Christmas Magic & Northern Lights: Norway to Finland
Celebrate Christmas in the heart of the Arctic on an unforgettable 17-day journey from Oslo to Helsinki, combining scenic rail travel, Norway’s spectacular coastline and the snowy landscapes of Finnish Lapland.
Travel aboard Hurtigruten’s iconic Coastal Express from Bergen to Kirkenes, crossing the Arctic Circle and searching for the magical Northern Lights along Norway’s fjord-filled coast. Continue into Finland by train, where festive Lapland awaits with a stay in a glass igloo, a visit to Santa Claus Village, a husky experience, and a reindeer safari.
From the dramatic beauty of the Flåm Railway and Nærøyfjord to Christmas magic in Rovaniemi, this escorted winter adventure combines Norway and Finland’s most memorable experiences in one extraordinary festive escape. Your journey concludes in Helsinki, with an optional extension to Tallinn available.
Perfect for: travellers seeking a magical Christmas, Arctic adventure, and the chance to experience the Northern Lights in one unforgettable Nordic journey.
- 17-day escorted winter journey from Oslo to Helsinki
- English-speaking Tour Manager throughout the journey
- Hurtigruten Coastal Express voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes
- Cabin accommodation aboard the Hurtigruten ship
- 4-star hotel and lodge accommodation
- Overnight stay in a Finnish glass igloo
- Full board onboard the Coastal Express – breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Daily breakfast at hotels and lodges
- Selected lunches and dinners during the land journey
- Flåm Railway journey
- Nærøyfjord cruise as part of the Norway in a Nutshell experience
- Guided tours of Oslo, Bergen and Helsinki
- Reindeer farm visit and safari
- Husky kennel visit and sled/cart ride, weather permitting
- Ice fishing experience
- Visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
- Siida Museum visit in Finnish Lapland
- Scenic rail journey through Finnish Lapland
Your fare excludes:
- Optional shore excursions
- Personal expenses and travel insurance
- Any services not specifically listed as included
Day 1 – Oslo – Arrive in Oslo
Arrive in Oslo, where your Northern Lights adventure begins. Meet your Tour Manager and settle into the Norwegian capital.
Day 2 – Oslo – Oslo Tour
Enjoy a guided city tour of Oslo, discovering the city’s highlights and fascinating history. Take some time to explore the Norwegian capital at your own pace.
Day 3 – Flåm – Norway in a Nutshell to Flåm
Travel through some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery on the famous Flåm Railway. Continue through dramatic fjords and mountains towards beautiful Flåm.
Day 4 – Bergen – Flåm and rail to Bergen
Cruise the spectacular Nærøyfjord before continuing by rail to Bergen. Enjoy time in this charming coastal city surrounded by mountains and fjords.
Day 5 – Bergen – Bergen and embarkation
Discover more of historic Bergen before boarding your Hurtigruten Coastal Express ship. Settle into your cabin and begin your journey north along Norway’s breathtaking coastline.
Day 6 – Ålesund – Art Nouveau by the sea
Arrive in Ålesund, renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and picturesque waterfront. Enjoy the coastal scenery as you continue north towards the Arctic.
Day 7 – Trondheim – Trondheim and coastal sailing
Explore historic Trondheim, home to impressive landmarks and centuries of Norwegian history. Return to the ship and continue your scenic voyage along the coast.
Day 8 – Stamsund – Into the Arctic
Cross the Arctic Circle and enter the spectacular Arctic landscape. Enjoy views of the rugged Lofoten Islands, where dramatic mountains meet the sea.
Day 9 – Tromsø – Tromsø and the Lyngen Alps
Explore Tromsø, the vibrant gateway to the Arctic, with the magnificent Lyngen Alps providing a dramatic backdrop. As night falls, keep watch for the magical Northern Lights.
Day 10 – Honningsvåg – Honningsvåg and the North Cape
Visit Honningsvåg, the gateway to the North Cape. Take in the remote beauty of Norway’s far north and experience the dramatic Arctic landscape.
