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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Finnish Lapland

From the northern lights to the legendary sauna culture, this arctic destination has it all. Here's what you won't want to miss.

lapland travel advice

Milamai / Getty Images

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is the place to go to check more than a few once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your list — like seeing the northern lights and experiencing the midnight sun. The arctic destination has stunning nighttime skies, wide-open landscapes, and air so fresh it can make you happier. Here’s how to plan a trip to Finnish Lapland that you’ll never forget. 

When to Go to Finnish Lapland

Here’s the good news about Lapland: It’s always beautiful out — well, depending on how you define “beautiful.” The region's peak travel season falls between December and February thanks to a natural phenomenon we’ll get to in a moment. During this period, the region’s average temperature ranges from 3 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can get down to as low as minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit with added wind chill. 

By contrast, temperatures in the summer can be much milder, usually ranging from 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a prime time to visit the area for hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures.

How to See the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland

Many visitors travel to Finnish Lapland to take in a few breathtaking natural occurrences — including the aurora borealis, or northern lights. You can see this phenomenon any time between August and April, though it occurs more frequently around the equinoxes in late September and late March. Visit then and look to the sky on clear nights for a chance to witness this incredible celestial light show.

Those looking for a more curated experience can ask their hotel for recommendations, or they can book a guided trip like a  three-hour aurora borealis picnic  in Rovaniemi, which includes a short hike to an outpost with warm drinks and food. You can also take  a snowmobile tour or, the most adventurous of all, an aurora ice floating experience in Rovaniemi . It's just as it sounds — guests don dry suits and set out on a frozen lake to lie back and blissfully gaze up into the night sky.

How to See the Midnight Sun in Finnish Lapland 

Giles Clarke / Getty Images

If you’re not much of a night owl, that’s okay because Finnish Lapland offers another spectacular show: the midnight sun. From late May until early August, the tilt of the Earth means the sky never gets dark. Make the most of the near-constant daylight by taking a hike, going fishing, or even playing a round of golf when you'd normally be asleep. 

What Else to Do in Finnish Lapland

Andrey-Kobylko / Getty Images

Go for a hike.

Finnish Lapland is chock full of  stellar hiking trails  fit for all levels. The Arctic Circle and Inari hiking areas offer everything from one-hour hikes to all-day wilderness adventures, as well as restrooms and visitor centers. 

Hit the sauna.

Sauna culture has long been an integral part of Finnish life , and there’s no better spot to experience it than in  Tampere , the sauna capital of the world. Come for the public spas, but stay for the arts, culture, and attractions like the Tampere Market Hall, the largest indoor market in Scandinavia. 

Paddle your way through the region.

Explore Finnish Lapland from a different perspective by taking to its rivers for a canoeing adventure. During the warmer months, you can take in the amazing views as you meander along calming waterways. Try this six-hour canoe trip  down the River Kapsajoki, which includes a campfire lunch and opportunities for fishing. 

Visit Santa Claus.

Fun fact: Santa lives in Finland. And you can visit him any time of year at the  Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. Kris Kringle and his elves open their famous home and workshop all 365 days of the year. Meet the man himself, cross the Arctic Circle (which passes through the theme park), embark on a snowmobile safari adventure in the Lapland wilderness, and dine in a restaurant made of snow while you're there.

Where to Stay in Finnish Lapland 

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Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

At the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Rovaniemi, guests can enjoy a host of creature comforts in a nature-centric setting. Every room comes with fur throws and floor-to-ceiling windows, while some even have soaking tubs, fireplaces, and decks from which to take in the surrounding forest. Book the chic two-bedroom Arctic GlassHouse  to enjoy all the bells and whistles.

Seaside Glass Villas

Need more of a view? Spend a few nights at  Seaside Glass Villas , a collection of box-shaped bungalows in the waterfront town of Kemi. Each one has a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the Bothnian Bay, as well as a glass roof through which you can enjoy incredible views of the northern lights while lying in bed.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

You might recognize Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort's gorgeous glass-domed igloos from your Instagram feed, but even the best photos can't capture the magic of actually staying in one. Book the kelo-glass igloo to combine the privacy of a log chalet with the wow factor of the northern lights dancing over your bed.

Those seeking to stay in the lap of luxury need look no further than  Octola , an exclusive five-star hideaway with just 12 rooms and two chalets. Guests can book a single room or buy out the entire space if they want to bring along family and friends. 

What to Pack 

Packing for a summer trip to Finnish Lapland is relatively easy. Just bring whatever you normally would for any other summer getaway — shorts, T-shirts, a bathing suit, pants, and a light jacket for cooler nights. 

If you plan to visit in winter, you'll need to bust out the big checked bag and pack it with cozy thermal underwear, insulated snow boots with a grip, an insulated jacket, waterproof or snowproof pants , a few wool sweaters, warm gloves and socks, a hat, a scarf, and some instant heat packs to throw in your gloves and boots. Don’t forget your camera, and make sure to pack extra batteries — they will drain quickly in the cold weather. 

How to Get There 

Despite being located in Finland's far north, getting to Lapland isn’t nearly as difficult as you may think. First, fly into Helsinki, then, depending on your final destination, continue to either Kemi or Rovaniemi by regional flight. Finnair and Norwegian Air each offer a 90-minute nonstop to Rovaniemi, or you can board a one-stop Finnair flight to Kemi via Kokkola-Jakobstad Airport in Kronoby.

If you've got the time, a scenic seven-hour train ride will get you from Helsinki to Kemi (the ride to Rovaniemi takes 8.5 hours). You can also travel between Rovaniemi and Kemi by train for a 90-minute intra-Lapland adventure.

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Lapland travel blog — the ultimate lapland travel guide: how to travel & what to do in lapland finland.

lapland travel advice

Located in the north of Finland, Lapland is very close to the North Pole, so there are 200 days of cold winter a year. Any visitor, whether a child or an adult, wishes to have a trip to this place to meet Santa Claus , along with the reindeers. Moreover, this place is also an extremely attractive destination with a lot of interesting experiences. Lapland Finland (Finnish Lapland) is world famous as “the Official Hometown of Santa Claus”. In addition to the above nickname, is there anything else that attracts tourists from all over the world? Let’s experience Finnish Lapland through the sharing below. So, what country is Lapland in, what to do in Lapland, how to travel to Lapland Finland and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Lapland for the first-time? Let’s check out our Lapland travel blog (Lapland blog) with the fullest Lapland travel guide (Lapland guide) from how to get to Lapland Finland, best time to come, where to stay, what to see in Lapland Finland, things to do in Lapland Finland as well as what to do in Rovaniemi to find out the answer!

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lapland travel advice

Lapland travel blog: Where is Lapland Finland and what country is Lapland in?

lapland travel advice

Finnish Lapland is a very large region with an area of ​​about 100,367 square kilometers of which 92,667 square kilometers is land, 6,316 square kilometers is freshwater and 1,383 square kilometers is sea. Lapland stretching through 4 countries: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Russia’s Kola Peninsula with an area equivalent to 3 countries of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Switzerland combined.

In which the Lapland region in Finland (Finnish Lapland, Lapland Finland) occupies one third of the country’s area and the capital of the entire Lapland – the city of Rovaniemi is also located here. This is the official hometown of Santa Claus, so it is often said that Finnish Lapland (or Rovaniemi Finland) is the hometown of Santa Claus .

lapland travel advice

Some interesting things about Finnish Lapland:

lapland travel advice

  • Although this entire Lapland region spans 4 countries, the official name is widely known in 2 countries Sweden and Finland. Therefore, when it comes to the place of Lapland, you should often add the country name, so that people can clearly distinguish which region you are talking about.
  • The population of Finnish Lapland is over 180,000 people, mainly concentrated in 4 big cities (Rovaniemi, Tornio, Kemi and Kemijärvi), the population density is about 1.98 people/km2 – the lowest in Europe and less than number of reindeer here (200,000).
  • Reindeer here are popularly raised as a meat producing animal in other countries. Near the village of Santa Claus, there is an Artic Circle – marking the arctic circle of the earth. Therefore, there is a phenomenon of 2 months in the summer when the sun never sets (lighting all day and night).
  • Lapland Finland is also a very large region rather than a specific city or place. So when someone talks about Finnish Lapland tourism, you should understand that they mention to traveling to Rovaniemi city – the capital of the whole Lapland Finland region, where the village of Santa Claus and some remote surrounding areas is upper it, where you can hunting aurora (the Northern Lights) and other winter activities.
  • Rovaniemi was almost destroyed 90% in World War II, but then the great Finnish architect Alvar Aalto redesigned the whole city as it have the appearance as we see today. There is currently a top 2 Finnish university named after his name, Aalto University – the top 7th school in the world in art and design section.

lapland travel advice

Lapland travel blog: When should you visit Lapland Finland?

lapland travel advice

Tourists often come to Finnish Lapland with the desire to experience aurora borealis hunting and take part in some winter activities. That’s why I think the most suitable time and best time to travel to Finnish Lapland is in the period from November to March. Because this is the time when you have the highest opportunity to seeing the Northern Lights along with this place is completely covered with white snow creating a magical scene comes along with a special and vibrant Christmas atmosphere.

lapland travel advice

Personally, I would recommend going from the beginning of November to mid-December because at this time there will be also a Christmas atmosphere here and it is not as crowded as December. Meanwhile, January and February are the peak winter months, the temperature is usually in the range of -20 to -40 degrees Celsius. Therefore, for those who are not used to extreme cold temperatures, coming here in this season is no different from being tortured :). In addition, the aurora often appears when it is cold and clear. If there is too much snow, the opportunity of seeing it is also lower than other times. There are times from September to November when it is very cold but without snow, it is easy to see the aurora borealis.

lapland travel advice

Lapland travel guide: How to get and how to travel to Lapland Finland (How to get to Rovaniemi)?

