Stockholm & The Night Train to Swedish Lapland

Set across a scattering of islands where lake and sea converge, Stockholm welcomes you with elegant architecture, shimmering waterfronts and a quiet sense of calm. After check-in at your hotel, step out to explore softly lit streets lined with boutiques, candlelit cafés and inviting restaurants. As dusk settles early over the city, take in your first glimpse of Stockholm’s understated winter beauty, where history, design and nature exist effortlessly side by side.

Spend the day discovering Stockholm’s many layers, from the cobbled lanes and ochre-coloured buildings of Gamla Stan to the tranquil green spaces of Djurgården. Wander through charming squares, browse Scandinavian design boutiques and uncover the city’s rich cultural heritage in its world-class museums and galleries. Between explorations, pause for a traditional fika and watch local life unfold at its unhurried pace. Whether drawn to history, contemporary culture or simply the atmosphere of the city itself, Stockholm reveals a quiet elegance at every turn.

Enjoy a final day exploring Stockholm before making your way to the station this evening to board your overnight train north. Settle into your private sleeper compartment as the journey begins, offering a uniquely Scandinavian way to travel through the winter landscape. As the train glides silently beyond the city, watch snow-covered forests and distant lights disappear into the darkness. Wrapped in warmth and comfort, drift to sleep beneath the Arctic night sky as you journey deeper into Swedish Lapland.

Wake to a world transformed as the train arrives in Luleå, gateway to the Arctic north. Here, frozen coastlines, crisp winter air and snow-laden streets create an atmosphere both peaceful and invigorating. After breakfast, settle into your accommodation and take time to absorb the slower rhythm of life above the Arctic Circle. Perhaps stroll along the frozen waterfront, browse small local shops or simply embrace the stillness that defines this northern landscape, where winter light casts a soft glow across the town.

Visit Norrbottens Museum, pause inside the striking Luleå Cathedral and explore Nordic design boutiques, where local makers, Sámi crafts, and practical Arctic style take centre stage. Each winter, when the Gulf of Bothnia freezes solid, Luleå creates an official ploughed ice road across the sea ice, linking the mainland to nearby islands in the Luleå archipelago, most famously Hindersön and Gråsjälören. Many travellers drive out to an island café, take a short winter walk, or simply stop midway to stand on two metres of frozen sea beneath their feet—an unforgettable Arctic moment.

Arrive at Arctic Retreat on the edge of the Råne River.  This evening set out on an evening snowshoe walk in search of the northern lights. Fully equipped with winter clothing, snowshoes, and head torches, you’ll walk to a clear viewpoint facing north. Along the way, you’ll pause to enjoy traditional fika—hot drinks and local treats served outdoors—creating a cosy moment to warm up, relax, and share stories with your guide. Even if the aurora remains elusive, you’ll enjoy stargazing, nature, and a memorable Arctic evening.

Meet the friendly huskies, help harness the teams, and receive clear instructions on sled handling and safety before heading into the pristine wilderness, sharing a sled between two guests - one driving, one riding - and switch along the way so both can try mushing. An experienced guide leads the tour. Enjoy a relaxed outdoor lunch during the journey.

Step into the spirit of Sápmi on a soulful journey into Sámi culture with a local family. Meet their reindeer, listen to stories carried through generations, and experience the deep connection between people, nature and tradition that still thrives today. Wander through the forest discovering wild herbs and plants, guided by ancient knowledge rooted in the land itself. Back in the warmth of the studio, learn how these natural treasures are preserved and shared, before ending with a comforting Swedish fika of herbal teas, coffee and homemade delicacies inspired by the Nordic wilderness.

Transfer back to Luleå for your departure flight, leaving with unforgettable memories of snowy forests, Arctic adventures, and the enchanting stillness of Swedish Lapland.