Helsinki to Rovaniemi train with VR

Helsinki to Rovaniemi Train: A Magical Journey on the Santa Claus Express

Introduction

The Helsinki to Rovaniemi train – also called the Santa Claus Express – is an epic adventure from the Finnish capital to the wilds of Lapland. Regular flights connect the cities, but I found that the train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi has a certain magic to it. Excited at the thought of going to sleep and waking up in Santa’s hometown, here’s how I traveled to Lapland by train.

Route Overview

The train departs from Helsinki Central Station and terminates at Rovaniemi Station. It takes about 7 to 12 hours to journey directly north. I took the night train, but day trains are also available - they’re ideal if you’d like to watch the scenery.

Should I take the train or fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi?

Helsinki to Rovaniemi by train takes seven hours in the day and twelve at night, so flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi are a popular option due to the shorter journey time. But for me, the train is the best way to get from Helsinki to Rovaniemi!

Transportation Experience

As a keen train traveler, the Santa Claus Express has always been on my bucket list. So, for me, it was an obvious choice to take the train. I planned to reserve a cabin, but the prices were too high by the time I booked (they’re much cheaper in advance!). I did, however, pay an extra €40 for a private seated compartment. It wasn’t nearly as comfy—the seat didn’t even recline—but I appreciated the privacy (and the legroom!).

It was still far more comfortable than taking the bus from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, which takes over 12 hours.

On Omio, Helsinki to Rovaniemi train tickets are easy to book. Just download the app, select your journey (I recommend a sleeper cabin), and pay. The tickets will be accessible then and there.

Route Details

After departing Helsinki Central Station, the train stops on the edge of the city to connect to a car-carrying cabin (locals transport their cars on the train to avoid the long drive). It then continues through the southern cities, stopping at Pasila, Tikkurila and Tampere before entering the sub-arctic region of Central Finland. Just before Rovaniemi, you’ll enter the region of Lapland!

Departure and Arrival Stations

Helsinki Central Station is right in the city center, about a 10-minute walk from Senate Square. There are tram connections to the outskirts and long-distance trains across Finland. I arrived from Turku and stored my bags at the station for a few hours while I went exploring—don’t miss the Allas Sea Pools!

I recommend arriving at the station around 30 minutes before the train departs. You should be able to board soon after. The station has a few food outlets, though not much seating unless you’re in a restaurant.

At the other end, Rovaniemi railway station is small, with a waiting area featuring some information about Lapland and car rental offices.

Schedule and Frequency

There are around six trains per day, departing either in the morning (to arrive early-mid afternoon) or at night (to arrive in the morning).

Onboard Experience and Services

I traveled at night in December, so I didn’t see much scenery. However, if you go during the day or overnight in summer, you’ll see the urban south gradually give way to fir forests, with growing anticipation as you approach Santa’s home.

On the train, there is a restaurant car serving drinks, snacks, and hot meals. Expect some Lapland classics, like reindeer stew. Vegetarian options are also available and clearly marked.

If you take a sleeper cabin, duvets and pillows are provided. If you’re traveling in a seat, you’ll need to bring a blanket!

Ticketing Advice and Budget Breakdown

Buy your tickets as far in advance as possible – they’re available around 10 months ahead. You can choose a regular seat, a sleeper cabin with or without an ensuite shower or a cozy, private compartment, which is what I selected.

A standard seat is the cheapest option, but you can secure some good deals on sleeper cabins or private compartments if you book ahead of time.

Here’s a quick breakdown of my budget:

Top Tips and Personal Recommendations

• Consider whether you’ll be able to sleep on the night train – if not, take the day train and enjoy the views!
• If taking the night train, pack earplugs and an eye mask. If you’re traveling in a seat, the lights will stay on all night!
• It’s a long journey, so pack some entertainment and download any movies or e-books ahead of time.
• If you’re traveling as a family or group, interconnecting cabins are available, some of which have ensuite bathrooms.

Conclusion

The Helsinki to Rovaniemi train might take a whole day or night, but if the idea of slow travel appeals, it’s an experience like no other. Enjoy settling into a seat or bunk and watching Finland slip away. Remember to book your tickets on Omio for a hassle-free journey!

About the Author: Claire Martin

• Job Title: Travel Journalist and Videomaker
• Bio: I’m a full-time travel journalist, blogger and videomaker who specializes in train and ferry travel around Europe.