Finland Itinerary for Winter: The Ultimate Guide for First Time Visitors

Finland was one of those places I never thought I’d have the chance to visit. If you’d asked me ten years ago if I’d want to go there, I’d probably have said yes, but deep down, I never imagined it would actually happen. But sometimes, life surprises us in the best ways. Before I knew it, I was sitting on a chartered van from Ivalo Airport, gazing out at a completely white landscape, making my way to the Northern Lights Village in Saariselka. I was finally in the Arctic Circle! It was the furthest north I had ever been, and I was about to experience a place I once thought only existed in my dreams.

If you’re planning your first winter trip to Finland, this guide has everything you need! I’ve included must-visit spots for first-timers, along with plenty of tips to make your journey unforgettable. After spending countless hours crafting this perfect Finland itinerary for what could be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with my friends, I hope you’ll find it just as helpful for planning your own dream trip.

Note: This 8-day Finland itinerary is packed with a lot of useful information, so it might take a moment to load. Thank you for your patience. I promise it’ll be worth the wait!

Planning Your Finland Trip: Things to Know Before You Go

Do I need a Schengen Visa to enter Finland?

Depending on your nationality, you may need a Schengen Visa to enter Finland. Finland is part of the Schengen Area, which allows visa-free travel for citizens of many countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European nations. However, if you’re from a country that requires a visa to enter the Schengen Area, you will need to apply for a Schengen Visa before your trip. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Schengen Visa.

Do I need Travel Insurance for Finland?

Travel insurance is mandatory if you need a Schengen Visa to visit Finland. However, even if you don’t require a visa, it’s strongly recommended, as medical expenses in Finland can be high for foreigners, including the cost of prescriptions.

For this trip, I chose Malayan Insurance Travel Master plan, which meets Schengen Travel Visa Insurance requirements and complies with IATF guidelines. The plan provides comprehensive coverage, including COVID-19 protection for emergency medical treatment, such as hospitalization due to a COVID-19 infection, and trip cancellation if the insured contracts COVID-19 before traveling. Thankfully, I didn’t need to make any claims during this journey!

How to get to Finland

From the US

If you’re coming from the US, major airlines like Finnair and American Airlines offer direct flights to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) from cities such as New York (JFK) and Dallas (DFW), with flight times averaging 8–9 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for connecting flights through European hubs like London, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam with airlines such as Lufthansa or British Airways.

From other European Countries

For travelers from Europe, Finland is easily accessible by air, train, or ferry. Budget airlines like Ryanair and Norwegian, as well as full-service carriers like Finnair and SAS, provide frequent flights to Finland from various European cities, with travel times ranging from 1 to 4 hours.

• From Sweden: Take a ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki or Turku (overnight trips available).
• From Russia: Use the Allegro train from St. Petersburg to Helsinki (3.5 hours).
• From Estonia: A short ferry ride (2 hours) connects Tallinn to Helsinki.

From the Philippines

If you’re traveling from the Philippines, there are no direct flights to Finland, but you can find connecting flights through major hubs like Singapore, Doha, or Dubai via airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Emirates. The total travel time is approximately 15–18 hours, depending on layovers. 

My friends and I were lucky to snag a promo fare with Air India from Singapore to Copenhagen. Since there are no direct flights from Copenhagen to Ivalo Airport—the closest airport to Saariselkä, where we planned to start our trip—we opted to book a connecting flight to Helsinki instead.

How to get around Finland

Getting around Finland is easy with its efficient transportation network, perfect for any Finland itinerary.

• Trains, operated by VR (government-owned railway company in Finland), connect major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Rovaniemi, with options for high-speed and sleeper services.
• Buses, including budget-friendly Matkahuolto and OnniBus, reach smaller towns and rural areas.
• For flexibility, renting a car is ideal, especially for exploring the countryside and national parks.
• Domestic flights by Finnair and Norwegian are the fastest way to Lapland.
• In cities like Helsinki, public transport like trams, buses, metro systems, and ferries are reliable.

How to Pay for Transportation in Finland

Finland is largely a cashless society. Credit cards, debit cards and mobile wallet like Apple Pay are widely accepted. In Helsinki, we simply downloaded the HSL app, selected our ticket or day pass (unlimited travel on HSL public transport for 1-3 days), and paid using a credit or debit card. The ticket is then displayed in the app, making it easy to access. A great bonus is that you can purchase tickets for your companions as well, making travel even more convenient!

What to Eat and Drink in Finland

Honestly, I didn’t have high expectations for Finland’s cuisine, as I knew very little about it before the trip. Staying at Northern Lights Village at the start of our journey was a great decision, as it gave us a wonderful introduction to Finnish cuisine. From hearty meals to indulgent sweet treats, Finland’s food scene has so much to offer. Here are some must-try Finnish dishes and delicacies to include in your Finland itinerary!