How to travel to lapland finland from other finland’s cities.

lapland travel advice

To get to Rovaniemi Lapland, you usually need to get to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. Then from here, you can take the train, onnibus or plane to getting here. The distance from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is about 700-800km.

  • Onnibus: Usually you will need to transfer in Oulu city. Total travel time is about 12 hours (8 hours to Oulu and 3 hours to 4 hours from Oulu to Rovaniemi). Ticket price is around €18-35.
  • VR train (the Finland’s national railway company) often runs 2 trips a day from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. Travel time: 8 to 12 hours. Ticket price: €40-90/way. The fare of €40 usually only appears in the summer, when the travel demand to Lapland is less than other seasons.
  • Airplane: Finnair (the Finland’s flag carrier and largest airline) often has quite a few direct flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. Ticket price is about €70-100/way.

If you depart from some countries with lot of demands for travel to Finnish Lapland such as the UK, the Netherlands, there are also direct flights from these countries to Rovaniemi. As far as I know, there are currently 7 airlines flying directly to Rovaniemi from 5 European countries which are the UK, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Turkey, Ukraine in which the UK is the country with the largest number of tourists to Lapland Finland.

Lapland guide: Getting around Finnish Lapland

lapland travel advice

If you simply visit Rovaniemi, I think the most suitable means of transport is the public bus. Ticket price is €3.2/way and you can catch a bus from Rovaniemi center to Santa Claus village in 15 minutes.

lapland travel advice

However, if you want to participate in more winter activities, perhaps renting a self-drive car will be more appropriate. Because Lapland is a very large and extremely sparsely populated region, it will be quite difficult for you to participate in winter activities such as aurora hunting in the north, ice lake fishing, etc. without active means of transport.

lapland travel advice

Lapland travel blog: Where to stay in Lapland Finland?

Because Lapland is very large and the attractions are not gather in a single cluster like in other cities, finding a room here is not simple at all. Not only that, Lapland is also famous for various types of accommodation that are rarely found anywhere in the world. So, I will write a detailed article to guide you how to choose a hotel in Lapland later.

lapland travel advice

In general, in my travel experience, you should find a room and book it as soon as possible. Quality rooms in Lapland often sell out very quickly because here are few people, the hotel is not too abundant, but the number visitors flocking here from China, Japan, Germany, and Britain is quite a lot… Last time my friend searched for a room 4 months in advance but she still couldn’t find a good place to stay.

However, if you want to stay in upscale hotels, close to Santa Village, you can book hotels right in Santa Claus Village ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

lapland travel advice

You can also refer to the two other luxury hotels: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) built in a high hill, offer panoramic windows with beautiful nothern lights view.

lapland travel advice

Or Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ). This is a hotel that is extremely suitable for visitors to see and admire the Northern Lights.

At first glance, the Kaklauttanen looks like it just step out of a sci-fi movie. The hotel consists of many rooms like turtles located next to each other. “Tortoise shell” is made of glass, does not absorb water vapor no matter how cold it is, guaranteed, guests can see the Northern Lights anytime it appears. Each room has a comfortable bed and a comfortable bathroom.

lapland travel advice

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

  • Santa Claus Holiday Village ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Arctic Light Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Scandic Rovaniemi City ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Lapland Hotels Ounasvaara Chalets ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Arctic City Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
  • Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Rovaniemi ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

lapland travel advice

Check out more top and best hotels in Rovaniemi on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Lapland travel guide: Things to do in Lapland Finland, what to see and what to do in Lapland Finland

What to do in rovaniemi.

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland which is considered the official hometown of Santa Claus . This place is famous for its Santa’s village and many other interesting winter activities such as reindeer riding, husky sledding, skiing, visiting museums…

Some indispensable places, things to do in Rovaniemi Lapland:

Santa Claus Village

Located about 8 km from the center of Rovaniemi city, Santa Claus Village is open all year round regardless of winter or summer. Here you will have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus, visit the post office where Santa works, send letters to people all over the world…

There are 3 most attractive places in this village are Santa Claus Office, Santa Claus Main Post Office and Arctic Circle. Ticket price: free. However, there are some other activities that still cost money. There is also a service to stamp your passport to certify that you have gone through the Arctic Circle for €1, and a service to take pictures with Santa Claus for €20-40. So, fun and interesting!

lapland travel advice

Arktikum Museum

lapland travel advice

The museum displays artifacts, provides information about people, animals and plants that have lived in the Arctic Circle of the earth during typical historical periods, such as during the World War II and the period that Finland was invaded and took part of the territory by Russia (1939-1940).

Address: Pohjoisranta 4, 96200 Rovaniemi, Finland Hours: 10AM–5PM/Monday: Closed Ticket price: €9

SantaPark – the Home Cavern of Santa Claus

lapland travel advice

As an amusement park built in an underground cave with many recreational activities, especially suitable for families with young children.

Address: Tarvantie 1, 96930 Rovaniemi, Finland Ticket price: €34.

Visit Raitola Reindeer & Husky Farm, experience reindeer riding and husky sledding

lapland travel advice

Near Santa’s village there is Raitola Reindeer & Husky Farm (Address: Välttikankaantie 11, 96900 Rovaniemi, Finland) that offers tours of reindeer sleigh riding sleds or husky safari sledding with various tour packages. Ride a reindeer-drawn sleigh like a horse-drawn carriage, while exprience a husky sledding like a thrilling game.

lapland travel advice

Driving in Lapland Finland needs to be careful because the reindeer often roam on the roads. Sometimes if you’re driving and see a couple of them suddenly crossing the road, don’t be surprised. Because the number of reindeers much more than residents living here.

Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Ski Resort

lapland travel advice

You can come here to ski or hire a guide if you still don’t know how to ski. Ticket price €20 for 1 hour or day ticket of €40. Hire a guide costs about €30-50.

In addition, if you have children, you can go to the Science Centre Pilke museum (Address: Ounasjoentie 6, 96200 Rovaniemi, Finland) and the Angry Birds Playground (Address: Valtakatu 4, 96100 Rovaniemi, Finland).

lapland travel advice

Some other activities when traveling to Finnish Lapland

Explore the beautiful lakes and ice fishing.

lapland travel advice

Lapland is a place full of beautiful lakes. In which, the most beautiful and famous lake is Inari. This is also the largest lake in Lapland with an area of over 1,000 square kilometers. If you come to Lapland on cold winter days, you will see that the surface of Lake Inari is completely frozen to form a giant mirror. You can experience ice fishing.

lapland travel advice

In winter when the lake freezes, locals often have a hobby of walking on the ice, skating on the lake or punching holes in the ice for fishing. This is probably an experience that requires extremely high patience for tourists.

Hunting Aurora (Northern Lights)

lapland travel advice

According to an old legend, an arctic fox whipped its tail and sent twinkling lights into the sky, creating the aurora borealis. Lapland is located in the Arctic region, so you will have a higher chance of seeing this natural phenomenon than anywhere else. However, Rovaniemi is a city with a dense population and is “polluted” by lights, so it’s best to go to the very remote hills, the darker and less inhabited the better.

In fact, hunting the aurora is a very bad luck. You will have a hard time guessing exactly whether that time will have the aurora or not. Usually the forecast is only accurate within 1 week. If you wait until that date to book tickets for travel and accommodation, I guarantee that the possibility of staying in a “thousand-star hotel” is very high or else the cost will be sky-high.

lapland travel advice

In fact, hotel rooms in resorts and convenient locations in Lapland usually need to be booked at least 6 months in advance. So, when traveling to Lapland Finland, if you see the aurora borealis, you are lucky, if not, just unlucky :).

The more you traveling to the north, the clearer the visibility and the higher the chance, so many visitors flocking here because of that. However, there are also many days when the aurora is very visible, so you can see it right in the city of Rovaniemi or even in the southern provinces of Finland. Well, if you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights right in Rovaniemi, you should go to the Artikum Science Museum. This is the best spot to see the aurora borealis in the city. You download the “Aurora” app to monitor the possibility of aurora in specific locations.

lapland travel advice

Personally, I would not recommend you booking aurora hunting tour, the aurora appears or not depends mainly on the weather, not on people. If you book a tour but there is no aurora on that day, that’s okay. Instead, always monitor the weather and go up as close to the north as possible, especially in forests with less light pollution, the chances of seeing it will be high. Remember to prepare warm clothes, sleeping bags, food and water. It takes a lot of effort to hunt this “super picky girl”.

lapland travel advice

Camping in the forest

lapland travel advice

This activity is quite popular with nature lovers like Finnish. You should camp in national parks where firewood is available, free kitchens for grilling food, and tents near the lake. Camping in the winter is also quite interesting, but it is necessary to carefully prepare warm clothes, fully equipment as well as find out the places where camping and fire are allowed first.

lapland travel advice

As I mentioned in previous posts, sauna is a Finnish initiative and sauna bathing has become an indispensable part of their lives. Winter is probably the best time to try this experience. If possible, you should rent a hotel room with a sauna room, so that after every day of going out to explore the experience, when you return, you will be able to enjoy a body sauna for comfort and relief.

