- Recommended
Arktikum
Explore the history and culture of the Arctic region. This science center and museum provide insights into local traditions and environmental studies.
Cheapest price
$83
Average price
$97
Fastest journey
7 h 57 m
Average duration
8 h 11 m
Trains per day
24
Distance
705 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Helsinki to Rovaniemi will cost around $97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Of the 24 trains that leave Helsinki for Rovaniemi on Tue, May 19, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 19 the direct trains cover the 705 km distance in an average of 8 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 57 m .
On Tue, May 19 the slowest trains will take 8 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
LOL-9737 · PYO-273
LOL-9737 · PYO-273
PYO-273
PYO-273
LOL-9379 · PYO-273
IC-25
IC-25
IC-21 · IC-35
IC-27
IC-23Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Helsinki to Rovaniemi among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a flight costs an average of $77.
Distance: 438 miles (705 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$91 Average price | $193 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $196 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 24m Average total duration 7h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 28m Average total duration Fastest 4h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 42m Average total duration 11h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.1 - 4.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Helsinki to Rovaniemi:
A bus is $48 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi costing on average $91 (€73).
A bus is $151 (€122) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi costing on average $193 (€156).
Other travel options to Rovaniemi take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 54m.
Bus takes on average 11h 12m.
The journey is about 1h 54m faster (7h 54m by train vs 9h 48m by car) and roughly $106 (€85) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($91 (€73) vs $196 (€158)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with VR.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Helsinki to Rovaniemi trains for today, Monday, May 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC-25 | 12:20 PM Helsinki Central | 8h03 | 8:23 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC-25 | 12:26 PM Pasila railway station | 7h57 | 8:23 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC-27 | 2:20 PM Helsinki Central | 8h25 | 10:45 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC-27 | 2:26 PM Pasila railway station | 8h19 | 10:45 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
PYO-265 | 7:29 PM Helsinki Central | 11h51 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
PYO-265 | 7:37 PM Pasila railway station | 11h43 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
LOL-8928 · PYO-265 | 8:06 PM Helsinki Central | 11h14 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
LOL-8928 · PYO-265 | 8:10 PM Pasila railway station | 11h10 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
LOL-9721 · PYO-265 | 8:10 PM Helsinki Central | 11h10 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
LOL-9721 · PYO-265 | 8:15 PM Pasila railway station | 11h05 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
S-53 · PYO-265 | 8:20 PM Helsinki Central | 11h00 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
S-53 · PYO-265 | 8:26 PM Pasila railway station | 10h54 | 7:20 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
PYO-273 | 11:13 PM Helsinki Central | 11h46 | 10:59 AM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
PYO-273 | 11:20 PM Pasila railway station | 11h39 | 10:59 AM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
LOL-9379 · PYO-273 | 11:21 PM Helsinki Central | 11h38 | 10:59 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
LOL-9379 · PYO-273 | 11:25 PM Pasila railway station | 11h34 | 10:59 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
LOL-9737 · PYO-273 | 11:40 PM Helsinki Central | 11h19 | 10:59 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
LOL-9737 · PYO-273 | 11:45 PM Pasila railway station | 11h14 | 10:59 AM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, May 19 | |||||
IC-35 | 5:03 AM Helsinki Central | 9h38 | 2:41 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC-35 | 5:09 AM Pasila railway station | 9h32 | 2:41 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC-21 · IC-35 | 6:20 AM Helsinki Central | 8h21 | 2:41 PM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
IC-21 · IC-35 | 6:26 AM Pasila railway station | 8h15 | 2:41 PM Rovaniemi station | 1 transfer | |
IC-23 | 8:20 AM Helsinki Central | 8h26 | 4:46 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
IC-23 | 8:26 AM Pasila railway station | 8h20 | 4:46 PM Rovaniemi station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
By Claire Martin
The Helsinki to Rovaniemi train – also called the Santa Claus Express – is an epic adventure from the Finnish capital to the wilds of Lapland. Regular flights connect the cities, but I found that the train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi has a certain magic to it. Excited at the thought of going to sleep and waking up in Santa’s hometown, here’s how I traveled to Lapland by train.

A VR night train at the platform in Rovaniemi station.
The train departs from Helsinki Central Station and terminates at Rovaniemi Station. It takes about 7 to 12 hours to journey directly north. I took the night train, but day trains are also available - they’re ideal if you’d like to watch the scenery.
