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Miracles of the Night Sky and Architectural Thought | A Journey Exploring the Aurora and Aalto

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フィンランド
Miracles of the Night Sky and Architectural Thought | A Journey Exploring the Aurora and Aalto
フィンランド
ロヴァニエミ
ヘルシンキ
Standard
英語ガイド
セルフガイド
フリータイム
建築
オーロラ
サウナ
寝台列車
鉄道・列車
Travel details
€ 2,231 / per person
Note: The displayed price is the price at the time of application.
Duration Departure in 2026/2 | 7 days
Participants 2 person(s)(Adults 2 person(s)、Children 0 person(s))
Travel story
I want to see the miracle of the night sky and also experience the architecture I admire, so I made a trip where I didn’t give up either.

-
In Rovaniemi, we focus on aurora viewing and enjoy Arctic-specific nature experiences and activities, ensuring time to engage with the phenomenon itself.
In Helsinki, we don’t broaden city sightseeing but limit visits to architecture and spaces related to Alvar Aalto, carefully tracing his ideas and design intent.
By combining the different attractions of natural phenomena and architectural culture into a single itinerary, this trip allows you to efficiently experience Finland’s multifaceted nature.
Signature points
Aurora-focused activities in Rovaniemi
Based in Rovaniemi, the itinerary is organized with aurora viewing as the main goal. Because the phenomenon depends on weather and solar activity, the schedule secures enough days and activity time, prioritizing opportunities to observe.
In Helsinki, focus on Aalto architecture
In Helsinki, visits are limited and center on buildings and spaces related to Alvar Aalto. By not expanding urban sightseeing too much, you can calmly observe his design philosophy and spatial composition.
Experience nature and architecture in a single itinerary
This combines the distinct elements of Arctic natural phenomena and the architectural culture concentrated in the capital into one itinerary. The structure considers travel efficiency, allowing you to comfortably experience Finland’s different charms even with a limited schedule.
Itinerary
Day1
    Welcome to Finland!
  • Finland - Rovaniemi
  • Welcome to Rovaniemi Welcome to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and the official hometown of Santa Claus!

    Known for its stunning Arctic landscapes, Rovaniemi offers an array of unique attractions.
    Start with Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa himself, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from Santa’s own post office.
    The Arktikum Museum and Science Centre provides insights into Arctic history, culture, and natural wonders. For a breathtaking natural experience, take a nighttime trip to see the Northern Lights, best viewed in winter months.
    Animal lovers can embark on a husky or reindeer safari, while adrenaline-seekers may opt for snowmobiling across snowy trails.
    Whether it's exploring magical winter landscapes or learning about indigenous Sámi culture, Rovaniemi promises unforgettable Arctic adventures.
  • Private Airport Transfer Take a comfortable private transfer between the airport and your hotel.
  • Scandic Rovaniemi City
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ
  • 20:00
    Northern Lights Tour Embark on a thrilling hunt for the Northern Lights by bus. A must-do excursion for anyone visiting Rovaniemi in search for the Northern Lights!
    This experience takes place in the Northern Lights belt of Lapland from autumn to spring, and is not to be missed!

    What's included?
    Transfer from the meeting points
    Winter clothes (overall, boots and gloves)
    Professional Guide
    Warm juice and cookies
    Additional information:
    Duration of the program is about 2 hours. It is suited for adults as well as children.
    Northern lights are related to weather conditions, so they are not guaranteed.
    Tour operator won't cancel the activity according to the weather conditions. Please check the weather forecast couple of days before the activity start. Cancellation and re-scheduling the activity is possible, if the changes are made more than 24-hours before the activity start, depending of the availability for the requested day. [English Guide]
  • Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171908 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171908 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171908

Meals B/F:× LUN:× DIN:×

Day2
    Arctic Experiences!
  • Breakfast
  • 11:00
    Snow sauna experience Activity details
    Be the master of the coolest things to do in Rovaniemi and bathe in a unique snow sauna made of real snow and ice – only found from Arctic SnowHotel. This visiting package with round-trip transfers is perfect for wellness lovers, couples in search for romantic Lapland moments, arctic bucket-list chasers and adventure seekers looking for the coolest arctic experience.

