This 28-day private driver-guided tour invites you to discover Finland’s most iconic cities, remote wildernesses, timeless traditions, and hidden coastal treasures — all at a relaxed pace, accompanied by a private driver-guide throughout the journey.
From Helsinki’s elegant boulevards and design icons to the magical forests of Lakeland and the Arctic thrills of Lapland, each day is crafted to deliver meaningful experiences. Along the way, enjoy boutique accommodations, authentic Finnish cuisine, expert local guides, and seamless logistics with your dedicated driver; quite simply, this is Finland at its most enchanting.
Destinations on Our 28-Day Grand Finland Tour
Days 1–4: Helsinki
Nordic design capital, historic cathedrals, seaside markets, and island fortresses.
Days 5–7: Finnish Lakeland (Lahti Region)
Lakeside villas, smoke sauna traditions, wilderness national parks, and artisan workshops.
Days 8–10: Eastern Finland (Koli or Kuopio)
Panoramic national park hikes, folklore nights, lakeside saunas, and remote forest culture.
Days 11–13: Northern Wilderness (Kuusamo/Ruka)
Wildlife tracking, Arctic canyon hikes, ceramic villages, and serene Lapland landscapes.
Days 14–18: Rovaniemi (Lapland)
Santa Claus Village magic, reindeer and husky safaris, Arctic Circle crossings, and glass igloo nights.
Days 19–20: Saariselkä/Inari Region
Sámi culture immersion, starlit wilderness hikes, Northern Lights chasing, and Lappish feasts.
Days 21–22: Oulu
Northern coastal city life, Hailuoto Island nature walks, market hall explorations, and science centers.
Days 23–27: Helsinki Return
Final island cruises, coastal sunset dinners, and reflections on an extraordinary Finnish adventure.
Day 28: Departure Day
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Helsinki and take a private airport transfer.
Day 1: Arrival in Helsinki – City Icons and Nordic Flavors
Upon arrival at Helsinki Airport, your private driver-guide will greet you for a relaxed orientation drive through the city’s grand boulevards and seaside quarters en route to your accommodation.
After checking in and taking some time to settle in, return to the lobby, where your private guide will be waiting to lead you on a walking tour through the lively Market Square, taking in the colorful stalls and historic ferry terminals that connect the city to its archipelago.
This evening, celebrate your arrival with a Finnish-tasting dinner at one of Helsinki’s acclaimed Nordic restaurants, where you’ll sample dishes like Arctic char, mushroom soup, or wild berries.
Day 2: Design Capital & Sea Heritage – Helsinki’s Creative Soul
Today, explore Helsinki’s global reputation for design innovation.
Begin with a private trail through the city’s creative heart, visiting the Alvar Aalto Studio, Marimekko showroom, and the inspiring Design Museum. Your guide shares stories of how Finnish minimalism, sustainability, and nature have shaped modern architecture and fashion.
Continue to Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site sprawled across several islands.
Wander with your guide among 18th-century bastions, secret tunnels, and quiet harbors as you hear tales of Swedish kings, Russian troops, and Finnish independence.
Afterward, unwind like a local: head to Löyly, a striking contemporary sauna perched above the sea. Enjoy a traditional wood-fired sauna session and, if you’re feeling brave, a refreshing dip into the Baltic waters before dinner by the waterfront.
Day 3: Old Town Porvoo & Chocolate Making – Medieval Charm
Leave the capital behind for a private day trip to Porvoo, Finland’s second-oldest town.
Meander through cobbled lanes lined with pastel wooden houses, stopping at the medieval cathedral and the famous red riverfront warehouses that once stored goods for seafaring merchants.
Your guide will bring to life Porvoo’s blend of Swedish, Russian, and Finnish influences as you explore its hidden alleys and artisan shops.
Enjoy a hands-on chocolate workshop with a master chocolatier, where you’ll create your handmade truffles or pralines. Afterward, relax over a riverside lunch featuring local specialties and browse antique stores and local art galleries tucked between Porvoo’s colorful streets.
Day 4: Nuuksio Nature & Reindeer Visit – Into the Forests
Today brings a refreshing immersion into Finland’s pristine natural world.
Journey west of Helsinki to Nuuksio National Park, where your private guide leads you on a gentle hike through ancient pine forests and along quiet lakeshores.
Depending on the season, learn to spot edible berries, mushrooms, and wildlife signs — and hear how Finland’s mythology is deeply rooted in its wild landscapes.
