This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
✓ Small, personal group tour – no more than 24 people
✓ Incredible sightseeing! See the famous Lofoten Islands, fly through the Arctic forest by husky sled, hunt for the northern lights in wild Finnish Lapland, visit Santa Claus’ Village in Rovaniemi and more
✓ 14 nights in comfortable, 4-star accommodation
✓ 1 night on board the overnight Santa Claus Express train from Helsinki to Kemi
✓ Stay overnight in a magical glass igloo under Saariselkä’s starry skies, looking for the northern lights
✓ Breakfast daily, 5 dinners including memorable welcome and farewell dining
✓ Fully escorted by expert, English-speaking guide
✓ All transportation, rail tickets and entry fees
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Scandinavia! Today is at your leisure to explore this quirky city. Please make your own way to the hotel.
Tonight you will enjoy a welcome meeting and dinner to get to know our fellow travellers a little better. This meeting commences at approx 6pm.
Hotel Check in:
Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Transportation:
Train connection between Helsinki city centre and Helsinki Airport is carried out by local commuter trains which run every 10 minutes on peak hours. Travel time from Airport Train Station to Helsinki Central Station is about 30 minutes. Single ticket fare from Helsinki Airport to city centre is € 4.10 from the ticket machines located at the station.
It's an early start today for an adventure to the Baltics and back. You will be transferred to a ferry and enjoy breakfast onboard as we cruise through a small stretch of the Baltic Sea, before arriving in the medieval city of Tallinn, Estonia. We will then enjoy a guided tour of Tallinn's magical Old Town. An exceptionally well-preserved district that dates back to the 13th century, the old town was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Later, we return to Helsinki by ferry, where we’ll be transferred to the hotel.
This morning we enjoy a guided tour of the Temppeliaukio Church, known locally as the 'Rock Church'. Excavated directly into solid rock and completed in 1969, this is one of Helsinki's star attractions.
This afternoon, get ready to board the ‘Santa Claus Express’. This iconic overnight sleeper train will take us from Helsinki into the heart of Lapland and the ‘official’ home of Santa Claus. The modern train has private twin-share cabins, onboard dining and is the perfect way to travel up to the untouched north.
Early morning arrival to Kemi, where a morning visit and breakfast is served at the SnowCastle Resort. You will then have free time to explore the resort.
In the afternoon, we’ll travel to the Ajos Pier located by the Bothnian Bay, where the sea freezes over during winter. It’s time to board a real life Icebreaker for an incredible adventure. Ploughing through the thick ice is not the only attraction for passengers onboard this powerful vessel: guests also have the unique opportunity to swim among the ice (in a full-body waterproof 'survival suit', of course).
After an unforgettable day, we continue the journey north to Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus.
Today, visit Santa Claus’ Village for a couple of hours of Christmas magic. Here, you’ll cross the Arctic Circle and receive a certificate to commemorate this. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the village’s many charms and fun activities, like meeting Santa’s reindeer, perusing the souvenirs or exploring Snowman World. You can even send a postcard home from the post office, staffed by Santa’s postal elves – it will have a special Arctic Circle postmark not available anywhere else. And of course, you can meet Santa.
Discover Lapland’s unique snowy nature and the fun of snowmobiling. The best way to get to the heart of nature – and back. During this fun safari, you’ll learn how to ride a snowmobile along frozen rivers and through snow covered forests. Enjoy the beautiful views of the river valley from the hilltops. A break with hot beverages will keep your motor running.
Duration: approx. 2 hours (14:30 – 16:30).
Clothing: included outer layer wind and water resistant one piece thermal suit (you will need to wear the appropriate winter clothing underneath the suit to keep you warm.)
NOTE: This is a self drive activity you will require to have your internationally recognised driver's license on tour to participate. (Min 2 people per snowmobile) Supplement for solo driving: EUR 45,00 p.p. collected locally.
This morning we travel further north through the winter landscape, stopping at Sodankyla, where a quick outside visit to the old church is included.
Later, you’ll arrive at a husky farm to take part in your Inspiring Sight, a Husky Safari, where these friendly dogs will bark an enthusiastic welcome for you. Before departing on the safari, you will be given instruction on how to control the sleds. Upon your return to the farm, enjoy some hot berry juice by an open fire and chat away with the head musher about these amazing animals.
Later in the afternoon, we leave Rovaniemi and continue our journey into Saariselkä for an Inspiring Stay. Tonight we are bedding down in a glass-roof cabin. The glass-roofed structures let you sleep right beneath the starry skies, and hopefully the Northern Lights. Each Aurora cabin is extremely well-insulated to ensure guests are not bothered by the cold in even the coolest of temperatures.
Note : on some departure dates, passengers might stay at Northern Lights Village Pyha, located further south of Saariselka.
Today, continue North, stopping in Inari, where a visit to the SIIDA Museum is included before crossing the border to breathtaking Norway, and a little later arrival to Karasjok.
Note: on some departure dates, passengers might stay at Lakselv Hotel 3* - located in Lakselv, a little futher north of Karasjok.
Leaving Karasjok we continue our Arctic adventures to Norway's northern tip – the vast North Cape/Nordkapp.
Upon arrival you’ll be presented with a certificate to prove you've been to Europe's most northerly point. Here, you’ll also enjoy an Inspiring Taste of sparkling wine and caviar.
