Finland’s Winter Landscapes & Christmas Markets

Welcome to Finland! Decked out in its holiday finest, you’ll be captivated by Helsinki’s beauty and cheer. Despite the winter temperatures, warmth and hospitality radiate everywhere. Get acquainted with this lively city with fabulous museums, restaurants, shopping, cultural points of interest, and monuments. The sustainable Capital of Finland, the northernmost capital of continental Europe, is a vibrant seaside city surrounded by beautiful islands and great green urban areas. It has a unique beat of its own with delicious food, design, architecture and, of course, the amazing saunas!

The Helsinki Christmas Market takes place in the city center at Senate Square, beneath the Helsinki Cathedral. Vendors offer all types of food, gifts, ornaments, music and entertainment, and Santa is certain to make an appearance — after all, he lives in Finland! 

Christmas Market Dates: December 1-22

Overnight in Helsinki

Enjoy a private tour to get acquainted with this lively city. Visit Temppeliaukio Rock Church, and see the fabulous architecture of Finlandia Hall and Amox Rex Art Museum. Stroll along the waterfront, and visit the Suomenlinna fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

This afternoon, your guide will take you to the historic town of Porvoo, just 30 minutes from Helsinki. Porvoo is known for its colorful wooden warehouses on the river, with restaurants, cafes, shops and boutiques featuring works by local artists, and it’s extra special at Christmastime. With the beautiful backdrop of the wooden buildings and cobblestone streets, it’s a winter wonderland with a cozy atmosphere: music and entertainment, delicious food, arts and crafts, and the festive mood will fill you with holiday cheer! 

Christmas Market Dates: Late November – Late December

Highlight (included): Private Helsinki tour and tour to Porvoo.

Overnight in Helsinki
(Breakfast included)

Enjoy breakfast, then you have a day to play! Nature is in Helsinki’s backyard, and you have the opportunity to enjoy it today. 

Highlights (Optional): Dog Sledding Adventure in Nuuksio National Park, guided tour to experience the frozen magic of the archipelago or guided hike in Liesjärvi National Park.

Overnight in Helsinki
(Breakfast included)  

Travel by train to the city of Turku and immerse yourself in its Christmas wonderland. Many museums feature holiday exhibitions, and the city has an extensive light exhibit and a walking route on which to enjoy it! Turku has two Christmas markets, the main one located at the Great Market Square, which offers art & handicrafts, Christmas delicacies, music and entertainment. Visit Turku Castle, where you might just find Santa’s elves guiding the tours. 

Christmas Market Dates: November 11 – December 19

Highlights (included): Train to Turku

Overnight in Turku
(Breakfast included)

Day at leisure in Turku. Late afternoon transfer to the pier to embark on an overnight cruise ferry from Turku to Stockholm.

Highlight (included): Overnight cruise ferry to Stockholm

Overnight onboard

Option 2: Turku – Helsinki

Day at leisure in Turku. Late afternoon train departure back to Helsinki

Highlight (included): Train to Helsinki

Overnight in Helsinki 
(Breakfast included)

If you traveled back to Helsinki, today is your departure day. You can also extend your trip with a flight to other Nordic destinations, or extend to Finnish Lapland! 

(Breakfast included)