20 August 2025
In 2025, Best Arctic is introducing an innovative way to explore the far north: the Aurora Express Nightliner. This unique bus service is more than just a ride – it is a 2-in-1 experience designed for travelers eager to witness the Arctic’s most magical phenomenon: the Northern Lights while travelling. Running every evening from 7 December to 31 March, this nightliner connects Tromsø in Norway and Rovaniemi in northern Finland, two of the most popular winter destinations in the Arctic.
The Aurora Express Nightliner is officially the northernmost nightliner bus service that connects two iconic Arctic cities. What makes it extraordinary is that it is not just a convenient way of transport – it is a night journey where guests can enjoy Aurora alerts throughout the trip (when spotted) and the bus will stop for Northern Lights viewing along the route.
Unlike any other bus, the Aurora Express Nightliner features a glass rooftop on the upper deck, giving passengers a direct view of the Arctic sky. Imagine leaning back in a comfortable seat while the northern skies light up in green colours – without stepping outside into the cold Arctic temperatures. This panoramic view transforms the bus journey into a stargazing and aurora-hunting expedition like no other.
To enrich the cultural and natural journey, passengers can access a Digital Storytelling App (Guide to Go – for free) that shares information and insider knowledge about the regions while guests pass through. This interactive addition makes the trip more than just travel; it becomes an immersive Arctic experience filled with stories, traditions, and knowledge that deepen the sense of wonder.
Another key advantage of the Aurora Express Nightliner is its clever overnight schedule. The bus departs from Tromsø at 8.50pm and from Rovaniemi at 11.00pm, arriving at its final destination at 8.00am and 7.45am respectively, allowing guests to sleep during the journey. This means travelers can save money on hotel stays, combining transport and accommodation into one comfortable package. For budget-conscious adventurers, this makes the trip both cost-effective and time-efficient.
Best Arctic ensures passengers enjoy maximum comfort during the long Arctic night. Every traveler receives a cozy blanket, an eye mask, and ear plugs to help them rest during the ride. The bus is also equipped with free Wi-Fi and power outlets, making it easy to stay connected or charge devices while traveling. Guests are treated to refreshments, a light snack box and a breakfast buffet upon arrival. Arriving in Rovaniemi, breakfast is served at the Santa Claus Hotel, offering a classic continental breakfast. These thoughtful touches elevate the journey from simple transport to a full hospitality experience.
The Aurora Express Nightliner offers three types of seating, catering to different preferences:
Seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, encouraging travelers to book early to secure their preferred spot and arrive earlier at the meeting point to choose their wished seat, within the type of seat they picked.
To ensure comfort and safety, the service has a few guidelines. Passengers can bring one carry-on bag (that fits under the seat or overhead rack) and one larger suitcase of up to 23 kg and 200 cm in combined dimensions. An extra suitcase can be purchased for 500 NOK. Due to safety standards, children under 4 years old cannot travel on this service, as no child seats are available. Pets are not permitted, except for registered guide dogs. These rules ensure a calm, safe, and restful journey for all passengers.
There are many reasons to choose this extraordinary journey:
The Aurora Express Nightliner is more than just a bus – it’s a moving Arctic experience, combining the magic of the Northern Lights, the comfort of overnight travel, and the rich cultural backdrop of Scandinavia’s far north. Whether you’re traveling from Tromsø to Rovaniemi or the other way around, this journey promises a night filled with wonder, comfort, and unforgettable Arctic memories. Book your ticket online here and guarantee your spot!
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