20 May 2026
Planning a winter trip to the Arctic and trying to choose between Tromsø, Norway, and Rovaniemi, Finland? The good news is that you do not have to choose. With the Aurora Express Nightliner bus by Best Arctic, you can combine both destinations in one smooth winter itinerary, travelling overnight between two of the most magical places in the Arctic.
This new winter nighttime route connects Tromsø, Kilpisjärvi, Levi, and Rovaniemi, making it easier for travelers to experience Northern Norway and Finnish Lapland in one trip. Instead of losing a full travel day or dealing with airport transfers, long queues and extra hotel nights, you can travel while you rest. During season 2026/2027, the route runs between 7 December 2026 to 31 March during 2027, with an end-to-end travel time of around 10 hours.
The best way to travel between Tromsø and Rovaniemi in winter is with the Aurora Express Nightliner bus. It is designed for travelers who want to make the most of their Arctic holiday without losing precious daytime hours.
By travelling overnight, you save time that can be used for experiences instead. You also save on the cost of one hotel night, as the journey becomes part of the adventure. Breakfast upon arrival is included, together with a light snack box on departure and complimentary hot and cold drinks onboard.
The bus also offers comfort for the long journey, including spacious semi-reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, power outlets on the second floor, eye mask, ear plugs, and a cozy blanket. It is a practical, comfortable and memorable alternative to flying, especially for travelers who want less logistics and a relaxed way to move across the Arctic.
One of the most exciting parts of this journey is the chance to travel under the Aurora Oval, one of the best areas in the world to see the Northern Lights. Of course, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can never be guaranteed. Clear skies, solar activity, and weather conditions all play a role.
Still, the Aurora Express bus makes the journey extra special. The double-decker bus has panoramic windows and a glass-roof, allowing you to enjoy the Arctic night from the comfort of your seat. When conditions allow and Northern Lights are spotted, the bus can make Aurora stops along the way, giving travelers the possibility to step outside and admire the sky.
The journey includes much more than transport from A to B. You can expect:
This makes the Aurora Express Nightliner a smart choice for travelers who want convenience, comfort and a unique Arctic travel experience in one journey.
Tromsø is one of the best winter destinations in Northern Norway, especially for travelers dreaming of Arctic landscapes, wildlife, and Northern Lights, alongside with some city vibes.
A winter stay in Tromsø can include Northern Lights tours, where local guides take you away from city lights in search of clear skies. Snowmobile and reindeer experiences are also popular, offering a deeper connection with Arctic nature and Sami culture.
Tromsø is also known for its fjords. A fjord tour is a great way to see snowy mountains, frozen beaches, fishing villages, and dramatic coastal scenery. Between December and January, you can also join whale watching tours, when orcas and humpback whales are often in the region following the herring migration.
For those who want a mix of adventure and comfort, Tromsø offers the perfect combination: Arctic wilderness by day, cozy restaurants and city life by evening, and Northern Lights possibilities by night.
Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus and one of the most famous winter destinations in Finnish Lapland. For families, couples and Christmas lovers, a visit to Santa Claus Village is a must. You can meet Santa Claus himself, cross the Arctic Circle, visit local shops and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Rovaniemi is also a great destination for winter activities. You can join Northern Lights tours, snowmobile safaris, reindeer experiences, husky activities, snowshoeing and visits to Arctic wildlife attractions such as Ranua Wildlife Park.
Combining Rovaniemi with Tromsø gives you the best of both worlds: Finnish Lapland’s Christmas magic and Northern Norway’s dramatic fjords, whales, and coastal Arctic scenery.
A great way to combine both destinations is to start in Tromsø. Spend three or four days enjoying Northern Lights tours, fjord landscapes, whale watching in season and reindeer or snowmobile activities. Then board the Aurora Express Nightliner in the evening and travel overnight to Rovaniemi.
Arrive in the morning, enjoy breakfast and begin your Finnish Lapland adventure the same day. Visit Santa Claus Village, join a snowmobile safari, meet reindeer, or go Aurora hunting in the evening.
The route also works in the opposite direction. You can start in Rovaniemi, enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and Lapland activities, then travel overnight to Tromsø for fjords, whales, and Northern Lights experiences in Norway.
During the summer months of 2026, we are launching special Early Bird promotions for online bookings of the Aurora Express Nightliner.
You can save with the following promo codes:
These promo codes are valid only for online bookings made via our website. During the online booking journey, you need to copy and paste the promo code by clicking “I have a code” before completing your purchase.
Combining Tromsø and Rovaniemi in one winter trip is now easier than ever. With the Aurora Express Nightliner bus, travelers can save time, save on accommodation, enjoy breakfast on arrival and experience a unique overnight journey through the Arctic.
Whether your dream is to chase the Northern Lights, meet Santa Claus, go whale watching, join a snowmobile safari, or explore snowy fjords, this route connects two unforgettable winter destinations in one seamless adventure.
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