The European Arctic spans several countries, including Russia, Denmark, Norway (featuring Spitsbergen), Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. This vast and remote region, situated north of the Arctic Circle at roughly 66 degrees north latitude, is home to around four million people, many living in small, isolated communities.
Exploring the Arctic offers a range of unique experiences. Expedition cruises to Russia, Spitsbergen, and Greenland, led by expert guides, provide unparalleled access to this pristine wilderness while supporting local communities and offering a glimpse into their unique way of life. For a land-based Arctic adventure, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway deliver unforgettable experiences, from stays in glass igloos beneath the Northern Lights to guided tours through snowy landscapes.
Whichever Arctic journey you choose, we’ll ensure it’s nothing short of extraordinary -a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Finland: Finland is a land of the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights, and the Polar Night. During the extended summer days in the northernmost region of the country, the sun never sets, casting perpetual daylight. In the heart of winter, it doesn't rise, casting the dark night in the enchanting hues of the Aurora Borealis. Finnish Lapland, nestled in the far North, hosts one of the world's most mesmerizing light displays, with the Northern Lights gracing the skies on up to 150 nights each year.
North Pole: Achieve the remarkable feat of reaching 90 degrees north! This is a part of the world often associated with fairy tales and folklore, making it the ultimate aspiration for many travellers.
Russian Arctic: For intrepid adventurers and history enthusiasts, the Russian Arctic beckons with a journey to seldom-visited locations, retracing the paths of polar explorers from the past. Rediscover Franz Josef Land, an area teeming with some of the highest wildlife densities in the Arctic, featuring polar bears and walrus. Navigate through the Kara Sea, often referred to as the 'ice cellar' of the Arctic, where you'll encounter unforgettable ice caps, towering ice cliffs, and majestic mountains. Immerse yourself in polar history with visits to abandoned weather stations, former polar research outposts, and active research stations.
Spitsbergen: An excellent destination for those embarking on their first Arctic adventure! Spitsbergen offers an Arctic experience complete with the best chances of encountering polar bears, breathtaking polar landscapes, and glimpses into the history of early European Arctic settlements. Cruises typically commence and conclude in Longyearbyen, the northernmost town in the world with a captivating whaling heritage.
The European Arctic is a striking year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. From September to April, Finland and Norway become prime viewing grounds for the Aurora Borealis. This is also the best time for winter activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, skiing and ice fishing. The further north you go, the longer the Aurora season lasts, with mid-October to March offering the best chance to see the lights in more southern regions.
Spitsbergen is best visited between May and October, with June offering excellent chances to spot polar bears roaming the ice. Expeditions to the North Pole are typically conducted from mid-June to July, when conditions are navigable, and daylight hours are ample. In Russia’s Arctic, the optimal window is July to August, when ice routes are more accessible and temperatures are milder.
Weather across the region is defined by Subarctic and Tundra climates. In winter, expect average lows of -5ºC in Tromsø (Norway), -14ºC in Northern Sweden, and -15ºC in Finnish Lapland. Summers are short but mild, with temperatures around 12–14ºC across the region. Iceland averages -4ºC in winter and 14ºC in summer, though conditions can vary widely depending on elevation and latitude.
Currency
Norway: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Sweden: Swedish Krona (SEK)
Finland: Euro (EUR)
Language
Norway: Norwegian, Sami, Kven, Tavringer, Romani
Sweden: Swedish
Finland: Finnish, Swedish, Sami
What makes it special: The European Arctic is a region of raw beauty. Stretching across northern Scandinavia, Russia, Spitsbergen, and Iceland, it offers unforgettable experiences—from the icy silence of Lapland to the fjords of Tromsø and the volcanic drama of Iceland’s landscapes. Whether chasing the Northern Lights, encountering reindeer and polar bears, or exploring remote fjords under the Midnight Sun, this part of the world invites you to disconnect from the everyday and immerse yourself in its magic.
Culture and nature go hand in hand here, with deep-rooted Nordic traditions and sustainable practices. For those seeking clarity, calm, and adventure, the European Arctic is a destination that stirs the soul.
Social customs: Nordic cultures are known for their egalitarian values, modesty, and deep respect for personal space. Conversations tend to be direct and sincere, often with less emphasis on small talk. While English is widely spoken, learning a few words in the local language - such as greetings or thank-yous - is always appreciated. Public spaces tend to be quiet, and queuing and punctuality are taken seriously. Warm hospitality here is often subtle but sincere, and the emphasis is on shared experiences rather than grand gestures.