After the hike, visit a family-run reindeer park nestled among the trees. Feed these gentle Arctic animals by hand and learn about their significance to Sámi culture and the Arctic environment.
Your afternoon concludes with a traditional Finnish forest picnic featuring fresh bread, cheeses, and wild berry juices — or even a fireside foraging workshop, depending on the day’s conditions.
Day 5: Travel to Finnish Lakeland – Hämeenlinna Castle and Glass Traditions
Depart Helsinki with your private driver for the start of your lakeside adventure.
En route, stop at Hämeenlinna, where you’ll explore Finland’s oldest brick castle. Perched on the shores of Lake Vanajavesi, Hämeenlinna offers a fascinating look into medieval defense systems, royal histories, and Finnish independence movements — all brought to life by your expert guide.
Continue north with a visit to the Iittala Glass Factory, where you’ll see artisans crafting Finland’s iconic glassware by hand. Watch molten glass transformed into sleek Scandinavian designs and, if you wish, browse the factory shop for unique souvenirs.
Arrive by late afternoon at your boutique lakeside villa or hotel near Lahti, just in time for a sunset stroll along the water’s edge and a relaxed dinner overlooking the shimmering lake.
Day 6: Sauna, Lake & Forests – Classic Finnish Nature Rituals
This morning, your guide takes you along the shores of Lakeland for an outdoor adventure tailored to the season.
Paddle silently across mirror-like lakes by canoe, or in winter months, explore the frozen forest trails on an electric bike — both offering unforgettable ways to experience Finland’s stunning wilderness.
As you glide or ride through pine-scented landscapes, learn about the ancient bond between Finns and their wild surroundings.
In the afternoon, indulge in a true Finnish tradition: the smoke sauna!
Hidden deep in the woods, this rustic retreat lets you bathe in warm, aromatic smoke, followed by an optional icy plunge into the lake, a ritual said to rejuvenate both body and soul.
As twilight descends, gather around a crackling fire for a forest food dinner. Your private chef will prepare local specialties, such as roasted root vegetables, fresh-caught fish from the lakes, and bread baked on-site over an open flame.
Day 7: Repovesi National Park Adventure – Wilderness and Wild Skills
Today, venture into the heart of the Finnish wilderness with a private excursion to Repovesi National Park.
Set off on a guided hike across ancient rocky outcrops, through mossy forests, and over suspension bridges that sway gently above rushing rivers. Your guide will share stories of the land’s folklore, wildlife, and the importance of protected spaces in Finnish identity.
Pause midday for a wilderness picnic prepared over a fire you help build, learning essential outdoor skills like fire-making and foraging safety.
After lunch, visit a nearby nature photography studio run by a Finnish artist who captures the fleeting magic of Arctic light and the hidden fauna of the Lakeland region. Their work offers a new perspective on the landscapes you’ve been walking through — and perhaps inspiration for your shots!
Day 8: Art, Architecture & Transfer to Tampere – From Forests to Cities
Bid farewell to your lakeside retreat and set off with your driver-guide toward Tampere, stopping at Mänttä, a cultural oasis tucked between forests and lakes.
Visit the twin Serlachius Museums: Gösta (featuring contemporary art and a lakeside sculpture park) and Gustaf (the historic headquarters of a paper magnate). Explore Finland’s artistic soul with a private tour through exhibitions, and enjoy a special lunch hosted by a museum chef or art curator who shares behind-the-scenes insights.
In the late afternoon, arrive in Tampere — the capital of Finnish industry and innovation, beautifully set between two major lakes.
After settling into your boutique hotel, enjoy a lakeside walk or sunset promenade along the Tammerkoski rapids.
Day 9: Culture & Innovation in Tampere – Past Meets Future
Begin your exploration of Tampere with a private tour of the Vapriikki Museum Centre, a fascinating collection housed within old red-brick industrial mills.
Dive into exhibitions ranging from Finnish hockey legends to natural history, technological innovations, and even ancient archaeological finds. Vapriikki’s diverse collections bring the layers of Finnish life into vivid focus.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch in the historic Finlayson factory complex, now a lively district filled with cafés, boutiques, and start-ups.
In the afternoon, choose between two distinct experiences: for families and whimsical souls, the magical Moomin Museum offers original artwork and immersive displays based on Finland’s beloved characters; design aficionados may opt for a curated tour through Tampere’s creative hubs, showcasing contemporary Finnish fashion and furniture.