In fact, when bathing in a sauna, Finns often go nude and after each interval they will jump into the icy lakes outside or take a cold shower. You should try this feeling :D. An indispensable experience when traveling to Finland.

lapland travel advice

Besides activities such as skiing, husky sledding, reindeer riding… You can try the feeling of snowmobile in the forest or surrounding areas. Usually, tourists will go on a tour, but if you have experience driving this and are not afraid of getting lost, you can rent it. The price is around €150/basic package and €25 extra per hour you rent. You can refer at this progearmoto website . Regarding tours you can refer to Arctic Circle Snowmobile for €55 per person for 30 minutes — 1 hour with a driver. This is one of the experiences that many thrill-seeking travelers enjoy when traveling to Finnish Lapland on their own.

If you are interested in learning about Sámi culture, you should drive 4 hours from Rovaniemi to Inari. The winter nature here is also very impressive with many interesting sites such as The Sámi Cultural Center Sajos (Address: Menesjärventie 2A, 99870 Inari, Finland), Karhu souvenir shop. The Sámi is an ethnic minority of Finland and residents live in Lapland mainly are Sámi people.

lapland travel advice

Lapland travel tips

If you go with a few people but still want to experience all kinds of winter activities without spending too much, join the tour group of ESN (Erasmus Student Network) organized by the Finnish schools. Most of the people going are exchange students coming to study in Finland, so you will have the opportunity to meet many people, participate in many recreational activities at a very affordable price. The tour package usually includes accommodation with sauna, transportation, activities such as husky ride, snowmobile… are all included. You can choose to go with ESN with any school in Helsinki . In Helsinki, there are a number of schools such as Laurea, Haaga-Helia, Aalto, University of Helsinki, Arcada, Metropolia… Tour prices are around €340 for 7 days. The referal link at Timetravels .

What to do in Lapland: Shopping

Coming to Lapland, visitors will be fascinated to see very high quality products that are famous throughout the Nordic region and throughout Europe. All brands are manufactured according to Nordic standards for safety, accuracy, durability over the years, high applicability and smart and traditional designs such as Finnish Knives (Puukkos), Wooden handmade Kuksa Cups, Taigakoru jewelry, Marimekko fashion, Arabia porcelain,…

lapland travel advice

How to travel to Lapland Finland: Suggested Lapland itinerary 5 days 4 nights

  • Day 1: Go to Rovaniemi and walk around the city
  • Day 2: Visit Santa’s village, visit husky dog ​​farm, experience reindeer riding, husky safari…
  • Day 3: Visit Santa park, Arkitum museum, aurora hunting
  • Day 4: Snowmobile, ski resort
  • Day 5: Bonfire camping, ice fishing, aurora hunting

Lapland travel blog: What to eat?

lapland travel advice

  • Reindeer meat: The most popular livestock in Lapland. People in Lapland will often raise a lot of reindeer for fur and meat. Therefore, reindeer meat is a specialty that you must try!
  • Smoked salmon
  • Muikku fish

These are famous local dishes in Lapland. In addition, you should combine going to the supermarket in Rovaniemi if you want to have a cheap self-sufficient trip.

Lapland blog: Traveling cost

lapland travel advice

The cost of a self-sufficient travel, I think it largely depends on each individual. There are many factors that affect the trip costs such as where to stay, whether you rent a car, whether you participate in activities such as husky sledding, reindeer riding… I give a few basic costs below:

  • Meals: €12/meal. If you buy food from the supermarket to cook, you can comfortably spend about €20 a day.
  • Hotel: The lowest price is about €30 per person. The highest is about €300-400.
  • Traveling: €12/day. If you rent a car, it will increase to €40-50/person/day. Participate in other activities: Each activity costs about €30-40.

I think for comfort, the traveling cost is about €150 a day, all inclusive. Of course, this cost is higher than in the capital Helsinki or other European countries but still lower than Norway, Switzerland…

Lapland travel guide: Some tips before you go

  • The most commonly spoken languages ​​in Finnish Lapland are Swedish and Finnish. However, most people living in the city will speak English fluently. So, you can rest assured!
  • You should exchange money at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. It is best to exchange at legitimate counters for the best and safe exchange rates.

lapland travel advice

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Lapland you can refer to

  • Lapland 2 Day Tour from Rovaniemi
  • Highlights of Rovaniemi Day Tour
  • The Frozen Waterfalls of Korouoma Day Tour from Rovaniemi
  • [DISCONTINUED] Lapland Wellness and Relaxation Tour
  • Aurora Borealis Small Group Tour with Free Photos from Rovaniemi
  • Rovaniemi: Lapland Northern Lights Tour with BBQ
  • Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Village and Arctic Circle
  • Rovaniemi: Snowman World Entrance Ticket
  • Lapland: Husky Carriage Ride Under the Northern Lights
  • Rovaniemi: Apukka Husky Adventure

lapland travel advice

Read more Trip review to the fairy tale Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi, Lapland – Finland , Where to stay in Lapland Findland and Finland travel guide here .

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The Mindful Traveller

The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Travel Guide to Lapland, Finland in Winter

29 April 2022 · In: Finland , Lapland , Travel

lapland travel advice

Are you planning a trip to Lapland in winter? This complete travel guide gives you everything you need to prepare for your dream vacation in magical Finland.

From reindeer to dog sledding and snowshoe hiking, Lapland has so much to offer and will not disappoint you! I stayed there for one week, and I loved it.

This article is also perfect for first-timers and covers all the best things to do for an unforgettable winter gateway. In addition, I share my 7-day experience for more travel tips and insights. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure  here .

Day 7 – Another Day of Cross-Country Skiing

Where is lapland.

Lapland is not a country but a region of northern Europe lying within the Arctic Circle and stretching across northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland and into the Kola Peninsula of Russia.

Although Lapland is well-known in Finland, it occupies a good part of Sweden and Norway.

The reason why the Lapland region is underpopulated is mainly due to the rough climate. But, it does not mean that the area is empty. The native Sami people who have lived there since ancient times have managed to preserve their traditions, reindeer herding way of life and unique language.

In this article, we will be focusing exclusively on Finnish Lapland.

How to get to Lapland

Lapland is accessible and well-connected to the rest of the world by air, road and rail. 

  • By air:  The easiest way to reach Lapland is by plane. The main airports with daily scheduled flights are Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Kuusamo and Ivalo. If you can not find direct routes from where you live, you can stop in Helsinki first and make a connection. 
  • By rail:  A reliable rail network runs through Lapland, linking it to different parts of Finland, such as Helsinki. For example, you can take a night train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. Kemijarvi, Kemi and Kolari are also areas with well-served railway stations.
  • By road:  You can reach Lapland by public transport and buses from almost any part of Finland. You can also rent a car and drive to Lapland. If you come from Helsinki , you will pass through Lahti, Jyvaskyla and Oulu. Finnish roads are in good condition, and it will take 10 to 15 hours to drive, depending on how far north you go. However, driving this route in winter is not recommended due to bad weather and lack of visibility. Read more below for winter driving tips.

lapland travel advice

Where to go and stay in Lapland

Lapland offers many sights and activities. Whilst the best place to go depends on the season, most travellers will come to Lapland in winter to experience a magical snowy and festive paradise. 

But, how to decide which area is best for you and fits your trip? Here are some of the best-known winter wonderlands: 

1- Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is the official capital of Lapland and one of the top places for a Christmas visit. It is well-located and close to many best sites. Additionally, it is an ideal base for tours and experiences that will allow you to discover Lapland in greater depth.

Where can I meet Santa? At Santa Park, an indoor Christmas theme park.

Kittilä is another popular holiday resort further north and a bit more remote, offering plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoe hiking. You can also meet reindeer and explore a snow village. It is where we decided to stay for a week, and we did not regret it. The area was great for relaxing and discovering the unique side of Lapland. 

Where can I meet Santa? At the Snow Village or Santa’s Secret Cabin.

Ivalo is a village on the Ivalo River known as a gateway to Saariselkä, an arctic resort area to the south. It is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and get away from it all. To its southeast, you can find Urho Kekkonen National Park, home to pine forests and reindeer. It has many trails and offers ideal viewpoints of the Northern Lights. 

Where can I meet Santa? At Santa’s Creek, a quaint log cabin in the woods.

Kuusamo is a town located southeast of Rovaniemi. It offers direct access to Ruka, a beautiful ski resort. It is also the area where you can discover Santa’s secret cottage and go on husky sledge rides.

Where can I meet Santa? At Santa’s secret cottage.

How to get around Lapland & road conditions

Lapland is an area well served by bus and train and is easy to explore using public transport , especially if you are staying in the same place. However, I would recommend renting a car if you are comfortable driving on snowy roads, as it will allow you to travel further and discover remote areas. 

Luckily, my brother lived in Helsinki and had his own, which was big enough for us, so it was easy to get around. You can rent yours at the airport when you arrive. Your car will be equipped for snowy roads. However, I recommend being careful: some areas, like the huskies, were challenging to access. 

