Finland & Estonia Itinerary: A Magical Snowy Adventure

Jennie Vandegrift
Apr 27
4 min read

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, Arctic adventures, and fairy-tale charm, this 9-day Finland and Estonia itinerary delivers it all. From festive city strolls to chasing the Northern Lights, here’s how to spend an unforgettable snowy escape in the North.

Day 1: Departure & Arrival in Helsinki

Board your evening flight to Helsinki, with a brief layover in Munich. Excitement is building as you head toward a land of snowy landscapes, Christmas cheer, and unforgettable adventures!

Day 2: Arrival in Helsinki & Check-in

Arrive in Helsinki and make your way to the stylish Hotel U14 Autograph Collection, where you'll check in and settle into your chic, cozy accommodations.

Day 3: Discovering Helsinki

Start the day by sleeping in and recovering from any jet lag. Once you're rested, head to the Old Market Hall for a delicious lunch filled with local flavors.
Spend the afternoon exploring Helsinki:
- Take a stroll through the historic Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning views over the sea.
- Ride the Sky Wheel for a bird's-eye view of the city.
Finish the day with a delicious dinner at Restaurant Bacco, where you can unwind and savor Italian-inspired dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Day 4: Day Trip to Tallinn

Today’s adventure takes you across the sea to Tallinn, Estonia! Hop aboard the Eckerö Line Ferry, where you can enjoy a scenic breakfast on board.
Once you arrive in Tallinn, explore the magical Old Town:
- Visit the Kiek in de Kök Fortifications Museum and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. And don’t miss the underground bunkers—a maze of tunnels used for military protection during various conflicts, offering a unique peek into Estonia’s wartime past.
- Admire the architecture of St. Olaf’s Church, one of the tallest medieval buildings in the world, and if you're up for it, climb the church’s spiral staircase to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town and the surrounding landscape.
- If it's the holiday season, the Christmas Market in the town square is an absolute must!
Enjoy a traditional Estonian lunch at Restaurant Karl Friedrich before taking the ferry back to Helsinki.
End your day with dinner on the ferry as you sail back to the Finnish capital.

Day 5: Journey to Ivalo & Northern Lights Village

Hop on a flight to Ivalo, a remote gem in Finland’s far north.
After checking in at the magical Northern Lights Village Saariselkä, take in your Arctic surroundings. The village is a perfect place to experience the beauty of winter in all its glory.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at the village, all while keeping an eye out for the Northern Lights.

Day 6: Arctic Adventures in Saariselkä

Embrace the full Arctic experience! Start the day with a thrilling snowmobile ride for the kids, then take a reindeer sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests.
Enjoy lunch at the village before heading out for a heart-pumping Husky Safari, where you'll race across the tundra with a team of enthusiastic sled dogs.
After an adventurous day, enjoy a hearty dinner at the village. In the evening, embark on a 6-hour Aurora Hunt, where you'll chase the Northern Lights in search of the ultimate Arctic spectacle.

Day 7: Travel to Rovaniemi & Santa Claus Village

Board a bus to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and the official home of Santa Claus.
Stop for a festive lunch at Three Elves, where you'll be surrounded by holiday cheer.
Spend the afternoon exploring Santa Claus Village:
- Stand at the Arctic Circle line, send a postcard from the Santa Claus Post Office, and visit the Christmas House for all things festive.
- Don’t miss a visit to Mrs. Santa Claus Christmas Cottage for a warm, inviting experience.
After checking in at Santa Claus Holiday Village, enjoy a private visit with Santa Claus himself—a magical experience for all ages.
For dinner, head back to Three Elves, where you’ll dine in a cozy glass igloo, feeling like you’re in your very own winter wonderland.

Day 8: More Santa Claus Village & Reindeer Safari

The magic of Santa Claus Village continues! This morning, embark on a Reindeer Safari to explore the surrounding snowy landscapes.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at Santamus, followed by a visit to the Elf Hat Academy. Here, you’ll be trained to become an official elf! After completing your fun elf tasks, you’ll receive your very own Elf Certification—a perfect souvenir of your time in Santa’s workshop.
Then, head to the Elf’s Farmyard, where you’ll meet Santa’s adorable animals, including reindeer, goats, and more. After the animal fun, take a sled ride down a snowy hill—pure winter magic!
Enjoy a casual dinner at Santa’s Pizza & Burger before catching a flight back to Helsinki.
Check in at the Hilton Helsinki Airport for a convenient and comfortable night's rest before your journey home.

Day 9: Return Home

After a whirlwind week of magical experiences, it’s time to head home. Board your flight back home, carrying the memories of an unforgettable journey through Finland and Estonia.

From the festive streets of Tallinn to the enchanting Santa Claus Village, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of holiday magic, Arctic adventure, and Nordic charm. Ready to experience the wonders of the North? Your adventure awaits!