Nordic nights: Aurora lights and Arctic rides

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. First, you take 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.

Your final day in Stockholm dawns. It's time to check out any sights you haven't yet seen, and revisit your fave spots! Or if you've missed out on nature, get your fill in the Royal National City Park. It's the only national park in the centre of a European capital! And with a mix of park areas, forests, canals and wide beaches, outdoor activities of all kinds await, from hiking and cycling to simply enjoying a picnic. So, soak up some nature vibes!
Afterwards, get set to say: 'Hej då, Stockholm' and 'Hei, Helsinki'! Head to the port and hop on an overnight ferry to Finland. Breathe in the fresh sea air and take in the fantastic view from the deck as you count the passing little islands. Then snuggle up in your bunk after the sun sinks into the sea, 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.