Lapland Christmas Vacation - 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Rovaniemi

Welcome to Rovaniemi, capital of Lapland! Beautiful Lapland lies within the Arctic Circle and is Finland's northernmost region. It's home to Santa Claus, wild Arctic landscapes, rich Indigenous Sámi culture, and enchanting northern lights. Upon arrival at Rovaniemi Airport, your driver will be waiting to whisk you to your accommodation. Catch glimpses of the picturesque snow-covered conifers along the way, and you'll feel like you live in your very own snow globe.

Day 2: Snowmobile Safari to Santa Claus Village & SantaPark Visit

Get ready for an exciting snow safari that combines snowmobiling and the possibility of meeting Santa Claus! Departing from Rovaniemi, you'll rent a snowmobile (18 and older with a valid driver's license) while other members can ride in a warm and covered sled. You will make the snowy journey to Santa Claus Village—about 12 miles (20 km) from the starting place—where you can have lunch in a cozy restaurant. Then pay a visit to Santa Claus, go shopping, and send postcards and letters with a unique Arctic Circle stamp from the post office. At the end of the excursion, snowmobile back to where your day started.

Alternatively, today is a great opportunity to visit Rovaniemi's indoor Christmas theme park: SantaPark. Located deep underground, you'll join the elves on an unforgettable journey where it's Christmas all year round. Once inside, travel through enchanting worlds with a ride on the Magic Train, get your own diploma at the Elf School, and feel the crisp air on your face in the chilly Ice Gallery. Don't miss the jolly Elf Show on the main stage and the chance to send home your Christmas greetings at the park's own post office.

Day 3: Reindeer Ride to Meet Santa & Finnish Evening Sauna 

Take a seat in a cozy sled and start the journey through the magic forest on today's heart-warming reindeer ride to meet Santa. The elves will also be there to help you to find Santa's secret hut, a place filled with Christmas spirit. Warm drinks and cookies will be served, and the elves will keep you entertained while waiting for your turn to meet Santa himself.

As night falls, you'll get to experience a substantial part of Finnish culture, the sauna. The sauna is the perfect place to chill out with friends and family and for physical and mental relaxation. On this evening tour, you'll experience an authentic Finnish sauna away from the busy city, in the middle of the remote and peaceful Arctic landscape. After your sauna experience, you can cool off outside and gaze up at the Nordic sky. Try and spot the northern lights while you are served an evening snack with beverages in the Log Cottage's lounge. You can also add a hot tub experience for an additional fee. 

Day 4: Authentic Finnish Christmas Experience, SnowHotel & Ice Dinner 

Today's excursion is a wonderful way to experience an authentic Finnish Christmas. From Rovaniemi, you'll head to a forest farm, home to the coziest Christmas cottage. Here, by the warmth of the fire, you'll make traditional Finnish Christmas decorations and gingerbread cookies and take part in decorating a Christmas tree. After writing a letter to Santa, it's time to set the table and enjoy a traditional Finnish Christmas lunch before returning to your hotel in Rovaniemi.

Another option for day four is to visit one of the most unique accommodations in the world: the Arctic SnowHotel. During this four-hour guided tour, you'll walk around the snow structures, marvel at ice sculptures, and visit ice rooms complete with ice furniture. There's even an on-site snow sauna. After the tour, you'll warm up with a shot at the hotel's ice bar and enjoy a three-course meal in the on-site gourmet restaurant. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel in Rovaniemi, which, you'll be glad to know, is not made of ice.

Day 5: Depart Rovaniemi