    Admire the stunning craftsmanship of the Arctic SnowHotel’s ice rooms, including the Ice Bar and Ice Restaurant, and marvel at the themed snow and ice art.

    Relax in the world’s only snow sauna, where steamy warmth meets icy snow walls, creating a wellness experience like no other. Unwind in a warm outdoor jacuzzi surrounded by a white snowy wonderland.

    What's included:
    Return transfers
    Entrance ticket and guided tour at the Arctic SnowHotel
    Private use of snow sauna, Finnish sauna and outdoor jacuzzi
    Alcohol-free sauna drink
    Access to the lakeside kick sledding and tobogganing hill
    Additional information
    What to bring:
    Bring your bathing suit, we will provide you towels, slippers, bathrobes and hairdryer
    Dress warmly according to the weather, winter clothing is not included
    Duration: 4 hours, 45 minutes
  • Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910
  • 19:00
    Northern Lights Reindeer Sled Experience the enchantment of the Arctic night on this Northern Lights Safari with a reindeer sleigh ride.

    Immerse yourself in the magical glow of the Northern Lights as you traverse the snowy landscapes. The highlight of this adventure is a captivating reindeer sleigh ride, where you’ll be pulled through the pristine snow by gentle and majestic reindeer. Glide peacefully under the starry sky, surrounded by the serene beauty of Lapland.

    After the ride, warm up with a cozy beverage and delve into the captivating life of reindeer herding with insights from local herders.

    What's included?
    Transfer from the City Center of Rovaniemi
    Winter clothes if needed (overall, boots and gloves)
    Professional Guide
    20 minute Reindeer Sleigh Ride
    Insight to life of reindeer herding
    Hot juice and biscuits
    Additional information
    Duration of the program is about 2 hours. It is suited for adults as well as children.
    Northern lights are related to weather conditions, so they are not guaranteed. [English Guide]
  • Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171911 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171911
  • Scandic Rovaniemi City
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day3
    Santa Claus' Home!
  • Breakfast
  • Round Trip Tickets for the Shuttle to Santa Claus Village Take a shuttle to and from the Santa Claus Village and spend the day exploring on your own! You can leave your luggage at the reception for storage and come back later.
  • Santa Claus Village Santa Claus Village is located in Rovaniemi, Finland, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Santa Claus has made Lapland in Northern Finland his home for centuries, and the Arctic Circle is close to his heart because many Christmas secrets are rooted in this magical place. Santa Claus Village is a family destination with plenty to see and do for all ages.
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc
  • 20:15
    Transfer to the Train Station Take a comfortable private transfer to the Rovaniemi Train Station from your hotel.
  • 21:00
    Santa Claus Express Overnight Train to Helsinki! On this journey, you will have your own private cabin with its own shower and toilet. The train has its own restaurant carriage where you can purchase snacks or breakfast for the morning.
  • Dinner

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:⚪︎

Day4
    Finland's Capital!
  • Breakfast
  • Finland - Helsinki
  • Welcome to Helsinki Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, situated on the southern coast of the country along the shores of the Gulf of Finland. It is known for its vibrant culture, modern architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. Helsinki is a small, beautiful and exotic city. You can expect intense nightlife, exciting shopping, art museums, hectic markets and great architecture.

