Finding the perfect Christmas getaway is an important process, and the location that you pick really has the power to make or break your festive season.
So, just where should you head to for the ideal winter wonderland? Our team here at Arctic Direct took a closer look at some of the most popular options, and the best things to do in each spot.
Read on to feel inspired, and start getting into the Christmas spirit!
Finnish Lapland
Lapland is a region in Northern Europe which stretches across several countries including Finland. However, most associate Lapland with a visit to the Northern parts of Finland. It is known for its vast wilderness, forests and lakes. In addition, it is famous for its association with Santa Claus and the endless possibilities for winter activities. It comes as no real surprise that Finnish Lapland is one of the most desirable Christmas holiday destinations in the world – this is a spot that embodies festive cheer, with its snow-covered landscapes and magical aurora borealis forming the perfect backdrop for a truly magical festive trip.
- Why Finnish Lapland?
For many Christmas fans, Finland is the ultimate destination for a festive season getaway. This is a spot that is both picturesque and unique, with plenty of outdoor activities such as snowmobiling or meeting the reindeers while enjoying the snowy scenery. There are also some great restaurants serving up traditional dishes, and the chance to go on an unforgettable adventure to see Santa himself on our Lapland santa holiday.
There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation and Finland package holidays, with everything from traditional cabins to luxurious hotels. Why noy stay at the Arctic Snow Hotel and Glass Igloo Resort and spend Christmas Eve gazing at the Arctic sky. If you are lucky enough the skies might grant you the most magical gift – the Northern Lights – for Christmas. You can combine your stay at the Arctic Snow Hotel with a visit to Santa Claus Village to tick every box on your Christmas list.
Sweden
Another popular festive destination is Sweden, with its snowy scenes, cheerful locals, Christmas decorations and plenty of unforgettable Arctic activities. Discover some of the most iconic holiday sights in the world, as well as unique northern lights displays. Our resorts are located in remote settings giving you the chance to experience an intimate Christmas getaway as well as enhancing your chances of seeing the gorgeous Northern Lights dance in the sky.
- Why Sweden?
Sweden winter holidays are perfect for those who want to explore a traditional Christmas setting. It is home to snow-covered forests, unique resorts offering extravagant accommodation types as well as plenty of delicious traditional foods and festive activities. In short, it is an excellent place to get into the Christmas spirit and make some wonderful memories.
For the ultimate stay, we recommend staying at the Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi. This one-of-a-kind hotel is made entirely out of ice, and features ice rooms that are kept at a constant temperature of -5°C, as well as warm rooms for ideal comfort. From taking a sleigh ride through the snow-covered countryside to carving your own ice sculptures. A stay at the Ice Hotel will emerge you in the Swedish lifestyle while creating the most magical Christmas atmosphere.
Norway
Norway is another wonderful destination for a Christmas getaway, with its stunning fjords and majestic mountains offering the perfect backdrop for a festive break. One of our main destinations in Norway is Tromso. This small city in the north of Norway offers the perfect balance between accessibility to remote areas and stunning Arctic activities as well as everything you could want of a city break. We consider Tromso Christmas Market one of best Christmas markets we were lucky enough to visit.
- Why Norway?
Norway is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something a little different. Take advantage of the chance to experience the true Scandinavian winter, with snowshoeing, and dogsledding all on offer. One of the most unique experiences Norway has to offer is whale watching. Norway is in a prime location for whale watching and seeing these majestic creatures is a truly mesmerizing experience. As we mentioned, Tromso features a stunning Christmas market, so you should make sure to visit the market and snatch up unique gifts and festive treats.
When booking a Norway package holidays, we usually arrange a comfy hotel as your Arctic basecamp. The hotels we work with are located close to restaurants, Christmas markets, amenities as well as the docks – allowing swift access to any excursions taking place via boat – such as whale watching. Moreover, there is access to the Arctic Route bus line allowing you to travel to many traditional villages and experience the Swedish spirit of Christmas.
Greenland
Greenland is a magical destination. With a constantly changing scenery of icebergs and beautiful wildlife in its natural habitat – Greenland sounds like the perfect destination for a Christmas holiday. Unfortunately, visiting Greenland around Christmas can be challenging.
- Why not Greenland?
Greenland’s weather conditions can be extreme any time of the year – but especially in the winter months. Therefore, a visit to Greenland around Christmas can come along with flight delays. If you have your heart set on a Greenland Christmas adventure, we recommend adding a couple of days to your journey as a buffer for any possible delays. Alternatively, we recommend having a look at our Lapland Holiday packages, which all offer an amazing setting for an unforgettable Christmas.
Why not plan your Greenland holiday for June – September instead?
The North Pole
The North Pole might be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about a Christmas holiday. However, the North Pole is a difficult place to visit – especially during the Winter months.
- Why not The North Pole?
The North Pole is only accessible during a very limited time each year. As enchanting as this place sounds – it is not what most associate with the North Pole. The weather conditions are rough all year round but especially during the Winter months. There wouldn’t be many activities on offer – and none would be Santa related. The accessibility is another big factor in today’s adventures to the North Pole. We currently do not have any FCDO supported routes we can offer.
That being said, the North Pole is a fascinating and unique place. And activities like diving under the ice at the North Pole is a memory that will stay with you forever. If you are happy to adjust to the North Pole’s schedule and visit in for example April then: Stay tuned for any updates on the Holidays to the North Pole – hopefully we will be able to offer them again in the future.
With Our Help, The Dream Christmas Holiday Can Be Yours!
Here at Arctic Direct, we are dedicated to making your Christmas dreams come true, with our selection of magical holiday destinations. Whether you choose to visit the ice-filled landscapes of Finland or the unique winter activities in Norway – you can be looking forward to the most inspiring and unforgettable Christmas with us!
Discover all of our arctic Christmas holidays!