Day 10: Lakes & Smokehouse – Taste of the Waters
Our first attraction of the day will see you join your skipper for a private boat cruise across one of the shimmering lakes surrounding Tampere, or, in winter, strap on snowshoes and trek across frozen expanses dusted with fresh powder.
Either way, expect silence, serenity, and stunning scenery, with your guide pointing out birdlife and natural landmarks along the way.
Later, visit a traditional smokehouse tucked away by the lakeside. Learn about ancient smoking techniques passed down through generations and sample freshly smoked fish paired with local rye bread and berry juices.
Your day concludes with a cozy lakeside dinner accompanied by live folk music — the perfect celebration of Lakeland life and its timeless traditions.
Day 11: Jyväskylä’s Modernism & Monastery Wines – Drive to Koli
Leave Lakeland behind as you journey toward the rugged landscapes of Eastern Finland.
Your first stop is the vibrant university city of Jyväskylä, where a private guided visit to the Alvar Aalto Museum introduces you to the genius of Finland’s most influential architect and designer.
Wander through exhibits showcasing Aalto’s furniture, lighting, and architecture, gaining insight into how he helped shape modern Nordic design.
Continue the drive northward to the serene Valamo Monastery, an Orthodox retreat hidden among lakes and forests.
Join a private wine-tasting session where you’ll sample the monastery’s vintages and liqueurs, crafted by monks using traditional methods adapted to the Finnish climate.
Afterward, drive onward to Koli National Park, where your evening ends with check-in at a cozy eco-lodge or forest cabin overlooking Lake Pielinen’s misty waters.
Day 12: Summit Views & Fireside Tales in Koli National Park
Today, immerse yourself in the heart of the Finnish wilderness. Join your local nature guide for a private hike or snowshoe trek (depending on season) through Koli National Park, famous for its sweeping vistas over endless lakes and dark pine forests.
Follow gentle ridges to breathtaking viewpoints that have inspired generations of Finnish artists and composers.
Pause midday for a hearty picnic lunch in a national park shelter warmed by a crackling fire. Afterward, gather around the flames to hear local legends and forest lore, accompanied by traditional music played softly on a kantele or harmonica.
Day 13: Craft Traditions & Forest Hospitality
This morning, venture out for a nature photography workshop tailored to your interests, whether capturing misty lakes, intricate frost patterns, or vibrant summer wildflowers.
Your local photography guide will share composition tips and hidden spots perfect for memorable shots.
Later, visit a regional artisan — a ceramicist, weaver, or woodcarver — whose studio is tucked away among the hills. Watch how raw materials from the surrounding forests and lakes are transformed into beautiful, functional pieces of art.
In the evening, gather inside a traditional Sámi-style kota (wooden hut) for a rustic dinner featuring regional ingredients cooked over an open fire. Storytelling and optional drumming or singing offer a deeper glimpse into Lapland’s indigenous influences.
Day 14: Northern Roads – From Lakes to Lapland
Today, you will rise and enjoy a hearty breakfast before joining your private driver for the scenic transfer toward Kuusamo.
Stop for a lunch break in the historic town of Kajaani, perhaps visiting the ruined stone fortress by the river.
Arrive by late afternoon at your resort in Ruka, a winter and wilderness paradise where you’ll check into a luxurious glass-roofed cabin — the perfect setting for Northern Lights viewing or simply relaxing under a canopy of stars.
Day 15: Arctic Adventures in Oulanka National Park
Today brings you into the wild beauty of Oulanka National Park.
Depending on the season, our tour planners will recommend a private hike along the Bear’s Trail, crossing suspension bridges over roaring rapids, or gliding silently through snowy forests behind a team of eager huskies on a dogsledding tour. Your expert guide will tailor the route to your energy level and interests.
Stop for a traditional campfire lunch by a rushing river, savoring sausages and berry juices while surrounded by pure Arctic wilderness.
In the afternoon, visit a family-run reindeer farm where you can feed the gentle animals and learn about their importance to northern livelihoods. Optional handicraft workshops allow you to create your small souvenirs using reindeer leather or antler, making a fitting memory of your time on the edge of the Arctic.
