Chasing the Northern Lights: A Winter Adventure in Finland and Norway

Upon arrival at Helsinki Airport, you'll make your way to the city, taking a taxi to 4-star Hotel Pier 4, where your pre-trip adventure begins. Once you check in, you'll have some time to settle in and relax at this comfortable, modern hotel located centrally right at the waterfront. 

In the evening, we'll meet up to savor a delightful dinner at the hotel's Harbore restaurant, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious local cuisine. It's the perfect way to kick off your journey in Finland, surrounded by great food and the warmth of a welcoming hotel.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, setting the stage for an exciting day ahead. We'll take a scenic taxi ride to the heart of Helsinki for a guided walking tour, exploring the city’s rich history through the stories of the women who shaped it.

Next, we'll head to Löyly, a unique restaurant and sauna + spa offering an authentic Finnish experience. Enjoy a delightful lunch with fresh, local flavors and stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Afterward, unwind in the sauna and refresh with a refreshing swim in the sea—immersing yourself in nature the way the Finns do. 

In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for some free time. As evening arrives, enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurant Nokka, a Michelin recommended green star restaurant known for exceptionally dishes crafted by Chef Terhi V., using sustainably sourced ingredients.

For those on the pre-trip extension, we will head to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport for our flight to Rovaniemi, the gateway to Lapland.

The core trip starts today. For those on the core trip only, be sure you arrive at the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport no later 11:00 for our 1pm flight to Rovaniemi, Finland. 

Upon arrival in Rovaniemi, you’ll be greeted by our local guide, who will accompany us on a private transfer to Restaurant Santamus. Here, we'll enjoy a cozy lunch with local Lapland flavors, offering a perfect introduction to the region’s cuisine.

Next, let's head to the Invisible Forest Lodge, where you’ll check into your invisible glass suite, complete with warm winter clothes awaiting you for your adventures ahead. Once settled into your private panoramic glass suite surrounded by nature you have some free time to relax and explore your surroundings at leisure.

As evening falls, we'll indulge in a memorable dinner at the Invisible Restaurant & Spa located at the lodge, where you’ll savor exquisite local dishes in a charming, rustic setting. The peaceful atmosphere of the lodge, nestled in the heart of the winter forest, will make you feel welcome and at home.

We will begin the day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge, then head to the Arktikum Museum for an intriguing tour about the Sami people and the nature of the North. Here you’ll learn about the region’s history, traditions, and landscapes.

After the tour, we'll savor a delicious lunch at the museum before heading to the SnowHotel Lehtojärvi, where you’ll be mesmerized by ice sculptures, an ice bar, and the magical atmosphere of the snow hotel. It’s a truly unforgettable Artic experience.

Next, try your hand at ice sculpting during a workshop, guided by experts, before returning to the lodge for some free time to relax or explore. Note: We do not stay at the Snow Hotel because temperatures inside are too cold for an overnight stay. Most clients find it too uncomfortable for long periods. 

In the evening, we'll meet for a special candle-lit dinner at Sky Kitchen, where you'll languish over exquisite dishes like local reindeer while taking in stunning views of the winter landscape.

After breakfast we head to a local Husky farm, where you'll meet Ms. Erika Zopf, an inspiring entrepreneur who runs the authentic Arctic farm. We'll take a thrilling husky sled ride across a frozen lake, surrounded by breathtaking views of the winter landscape. Erika will share her experiences of life with the dogs, offering insight into a unique way of life in the Arctic.

Next, we’ll transfer to the city center, where you’ll have free time to explore and soak in the charm of the area. Whether you choose to wander through local shops or simply relax, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the essence of the city.

For lunch, indulge in a delightful meal at Gustav Kitchen, known for its delicious dishes and warm ambiance. 

After lunch relax and enjoy some free time back at our lodge. 

In the evening, we will head to the Arctic Restaurant for a enjoy a memorable dinner, offering the highest quality Finnish beef, reindeer, moose, salmon and king crab carefully prepared to make a tasteful presentation. 

Rest will come easy after our adventures today.

Wake up to your final morning in the Finnish Lapland with a cozy takeaway breakfast, perfect for the scenic ride to the airport. Soon, you’ll be soaring across Arctic skies on your way to Tromsø, Norway—one of the world’s best places to witness the Northern Lights. After arriving, you’ll head to your hotel to drop off your bags and settle in, if rooms are ready.

This afternoon promises an unforgettable experience as you join our Sami guides for a 25-30 minute reindeer sledding adventure. Afterward, visit the Sami camp to feed the reindeer herd. Gather inside a traditional lavvu (Sami tent) for a warm meal and immerse yourself in Sami culture. Enjoy stories and the soulful sounds of joiking (a traditional form of song in Sámi music) and learning about the ancient Sami heritage.

Next we will check into the inviting 4-star St. Elisabeth Hotel & Spa, located in a serene setting with stunning views of the city, offering a relaxing escape just moments from the vibrant heart of Tromsø. Your evening wraps up with a delicious dinner at De Tre Nonner Sky Bar & Restaurant, featuring local flavors and Arctic specialties as well as gorgeous city views. This is an elegant, relaxed close to a day full of new sights, traditions, and landscapes.

Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast as the Arctic light begins to glow over the city. Once you’re fueled up, we'll hop on a scenic cable car ride up to a mountaintop viewpoint where sweeping panoramas of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords unfold before you. At the top, warm up in the cozy cafeteria and take in the stunning views—perfect for photos or soaking in the serenity.

Next, head down to the harbor for lunch at a Full Steam known for local seafood and flavors of the North. From there, let's step into the stories of remarkable women who’ve shaped Tromsø on a guided walking tour that explores the city through a female perspective—empowering, insightful, and full of hidden gems.

In the afternoon take some free time or treat yourself to an optional spa treatment back at the hotel. As night falls, the adventure continues on an enchanting Aurora Dinner Cruise. Glide through icy waters aboard a warm, comfortable boat, with a delicious meal as you keep watch for the Northern Lights. If the skies cooperate, you'll witness the aurora dancing overhead—an thrilling end to a full day of Arctic culture and charm.

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast, setting the tone for a day of discovery. Afterward, you’ll check out of your accommodation and be transferred to the airport, ready for the next leg of your journey.

Before your flight, feel free to grab a snack or meal at Tromsø Airport. There are a variety of cafes and eateries where you can enjoy a light bite before you board your flight to Oslo. Once you arrive in Oslo, you’ll have a short, scenic trip to your 4-star hotel, where you can check in and settle in comfort at the historic Karl Johan Hotel.

The rest of the evening is yours to experience as you wish. Whether you choose to explore the city or simply unwind, the choice is yours. You can dine at the hotel or walkable restaurant ideas will be given by your guide.

Take your breakfast before heading out for a full day of shopping along vibrant Johans Street. Explore local shops, boutiques, and charming cafes as you take in the lively atmosphere of the city. 

Lunch will be on your own, giving you the chance to find a cozy spot in town to enjoy a leisurely meal.

In the afternoon, we'll take a scenic taxi ride to Holmenkollen, where you'll experience an inspiring speech and introduction to famed athlete Annika Malacinski, a pioneer in women’s Nordic combined sports. Originally from Colorado and now living in Norway, Annika will share insights into her career and the progress of women’s sports in this exciting discipline.

After the talk, we'll settle in for our final farewell dinner at the renowned Holmenkollen Restaurant, known for its stunning views over the city and excellent cuisine set in a wooden building dating back to 1892. 

It's just a short taxi ride back to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's experiences.

After a lovely breakfast, our fabulous journey comes to an end. As we head to Oslo Airport, we reflect on the unforgettable memories we've created together. This trip has brought new friendships, shared laughter, and cherished moments, leaving us with lasting recollections that we will carry with us.

We begin the day with breakfast at the Karl Johans Hotel before heading to the train station for one of Europe’s most stunning rail journeys. The Oslo to Bergen train has been voted among the world’s most beautiful routes—glide past snow-dusted peaks, icy waterfalls, and remote mountain villages. A cafeteria on board makes it easy to enjoy a warm drink as you take in the view.

On arrival in Bergen, we’ll check into the elegant Bergen Børs Hotel. Housed in a former stock exchange building, this 4-star property blends historical charm with modern sophistication. You’ll stay in a Deluxe Room with a city view—refined, spacious, and ideal for relaxing between adventures.

Lunch is at Brasserie Chérie, a stylish bistro with French flair and a Nordic twist. From there, we’ll head out on a private city walk to uncover the stories of Bergen’s past—think Hanseatic merchants, wooden houses, and cobbled alleyways steeped in maritime history.

You’ll have free time to stroll the colorful harbor or browse cozy boutiques before we reconvene for dinner at Bare. Set inside the hotel, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a true taste of Western Norway, showcasing seasonal ingredients in creative, elegant presentations.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll make our way to the pier for a round-trip fjord cruise to Mostraumen. The narrow waterways, towering cliffs, and waterfalls of the fjords are even more magical from the water, and the boat’s panoramic deck lets you take in every dramatic turn.

Back on land, lunch is at Fjellskål, Bergen’s premier seafood restaurant right on the wharf. Known for its ultra-fresh catches and sea-to-table philosophy, this spot is beloved by locals for good reason.

Next, we’ll ride the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen. The view over Bergen, the fjord, and the surrounding mountains is breathtaking—and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the North Sea. Enjoy a peaceful wander or simply take in the crisp mountain air.

After some free time back at the hotel, we’ll gather for a final dinner at Villa Blanca. This romantic restaurant offers a refined atmosphere and a beautifully curated 3-course menu paired with wine or beer. It’s a fitting finale to our time in Bergen.

On our final morning, we’ll enjoy one last breakfast at Bergen Børs Hotel before checking out and heading to the airport. With multiple short flights back to Oslo, you can choose a time that fits your onward plans.