Day 1: Arrival At Helsinki
- Upon arrival at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, you will transfer directly to your hotel in Helsinki.
- In the evening, you'll spend some time at Senate Square, a historic and cultural hub of Helsinki. The square is surrounded by notable buildings such as the Government Palace and the University of Helsinki, all designed by the architect Carl Ludvig Engel. The square often hosts events and markets, making it a vibrant place to experience the local culture.
- For dinner, you’ll enjoy a meal at a local Indian restaurant. After dinner, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay, ready to explore more of Helsinki in the coming days.
- (Dinner)
Day 2: Helsinki Guided City Tour With Medieval Porvoo
- After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you'll embark on an exciting day in Helsinki, beginning with an orientation tour of the city. This guided city tour will provide you with an overview of Helsinki’s main sights and its rich history. Your first stop will be the magnificent Helsinki Cathedral, an iconic landmark located in Senate Square. This stunning white neoclassical cathedral, with its green dome and grand steps, dominates the city’s skyline and offers a serene interior that reflects traditional Finnish architecture. It's a great place to admire the architecture and take in views of the surrounding city.
- Next, you’ll visit the unique Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church. This architectural marvel is built directly into solid rock and is renowned for its raw rock walls and copper dome, creating a natural and serene atmosphere. The church’s excellent acoustics and striking design make it a must-see for visitors.
- Following this, you will venture to the charming town of Porvoo for a two-hour exploration. Porvoo is one of Finland’s oldest towns, known for its medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and colorful wooden houses along the riverbank. The town’s quaint charm and historical significance make it a delightful place to visit.
- Returning to Helsinki, your next destination will be the National Urban Park, a vast green space that showcases the natural beauty of the city. This park is a haven for nature lovers, offering scenic walking paths, lush forests, and serene lakes. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and appreciate Finland’s commitment to preserving natural landscapes within urban areas.
- As evening approaches, you’ll enjoy dinner at another Indian restaurant. The restaurant will offer a different yet equally delightful array of dishes, ensuring you experience a broad spectrum of Indian cuisine.
- Finally, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with rich cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and culinary delights.
- (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day 3: Transfer From Helsinki To Ivalo - Enjoy Stay In A Glass Igloo At Kakslauttanen - Northern Lights Hunting
- After enjoying breakfast, you'll check out of your hotel in Helsinki and transfer to the enchanting Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. Known for its stunning natural surroundings and unique accommodations, this resort is situated in the heart of Finnish Lapland. Upon arrival, you’ll check in and settle into your accommodation.
- Lunch on your own. Later we have time to visit the Kakslauttanen Planetaurium where you can see a 30-minute film about the northern lights in the 180-degree planetarium dome.
- As evening falls, you'll have dinner at the resort’s restaurant, where you can enjoy a hearty meal amidst the cozy ambiance of the Arctic environment. After dinner, prepare for an unforgettable experience: viewing the Northern Lights (subject to weather and availability). Later, the excitement continues with a Northern Lights Hunting excursion by bus. This guided tour will take you to the best spots where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis dancing across the night sky. The resort’s location in the Arctic Circle offers prime conditions for witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon, with its clear skies and minimal light pollution.
- You’ll spend the night in a Glass Igloo, a unique accommodation that provides an unobstructed view of the sky, allowing you to gaze at the Northern Lights (subject to weather) from the comfort of your bed. This remarkable experience of sleeping under the shimmering Arctic sky will make for a magical and memorable overnight stay.
- Please note: Northern Lights is a natural phenomenon which is not under human control. The trip is planned as per dates or times when the probability of viewing Northern Lights is high.
- (Breakfast and Dinner at Resort)
Day 4: Transfer From Ivalo To Rovaniemi (4 Hours) - Visit The Arktikum Science Museum
- After having breakfast and checking out from your accommodation, you will be transferred from Ivalo to Rovaniemi, the vibrant capital of Finnish Lapland. Known as the gateway to the Arctic, Rovaniemi offers a rich blend of modern culture and traditional Lappish heritage. Upon arrival, you’ll head straight to the Arktikum Museum, a fascinating institution that provides deep insights into the history, culture, and environment of the Arctic region. The museum features engaging exhibits on the Sami people, the natural world of the Arctic, and the effects of climate change on this fragile ecosystem.
- Following your museum visit, you’ll have dinner at an Indian restaurant. After dinner, you’ll proceed to your hotel in Rovaniemi for an overnight stay. The comfort of your hotel will provide a restful conclusion to your day, allowing you to recharge for further adventures in this magical Arctic city.
- (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day 5: Visit Rauna Wildlife Zoo - Northern Lights Hunting From Rovaniemi (Optional Tour)
- After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, prepare for an exhilarating day in Rovaniemi. First we explore the Ranua Wildlife Park. This well-known zoo houses a variety of Arctic and Nordic animals, including polar bears, lynxes, and reindeer. It offers an immersive experience into the wildlife of the region, with beautifully designed habitats that mimic the natural environment of the animals.
- After your chosen adventure, you'll have some free time to shop for local crafts, souvenirs, or enjoy leisure activities on your own in Rovaniemi. Whether it’s browsing through charming boutiques or enjoying a cozy café, this is your time to explore the city at your own pace.
- In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner at a Indian restaurant. Later we embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis on a guided bus through the beautiful Lapland wilderness of Rovaniemi (at extra cost). Your expert guides will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the best locations to see the magic of the Northern Lights. If the weather is clear, you'll also have the opportunity to witness star constellations.
- (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day 6: Santa Clause Village Excursion - Enjoy Husky Farm And Safari
- After a hearty breakfast, you’ll board your coach and set off for an exciting, guided city tour of Santa Claus Village. This enchanting destination, located at the Arctic Circle, is a magical spot where you can meet Santa Claus himself and experience the Christmas spirit all year round. During the two-hour tour, you’ll explore the charming village, visit Santa’s post office, where letters to Santa are received from children worldwide, and cross the Arctic Circle line.
- In the afternoon, you’ll head to a Husky Farm. Here, you’ll learn about the traditional Lappish way of life and the importance of reindeer and huskies in the Arctic culture. You’ll meet these fascinating animals and even have the opportunity to experience a thrilling Husky Safari. This adventure involves riding in a sled pulled by a team of eager huskies through the stunning snowy landscapes, offering an exhilarating and memorable experience.
- As evening approaches, you’ll have dinner at an Indian restaurant, enjoying another wonderful meal. Afterwards, you’ll return to your hotel in Rovaniemi for your final overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with Arctic adventures and unique experiences.
- (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day 7: Departure From Rovaniemi
- Following breakfast at your hotel, it's time to conclude your Arctic adventure. After checking out, you'll be transferred to Rovaniemi Airport for your onward journey. As you depart, you'll carry with you cherished memories of your time spent exploring the Arctic wilderness, encountering its unique wildlife, and witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Reflecting on the experiences and moments shared, you'll take with you the magic of the Arctic, leaving with unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after your journey has ended.
- (Breakfast)