Day 16: Frozen Wonders and Arctic Craft – Korouoma Canyon & Pentik Ceramics
Today, lace up your boots for a private guided adventure into the dramatic Korouoma Canyon. In winter, frozen waterfalls cascade down the canyon walls, forming shimmering blue towers of ice — a sight like nowhere else in Finland. Your guide will lead you along safe trails suited to your ability level, stopping for photos and storytelling about the canyon’s ancient geological origins.
After an invigorating hike, warm up with a forest picnic featuring hot berry juice and fresh local pastries. In the afternoon, travel to the world-renowned Pentik ceramic village. Explore the pottery workshops and discover Finland’s renowned ceramic art tradition. Depending on the season, you may even be welcomed into a local artist’s home for coffee and insights into rural creative life.
Day 17: From Wild Forests to Arctic Towns – Transfer to Rovaniemi
This morning, your driver will deliver you into the heart of Rovaniemi, the gateway to Lapland.
Along the way, stop for a private visit at Ranua Wildlife Park, where you’ll encounter Arctic animals, including lynxes, wolves, snowy owls, and even polar bears in naturalistic enclosures. Your guide will help you spot elusive species and explain how these animals survive in Finland’s extreme seasons.
Arrive in Rovaniemi by late afternoon, where a gentle orientation walk introduces you to the charming riverfront, the lumberjack bridge, and the cozy cafés that define life on the edge of the Arctic Circle.
Day 18: Cross the Arctic Circle & Meet Santa Claus
Today is pure magic for visitors of all ages as you enjoy a VIP private visit to Santa Claus Village, where you’ll meet Santa himself without the crowds!
Your guide will escort you through the snowy wonderland, sharing stories about Finnish Christmas traditions and arranging for you to send postcards from Santa’s official post office.
Take part in a private Arctic Circle crossing ceremony, complete with a personalized certificate to commemorate the moment. In the afternoon, head to a cozy workshop where you’ll join elves in decorating gingerbread cookies and making simple crafts — a heartwarming experience for children and adults alike.
Day 19: Sleigh Bells and Northern Lights – Huskies, Reindeer, and Northern Lights Expedition
Start the morning with an exhilarating husky sledding tour through the snowy forests, feeling the excitement of the dogs as they pull you across the frozen landscape. If your tour falls during the summer months, we will instead swap sleds for a guided husky hike through wildflower meadows.
Later, visit a traditional reindeer farm where Sámi herders will introduce you to their gentle herds. Enjoy a short sleigh ride and learn how these animals have shaped Lapland’s culture for centuries.
After dinner, bundle up for an evening aurora hunting expedition by snowmobile or 4×4 sleigh. Chase the magical Northern Lights across open fields and frozen rivers, stopping at a warm hut for hot drinks while waiting for the sky to dance.
Day 20: Arctic Culture & Ice Adventures in Rovaniemi
Dive deeper into Lapland’s heritage with a private guided tour of the Arktikum Science Centre.
The exhibitions here tell the story of the Sámi people, Arctic flora and fauna, and the impact of climate change on the fragile North. Your guide will personalize the experience to your interests, whether that’s traditional crafts, polar research, or indigenous history.
Next, join a local guide for an ice fishing session on a frozen lake. Drill your hole, learn the techniques of this age-old pastime, and perhaps catch your dinner!
Round off your Arctic adventures with a magical evening meal inside an ice restaurant or a drink at an ice bar — where even the glasses are carved from frozen river water.
Day 21: Relaxation Day
Today is yours to relax or explore more of Rovaniemi at your own pace.
For the active-minded, your guide can arrange an optional ski day at Ounasvaara, where both downhill and cross-country trails weave through silent, snowy forests. Alternatively, opt for a serene spa retreat offering traditional Finnish treatments, hot stone massages, and saunas with panoramic views of the Arctic.
Day 22: Journey Into the True Arctic – Rovaniemi to Saariselkä
Bid farewell to Rovaniemi as you set off northward, deep into the remote Arctic wilderness.
The journey to Saariselkä will be broken up with stops at Tankavaara, a historic gold-mining village where you’ll have the chance to try gold panning yourself, and Inari, home to the renowned Sámi Museum Siida. Here, enjoy a private guided tour through exhibits showcasing indigenous Sámi culture, shamanic traditions, reindeer herding, and Arctic survival.
Arrive in Saariselkä in the late afternoon and settle into your cozy Aurora lodge accommodation. After dinner, perhaps take a short stroll to look for the Northern Lights — the skies here are among the clearest and darkest in Finland.