Leaving the North Cape region today we begin our journey south, down the coast of Norway to Alta. Here we'll explore the Alta Museum and its World Heritage Rock Art Centre.
Tonight we go on an evening drive around Alta to hunt for the Northern Lights again from a different perspective.
Today we leave Alta and continue south to Tromsø. Located 350km north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is the largest city in Northern Norway. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with many local pubs and a wide range of restaurants specialising in the fresh ingredients of the Arctic. En route, we travel via the Lyngen Alps. This mountain range dominates the landscape, bordered by the Lyngen Fjord to the east, and Ullsfjorden to the west.
On arrival, enjoy some time at leisure in this so-called Gateway to the Arctic.
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. You'll have the opportunity to visit one of the many museums within walking distance of your hotel.
After breakfast we leave Tromsø and make our way to Narvik, which sits on the doorstep of the beautiful Lofoten Islands. On arrival, we visit the Red Cross War Memorial Museum. In the spring of 1940 Nazi Germany suffered its first defeat in Narvik at the hands of Norwegian, British, French and Polish forces. The Red Cross War Memorial Museum tells the full story of the epic Battles of Narvik.
Leaving Narvik, we make our way to the town of Svolvær, within the famous Lofoten archipelago. The setting surrounding the town is sublime with a backdrop of high mountains and iconic red wooden houses. Svolvær is the perfect base to explore the magical Lofoten Islands.
Today, we explore the stunning Lofoten Islands and their natural beauty, including a stop in the small village of Henningsvær. Set among a group of tiny islands seemingly dropped into the ocean at the foot of the imposing Vågakallen mountain, Henningsvær is one of Lofoten‘s best-known fishing villages. The stunning setting and mix of traditional wooden architecture and modern art galleries make this island village one of a kind.
After checking out of the hotel we head by bus to Evenes, where we'll board a flight to the captivating Norwegian capital of Oslo. After a short flight we arrive in Oslo where we'll be transferred to our central hotel. Oslo is known for its green open spaces and museums. Many of these are on the Bygdøy Peninsula, including the waterside Norwegian Maritime Museum. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy the rest of your day or evening at leisure, exploring this pedestrian-friendly city.
Today we enjoy a guided city tour of Oslo, enjoy a scenic drive through Oslo, passing such national landmarks as the Parliament building, with its two imposing lion statues at the main entrance, the National Theatre and the magnificent Royal Palace, official residence of the present Norwegian Monarch. Next stop is the Akershus Castle and Fortress, a medieval fortress built by King Håkon V, in the 14th century, which is a today seen as a national symbol for Norwegians and today a popular place for
recreation.
Today marks the end of your magnificent and unforgettable tour through Northern Scandinavia. We hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your inspiring Winter Wonderland experience. At the appropriate time please make your way to the airport for your onward journey.
There are various options to reach Oslo airport. The Flytoget Express train is convenient and efficent. Trains get to Oslo Central Station 6 times/hour (weekday, 3 times/hour during weekends) every 20 minutes more or less. Adult single ticket cost is approximatively 20 euros per person.
Inspiring Stay
Inspiring Sight
Inspiring Taste
Booking Process
Booking On Request
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorize each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times, you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorized as a “4”.
Lively: This is considered a fast-paced tour. In order to explore as much as possible, this tour may require early starts and long travel days. One to two nights at one destination is standard. While some free time may be scheduled, most sightseeing is included throughout this tour. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and downstairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage. To ensure this trip is right for you, any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aid, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Suggested amount for your guide, 500Y per person per day. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,670.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
In order to keep our Single Supplement at a reduced cost, some hotels may allocate solo travellers with a dedicated Single Room. At times this may mean a single bed will be provided.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveler's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport and visa if required. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visa's may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.vfsglobal.com/ for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including, e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
20-40 people
Trip Style - Group Tour
Our Group Tours offer unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much into their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals, and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
Luggage requirements for this tour
As the group will be traveling by coach predominantly and space is limited, we recommend that you limit your luggage to one suitcase along with a handbag/small backpack. When you travel via the shinkansen train, you can put any light hand luggage on the overhead racks if required.
While understanding that various airlines will have their own luggage requirements, please note that for the comfort of yourselves, as well as our local partners who assist you on the ground, we restrict the luggage allowance to no more than one suitcase at 20kg per person, plus a small backpack/carry on size bag.
In regards to the size of the suitcases, to ensure that all luggage can be accommodated onboard. please ensure your traveling suitcase is ideally within 158cm (total dimension LxHxW). 158 cm is the maximum check-in baggage size for most airlines as well, without incurring an additional cost.
Since you are responsible for your own belongings and will be expected to carry them to and from the coach to your hotel, as well as manage them where there is train travel included, we suggest you pack as light as possible.
There will not always be porters available to assist in handling your luggage, therefore please expect that you may need to carry your bags at times and store them in the carriage. As a standard rule, please travel with no more than 20kg per person of baggage. This does not include carry-on.
Cherry Blossoms
Please note: cherry blossoms are weather dependent and it is not guaranteed that they will be in bloom at the time of your arrival.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
To enhance your journey, we're offering a choice of the following optional activities:
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
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