    You can experience most of the attractions in Helsinki on foot. Here are some places to visit:
    Senate Square (Senaatintori): This is the heart of Helsinki and home to many of the city's most important buildings, including the Helsinki Cathedral. The neoclassical architecture and open square make it a picturesque and historically significant location.
    Helsinki Cathedral (Helsingin tuomiokirkko): This iconic white cathedral is one of Helsinki's most recognizable landmarks. It's an excellent example of neoclassical architecture and offers panoramic views of the city from its steps.
    Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a short ferry ride from Helsinki and consists of a series of islands with a historic fortress. It's a great place to explore the fortifications, museums, and enjoy a picnic by the sea.
    Market Square (Kauppatori): Located right by the harbor, this market square is a bustling place where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and enjoy street food. It's a great spot to experience the local culture.
    Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church): Carved directly into solid rock, this unique church is a marvel of modern architecture. The natural light filtering through the copper-lined dome creates a serene atmosphere.
    Helsinki's Waterfront: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy views of the sea and the many islands surrounding Helsinki. In summer, you can even go for a swim in designated areas.

    Enjoy the city
  • Hobo Hotel Helsinki If you cannot check-in yet, you can store your luggage with the reception while exploring the surrounding areas.
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day5
    Free Day to Explore Helsinki!
  • Breakfast
  • Free Day to Explore Helsinki The vibrant capital of Finland, where historic charm meets modern innovation.

    Explore iconic landmarks like the stunning Helsinki Cathedral, with its striking white façade and green domes, to the unique Temppeliaukio Church, ingeniously built into solid rock. A short ferry ride will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna Fortress, a historic sea fortress offering fascinating insights into Finland's past.
    Helsinki’s bustling Market Square is a must-visit, brimming with fresh local produce, artisanal crafts, and scenic ferry rides. For those who appreciate design, the Design District offers a vibrant mix of boutiques, galleries, and cafes showcasing the best of Finnish creativity. Take a leisurely stroll through Esplanadi Park, a green oasis in the city center perfect for relaxation and people-watching.
    Art enthusiasts will enjoy the extensive collections at the Ateneum Art Museum and the cutting-edge exhibits at the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. The Helsinki Central Library Oodi stands as a testament to modern architectural ingenuity, offering a variety of public spaces and services. Families can enjoy a fun-filled day at the Linnanmäki Amusement Park, while nature lovers will find tranquility at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum and the scenic Hietaniemi Beach.
    Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Sibelius Monument in Sibelius Park, dedicated to the famed Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
    For a taste of local life, head to the Hakaniemi Market Hall, a historic indoor market offering a variety of Finnish delicacies and crafts.
    Finally, the lively Kallio District offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a plethora of cafes, bars, and unique shops.
  • Hobo Hotel Helsinki
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day6
    Understanding Aalto!
  • Breakfast
  • (Not included)
    Take the Local Transportation to Alvar Aalto's House! You can take the public transportation to get to the district where Alvar Aalto's House and Studio are located.
  • 14:00
    Visit Alvar Aalto’s home on a guided tour! The history and architecture of Aalto’s unique home, located in Munkkiniemi area in Helsinki, opens up through the stories the guide has to share. The tour lasts an hour and includes both the guided tour itself and free time to enjoy the special atmosphere in the house and explore the museum shop.

    In 1934, Aino and Alvar Aalto acquired a site in almost completely untouched surroundings at Riihitie in Helsinki’s Munkkiniemi. Aino and Alvar Aalto designed the building, whose simple, natural materials soften the form language of modern architecture. Designing their own home gave them an opportunity to make various structural and material experiments. The Aalto House was completed in August 1936. Aalto’s architect’s office was in this building in Munkkiniemi until 1955.

    Alvar Aalto lived in the house on Riihitie up until his death on 1976, and the building was used by the family long afterwards.The house, protected by the Act on the Protection of Buildings, is now part of the Alvar Aalto Foundation. Nowadays, the building is a home museum open to the public. [English Guide]
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ2TZUrgEKkkYR_N5z18-8DOs Image from PlaceId: ChIJ2TZUrgEKkkYR_N5z18-8DOs Image from PlaceId: ChIJ2TZUrgEKkkYR_N5z18-8DOs Image from PlaceId: ChIJ2TZUrgEKkkYR_N5z18-8DOs Image from PlaceId: ChIJ2TZUrgEKkkYR_N5z18-8DOs Image from PlaceId: ChIJ2TZUrgEKkkYR_N5z18-8DOs
  • The next tour will be held at the Studio Aalto house. Please use this map link to see how to get there by foot (7 minutes)
  • 15:30
    Learn about Studio Aalto on a guided tour! A one-hour tour explores the history and architecture of Aalto’s office with an expert guide and allows personal time to soak up the special atmosphere, take photographs, make sketches and visit the museum shop. Studio Aalto is located in Munkkiniemi area in Helsinki.