DRIVING IN WINTER IN LAPLAND

Driving in winter in Lapland is possible but can be an adventure! The roads will be covered with snow and sometimes ice, but your car will have snow tires – although they are not magic. You will still need to drive slowly and take your time. 

Here are more tips for driving in Lapland in winter: 

  • Always have your lights on, no matter what time of day.
  • Go slowly! No need to rush. 
  • Use the engine heater for a while before going, if possible.
  • If your battery stop working, do not panic and call your rental company.
  • Be warned: Lapland is a reindeer country, and they can sometimes appear in the middle of the road. 
  •  If you come across an elk, stop immediately and wait for the elk to go.

Special note about electric cars : Electric car batteries will work in Lapland, but you might expect a reduced battery range due to cold weather. Keep that in mind when planning your trip.

lapland travel advice

Best time to visit Lapland

Lapland is a year-round destination offering many activities and possibilities whatever the season. From Northern Lights to Midnight Sun, here is an overview of the two main seasons in Lapland: 

  • Summer (June-August) : Summer has many wonders to offer: from beautiful sceneries to the Midnight Sun, a natural phenomenon when the sun does not leave the sky for almost 24 hours every day. I experienced it in Helsinki in June, and it was impressive! In addition, the temperatures during this period will be mild but perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking or cycling.
  • Winter (December-March) : Lapland is undoubtedly a perfect winter gateway. During this season, the landscapes are magical and covered in snow, the ice villages and hotels are open, and you can enjoy many unforgettable activities such as dog sledding or meeting reindeer. Of course, you can also observe the Northern Lights dance in the sky. But on the other hand, it will be peak tourist season, and the weather can be unpredictable and rough. 

READ MORE: 10 Best Northern Lights Holiday Tours in Norway

Best things to do in Lapland in winter

There are so many incredible things to do in Lapland in winter. This place is truly a winter wonderland. Whatever the length of your stay, you will have a memorable time!

Here is a short list of the top 10 things to do in Lapland in winter : 

  • Chase the Northern Lights
  • Take a husky safari
  • Meet Santa Claus
  • Encounter reindeer
  • Go skiing on magical slopes
  • Explore remote areas by snowshoe hiking
  • Visit or/and sleep in an ice hotel
  • Enjoy a Finnish sauna and ice bath
  • Discover unique landscapes by cross-country skiing
  • Learn more about the Sami culture 

READ MORE: 15 Best Things to Do in Levi, Finnish Lapland

Unforgettable experiences I recommend

What to pack for lapland in winter.

The best way to visit Lapland in winter and enjoy the cold weather is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of how you pack your suitcase is essential. Here are some clothing items and gear you need to be comfortable on your winter trip: 

  • Boots : You will need good boots that keep your feet warm and dry during outdoor activities. I had some  Sorel boots , and they were perfect. Super comfortable, and my feet were never wet or cold – I strongly recommend them.
  • Winter thermal socks : Wearing quality socks is essential to keeping your feet warm. Mine were  thick thermal socks   that I used for hiking or skiing,   and I loved them.
  • Coat : One of the most necessary elements for a winter gateway! Choosing a coat that is right for you and can adapt to the types of activities you want to do is essential. I wore a  Fjällräven Nuuk parka , and once again, it was perfect. Buying a quality cold-weather jacket is expensive, but you will not regret it. This coat has kept me warm for my winter trips and adapted to all activities.
  • Base layers and second layers : These layers are crucial if you want to stay warm. The base layers are usually long-sleeved thermal t-shirts, and the second layers can be thin thermal sweaters or thick jumpers, depending on the temperature and how many layers you want to wear. They do not need to be fancy, but I recommend having several to switch over the week.
  • Gloves and hats : Once again, enjoying the cold weather of Lapland without gloves or a hat sounds impossible! You can not forget to protect your head and hands when visiting a Nordic country. I also recommend you wear waterproof gloves for extra protection and a padded hat.
  • Scarf : The scarf will depend on your preferences, as many people do not enjoy feeling something around their neck, especially when hiking or skiing. But because the wind can be strong, I had a  Buff . It was one of my favourite items! The one I chose was lightweight and thermal and incredibly useful. Buff products are much easier to wear than long scarves and can adapt to different situations.
  • Pants : The type of pants you wear will most likely depend on your activity. Most of the time, I wore my jeans with tights for this trip. However, for some places or activities like skiing, having windproof/waterproof pants was a must.

lapland travel advice

Lapland, Finland – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Lapland travel guide: my 7-day winter experience

In the winter of 2020, my mum and I went to Lapland in Finland to meet my brother. During this trip, I journaled our adventures each day as a method to collect memories and reflect on what I learned.

I usually prefer to keep the journals for myself, but for this article, I decided to share a part of it and my thoughts in a raw format, hoping to inspire your next trip to Lapland and encourage you to slow travel. Take more time to discover the destination you visit and set aside a moment to write each day. You will be surprised by the incredible benefits travel journaling provide.

Day 1 – Discovering Levi

My mum and I left Manchester early in the morning to catch our flight to Lapland. I already visited Finland a few years ago, Helsinki and Turku, to be precise, and I liked it. I enjoyed the calm and peacefulness these places were bringing out. But this time, we were going north to Lapland, and I could not wait to discover this incredible region.

We spent the day on planes before arriving in  Kittila  at 6pm (the closest airport to where we were staying). It was already nighttime, and we could not see anything, but the surroundings looked beautiful.

My brother picked us up and drove to our cabin in  Levi . There was a lot of snow everywhere, although the temperature was not too bad, around minus three.

We arrived at the cabin where we met Annika, my brother’s girlfriend, and her dog Alma. They showed us around the chalet and our rooms. It was a traditional and lovely Finnish cottage, with a large living room to warm up by the fire and relax after a long day of skiing and a terrace with a beautiful and peaceful view.

We did not do much that night as we were all tired from the journey. We went to bed early, excited for the next day.

Day 2 – Skiing in Levi

We all woke up quite late that morning, at 10am ( sunrise = 11am / sunset = 2pm ). We had breakfast, got ready and went  skiing  for the day. I was a bit anxious as I had not skied for five years, but I remembered everything quickly and had so much fun!

We stopped skiing for lunch and headed back to the cabin to eat. It was nice to do a break, and the temperature was not too bad again, but the weather was quite cloudy.

We went back to ski after lunch. The sun was already setting, and the colours were beautiful, as was the view on top. We stopped for a drink in a small bar in the middle of a slope and gave back the skis around 6pm.

We spent the evening relaxing and playing some games. I also tried to look for the northern lights but did not see any.

Notes: life is expensive! 

Some Finnish words: yes = joo no = ti  thank you = kiitos  please = ole kilti hello = moi goodbye = hyvästi / moi moi (my favourite word)

lapland travel guide

Day 3 – Snowshoe Hiking to Kätkä

We woke up at 10am, and the sun was slowly rising. We had breakfast and got ready for a  snowshoe hike . The weather was sunny and beautiful. The temperature was colder than the other days, minus fifteen.

We put on snowshoes that we had rented nearby and started the hike to  Kätkä  (3,6km). The climb was tough, but the view at the end made it worth it. The colours were gorgeous. We enjoyed this moment for a bit and went back down before the sun was completely gone to give our snowshoes back.

After spending the evening shopping in the town centre of Levi, we went home to play new board games.

lapland travel guide

Day 4 – Cross-Country Skiing in Levi

As my brother was still sleeping, Annika, my mum and I decided to go  cross-country skiing , which was my first time. We left the house around 11am with our skis and walked to the starting point. The weather was very cloudy but still not too cold. I was warm most of the time as this type of ski is very physical. You have to push a lot on your legs and arms. I fell a few times but tried again. These skis were so much lighter and slicker than the ones I am used to usually, but I learnt a lot and enjoyed it.

We did a total of 3,5km, and I took a few pictures along the way. Alma, the dog, was with us, so Annika kept falling at first as Alma was running too fast! After that, we went back to the cabin around 1pm and had lunch.

We spent the afternoon relaxing inside. I took the time to write my Vietnam article, and Annika made a chocolate cake. Afterwards, we went to a local restaurant in Levi for the evening, serving only reindeer, which, unfortunately, was not my type of food – I had a bowl of fries.

We went back home and played some games before going to sleep. Our favourite game was Munchkin – I recommend you give it a try!

Notes: sunrise = 11am / sunset 2pm. Temperature = -10, but I am surprisingly never cold (we always do quite physical activities). / Finnish are very nice. / Landscapes and colours are incredible.

lapland travel advice

Day 5 – Reindeer at Lapinkylä Farm

After a good night sleep, I woke up at 9am and had breakfast. We left the house at 11am to  see reindeer at   Lapinkylä Farm , near our cabin. I was excited as I had never seen one before. The reindeer were all around the farm. We could still approach them with respect and not too close. The colours on that day were also beautiful – all blue and pink, the sky was clear, and the farm was in the middle of nowhere. It felt great.

lapland travel guide

We skied for the afternoon. The weather was still clear, so I went on my own to the top to take pictures. I took more time taking pictures than skiing, as the view and colours were absolutely gorgeous.

I then met up with Annika and my brother, and we went back down together, as the weather started to be suddenly cloudy and the sun was setting.

lapland travel advice

Day 6 – Snow Village & Dog Sledging

Snow village.