• Reindeer meat (poronkäristys) – I tried reindeer meat for the first time, and it was surprisingly delicious! The lingonberry jam served alongside added a delightful touch of sweetness that perfectly complemented the savory flavors. 
• Karelian pasties (karjalanpiirakka) are a beloved Finnish staple, much like pizza is to Italy. These delicious pastries feature a thin rye crust filled with creamy mashed potatoes or rice pudding.
• Finnish rye bread (ruisleipä) is a breakfast staple you’ll find everywhere. Made from sourdough, this dense and flavorful bread is a true Finnish classic. Delicious on its own but also pairs perfectly with butter or cheese. 
• Creamy salmon soup (Lohikeitto) is a comforting Finnish classic made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and dill – perfect for warming up during cold Finnish winters. I couldn’t resist grabbing a bowl every time it appeared on the buffet table at Northern Lights Village!
• Salty licorice (Salmiakki) is a love-it-or-hate-it candy beloved by locals. Its distinct flavor is definitely an acquired taste, and many Finns grow up enjoying it, making it a nostalgic snack. As a first-time visitor, I wasn’t particularly fond of it, but I’m glad I gave it a try while in Finland. It’s definitely part of the local experience!

Things to do in Finnish Lapland during Winter

I’ve personally curated this list of must-try activities to help you create your own Finland itinerary. To be honest, this started as my personal bucket list for Finland, but it turned out so comprehensive that I wanted to share it with you. Of course, don’t feel restricted to just these suggestions. Winter in Finnish Lapland offers endless opportunities for adventure!

• Chase the northern lights (this should be your number 1 non-negotiable!)
• Visit Santa Claus Village and meet the man himself!
• Embark on an exhilarating husky sledding safari.
• Visit a reindeer farm and enjoy a magical sleigh ride.
• Try authentic Finnish cuisine and learn about local food traditions.
• Immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Sámi people.
• Ride a snowmobile across frozen lakes and snowy trails.
• Go backcountry skiing through Lapland’s stunning snowy landscapes.
• Try ice fishing on a frozen lake for a true Arctic experience.
• Explore breathtaking ice and snow sculptures in a man-made gallery.
• Experience a traditional Finnish sauna.
• Slide down a snowy hill on a toboggan, ski or snowboard
• Take a polar plunge or an arctic swim in icy waters.
• Join an icebreaker cruise for a thrilling sea adventure.

What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Finnish Lapland

Packing for a winter trip to Finnish Lapland requires careful planning to ensure you stay warm and comfortable in the Arctic cold. Essentials include thermal base layers, wool or fleece sweaters, an insulated winter jacket and pants (waterproof and windproof), and thick wool socks. Bring waterproof, insulated boots with good grip, a warm hat, scarf, thermal gloves or mittens, and sunglasses to protect against the snow’s glare.

If you’re coming from a tropical country with limited access to winter gear, consider shopping in Helsinki. The city has plenty of outdoor shops offering high-quality winter essentials. When we visited in March, at the tail-end of winter, most of the items were already on sale! I was tempted to buy Sorel boots because they were so cheap. However, since I already had snow boots from Japan, I decided against it. Looking back, I wish I’d gotten those Sorel boots anyway. What a deal! 😂

Finland Itinerary: The Exact Route We Took

For all my travels, I love using Google Maps to plan my itinerary and visualize the distances between destinations. To access the interactive Google Maps version of my trip, click the arrow button below (next to the “8-Day Finland Itinerary” label). This map includes all the transportation I used, making it a helpful guide for creating your own Finland itinerary.

Arrival in Helsinki (Day 1)

On Day 1, we flew from Copenhagen to Helsinki, arriving around 10:30 AM. We headed straight to Pilot Airport Hotel, where we were lucky to check in early. By noon, we boarded a bus to Helsinki’s city center for lunch and some sightseeing. Although we initially planned to visit Suomenlinna, we opted for a leisurely walking tour instead, exploring Oodi (Helsinki Central Library), Kiasma (Museum of Contemporary Art), Kamppi Chapel, and Amos Rex. We had lunch at Pho Viet and a coffee break at a nearby café. By 6 PM, we returned to our hotel to rest after a fulfilling day.

Travel tip: Helsinki stands out with its stunning architecture, among the most beautiful I’ve seen in any city. Consider joining an Architecture Walking Tour with an expert or embarking on a self-guided tour. You won’t regret it! 🙂

Saariselkä (Days 2 to 4)

Days 2 to 4 at Northern Lights Village Saariselkä were nothing short of magical. It was my first time in the Arctic Circle, the furthest north I’ve ever been, and staying in an aurora glass cabin felt like a dream. My friends and I did thrilling activities like a husky safari and reindeer sledding, which offered breathtaking views of the snowy landscapes. To top it all off, I witnessed the Northern Lights for the first time. On my birthday! You can read about my whole experience at the Northern Lights Village Saariselkä here!