As a keen train traveler, the Santa Claus Express has always been on my bucket list. So, for me, it was an obvious choice to take the train. I planned to reserve a cabin, but the prices were too high by the time I booked (they’re much cheaper in advance!). I did, however, pay an extra €40 for a private seated compartment. It wasn’t nearly as comfy—the seat didn’t even recline—but I appreciated the privacy (and the legroom!). It was still far more comfortable than taking the bus from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, which takes over 12 hours. On Omio, Helsinki to Rovaniemi train tickets are easy to book. Just download the app, select your journey (I recommend a sleeper cabin), and pay. The tickets will be accessible then and there.
After departing Helsinki Central Station, the train stops on the edge of the city to connect to a car-carrying cabin (locals transport their cars on the train to avoid the long drive). It then continues through the southern cities, stopping at Pasila, Tikkurila and Tampere before entering the sub-arctic region of Central Finland. Just before Rovaniemi, you’ll enter the region of Lapland! I recommend arriving at the station around 30 minutes before the train departs. You should be able to board soon after. The station has a few food outlets, though not much seating unless you’re in a restaurant. At the other end, Rovaniemi railway station is small, with a waiting area featuring some information about Lapland and car rental offices.
Helsinki Central Station is right in the city center, about a 10-minute walk from Senate Square. There are tram connections to the outskirts and long-distance trains across Finland. I arrived from Turku and stored my bags at the station for a few hours while I went exploring—don’t miss the Allas Sea Pools!
There are around six trains per day, departing either in the morning (to arrive early-mid afternoon) or at night (to arrive in the morning).
I traveled at night in December, so I didn’t see much scenery. However, if you go during the day or overnight in summer, you’ll see the urban south gradually give way to fir forests, with growing anticipation as you approach Santa’s home. On the train, there is a restaurant car serving drinks, snacks, and hot meals. Expect some Lapland classics, like reindeer stew. Vegetarian options are also available and clearly marked. If you take a sleeper cabin, duvets and pillows are provided. If you’re traveling in a seat, you’ll need to bring a blanket!
Should I take the train or fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi? Helsinki to Rovaniemi by train takes seven hours in the day and twelve at night, so flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi are a popular option due to the shorter journey time. But for me, the train is the best way to get from Helsinki to Rovaniemi! Buy your tickets as far in advance as possible – they’re available around 10 months ahead. You can choose a regular seat, a sleeper cabin with or without an ensuite shower or a cozy, private compartment, which is what I selected. A standard seat is the cheapest option, but you can secure some good deals on sleeper cabins or private compartments if you book ahead of time. Here’s a quick breakdown of my budget:
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €70 |
| Food & drinks | € |
| Travel to departure station | € |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 70 |
The Helsinki to Rovaniemi train might take a whole day or night, but if the idea of slow travel appeals, it’s an experience like no other. Enjoy settling into a seat or bunk and watching Finland slip away. Remember to book your tickets on Omio for a hassle-free journey!

Trains from Helsinki to Rovaniemi run on average 23 times per day, taking around 7h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) but you can travel from only $27 (€21) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 438 miles (705 km) distance in 8h 21m.
Distance 438 miles (705 km) |
Average train duration 7h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€44) |
Trains per day 23 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 8h 21m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Rovaniemi — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rovaniemi trip today.
Explore the history and culture of the Arctic region. This science center and museum provide insights into local traditions and environmental studies.
Experience Christmas-themed exhibitions and a chance to meet Santa. Perfect for festive spirit lovers.
A unique experience featuring interactive farm life activities, crafts, and Christmas elves throughout the year.
A vast area perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Arctic. Offers trails for all levels.
A region known for its ski resort and year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and more.
The bustling heart of the city, the center offers shopping, dining, and a peek into local Rovaniemi life.
A traditional Lappish dish made by sautéing thin slices of reindeer meat with butter, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.
A traditional Finnish fish pie made with rye dough, filled with fish, pork, and bacon. It's a staple in Finnish cuisine.
A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, leeks, butter, and dill. It's a comforting and popular Finnish dish.
Prices are moderate compared to other Nordic destinations, but can be higher during peak tourist seasons.
Tipping is not mandatory; however, it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave 10% in restaurants.
Official public transport app
Rovaniemi Airport -> Rovaniemi City Center
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Helsinki to Rovaniemi by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Rovaniemi, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need