    Alvar Aalto designed the building at Tiilimäki 20 in Munkkiniemi as his own office in 1955. Because of a number of large commissions, the office needed more space to work in. The building is only a short walk from Aalto’s own house, where the office had previously been located. Studio Aalto is one of the best of Alvar Aalto’s 1950s buildings.

    “You can’t create architecture in an office environment,” is how Aalto described working in an architect’s office. Aalto designed a free-form studio section for the building, and a drawing room using natural light. The building curves around a stepped, amphitheatre-style courtyard sheltered from the wind. On the upper floor there is a drawing office on a narrow plan, beautifully encircled by natural light from a band of high-level windows. In 1962-1963 the building was extended by building a dining room for the staff, the ‘Taverna’, in the courtyard behind the high brick wall, with an office above it.

    Many of Aalto’s best-known works were designed here at the Studio. Alvar Aalto ran the office until his death in 1976. After that, the office continued under the leadership of Elissa Aalto until 1994. The building came into the custodianship of the Alvar Aalto Foundation in 1984 and today it houses the Alvar Aalto Foundation staff. [English Guide]
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJGalThf_1jUYR82Tc_wHwfO0 Image from PlaceId: ChIJGalThf_1jUYR82Tc_wHwfO0 Image from PlaceId: ChIJGalThf_1jUYR82Tc_wHwfO0 Image from PlaceId: ChIJGalThf_1jUYR82Tc_wHwfO0 Image from PlaceId: ChIJGalThf_1jUYR82Tc_wHwfO0 Image from PlaceId: ChIJGalThf_1jUYR82Tc_wHwfO0
  • Hobo Hotel Helsinki
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day7
    Safe Travels!
  • Departure from Finland Today you are leaving Finland. Have your breakfast, relax in the beautiful scenery and take in all of the views you can before you have to leave.
    Finland was happy to host your tour! Have a safe travel home!
  • Breakfast
  • (Not included)
    Helsinki Airport Train A direct train goes between Helsinki Central Station and the Helsinki Vantaa airport. You can pruchase the tickets from a machine at the train station or you can use HSL app for purchasing.

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day 1
02/09(Mon)
    Welcome to Finland!
  • Finland - Rovaniemi
  • Welcome to Rovaniemi Welcome to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and the official hometown of Santa Claus!

    Known for its stunning Arctic landscapes, Rovaniemi offers an array of unique attractions.
    Start with Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa himself, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from Santa’s own post office.
    The Arktikum Museum and Science Centre provides insights into Arctic history, culture, and natural wonders. For a breathtaking natural experience, take a nighttime trip to see the Northern Lights, best viewed in winter months.
    Animal lovers can embark on a husky or reindeer safari, while adrenaline-seekers may opt for snowmobiling across snowy trails.
    Whether it's exploring magical winter landscapes or learning about indigenous Sámi culture, Rovaniemi promises unforgettable Arctic adventures.
  • Private Airport Transfer Take a comfortable private transfer between the airport and your hotel.
  • Scandic Rovaniemi City
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ
  • 20:00
    Northern Lights Tour Embark on a thrilling hunt for the Northern Lights by bus. A must-do excursion for anyone visiting Rovaniemi in search for the Northern Lights!
    This experience takes place in the Northern Lights belt of Lapland from autumn to spring, and is not to be missed!