I woke up early that morning. I took the time to book the accommodation for my following trip to Iceland. Then, we got ready and left at 11am to visit a  snow village near Kittilä  (a 35-min drive). The entrance was 18€. It was nice, but nothing special in my opinion. It is also a hotel, so you can choose to sleep in ice rooms, which seems impossible to me as it is freezing. We ate there and continued our journey to the huskies (a 40-min drive).

Dog Sledging

We had an appointment for the huskies at 2pm, and I could not wait. When we arrived, we could already hear them. The place was called  Rami’s Husky , and it was beautiful, lost in the middle of nowhere. We said hi to the dogs, and the owner explained how to control the sledge. We were two people per sledge – one driver and one passenger. I did it with Annika. She started driving so I could take pictures, and we changed halfway (5km). It was going less fast than I expected, and we could use the breaks in case we needed them. It was incredible! My favourite experience of this trip.

The dogs were listening very well – we had 6, and the surroundings were stunning. It was not sunny, but it did not matter, as it was such a unique experience. After getting back to the camp, we cuddled with the dogs and went inside a cabin to eat sausages cooked on a fire, and we also had some tea. It was the perfect way to end the day.

Notes: you can have up to 12 dogs for the sledge. Minimum age = 1 year old / max = 12 years old. The owner had 120 dogs. They were Alaskan Huskies (faster) and Siberians (stronger). They love the cool temperature (fav = -20). During summer, they chill. They were all super cute and loved cuddles. The experience was just fantastic! I loved it and would love to work as a volunteer there. 

lapland travel guide

Evening Sauna

Then, we headed home, and the sun was already gone. The roads were all covered with snow, but the car had specific wheels for this kind of weather. Once home, we enjoyed the sauna all together. It felt incredible after this long day outside. (side note – every building, apartment, house and cabin has a sauna in Finland).

We ended the night playing more games.

Sunrise = 10:45am / sunset 2:15pm. Temperature = -10.

We woke up late and had breakfast. After that, I went  cross-country skiing  on a frozen lake with my mum. Cross-country skiing was so physical, and I did not enjoy it as much as slope skiing, but it was still great to try something new.

The sky was a bit cloudy, but the colours were still beautiful. I loved the peacefulness of this place.

Notes: in Finland, you say ski for cross-country skiing, as it is one of the principal sports in the country. 

We went through the lake and back for an hour. Then, we met my brother and Annika to eat. After that, Annika and my brother went cross-country skiing whilst my mum and I went shopping in the little town, where I found a lot of cute local crafts for my partner Matt and his family.

Finally, we went home and cooked our last meal together, enjoying the moment. I was sad to leave. I called Matt one more time whilst the others were playing a game and went to bed, ready to come home in the morning.

lapland travel advice

Sustainable travel in Lapland

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Finland is one of the greenest countries and is on a mission to fight climate change. So, what can you do to reduce your impact whilst exploring Lapland?

  • Book direct flights and offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase to be ready for your green adventure. 
  • Prioritise staying longer and not only one day . Lapland is the home of Santa Claus, and it is understandable why parents want to give their children the opportunity to meet the man himself, but it is essential to think about the impact these 24-hour visits have. They are not beneficial socially, environmentally, or economically. That is why you are better off spending at least four or five days in Lapland and immersing yourself in the unique Finnish culture.
  • Take part in tourist activities benefiting the local community and economy or hire a local guide . Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more rooted in money than traditional culture! And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. – Check out this article for more ecotourism activity inspiration: Top Ecotourism Activities Around the World .
  • Try to avoid snowmobiling . Instead, go cross-country skiing or snowshoe hiking to slow travel in remote places or ice skate on a frozen lake and experience nature cleanly!
  • Buy and eat local and seasonal . Finland presents incredible produce ranging from fresh fish to tangy berries and reindeer. It has a lot to offer, so support local. It also applies to souvenirs. Shop local crafts and ask questions about the product and its origins.
  • Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Finnish words!

Want to know more?

  • The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
  • 10 Best Ethical Coats for Iceland in Winter

10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably

  • 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Download your free sustainable travel checklist ↓

lapland travel advice

Lapland travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your winter trip to Lapland stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Lapland. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Lapland is easy and is a great way to explore the Finnish region freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Lapland is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Winter in Lapland FAQ

4 to 5 days is an ideal amount of time to discover Finnish Lapland and experience the best of the region. However, staying as long as possible is always great as Lapland offers so many things to do: skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking, ice skating, fishing, dog sledging, visiting snow villages, and more.

Winter is the best season to visit Lapland and enjoy a unique snowy gateway. Between November and March, the landscapes are breathtaking, activities are endless, children can meet Santa, and you will have the chance to see the Northern Lights.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland is from mid-August until early April. However, contrary to what one might think, the best chances of spotting them are at the beginning and end of the season when the weather is less cloudy.

Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Ivalo and Kuusamo are some of the best regions to experience the best of Finnish Lapland. Each of these areas offers something unique depending on what you want to do and will provide you with unforgettable memories.

lapland travel guide

And you, have you ever visited Lapland or would you like to go one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Travel like a local in Lapland - Tips from locals

 Nobody knows the hidden treasures of Finnish Lapland like the people of Finnish Lapland. Though in most places, you’re most likely to run into a reindeer than another living soul, the locals of Lapland know best how to take advantage of all the Arctic has to offer. We know the best seasons and spots for travelers hunting the awe-inspiring auroras. We know best how to avoid being eaten alive by mosquitoes in the summer. We know all the best snowmobile routes, the magical forest trails, the grand vistas and secret coves.

Northern Lights – Your Lapland Guide to Aurora Borealis

8 best reasons to visit lapland in the summer, road trip 7 awesome lapland routes, lace up your boots: hiking lapland, fishing above ordinary: 8 tips for anglers in lapland, brick by frozen brick - lapland's snowcastles & ice buildings, how to make a lapland snow lantern, how to write a letter to santa claus, 8 best ways to experience the northern lights in lapland, 8 ways to look cool in lapland, sun, sand & sup boards: the 8 best beaches in lapland, 8 tips for freeriding in lapland.

There’s no better way to truly experience Finnish Lapland than to travel and play like the locals. We’ve been here for years, decades and centuries. Though Lapland is as big as some countries, we know it like the back of our hands, and we  definitely know  better than a canned trip planned by a travel agent in a country thousands of kilometers away.   

    Your trip to Lapland should be YOUR trip, defined by what you want to experience and tailored for you. If you want to spend your time in a car, traversing the thousand-kilometer roads, we know the most scenic routes in the north. If you want to escape the cities and press of human flesh, we know the trails that will lead you away from the urban sprawl and into the heart of the wilderness. (And if you  wanna  take some #killer photos, well, we know all the most  instagrammable  spots too.)  

    Locals know the best places to see the Northern Lights , whether you want to get there on foot, by snowmobile, or in the back of a reindeer sleigh. Through centuries of experience, we know the best season, the best time of day … hell, we know the best camera settings for getting that perfect photo of the  whirling  wonders.  

    Our expertise comes from generations of Lapland  natives  and newcomers. Most of our travel companies and the guides they employ are locals, people not just trained but practically experts in keeping warm when the temperatures drop to -20 °C , keeping the mosquitoes at bay at midsummer, and how to de-stress and unwind in a steamy sauna, no matter the season.  So join us, and we’ll show you how to travel local.  

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30 Incredible Places To Visit In Finnish Lapland in 2024 (+ Map!)

Are you trying to find the best places in Finnish Lapland to visit ? This post is a guide to some of the most amazing towns, villages, and natural areas in Finnish Lapland .

Finnish Lapland is full of incredible places to visit and to curate a list of what I believe to be the best was a challenge!

This post not only focuses on visiting Lapland during winter , but I have also included highlights for each destination for those visiting Finnish Lapland in summer .

If you feel I have missed your favorite place in Finnish Lapland, please leave a comment below!

Best places to visit in Finnish Lapland

1. rovaniemi.

Rovaniemi is most famously known for being the capital of Lapland and the “official” home of Santa Claus . It is also one of the best places in Finland for catching a glimpse of the northern lights .

During World War II, Rovaniemi was almost destroyed, but today, it is a vibrant modern city jam-packed with things to do. Open all year, exploring Santa Claus Village is a must.

Be sure to stop by Rovaniemi church to admire local architecture and visit Arktikum if you want to learn more about the Arctic. Wildlife lovers will enjoy the husky and reindeer parks during winter in Rovaniemi.

Rovaniemi in summer is perfect for adrenaline junkies who can try water sports at the Roiske – Center of Summer Activities .

2. Saariselka

Saariselka is a picturesque resort town that can be found 250km (155 mi) north of the Arctic Circle . It is the northernmost Ski Resort in Finland .

This resort village is a center for Lapland winter activities and it serves as a gateway to Urho Kekkonen National Park . Saariselka is best known for its cross-country skiing and downhill skiing possibilities.

When you’re not tackling the slopes or admiring the snowy scenery, ride Lapland’s longest Toboggan Run at Aurora Tobogganing and eat at the Northern Lights Village restaurant .

In summer, you could go hiking with huskies on a safari tour . You’ll have the chance to meet the husky pups, take photographs of the scenery, and stop off at scenic viewpoints for something to eat.

