direct flight as listed below:


Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

Helsinki by Air
We also offer the following excursions in Rovaniemi

Become a Husky Musher Group Tour
Easy3 hours
Full Day Adventure Group Tour
Moderate6 hours 30 minutes
Korouoma Canyon and Auttiköngäs Falls Group Tour
Light6 hours
Northern Lights Private Photography Tour
Easy5 hours

1 Night in Helsinki

1 Night in Helsinki

2 days in Helsinki
2 days in Helsinki

1 Night in Helsinki

Helsinki offers an eclectic mix of architecture, activities, and moods. It’s the buildings you’ll notice first, as the city features design from Nordic Minimalism, Byzantine-Russian, Austrian-influenced Art Nouveau, Neoclassical and striking modernist influences. Amidst this stunning architectural medley, you’ll find a hip and energetic city with world-class gastronomy and cultural offerings. You’ll definitely want to spend time exploring the city, and the incredible churches are some of the most impressive structures in Helsinki. The Esplanade offers excellent window shopping and also a park that’s perfect for relaxing. Don’t miss the monument to Sibelius, the famous Finnish composer, and the bustling South Harbor market. Our top recommendation for Helsinki isn’t even in the city however: the UNESCO-listed maritime fortress island of Suomenlinna. The city is rather spread out, so you might want to take a private driving tour. Just 30 minutes from Helsinki, Porvoo is an idyllic UNESCO-listed town that feels out of a fairytale. You can also hop aboard a boat and enjoy a guided tour of the city’s canals.

Helsinki offers an eclectic mix of architecture, activities, and moods. It’s the buildings you’ll notice first, as the city features design from Nordic Minimalism, Byzantine-Russian, Austrian-influenced Art Nouveau, Neoclassical and striking modernist influences. Amidst this stunning architectural medley, you’ll find a hip and energetic city with world-class gastronomy and cultural offerings. You’ll definitely want to spend time exploring the city, and the incredible churches are some of the most impressive structures in Helsinki. The Esplanade offers excellent window shopping and also a park that’s perfect for relaxing. Don’t miss the monument to Sibelius, the famous Finnish composer, and the bustling South Harbor market. Our top recommendation for Helsinki isn’t even in the city however: the UNESCO-listed maritime fortress island of Suomenlinna. The city is rather spread out, so you might want to take a private driving tour. Just 30 minutes from Helsinki, Porvoo is an idyllic UNESCO-listed town that feels out of a fairytale. You can also hop aboard a boat and enjoy a guided tour of the city’s canals.

Day 7

Day 7 - Arrival in Helsinki

When you arrive at Helsinki's airport, your driver will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your centrally located accommodation. Your driver will be holding a JayWay sign or a sign with your name. The journey time is around 30 minutes.

Day 8

Day 8 - Departure Day

On the day of your departure, we will arrange for a driver to take you from your accommodation to the airport.

We also offer the following excursions in Helsinki

Design District Private Walking Tour
Light3 hours
Finnish Food and Beer Private Tour
Light2 hours 30 minutes
Helsinki Highlights by Bike Private Tour
Moderate3 hours
Helsinki Private Walking Tour
Light2 hours

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Helsinki

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Helsinki Airport Transfer
Helsinki Private Walking Tour
Helsinki Airport Transfer
Helsinki - Rovaniemi Flight

Rovaniemi

4 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Rovaniemi Airport Transfer
Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village Private Tour
Northern Lights Hunting Group Tour with a Minibus
Reindeer Farm Visit and Short Safari Group Tour
Rovaniemi Airport Transfer
Rovaniemi - Helsinki Flight

Helsinki

1 Night Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Helsinki Airport Transfer
Helsinki Airport Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
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