    What's included?
    Transfer from the meeting points
    Winter clothes (overall, boots and gloves)
    Professional Guide
    Warm juice and cookies
    Additional information:
    Duration of the program is about 2 hours. It is suited for adults as well as children.
    Northern lights are related to weather conditions, so they are not guaranteed.
    Tour operator won't cancel the activity according to the weather conditions. Please check the weather forecast couple of days before the activity start. Cancellation and re-scheduling the activity is possible, if the changes are made more than 24-hours before the activity start, depending of the availability for the requested day. [English Guide]
  • Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171908 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171908 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171908

Meals B/F:× LUN:× DIN:×

Day 2
02/10(Tue)
    Arctic Experiences!
  • Breakfast
  • 11:00
    Snow sauna experience Activity details
    Be the master of the coolest things to do in Rovaniemi and bathe in a unique snow sauna made of real snow and ice – only found from Arctic SnowHotel. This visiting package with round-trip transfers is perfect for wellness lovers, couples in search for romantic Lapland moments, arctic bucket-list chasers and adventure seekers looking for the coolest arctic experience.

    Admire the stunning craftsmanship of the Arctic SnowHotel’s ice rooms, including the Ice Bar and Ice Restaurant, and marvel at the themed snow and ice art.

    Relax in the world’s only snow sauna, where steamy warmth meets icy snow walls, creating a wellness experience like no other. Unwind in a warm outdoor jacuzzi surrounded by a white snowy wonderland.

    What's included:
    Return transfers
    Entrance ticket and guided tour at the Arctic SnowHotel
    Private use of snow sauna, Finnish sauna and outdoor jacuzzi
    Alcohol-free sauna drink
    Access to the lakeside kick sledding and tobogganing hill
    Additional information
    What to bring:
    Bring your bathing suit, we will provide you towels, slippers, bathrobes and hairdryer
    Dress warmly according to the weather, winter clothing is not included
    Duration: 4 hours, 45 minutes
  • Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171910
  • 19:00
    Northern Lights Reindeer Sled Experience the enchantment of the Arctic night on this Northern Lights Safari with a reindeer sleigh ride.

    Immerse yourself in the magical glow of the Northern Lights as you traverse the snowy landscapes. The highlight of this adventure is a captivating reindeer sleigh ride, where you’ll be pulled through the pristine snow by gentle and majestic reindeer. Glide peacefully under the starry sky, surrounded by the serene beauty of Lapland.

    After the ride, warm up with a cozy beverage and delve into the captivating life of reindeer herding with insights from local herders.

    What's included?
    Transfer from the City Center of Rovaniemi
    Winter clothes if needed (overall, boots and gloves)
    Professional Guide
    20 minute Reindeer Sleigh Ride
    Insight to life of reindeer herding
    Hot juice and biscuits
    Additional information
    Duration of the program is about 2 hours. It is suited for adults as well as children.
    Northern lights are related to weather conditions, so they are not guaranteed. [English Guide]
  • Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171911 Attachment Image from Itinerary Row: 171911
  • Scandic Rovaniemi City
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ Image from PlaceId: ChIJ5TNyzYxLK0QRw_QXMZOWYAQ

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day 3
02/11(Wed)
    Santa Claus' Home!
  • Breakfast
  • Round Trip Tickets for the Shuttle to Santa Claus Village Take a shuttle to and from the Santa Claus Village and spend the day exploring on your own! You can leave your luggage at the reception for storage and come back later.
  • Santa Claus Village Santa Claus Village is located in Rovaniemi, Finland, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Santa Claus has made Lapland in Northern Finland his home for centuries, and the Arctic Circle is close to his heart because many Christmas secrets are rooted in this magical place. Santa Claus Village is a family destination with plenty to see and do for all ages.
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc Image from PlaceId: ChIJeZk-VH5OK0QR034dNOS5-dc
  • 20:15
    Transfer to the Train Station Take a comfortable private transfer to the Rovaniemi Train Station from your hotel.
  • 21:00
    Santa Claus Express Overnight Train to Helsinki! On this journey, you will have your own private cabin with its own shower and toilet. The train has its own restaurant carriage where you can purchase snacks or breakfast for the morning.
  • Dinner