Levi is a small city in western Lapland . It is home to frozen lakes, river valleys, ski resorts, and mindblowing views of the Arctic landscape. During the winter months, Levi is a popular ski resort. There are more than 40 slopes to ski down.

If you’re looking for an extreme winter activity, you could even try ice swimming ! Lying back on the icy water and staring up at the sky is seriously impressive.

Don’t worry about the cold- you’ll be given a survival suit. More reserved explorers might prefer to learn about Sámi culture at the nearby Samiland exhibition . Here, you’ll learn all about Sámi mythology and the Sámi people .

Popular summer activities include golfing, mountain biking, and relaxing at the lakeside beach.

Inari is a popular destination for tourists who want to spot the northern lights, ride a sleigh pulled by huskies, visit a reindeer farm, and try cross-country skiing. However, the biggest draw is the Sámi culture because the town is the cultural center for the Sámi .

Therefore, a trip to Inari wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Siida – The Sámi Museum and Nature Centre.

The museum offers a unique insight into the history, folklore, and culture of the ancient community. It features permanent and temporary exhibitions and is also home to a fascinating craft shop. Make sure you visit the stunning Lake Inari too, especially in summer!

If you’re looking for somewhere unique to stay, consider staying in a traditional cabin at Holiday Village Inari .

Ivalo is just a 25-minute drive away from Saariselka and a 30-minute drive from Inari. The beauty of Ivalo, aside from its impressive landscape, is how many things there are to do.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for an active summer getaway or a cozy winter retreat- Ivalo has something for you! Sporty activities include snowmobiling , snowshoe hiking , and ice fishing .

Ivalo Trek Lapland offers unique Aurora Borealis snowmobile tours that take you out in search of the lights. More relaxing things to do include spa days and souvenir hunting in a local gift shop.

I recommend staying overnight in a glass igloo at Aurora Village during your trip!

Nuorgram is a small village with approximately 200 inhabitants in the Utsjoki municipality of Lapland. It is the most northern point of Finland and the European Union.

This area is best known for its salmon fishing, but there are plenty of things for travelers to do too. Most attractions in and around the village focus on sightseeing tours, adventure activities, and escapism.

In winter, you can explore Nuogram’s fell highlands with snowshoes and spend your time at the local reindeer farm. At the Nougram reindeer farm , you can learn how herding works and even help the local herder.

In summer, take a riverboat trip along the Tenojoki River and enjoy the peace and tranquility of Nuorgram Holiday Village .

Ruka is where you’ll find some of the best skiing slopes in Finland . Ruka Ski Resort offers thrill seekers a skiing season that lasts more than 200 days a year, so there’s a good chance a lot will be happening when you visit.

There are 39 slopes to race down and 22 ski lifts that will help you get to the top. Skiing isn’t the only activity on the agenda either!

You can also give snowboarding a go, get up close to Arctic animals like reindeer and huskies, and hit one of the many hiking trails. One of the most popular hiking trails in Ruka is the Pyhän Jyssäys trail , which leads to the top of Pikku-Pyhävaara and takes roughly 2-3 hours to complete.

Kuusamo is a 20-minute drive away from Ruka, near the Russian border. This town is also home to world-class skiing. However, Kuusamo does have more to offer than Ruka. Kuusamo is famous for its Sámi history , outdoor activities, and tranquility.

Oulanka National Park is one of the best places for exploring the Arctic wilderness, while Pohjolan Pirtti (aka Santa’s Cottage) is the perfect place to kick back and get cozy.

On this historic estate, you can learn about local culture, indulge in traditional food, and keep warm in the sauna. If you want to learn more about local history, visit the Pokkatörma outdoor museum .

In summer, Kuusamo is a popular bear-watching destination , with Karhu-Kuusamo offering overnight bear-watching cabins where there is a 99% chance you will see at least one bear.

Kemi, on the Bothnian Bay, is one of the larger towns in Arctic Finland, and its most famous attraction is t he Sampo Icebreaker . This is a large ship that is designed to break up the sea ice so ships can access the ports.

A cruise on this ship will take you out on the frozen sea. The scenery is mindblowing, and you’ll have the chance to walk on the ice.

You can even take a plunge into the sea behind the ship in a survival suit. In Kemi, you’ll find attractions like the SnowCastle and Kemi Lutheran church .

The SnowCastle is an ice castle that’s carved every year. In the summer, you can go boating in Bothnian Bay National Park. Stay at Seaside Glass Villas if you’re in the mood for a luxurious night’s stay in Kemi!

Ylläs, also known as Yllästunturi, is a 718-meter (2,355-foot) fell that’s 115km (71 mi) north of the Arctic Circle. The Ylläs area consists of two Lappish villages – Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi.

This area is best known for its Arctic wildlife, skiing slopes, hiking trails, and impressive Arctic terrain.

Along the Kesänkijärven Kierros trail , you might spot the Siberian jay , reindeer, Arctic fox , and the Eurasian three-toed woodpecker .

Ylläs is home to Finland’s largest ski resort , the most popular national park (Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park), and the only sauna gondola in the world.

The Ylläs Sauna Gondola is a 20-minute ride that takes you from the top of the fell to the gondola station and back.

Luosto is a fantastic place to visit if you want to spot the northern lights, explore the Arctic wilderness, ride a snowmobile, and learn more about Finnish culture and history.

A 510-meter (1,673 foot) fell in the Sodankylä municipality, Luosto makes up part of Pyhä-Luosto National Park . As a result, you’ll have easy access to nature trails and Lapland safari tours.

You can hike the trails in the summer and cross-country ski and snowshoe in winter. I recommend hiking the 7 km (4.3 mi) Tunturiaapa Nature Trail .

Thanks to a solid boardwalk, this trail makes it super easy to explore the area. Luosto is also near an Amethyst Mine . Here, you can dig for amethysts and learn more about the area’s history.

Posio is a smaller town in Lapland, but the town and surrounding areas pack a punch when it comes to things to do. It was the first destination in Finland to receive the Sustainable Travel Finland certification.

It is also the center of ceramics culture and home to Finland’s popular ice-climbing destination – Korouoma Canyon .

In Posio, you can explore endless landscapes, learn how to ice climb, and explore snow-capped forests.

If you want to take things a little slower, check out the Pentik Culture Centre , where you’ll find art galleries that display work from famous sculptures, furniture exhibits, and the International Coffee Cup Museum .

To learn about ceramic culture, visit The Arctic Ceramic Centre .

To escape the daily grind, visit Salla. Described as being in the middle of nowhere, this municipality is the land of Arctic adventures, the northern lights, and reindeer.

Skiing, feeding reindeer, hiking, and exploring the vast Arctic landscape are all on the agenda.

Salla is where you will find one of the starting points of the iconic Bear’s Trail , the most popular multi-day hike in Finland. Along the route, you will hike along gorges, ridges, and beside picturesque lakes.

This bucket list trail shows you the stunning views and unique nature of Arctic Finland.

Salla is also home to Salla National Park, where you can wildlife watch. You might spot reindeer, golden eagles, and bean geese. On cold or rainy days check out the Museum of War and Reconstruction in the center of town!

14. Kilpisjärvi

Kilpisjarvi is a small, yet vibrant village close to the Norwegian border . Sitting lakeside, the village is dominated by Saana Fell. You can also see the great fells of Finland and Norway in the distance from Kilpisjärvi.

This region is most popular among outdoor enthusiasts and hikers as it is super easy to explore the Arctic fells all year round.

Popular hiking trails include the Saana Path, Saana Nature Trail, and the Malla Trail.

Places you’ll want to see during your visit include Malla Strict Nature Reserve , Kilpisjärvi visitor centre , and the Three Nation’s Border Point. After a long day of hiking, enjoy traditional food at Ravintola Kilpis .

15. Utsjoki

Utsjoki’s colorful villages, rugged landscapes, and aurora borealis possibilities allow tourists to experience the true beauty and culture of Arctic Finland.

The small municipality has a population that is far outnumbered by reindeer. It is also the area in Finland with the largest number of Sámi speakers.

When you’re not searching for the aurora, head out and explore the fells and Ice Age glaciers. Popular activities include biking, snowshoeing, Arctic Ocean exploring, and shopping in the villages.

Cycling is particularly popular in the area and is expected to grow with the development of a new European Union bike road project called ‘ The Arctic Bikepacking Trail. ’

I recommend visiting the Sámi villages and River Teno during your trip too! Hotel Utskoki offers a stunning log igloo just 6 km (3.7 mi) away from the town center.

16. Sevettijärvi

Sevettijiärvi is a wilderness gateway that sits within reach of the Arctic Ocean. Despite offering some of the best views in Arctic Finland, Sevettijärvi is most famous for being the center of the Skolt Sámi .

The village is known for its Skolt Sámi population, with 90% of the people keeping the Skolt Sámi language alive. Today, it is only spoken by approximately 300 people, most of whom are in Finland.

To learn more about Sami culture, stop by the Skolt Sámi Heritage House . In winter and summer, you can explore the wilderness that surrounds Sevettijärvi on foot.

Popular destinations include the Sevetti-Pulmanki Trail , Vätsäri Wilderness Area , and River Näätämöjoki , which is a popular salmon fishing spot too (although river fishing can only be done with a license).

After a long day of hiking, tuck into authentic reindeer herring with mashed potatoes at Sevetin bar .