Day 23: Arctic Adventures, Lappish Cuisine & Stargazing
This morning, venture into the snow-clad forest on a private guided experience tailored to your interests.
Choose between a traditional forest ski trek on wide wooden skis or a fun e-bike ride over packed snowy trails. Either way, your guide will show you secret paths, animal tracks, and perhaps even glimpses of Arctic wildlife, such as ptarmigans or foxes.
Later, participate in a hands-on Lappish cooking workshop. Under the guidance of a local chef, learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as sautéed reindeer with lingonberries, creamy salmon soup, and rye flatbreads cooked over an open fire. Enjoy your homemade meal while hearing tales of life in Finland’s far North.
After dinner, cap off your day with a magical sauna experience. Your private lakeside sauna will be heated and ready; alternate between the steaming warmth and crisp Arctic air while gazing up at the Northern Lights.
On clear nights, the auroras often ripple directly above Saariselkä, offering unforgettable views from the warmth of your sauna or the snowy outdoors.
Day 24: Reindeer Herding Traditions & Arctic Arts
Step into the real world of Sámi reindeer herders today and spend time with a local Sámi family, helping with seasonal tasks like feeding the reindeer or learning the techniques of lasso throwing.
Your hosts will share the vital connection between the Sámi way of life and these gentle Arctic animals.
Afterward, unleash your creativity with a playful ice sculpture workshop or colorful snow painting session — a family-friendly activity that introduces you to another traditional Lapland pastime.
Whether you’re carving frosty creations or painting scenes with natural dyes onto the snow, it’s a joyful way to interact with the landscape.
This evening, celebrate your journey with a final Arctic open-fire dinner under the stars. Gather in a traditional Laavu shelter or rustic cabin, listening to folk music performed by local musicians.
The crackle of flames, soulful songs, and a final taste of Lapland hospitality will leave you with warm memories to carry home.
Day 25: Journey South Through Lapland – Sodankylä to Oulu
After breakfast, depart Saariselkä and begin your southward journey with your private driver-guide.
Your first stop is Sodankylä, a historic town in Lapland known for its medieval wooden church and deep Sámi roots. Pause here for a relaxed lunch at a cozy local restaurant, where you can sample Arctic fish dishes or warming stews made with wild berries and game.
Continue southward through Finland’s changing landscapes, watching as the dense forests gradually give way to more expansive farmland and river valleys.
Upon arrival in Oulu, Finland’s vibrant northern coastal city, settle into your hotel and enjoy an easy-paced evening harbor walk. Your guide will lead you along the waterfront promenades and lively squares before you enjoy a seaside dinner — fresh seafood is a must here.
Day 26: Hailuoto Island Adventure & Oulu Arts
Today, escape into nature with a private day trip to Hailuoto Island, located just off the coast of Oulu.
After a short ferry crossing, explore this unique island, where low dunes, pine forests, and white-sand beaches create an unspoiled Arctic coastal landscape. Your guide will lead you on a gentle nature walk across the island, pointing out local birdlife and rare flora depending on the season.
After your walk, savor a picnic by the sea or dine at a small island fish restaurant famous for its local catches like whitefish and perch.
Upon returning to Oulu in the afternoon, delve into the city’s cultural side with a private visit to a local art gallery showcasing contemporary Nordic artists. Cap off the day with a wander through Oulu’s historic Market Hall, where you can sample artisanal treats or shop for hand-crafted Finnish goods.
Day 27: Return to Helsinki – Islands & Farewell
Bid farewell to Oulu this morning as you either take a scenic flight back to Helsinki or opt for a beautiful drive south through the changing countryside.
Upon arrival in Helsinki, your guide will arrange for a relaxing private boat ride through the Helsinki archipelago (seasonal availability). Glide past colorful wooden cottages, rocky islets, and traditional summer homes that capture the Finnish love of the sea.
As the sun begins to lower, celebrate your incredible journey with a farewell dinner at an atmospheric island restaurant — a perfect spot to reflect on the landscapes, traditions, and warm encounters you’ve experienced over the past month.
Day 28: Departure Day – Until We Meet Again
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your Helsinki hotel this morning, savoring your final hours in Finland’s elegant capital.
Your private driver will then escort you to Helsinki Airport, assisting with luggage and check-in. As you depart, you’ll leave with a heart full of memories — from serene lakes and Arctic skies to vibrant cities and welcoming villages — all woven into your epic Finnish grand tour.