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:⚪︎

Day 4
02/12(Thu)
    Finland's Capital!
  • Breakfast
  • Finland - Helsinki
  • Welcome to Helsinki Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, situated on the southern coast of the country along the shores of the Gulf of Finland. It is known for its vibrant culture, modern architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. Helsinki is a small, beautiful and exotic city. You can expect intense nightlife, exciting shopping, art museums, hectic markets and great architecture.

    You can experience most of the attractions in Helsinki on foot. Here are some places to visit:
    Senate Square (Senaatintori): This is the heart of Helsinki and home to many of the city's most important buildings, including the Helsinki Cathedral. The neoclassical architecture and open square make it a picturesque and historically significant location.
    Helsinki Cathedral (Helsingin tuomiokirkko): This iconic white cathedral is one of Helsinki's most recognizable landmarks. It's an excellent example of neoclassical architecture and offers panoramic views of the city from its steps.
    Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a short ferry ride from Helsinki and consists of a series of islands with a historic fortress. It's a great place to explore the fortifications, museums, and enjoy a picnic by the sea.
    Market Square (Kauppatori): Located right by the harbor, this market square is a bustling place where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and enjoy street food. It's a great spot to experience the local culture.
    Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church): Carved directly into solid rock, this unique church is a marvel of modern architecture. The natural light filtering through the copper-lined dome creates a serene atmosphere.
    Helsinki's Waterfront: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy views of the sea and the many islands surrounding Helsinki. In summer, you can even go for a swim in designated areas.

    Enjoy the city
  • Hobo Hotel Helsinki If you cannot check-in yet, you can store your luggage with the reception while exploring the surrounding areas.
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day 5
02/13(Fri)
    Free Day to Explore Helsinki!
  • Breakfast
  • Free Day to Explore Helsinki The vibrant capital of Finland, where historic charm meets modern innovation.

    Explore iconic landmarks like the stunning Helsinki Cathedral, with its striking white façade and green domes, to the unique Temppeliaukio Church, ingeniously built into solid rock. A short ferry ride will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna Fortress, a historic sea fortress offering fascinating insights into Finland's past.
    Helsinki’s bustling Market Square is a must-visit, brimming with fresh local produce, artisanal crafts, and scenic ferry rides. For those who appreciate design, the Design District offers a vibrant mix of boutiques, galleries, and cafes showcasing the best of Finnish creativity. Take a leisurely stroll through Esplanadi Park, a green oasis in the city center perfect for relaxation and people-watching.
    Art enthusiasts will enjoy the extensive collections at the Ateneum Art Museum and the cutting-edge exhibits at the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. The Helsinki Central Library Oodi stands as a testament to modern architectural ingenuity, offering a variety of public spaces and services. Families can enjoy a fun-filled day at the Linnanmäki Amusement Park, while nature lovers will find tranquility at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum and the scenic Hietaniemi Beach.
    Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Sibelius Monument in Sibelius Park, dedicated to the famed Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
    For a taste of local life, head to the Hakaniemi Market Hall, a historic indoor market offering a variety of Finnish delicacies and crafts.
    Finally, the lively Kallio District offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a plethora of cafes, bars, and unique shops.
  • Hobo Hotel Helsinki
  • Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk Image from PlaceId: ChIJ06zzyK0LkkYR7sYi_VziDzk

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day 6
02/14(Sat)
    Understanding Aalto!
  • Breakfast
  • (Not included)
    Take the Local Transportation to Alvar Aalto's House! You can take the public transportation to get to the district where Alvar Aalto's House and Studio are located.
  • 14:00
    Visit Alvar Aalto’s home on a guided tour! The history and architecture of Aalto’s unique home, located in Munkkiniemi area in Helsinki, opens up through the stories the guide has to share. The tour lasts an hour and includes both the guided tour itself and free time to enjoy the special atmosphere in the house and explore the museum shop.