Day 11 – Saariselkä – Kirkenes to Saariselkä
Disembark in Kirkenes and travel onwards into Finnish Lapland. Arrive in Saariselkä, surrounded by pristine forests and snowy Arctic wilderness.
Day 12 – Saariselkä – Sami and Sámi culture
Discover the traditions and heritage of the Sámi people. Experience authentic Sámi culture and learn more about life in the far north.
Day 13 – Saariselkä – Saariselkä and Aurora Hike
Explore the snowy landscapes of Saariselkä on an Aurora Hike. Venture into the wilderness after dark for the chance to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.
Day 14 – Sinettä – Santa Claus Village and Glass Igloo Stay
Travel through magical Lapland and visit Santa Claus Village. Later, settle into your unique glass igloo, offering an unforgettable opportunity to admire the Arctic night sky.
Day 15 – Rovaniemi – Husky Safari and Rovaniemi
Experience the thrill of a husky safari through the snowy landscapes of Lapland. Continue to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus.
Day 16 – Helsinki – Rovaniemi to Helsinki
Board the train and journey south through Finland’s winter landscapes towards Helsinki. Arrive in the Finnish capital and enjoy your final evening of the adventure.
Day 17 – Helsinki – Departure from Helsinki
Your Northern Lights adventure comes to an end in Helsinki. Depart for home or extend your stay by one night and discover more of Finland’s vibrant capital.
* Please note that cruise itineraries are subject to change at any time by the cruise company and are not guaranteed
The pricing below is based on travel on 13 December 2027
- Polar Inside from $11,499 pp twin share* / from $15,400 pp sole use*
- Polar Outside from $11,768 pp twin share / from $15,803 pp sole use*
- Arctic Superior from $12,575 pp twin share* / from $17,013 pp sole use*
- Expedition Suite from $14,637 pp twin share* / from $22,795 pp sole use*
* Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Accommodation – MS Polarlys (6 Nights)
Stay aboard MS Polarlys, one of Hurtigruten’s iconic Coastal Express ships, offering comfortable accommodation designed for exploring Norway’s spectacular coastline. Choose from a range of cabins, each featuring a private ensuite bathroom, with select cabins offering enhanced comfort and sea views. Relax in the ship’s welcoming public areas, enjoy panoramic views from the lounges and observation decks, or step outside onto the sun deck to take in the Arctic scenery and keep watch for the Northern Lights.
10 nights in 4-star hotel accommodation
What is included in the Follow the Northern Lights tour?
The 17-day journey includes guided land travel, hotel stays, the Hurtigruten Coastal Express voyage, train journeys, selected meals and winter experiences such as a glass igloo stay, husky safari and reindeer experience.
Is this a cruise or a land tour?
It is a combination of both. You’ll travel by coach, train and ship, with the Hurtigruten Coastal Express sailing from Bergen to Kirkenes.
Will I see the Northern Lights?
The itinerary is designed around Northern Lights viewing. Hurtigruten also offers a Northern Lights Promise on eligible departures, subject to the applicable terms.
What destinations will I visit?
The journey travels from Oslo to Helsinki, with highlights including Bergen, Flåm, Kirkenes and Rovaniemi, plus an optional Tallinn extension.
Is the tour guided?
Yes. An English-speaking Tour Manager accompanies the group throughout the journey and assists with logistics and coordination.
What accommodation is included?
Accommodation includes 4-star hotels and lodges, a Hurtigruten cabin and a memorable overnight stay in a Finnish glass igloo.
Are flights included?
No. Flights to Oslo and from Helsinki are not included. Transfers specified within the itinerary are included once the tour begins.
What winter activities are included?
Guests can enjoy experiences such as a husky safari, reindeer encounter, sled ride, ice fishing, Santa Claus Village, and the famous Flåm Railway journey.
How many days is the tour?
The main journey is 17 days, with an optional Tallinn extension available.
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.