Santa Claus Express (night train to Lapland)
Regular VR double-decker night train service to Rovaniemi (Santa Claus Village / Arctic Circle). Seats and private sleeper cabins (some with shower); car-carrier available. Book via vr.fi. Fares vary by date/cabin; unverified.
Getting there from California
This holiday train is a destination getaway for California train-loving families — perfect for a weekend road trip or a memorable holiday flight. Check the operator website below for travel and ticket details.
Quick Facts
Overnight
12 hours
$$
Night Train (National Rail)
Best For Ages
The Experience
The Santa Claus Express is a magical overnight train journey that takes your family from Helsinki deep into the snowy woods of Finnish Lapland. Kids love the excitement of sleeping in a cozy, private cabin while the train travels through a winter wonderland. Waking up to a snowy landscape feels like stepping directly into a holiday storybook. It is a restful and adventurous way to travel toward the home of Santa Claus. This trip is perfect for children of all ages, from toddlers to tweens. You will want to pack plenty of warm layers, fuzzy pajamas, and favorite books to enjoy in your cabin. The train features a restaurant car where you can grab a hot cocoa before bedtime. Since this is an overnight journey, it is best to book your cabins early, as tickets often go on sale in the fall. For families who love trains, this ride is a bucket-list experience that makes the long trip to Finland feel like part of the vacation.
Schedule & Dates
Operating Dates
Daily night trains year-round Helsinki and Turku to Rovaniemi (also Kolari and Kemijarvi); winter season is the Santa season