    In 1934, Aino and Alvar Aalto acquired a site in almost completely untouched surroundings at Riihitie in Helsinki’s Munkkiniemi. Aino and Alvar Aalto designed the building, whose simple, natural materials soften the form language of modern architecture. Designing their own home gave them an opportunity to make various structural and material experiments. The Aalto House was completed in August 1936. Aalto’s architect’s office was in this building in Munkkiniemi until 1955.

    Alvar Aalto lived in the house on Riihitie up until his death on 1976, and the building was used by the family long afterwards.The house, protected by the Act on the Protection of Buildings, is now part of the Alvar Aalto Foundation. Nowadays, the building is a home museum open to the public. [English Guide]
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  • The next tour will be held at the Studio Aalto house. Please use this map link to see how to get there by foot (7 minutes)
  • 15:30
    Learn about Studio Aalto on a guided tour! A one-hour tour explores the history and architecture of Aalto’s office with an expert guide and allows personal time to soak up the special atmosphere, take photographs, make sketches and visit the museum shop. Studio Aalto is located in Munkkiniemi area in Helsinki.

    Alvar Aalto designed the building at Tiilimäki 20 in Munkkiniemi as his own office in 1955. Because of a number of large commissions, the office needed more space to work in. The building is only a short walk from Aalto’s own house, where the office had previously been located. Studio Aalto is one of the best of Alvar Aalto’s 1950s buildings.

    “You can’t create architecture in an office environment,” is how Aalto described working in an architect’s office. Aalto designed a free-form studio section for the building, and a drawing room using natural light. The building curves around a stepped, amphitheatre-style courtyard sheltered from the wind. On the upper floor there is a drawing office on a narrow plan, beautifully encircled by natural light from a band of high-level windows. In 1962-1963 the building was extended by building a dining room for the staff, the ‘Taverna’, in the courtyard behind the high brick wall, with an office above it.

    Many of Aalto’s best-known works were designed here at the Studio. Alvar Aalto ran the office until his death in 1976. After that, the office continued under the leadership of Elissa Aalto until 1994. The building came into the custodianship of the Alvar Aalto Foundation in 1984 and today it houses the Alvar Aalto Foundation staff. [English Guide]
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  • Hobo Hotel Helsinki
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Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Day 7
02/15(Sun)
    Safe Travels!
  • Departure from Finland Today you are leaving Finland. Have your breakfast, relax in the beautiful scenery and take in all of the views you can before you have to leave.
    Finland was happy to host your tour! Have a safe travel home!
  • Breakfast
  • (Not included)
    Helsinki Airport Train A direct train goes between Helsinki Central Station and the Helsinki Vantaa airport. You can pruchase the tickets from a machine at the train station or you can use HSL app for purchasing.

Meals B/F:⚪︎ LUN:× DIN:×

Price Includes / excludes
Accommodation

As stated in the itinerary

Flight (Int'l)

None

Flight (Dom.)

None

Railway

As stated in the itinerary

Bus

As stated in the itinerary

Car

As stated in the itinerary

Ferry/Boat

None

Other transp

None

Guide / Assistant

As stated in the itinerary

Activity

As stated in the itinerary

Meal

B/F:6  LUN:0  DIN:1 
As stated in the itinerary

Includes (Others)

None

Excludes (Others)

None

Accommodation list
1

Rovaniemi

Scandic Rovaniemi City

2person(s) 1rooms Twin Room

with breakfast, centrally located
2

Rovaniemi to Helsinki

Santa Claus Express Overnight Train

2person(s) 1rooms Upstairs Cabin

private cabin with own shower and toilet
3

Helsinki

Hobo Hotel Helsinki

2person(s) 1rooms Twin Room

with breakfast, centrally located