17. Kaamanen

Kaamanen is a small village in the Inari municipality. There are only 200 residents in the village and almost all of them rely on reindeer herding and tourism.

This part of Arctic Finland is most famous for bird watching and hiking. Species of birds you can expect to see in the area include Siberian jay, pine grosbeak , willow grouse , and gray-headed chickadee .

You might spot these species of bird along the Tuuruharju Nature Trail . However, the best place to spot birds in the area is at the Kaamasjoki River , which is a 12-minute drive away.

Kaamanen is also close to Lake Inari, the third-largest lake in Finland . Here, there are over 3,000 islands to explore, some of which were sacrificial grounds for ancient people.

The town of Muonio is surrounded by Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park , making it one of the best places for exploring the wilderness.

Muonio is also an excellent place to spot the northern lights. However, you’ll need luck on your side and a perfectly clear night!

In winter, hit the snowy trails with your snowshoes on, visit the resident reindeer, play with local huskies, and visit the Pallastunturi visitor centre.

In summer, look for bears on a wildlife safari, and mountain bike the Olos Peak Trail . This is a rugged 6.1 km (3.7-mile) loop trail through the local forests. Check out Ravintola Karmmari and their reindeer menu for something interesting to eat.

19. Kittila

Kittila is a popular holiday resort in the Lapland region. One of the best attractions in Kittila is a hotel called Lapland Hotels Snow Village .

This is a famous ice hotel that turns into a winter wonderland with sculptures, suites, restaurants, and bars made out of ice. Every year, the hotel is built in a new design.

The resort is also home to several adventure tour companies that will take you into the wilderness to explore. You can ride snowmobiles, go ice-karting, and ski amongst other activities.

I highly recommend visiting Maglelin . This husky safari allows you to stay overnight on-site, giving you more time to get to know the huskies.

20. Kemijärvi

Kemijärvi is a stunning lakeside town in eastern Lapland. This charming town offers travelers the best of both worlds. There are plenty of things to do in the town and endless options in the wilderness that surrounds it.

What I love most about Kemijärvi is the array of things to do in summer and winter. In winter, you can check out the local museums (the Museum of Local History is one of the best), head out on a scenic day trip, and huddle around a campfire with a hot chocolate.

In the summer, you can boat along the lakes, relax at the beach, and enjoy the summertime music festival. This midnight summer festival brings together a renowned line-up of artists.

21. Sodankylä

If you’re looking for lots of things to do in Arctic Finland, visit Sodankylä. Just 1 hour from Rovaniemi, Sodankylä offers everything from winter sports activities and the northern lights to wildlife activities and cultural experiences.

In terms of winter activities, you can ski, dog sleigh ride, and ice swim. You can also head out on winter photography trips or watch the local reindeer races .

If you visit Sodankylä in June, you can enjoy the Midnight Sun Film Festival . This is a 5-day film festival that sees venues across Sodankylä play films 24 hours a day.

Key highlights in the town include Nilimella Beach, The Old Church, The Old Saami Marketplace , and Piitsi pub .

22. Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park

The iconic Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is a dream destination for any nature lover. This national park has some of the world’s most breathtaking views, extremely pure air, and an abundance of wildlife.

Super accessible, the park is suitable for both inexperienced and experienced hikers, and families with children.

The trails will allow you to admire the rich Arctic landscapes. My favorite trail is the Varkaankurunpolku Trail . This trail is only 3.5 km (2.1 mi) long and it winds through dense forest to the bottom of a ravine, where you can see the fell stream.

In terms of wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for brown bears, lynx , willow grouse, and reindeer.

23. Lemmenjoki National Park

Lemmenjoki National Park was founded in 1956 and it currently spans 2,850 km (1,770 mi), which makes it the largest national park in Finland.

Aside from offering one of the biggest wilderness areas to explore in Europe, Lemmenjoki National Park is considered the gateway to the homelands of the Sámi people.

After learning about the Sámi people, head into the park to hike ( the Joenkielinen Loop is one of my favorites), boat, cross-country ski, and pan for gold.

A guided river trip will help you explore the wild. After a busy day, tuck into a hearty bowl of reindeer stew and look out for the Northern Lights at Ahkun Tupa .

24. Urho Kekkonen National Park

Urho Kekkonen National Park is one of Finland’s largest protected areas. It extends eastwards towards the Russian border.

This remote part of Arctic Finland is best known for its trekking. Whether on foot in the summer or on skis in the winter, Urho has more than 200 km (124 mi) of trails to explore.

Popular trails you should consider hiking include Aurorapolku , Kiirunapolku , and Luulampi . As you trek through the park, you’ll pass through reindeer herding areas, where during the round-up times, huge herds of reindeer may gather!

You’ll also have a great chance to spot golden eagles, wolverines , and bears. Korvatunturi fell inside the national park and it is famously the home of Santa Claus in Finnish culture. For a romantic getaway, check out Wilderness Hotel Muotka & Igloos .

25. Oulanka National Park

Oulanka is an epic Finnish national park that combines northern, eastern, and southern nature.

Protected by the World Wide Fund for Nature , Oulanka has a unique river ecosystem and untouched boreal forest that features river valleys and rapids. The best way to explore this park is by hiking or on a guided tour.

There are hiking trails open all year round ( Kiutakönkään Polku Trail and the Hiiden Hurmos Trail ) and guided tours leave from the visitor center.

I recommend visiting the visitor center because you’ll be able to learn more about the park through exhibitions and presentations.

On a guided tour, you’ll cross hanging bridges, walk alongside the rapids, and find impressive waterfalls.

26. Riisitunturi National Park

Riisitunturi National Park was established in 1982 and it covers 77 square km (30 square mi) of mountainous area near Posio.

Incredibly photogenic, this national park is a great destination for snowshoers, cross-country skiers, bird watchers, and trekkers.

In winter, spruce trees cover most of the national park’s hillsides with a layer of thick frost, creating the perfect winter scene for hiking day trips.

Once winter has passed, the park comes to life with vibrant colors. There are over 40 km (25 mi) of marked trails to walk.

Two of the best are Riisin rääpäsy and Riisin rietas . You can also tackle the summit of Riisituntrui. Some hikes will also take you to the old hunting pits.

After a day of hiking in the park stop by Erakahvila Tykky at the park entrance for a cup of coffee or tea by the fire place.

27. Äkäslompolo

Äkäslompolo is a small village with a population of less than 500. It is one of the Ylläs villages, and it’s situated next to a large lake.

Äkäslompolo is famous for its snowy terrain, Arctic wildlife, and ski slopes. If you’re not exploring the wilderness or meeting the local husky and reindeer residents, you’ll probably find yourself getting a sweat on in a traditional Finnish sauna .

At Ylläsen’s Night Tree , you can rest by the fire in a sauna before taking a refreshing dip in the ice-cold sea. If you want to try something different, you could also do an escape room at Arctic Secrets .

28. Enontekiö

Enontekiö is a sparsely populated region of Finnish Lapland that has a wide range of attractions. Finland’s highest point is found in this region: the Halti fell. It stands at 1,324 meters (4,343 feet) and is a prime location for hiking.

However, the hike to the Halti is intense. It consists of a multi-day wilderness trek and requires excellent fitness. You could hike the Tsahkaljärvi – Saanajärven Kota out-and-back 10.8 km (6.7 mi) trail near Enontekiö instead.

In winter, this nature paradise is a popular winter sports destination too. You can ski, ride with huskies, and sit in saunas by the lakes.

29. Käsivarsi Wilderness Area

Käsivarsi Wilderness Area is where you can find Finland’s most mountainous scenery. As such, this area is best known for its nature and outdoor activities. Of course, the most popular thing to do here is hike.

All year round, you can reach Halti Fell from along the Nordkalott Trail . The Saana Fell walk from Kilpisjärvi village is more appropriate for less experienced hikers though.

The Nordkalott Trail is 800 km (497 mi) long in total, so you’ll never run out of scenic walks and viewpoints.

You can also go fishing (on moving water you will need a license), skiing, kayaking, and sledding in this wilderness area. If you want to learn about nature in the region, visit the Kilpisjärvi visitor centre .

The city of Tornio sits on the border between Finland and Sweden. Tornio was developed into a Lapland trade hub in the 16th century, and for almost 170 years, it was the northernmost city in the world.

Today, the city has more than 21,000 residents and a huge variety of different things to see and do.

Major points of interest in the city include the Church of Tornio, Aine Art Museum , Museum of Tornio Valley , and Duudsonit Activity Park .

Tornio also has a lively jazz scene, so you might want to listen to some live music in the evening. Kalott Jazz & Blues hosts regular events across the city.

Best places to visit in Finnish Lapland (on a map!)

🗺️  HOW TO USE THIS MAP: You can use your fingers/mouse to zoom in and out. To get more info about a place, simply touch/click the icons. Want to save this map for later use? Click the ‘⭐’ by the map title and it will add it to your Google Maps account (Saved > Maps or ‘Your Places’).

Did I miss any of your favorite places to visit in Finnish Lapland? If so, please share your suggestions in the comments below!

More Finnish Lapland travel guides

  • 31 epic things to do in Finnish Lapland
  • Visit the 7 best national parks in Finnish lapland
  • 12 reasons to visit Rovaniemi in summer
  • How to go bear watching in Kuusamo
  • How to see the northern lights in Finnish Lapland
  • Visiting a Rovaniemi reindeer farm in the summer
  • 19 fun things to do in Rovaniemi in winter and at Christmas!
  • How to go ice fishing in Rovaniemi on snowshoes! 

