A Modern Arctic Overnight Journey
Known worldwide as the Santa Claus Express, the double-decker sleeper train operated by VR (Finnish Railways) connects Helsinki Central Station directly to Rovaniemi on the Arctic Circle in 11 hours 45 minutes.
Unlike older Soviet or European sleeper trains, VR modern green double-decker sleeping cars are among the most technologically advanced and comfortable night trains in the world.
Sleeper Cabin Choices
- Upper Deck Sleeper with Private Shower & Toilet (Highly Recommended):
- Located on the upper level of the double-decker carriage.
- Contains two comfortable bunk beds and a private en-suite compact bathroom with toilet, sink, and an integrated hot water shower.
- Private card-key access, electrical power outlets, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and temperature climate controls.
- Fares start around 49 to 89 Euros per person when sharing a cabin.
- Lower Deck Sleeper (Standard):
- Two bunk beds and an in-room washbasin, with shared modern shower and toilet facilities located at the end of the corridor.
- Slightly cheaper, making it an outstanding budget choice.
- Seats in Open Carriages:
- Fares start from 29 Euros on vr.fi. Reclining seats with power outlets, but sleeping in an upright seat for 12 hours leaves you tired for your first day in Lapland.
Onboard Dining: The Ravintolavaunu (Bistro Car)
The Finnish dining car is a central social hub on the train. Open until late evening and reopening early in the morning, it serves traditional hot Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) with fresh dill and rye bread, Karelian rice pasties (karjalanpiirakka) with egg butter, meatballs, craft beer, and berry juices.
How to Book on VR.fi
- Visit the official Finnish railway website at vr.fi (available in English).
- Select Helsinki to Rovaniemi and pick your travel date.
- Look for evening departures (typically around 19:29 or 23:13).
- When selecting your ticket, click Choose Cabin to select an upper-deck private shower cabin or standard lower-deck cabin from the interactive seat map.
- You can download your PDF tickets with QR codes directly to your smartphone.