Finland and Sweden: Polar magic in the glass igloo

You can hardly wait! Your dream of travelling to the far north is finally coming true! The prospect of dancing northern lights, untouched nature and colourful cities oozing with 'hygge' vibes on every corner has you tingling with excitement. Before you know it, you're in Stockholm, making your way to the centre of the capital, where you check into your hotel. You take the time you need to get good and settled in, and shortly thereafter, you head out and start exploring the city.
Excited to see what Stockholm has to offer, you set off on your adventure. Your first stop: the historic Old Town. So, you head to the Metro (optional, payable on site) and find that the station alone is a giant work of art with walls shining in the brightest of colours! A short ride later, and you're strolling through the narrow, winding streets of Gamla Stan, Stockholm's original city centre. The colourful houses and The Royal Palace are simply enchanting. And from Skinnarviksberget, a small hill by the river that you climb in almost no time, you have a fantastic view over the city – breathtaking sunset included!

Did you know that Stockholm stretches over 14 islands connected by countless bridges? No wonder it's nicknamed Venice of the North – all the more for you to explore! Pay a visit to the Avicii Arena (optional, payable on site), where two glass gondolas ride 280 feet upwards along the dome's curved exterior and offer an amazing view of the city. If you want some exercise, SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) is the perfect place to get it. This alternative chill spot for students and artists is filled with retro boutiques, vintage shops, record stores and local second-hand treasures and effortlessly charms everyone who visits. And when you get hungry from all the sightseeing, make yourself comfortable in a café with a pastry and a hot drink and treat yourself to a well-earned fika.
When you're done, it's time to say 'hej då, Stockholm' and 'hei, Helsinki'! So you make your way to the port and hop on an overnight ferry to Finland. On deck, you breathe in the fresh sea air and take in the fantastic view as you count the small, passing islands. Then after the sun sinks into the sea, you snuggle up in your bunk and let the gentle waves lull you to sleep.

After a good night's rest, you're up before the ferry even anchors. You make your way on deck to enjoy the view, and even from a distance, you can see the Finnish capital drawing nearer and nearer. When you arrive at the terminal, you disembark and get the tram to your accommodation.
Once you get there, you barely put your bags away before heading right back out the door and diving into your city adventure. Senate Square and the cathedral, which towers majestically over the city, are definite must-sees. Even from afar, you're able to recognise the large dome and snow-white columns. And the Uspenski Cathedral is no less impressive. Be sure to take a look inside, as the elaborate ceiling paintings are sure to impress! And then? Treat yourself to a break in Helsinki's green oasis Esplandi or round off the day with a drink in the Design District.

Nature vibes in the middle of the city? No problem in Helsinki! The waterside Kaivopuisto park is the perfect spot for just that. From the granite hills, you have a fantastic view across the archipelago to the fortress island of Suomenlinna. The 'Castle of Finland' looks impressive even from a distance! And if you want to see it up close, you can reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site by ferry from the east side of Market Square and be there within 15 minutes (optional, payable on site). Stomach growling? Then zip over to the Old Market Hall, which offers everything a foodie's heart desires. From local to international dishes, to fresh seafood and even sweets and baked goods, you can try your way through it all!
After seeing and experiencing all sorts of exciting new things, you head to the railway station in the evening, board an overnight train and set off on your next adventure. It's time to head up north to Rovaniemi! You settle into your private sleeping compartment and watch as Finland's dreamlike nature rushes by then dream one last time about your upcoming adventures in the Arctic Circle. And in just a few hours, your dream finally comes true!