Saariselkä to Rovaniemi (Day 4)

On Day 4, we said a heartfelt goodbye to Saariselkä, a place we had grown to love deeply. We took an afternoon bus (Matkahuolto Bus) to Rovaniemi, the next stop on our Finnish Lapland adventure. Upon arrival, we checked into Bellarova Apartments VIII, a cozy and convenient base for our stay. That evening, we explored the city briefly before satisfying our cravings for Asian food with dinner at a random Chinese restaurant—much-needed comfort food after days of Nordic cuisine! After dinner, we returned to the apartment to catch up on laundry and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

How to Book Bus Tickets from Saariselkä to Rovaniemi

Visit the official Matkahuolto website or use their app, where you can check schedules and purchase tickets. When booking, ensure the departure and arrival points match your accommodations for convenience. For instance, during our trip, we stayed at Northern Lights Village, so our nearest pick-up point was Saariselkä Holiday Club. In Rovaniemi, our apartment was near the train station, so we selected Rovaniemi Train Station (Rovaniemi rautatieasema piha) as our arrival point.

Rovaniemi (Days 5 to 6)

Santa Claus Village (Day 5)

Day 5 was all about embracing the magic of Christmas at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi! We crossed the Arctic Circle line, met Santa Claus himself, and explored charming shops filled with unique souvenirs and festive decorations. The village’s post office was a highlight, where we sent postcards stamped with the official Arctic Circle postmark. While I initially thought it might be overly touristy, it turned out to be such a fun experience. Something I’d gladly sign up for again in a heartbeat!

Entry to Santa Claus Village is free, but certain activities come with a fee. For example, taking a photo with Santa Claus costs extra, depending on the package you choose. Sending postcards from the official Arctic Circle post office also requires a small fee. You can easily visit the village on your own, as we did, for a fun and flexible experience. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth trip, you might consider joining a guided tour of Santa Claus Village.

Backcountry Skiing in Rovaniemi (Day 6)

Day 6 of our Finland itinerary in Rovaniemi was an adventure as we tried backcountry skiing for the first time! Gliding through pristine, snow-covered trails surrounded by the serene Arctic landscapes was both exhilarating and peaceful. To read more about my Backcountry Skiing experience, click this link.

Santa Claus Express Night Train (Day 6)

Our overnight train ride aboard the Santa Claus Express from Rovaniemi to Helsinki was a memorable highlight of our Finland itinerary. I loved the journey, as it offered a chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of Finnish Lapland in its full glory, with endless snow-covered landscapes. Adding to the experience was the affordability of the ride. I booked tickets a month in advance and paid just 34 euros (around 2,100 pesos), which felt like a steal for such a scenic and comfortable journey.

The Santa Claus Express offers options for both budget and luxury travelers in Finland. We opted for the regular seats, which are the most affordable choice, and I found them surprisingly comfortable for sleeping. For those seeking a more upscale experience, the upstairs cabins provide the ultimate in luxury, but at a higher price.

How to Book the Santa Claus Express

To book the Santa Claus Express, visit the official VR website or use their VR Matkalla app, where you can check schedules and purchase tickets seamlessly. When booking, ensure your departure and arrival points align with your accommodations for maximum convenience. For instance, our hostel in Helsinki was near the central station, so we selected Helsinki Train Station as our arrival point. In Rovaniemi, there’s only one departure point: the Rovaniemi Train Station. 

Tallinn Day Trip from Helsinki (Day 7)

On Day 7, we embarked on a day trip to Tallinn, Estonia, just a quick ferry ride from Helsinki. Stepping into Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, felt like traveling back in time with its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and charming cafes. I was pleasantly surprised by how dreamy and enchanting the Old Town was! If you’re planning a Finland itinerary, this side trip is an absolute must. Here’s a detailed post about our day trip to Tallinn from Helsinki!

How to Book Ferry Tickets from Helsinki to Tallinn

I chose Tallink Silja Line, a popular and reliable ferry operator. I opted for the MyStar, their newest and most advanced ship, which offers a comfortable and modern travel experience. You can easily book tickets on their website or through the Tallink Silja app. I paid 128.40 EUR for three round-trip tickets, which I thought was an incredible deal. That worked out to just 2,590 pesos per person for a fabulous ferry experience.

Helsinki to Reykjavik (Day 8)

On Day 8, with our flight to Reykjavik scheduled for 4 PM, we had a few hours to explore Helsinki in the morning. We strolled around the Kluuvi, the commercial centre of Helsinki, soaking in the sights and doing a bit of shopping. I ended up buying some Finnish chocolates as souvenirs. A highlight of the day was reconnecting with an old acquaintance from my first job, who now lives in Helsinki with her family. Thanks for meeting with me, Kate! If you’re reading this blog, hi and hope to see you again! It was a lovely and unexpected way to wrap up our time in Finland before heading to our next destination. 🙂

Overall Experience in Finland

My overall experience in Finland was nothing short of magical. Although Scandinavia and the Nordics are often known for being expensive, we managed to keep our budget in check without compromising on the experience. Even staying in an Aurora cabin at Northern Lights Village didn’t break the bank, proving that it’s possible to travel on a budget in Finland with a little planning.

Eight days in Finnish Lapland felt just right, especially when chasing the elusive Northern Lights. However, if time and vacation leave weren’t an issue, I would easily extend my stay to two weeks for a deeper, more immersive Finnish experience.

As I reflect on this trip while writing this blog, I find myself once again transported in the magical winter wonderland of Finnish Lapland. From seeking warmth in a Sami lavvu (teepee) and grilling sausages to savoring countless cups of warm lingonberry juice. Finland, you were a dream come true!