Whether you’re traveling in the busy winter season or the quiet autumn months, the Helsinki to Rovaniemi train is the perfect way to reach Finnish Lapland. Departing from the bustling capital city, the overnight train heads north into the Arctic Circle and features a plethora of amenities and ticket options for every kind of traveler.
We took the train to Lapland during our Northern Lights vacation last winter and overall found the experience efficient and enjoyable. To help make planning your own trip to Finland easier, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the Helsinki to Lapland train.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it Called the Santa Claus Express?
Let’s be clear: the Santa Claus Express is one of several trains and train routes that will take travelers to Finnish Lapland. There are a few towns in Lapland other than Rovaniemi with rail service, but Rovaniemi is the most common destination.
That said, a select few of the trains from Helsinki to Rovaniemi are strategically branded as the Santa Claus Express because they transport riders directly to Santa Claus’s hometown. Rovaniemi, located on the Arctic Circle, is the gateway to Finnish Lapland and also known as the home of Father Christmas. The name is a slight deviation from the popular book and movie, The Polar Express, but the same idea applies. During the busy season, the region capitalizes on the rise in train traffic to Rovaniemi with this clever branding strategy.
How Much Does the Train to Lapland Cost?
Tickets prices for the Helsinki to Lapland train vary based on a few factors. The good news is that there are a variety of options to suit most budgets. A standard seat in the off-season could cost as little as 20 euros with an upgrade to a sleeper cabin for an additional 80 euros. Costs may also vary depending on daytime, overnight, weekday, and weekend trips.
What Kind of Amenities are Onboard?
Amenities offered onboard the train to Lapland depend on your ticket. All passengers have access to free wifi, a snack car, and bathroom facilities. Several of the bathrooms are spacious family bathrooms which include a changing table and children’s potty. Daytime trains also offer luxury options in quiet lounge-style cars, perfect for catching up on work or taking a quick nap during your journey. You can also book small private compartments. These are especially useful if you’re traveling on a budget but still want a private space or if you have quarantine concerns.
Additionally, you can bring bicycles, skis, and other gear and stow it in the large equipment car. Many trains to Lapland also transport vehicles, and the pet-friendly cabin options ensure four-legged family members don’t miss out on the Arctic Circle adventure.
For overnight trains, there are two kinds of sleeper cabins. Downstairs cabins feature a small sink for washing up, while upstairs cabins include ensuite bathrooms complete with a toilet and shower.
Is There a Rovaniemi to Helsinki Train?
Yes, there are also Rovaniemi to Helsinki train routes.
Where Can I Buy Train Tickets in Finland?
Long-distance and commuter trains in Finland are managed by VR, a carrier that also operates in Sweden. The digital ticketing system is easy to navigate with the handy VR Matkalla app, which also sometimes uses third party reservation systems, like Rail Ninja, for handling purchases. Tickets can also be purchased in any railway station at a kiosk or from an in-person ticket agent.
Tips & Suggestions
Why We Loved the Train to Lapland
Our mid-February Helsinki to Lapland train journey was a delightful experience for several reasons. First and foremost, opting for the train over flying was the greenest travel choice, aligning with our commitment to sustainable travel. Trains are also a reliable mode of transit, even in winter, sparing us the uncertainties often associated with air travel.
As busy professionals, we find the leisurely pace of slow travel deliciously indulgent, allowing us to unwind, soak in the journey’s tranquility, and really get in vacation mode. Moreover, the scenic beauty along the route, especially if taken during the daytime, offers breathtaking vistas of Finland’s pristine landscapes. What’s more, the train conveniently served as both our transit and accommodation for one night of our weeklong holiday, making the most of our travel time. Lastly, the strategic locations of train stations in Europe’s city centers famously facilitate easy exploration when traveling.
What We Would Do Differently
While we adored our Helsinki to Rovaniemi train experience, there are a few things we would do differently next time. First of all, we’ll be sure to bring our own food and drinks on the train with us. While we did bring some snacks from the grocery store on board, we do wish we had brought some more substantial food options. In addition, we were unsure if the water in the bathroom and cabin sinks was potable, so when we ran out of water from our travel canteens we had to purchase bottles from the snack car.
Unfortunately, we arrived to our overnight train after a day of romping around Helsinki. I do wish we had arrived more freshly showered, since we didn’t have an ensuite in our cabin. Lastly, while the cabin was comfortable and quiet, a natural sleep aid like melatonin or magnesium supplements would have helped us get a better night’s sleep.
