In Finland there is a journey that seems stolen from a winter story: the Santa Claus Express, the night train that connects Helsinki to Lapland. This double-decker convoy passes through snow-covered forests and small towns illuminated by warm lights, accompanying travelers to Rovaniemi, the official city of Santa Claus. It is an experience that combines comfort, slowness and a landscape that changes with every kilometre, transforming a simple railway route into a true journey through the magic of the North.
How the Santa Claus Express works
The Santa Claus Express is part of the VR Finnish Railways services and travels at night, offering different types of accommodation. Those who prefer to save money can choose the seats, while those who want more privacy can opt for the sleeping cabins, also available with shower and private bathroom. On board there is a restaurant car, electrical sockets, Wi-Fi and, for families, the possibility of communicating cabins. The journey lasts about 12 hours, the perfect time to fall asleep under the Arctic sky and wake up already beyond the Arctic Circle.
Stops and route: from the South to the heart of Lapland
The main route goes from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, but the train makes numerous intermediate stops in typical locations in central and northern Finland, such as Tampere, Kokkola, Oulu, Kemi and many others. Some trips even continue to Kemijärvi, even further north. Departures are usually late in the evening, with arrival the following morning: a comfortable and sustainable way to reach one of the most evocative areas of Europe.
Prices and reservations
Tickets can be purchased directly on the VR railways website. The cost varies according to the period and the type chosen: it starts from 29 euros for a seat, while the berths have prices starting from around 49 euros and go up for the cabins with private bathrooms. Booking in advance is essential, especially during the Christmas period, when the Santa Claus Express becomes one of the most requested means of transport by tourists from all over the world.
Rovaniemi: the capital of Christmas
Once in Rovaniemi, the magic continues. Here is the famous Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa Claus all year round, cross the official line of the Arctic Circle, visit the post office from which letters depart for all over the world and discover local craft shops. In the surrounding area there is no shortage of typical Lappish winter activities and above all the possibility of experiencing the unique emotion of the Northern Lights.
You might also be interested in:
