Sleeper Train Helsinki to Lapland: 6 stops to the Arctic
The Santa Claus Express sleeper train connects Helsinki to Lapland, Finland, covering 1,058.8 km overnight. This 12-hour rail journey takes passengers northward through Finland, arriving in Lapland during daylight hours for views of the Arctic Circle region and winter landscape.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Helsinki
- End
- Arctic Circle
- Stops
- 6
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Helsinki — Capital of Finland, starting point of the Santa Claus Express sleeper train journey to the Arctic Circle.
- Senate Square — Central Helsinki square hosting the major Christmas market with the national Christmas tree and festive decorations.
- Helsinki Central Station — Historic railway station with Gothic architecture where the Santa Claus Express departs northward at 11:13 PM.
- Boarding Santa Claus Express — Seasonal train service departing from Rovaniemi that carries passengers northward through Finnish Lapland toward the Arctic Circle region.
- Lapland
- Arctic Circle — The northernmost latitude line where the sun does not set in summer and does not rise in winter, destination of the Santa Claus Express.
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- The Santa Claus Express sleeper train runs from Helsinki to Rovaniemi/Lapland. Departure at 11:13 PM, arrival around 11:00 AM (approximately 12 hours journey). Book the latest departure to arrive in daylight.
- Where to stay
- Book an en-suite cabin with bunk beds for the best comfort on the Santa Claus Express. Cabins include fresh bedding, quality pillows, towels, shower, toilet, heating control panel, and window blind.
- Food
- Breakfast is included and brought to your cabin in the morning on the sleeper train. A restaurant car serves hot drinks and beer during the journey.
- Food
- Try traditional Finnish Glögi (hot spiced berry/grape juice) and warm cinnamon sugar donuts at Helsinki Christmas Market. Expect high prices for food in Finland.
- Timing
- Helsinki Christmas Market operates in late November and December. Visit Senate Square for the largest market and decorated lights throughout the city.
- Transport
- Tickets for the Santa Claus Express are digital and can be stored on your phone. Conductors scan them directly—no physical tickets required.
- Avoid
- Do not touch the emergency brake on the train. Avoid going through doors marked for cargo or closed areas at the end of carriages.
- Tip
- The train maintains very warm heating inside. Bring lighter layers you can remove, even though it's winter outside.
- Timing
- Finnish trains depart and arrive on time. Arrive at Helsinki Central Station at least 30-40 minutes before departure to board.
Video on this route
Sleeper Train to the ARCTIC CIRCLE - Is it worth it?