A Scandinavian & Baltic Adventure: Finland and Estonia
There are vacations, and then there are trips that become family legends.
This one definitely falls into the second category.
Over Christmas, we packed our warmest clothes and traveled to Finland to meet my sister, brother-in-law, and three nephews—who made the long journey from Australia. Since they live halfway around the world, we rarely get to spend this much uninterrupted time together, making this reunion every bit as special as the destination itself.
Our adventure began in Helsinki before boarding the overnight Santa Claus Express—better known in our family as the “Santa Train.” As we traveled north toward the Arctic Circle, the scenery transformed into a winter wonderland of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. After arriving in Rovaniemi, we hopped off for a day trip to the legendary Sant Village (yes, we did meet the “real” Santa); then on to Levi, where a cozy Airbnb became home for the next eight days.
Nothing quite prepares you for winter in Finnish Lapland. Daytime temperatures routinely hovered well below freezing, and every trip outside required what felt like an engineering project in layering. Thermal base layers, fleece, sweaters, insulated pants, heavy parkas, wool socks, neck gaiters, mittens, hand warmers, snow boots, hats—you name it, we wore it. By the time everyone was dressed, we were practically unrecognizable, but we were warm enough to enjoy every minute outdoors.
Adventures in Lapland
One of the strangest adjustments was the daylight—or lack of it. The sun barely climbed above the horizon before beginning its descent, and by around 4:00 p.m., darkness had settled in for the evening. At first it felt disorienting, but before long we embraced the rhythm of Arctic winter. The snow reflected just enough light to keep the landscape glowing, and the twinkling village lights made everything feel cozy and festive.
Every day brought a new adventure. We raced down snowy hills on sleds, explored Levi’s ski slopes, and bundled up for exhilarating rides through the forest behind energetic teams of sled dogs. Watching the huskies explode with excitement before the run and then glide silently across the snowy trails was an experience none of us will forget. Between outdoor adventures, we warmed up with hot chocolate, hearty Finnish meals, and, of course, a few visits to the sauna—a Finnish tradition that quickly made perfect sense after spending hours in subzero temperatures.
Family Time in Finland
As incredible as Finland was, the best part of the trip wasn’t the snow, the scenery, or even the Arctic adventures. It was simply having two uninterrupted weeks together as a family. We laughed over board games, cooked meals together, shared stories late into the evening, and watched the ‘kids’ experience a true winter unlike anything they’d ever seen growing up in Australia. Those everyday moments—mixed with extraordinary surroundings—became the memories we’ll treasure the most.
Finland gave us spectacular landscapes, unforgettable adventures, and a Christmas unlike any we’ve experienced before. But more importantly, it gave us something far more valuable: the gift of time together. In a world where oceans and busy lives often keep our family apart, those two snowy weeks in Lapland were worth every layer, every frozen nose, and every early sunset.
Finland to Estonia
Too soon, it was time to say goodbye to Lapland and head south. We returned to Helsinki and boarded the ferry across the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn, Estonia—a city that felt like stepping into the pages of a fairy tale. We spent three nights wandering the wonderfully preserved Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, medieval towers, and colorful merchant houses. Even in the heart of winter, the city was alive with holiday spirit.
The Christmas Market in Tallinn’s Town Hall Square was the perfect way to wrap up our holiday. Twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, the aroma of roasted almonds and gingerbread, and mugs of glögi (mulled wine) created an atmosphere that was both festive and cozy. And while the mulled wine certainly helped keep us warm, we quickly discovered that the Estonians don’t skimp on the spices—or the strength! It was the perfect excuse to linger a little longer and soak in the magic of the season.
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Christmas in Tallinn, Estonia
Looking back, this trip gave us so much more than beautiful destinations. It gave us uninterrupted time together—a rare gift when family lives on opposite sides of the world. Finland brought us Arctic adventures, snow-covered landscapes, and memories we’ll laugh about for years. Estonia added history, charm, and one last dose of Christmas magic before we all returned home. It was a holiday we’ll never forget, and one that reminded us that the best journeys aren’t just about where you go—they’re about who you share them with.
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