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12 Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland

12 Of The Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland (1)

Perched in the northernmost part of Finland , Lapland is a stunning and pristine wilderness to explore that’s got everything from the northern lights, polar nights and the midnight sun (in the summer months). Trust me when I say, you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for the best things to do in Lapland.

The Northern Lights Village And Star Arctic... In Lapland, Finland (32)

Whether you’re going for a festive getaway, to explore more about Sami culture or to experience some of that winter-wonderland like landscapes, you’ll honestly find so much to do on your visit to Finnish Lapland .

It’s a gorgeous part of the world to explore.

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After our most recent trip to Swedish Lapland, which you might have seen on Instagram , I wanted to share some of my top places and the best things to do in Lapland that’ll suit any taste.

12 Of The Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland (19)

Take a look below for some of the best things to do in Lapland. You’re gonna love it here. 🇫🇮

1.) See the Northern Lights 

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The northern lights are a sight to behold, especially on a clear day and when the solar flare is forecast to be high. It really is one of the best things to do in Lapland, especially as you’re so far north.

Now, there are lots of opportunities to spot the northern lights but you will need to get away from light pollution if you really want to see the full spectrum of colours. That being said, some hotels and lodges will wake you up (on request) when the lights begin to appear.

Just remember to have your warm clothes ready (and your tripod if you want to photograph them). It really is a special thing to see.

2.) The Amethyst Mines

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Located in Lampivaara, the amethyst mines are one of the best things to do in Lapland, especially if you’re already in the area and love crystals.

Interestingly enough, in the winter months, there are no roads that connect the mines to the towns themselves.

This is when you have to either hop on the winter viechle (Which looks like a cross between a tractor and a tank) or find you’re own way to the mines. If you are looking for a challenge, a fairly strenuous snowshoe hike will take you there as well.

This ancient place is the only active amethyst mine remaining in all of Europe. Whilst you’re here, you’ll get an opportunity to plan for your own crystals too.

3.) Arktikum Science Museum

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If you fancy a little break from the sub-arctic winter, head over to the  Arktikum Science Museum that showcases how the Arctic is changing and what life is life so far north.

Plus, the museum has a gorgeous glass walk-through tunnel that leads to the Ounasjoki River. This is an excellent spot to catch unreal views of the Northern Lights on a dark evening or afternoon.

4.) Husky Sledding 

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Husky sledging is one of the best things to do in Lapland and has been an integral part of Sami culture for centuries.

Husky sledging is an essential, time-honoured practise in this region, and not surprisingly, you’ll be spoilt for choice in the type of tours that are offered. Some will be long runs that involve lots of mushing and a little running when you’re heading up steeper gradients.

Huskies, Reindeers And The Night The Northern Lights Came Out To Play! (25)

Other tours will be much more relaxing where you’ll be nestled up in blankets while a team of huskies, malamutes and other seasoned sled dogs take you on an exhilarating trip around Lapland.

5.) Pyha-Luosto National Park

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An ideal day-trip away from the hustle and bustle of Rovaniemi, this is a forest with a uniquely beautiful landscape dominated by ancient pines and picturesque lakes. Pyha-Luosto National Park is just stunning.

There are a number of trails available here, fit for most abilities, making it one of the best things to do in Lapland. That being said, do make sure you check local conditions and always speak with or go out with a guide.

The landscape can be very different from what most of us are used to and no one likes a careless hiker.

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Along your way, keep your eyes peeled for Rykimäkero Storage Holds (tiny houses) where hunters used to store their catches.

Oh, and before embarking on your adventures, start your morning with a stop at Café Loimu for a refreshing cup of strong coffee paired with the chef’s famous black bread.

6.) Saariselka

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Being one of the northernmost ski resorts in Europe,  Saariselka ski resort is one of the best things to do in Lapland if you love outdoor sports.

12 Of The Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland (12)

Now, the resort is divided into two separate sections, Kaunispaa and Ilisakkipa, which is a total paradise if you’re a winter thrill-seeker! Best of all, Saariselka has the longest toboggan run in all of Finland.

7.) Santa Claus Village

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Santa Claus Village , is what you’d expect, the place where Santa Claus lives!

Filled to the brim with everything Christmas, it’s one of the best things to do in Lapland, especially in the festive winter months.

12 Of The Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland (7)

Whilst here, explore everything from Santa’s Workshop to visiting the reindeers and spot Rudolph! From August to April, you can sit at the Arctic Garden after dark to witness some spectacular displays of the Northern Lights. This is, in fact, THE actual article circle that cuts through the heart of the amusement park, marked by a bright white line.

Fun fact: If you send a letter from this location, it actually arrives at the recipient as postmarked by Santa Claus’s Main Post Office!

8.) Santa Park

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A short walk away from Santa Claus’s Village is a magical underground themed park that has everything from; fluffy reindeers, sleigh rides and performances.

Whilst you’re here, make sure Mrs Gingerbread’s Bakery, the cutest elf workshop and Santa’s office. Oh, and hop on Santa’s train to take a journey through his journey. It really is a family-friendly spot that kids and grown-ups will love.

9.) Snow Village

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Located in Kittila, this is a hotel that is made completely from ice and snow from the region.

It is reconstructed each year, which means that the experience is never the same. The frosty setting is backlit by stunning lights, which gives it a fairy-tale-like appearance that’s so gorgeous at Christmas.

12 Of The Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland (5)

Aside from the rooms (to stay in), there’s also an ice slide for the kids (or big kids) along with an ice bar, restaurant and even a chapel for a unique wedding!

10.) Gorge on Lohikeitto

The Northern Lights Village And Star Arctic... In Lapland, Finland (21)

Probably one of my favourite meals to have in Scandinavia, Lohikeitto is a creamy soup filled with chunky salmon pieces, potatoes, leek and dill. Served piping hot, it’s so nice and really warms you up after a day exploring in the sub-zero temperatures.

Lots of the places you visit will serve some form of this (or possibly a beef goulash) but my favourite has to be Lohikeitto. It’s so yummy.

11.) Stay in a Glass Igloo

The Northern Lights Village And Star Arctic... In Lapland, Finland (44)

Perched in the Star Arctic Hotel , these glass igloos are some of the best things to do in Lapland. Especially if you want a unique experience.

The Northern Lights Village And Star Arctic... In Lapland, Finland (43)

Perched in one of the world’s best places to watch the northern lights, the igloos are the perfect spot to stay tucked up, nice and warm, in bed watching them dance overhead.

Read more: Seeing the Northern Lights at the Star Arctic Hotel

12.) Snowmobile safari

The Northern Lights Village And Star Arctic... In Lapland, Finland (19)

Passing over frozen lakes, thick sub-arctic forests and across rivers, a snowmobile safari is one of the best things to do in Lapland, especially if you’re a thrill-seeker.

Ranging from around 2-6 hours, there are a number of different options you can experience depending on what you like. From visiting the reindeer, watching the northern lights, stopping for lunch, there’s a stop that’ll suit everyone.

Just make sure you have a driving license and remember not to drink alcohol before heading out.

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Check the latest travel advice on visiting Lapland from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions.

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Learn more about the current safety and security risks from terrorism, natural disasters and more. Read about the local laws and customs to consider when travelling around Lapland.

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Lapland FAQs

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to Lapland including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from Lapland?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from Lapland. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the flight time to Lapland from the UK?

The flight time to Lapland from the UK is typically 6 hours .

Flights to Lapland

Flights to Lapland

What is the time difference between Lapland and the UK?

The time difference between Lapland and the UK is UK time+2 hours .

What is the main language spoken in Lapland?

The main language spoken in Lapland is Finnish .

What is the currency in Lapland?

The currency in Lapland is the Euro ( EUR ).

Which plugs are used in Lapland?

Lapland uses electrical plug type C + F (230 Volts) .

Which side of the road do they drive on in Lapland?

They drive on the right side of the road in Lapland.

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Top-Rated Lapland Tours

Great winter lapland, private tour, winter norway & finland, lapland vacation packages.

See the land of the Polar Night and Midnight Sun, Lapland! Pure wilderness and cozy houses attract travelers from all around the world. Would you like to visit the home of Santa Claus and the Sami family? Then do not hesitate to choose one of our winter tours to Lapland. Our Lapland vacations boast must-experience traditional activities, rich sightseeing with professional guides, and centrally located accommodations. Learn more about Lapland below, travel tips, and highlights of the itineraries.

Lapland Tour Highlights

Savor legendary Lapland, its colorful Aurora Borealis, and Arctic cities.

Learn more about snow-covered cities in Lapland, which activities and landmarks are worth adding to your Lapland itinerary. Arrange your dream tour together with a destination specialist.

Lapland Tour Highlights

  • Aurora Trail, Rovaniemi
  • Snowmobile Safari, Rovaniemi
  • Santa Claus Village , Rovaniemi
  • Husky Safari, Rovaniemi
  • Reindeer Sledge , Rovaniemi
  • Reindeer farm, Rovaniemi
  • Visit to a Sami Family , Inari
  • Sami Museum, Inari
  • The Glass Igloo Resort
  • The Snowman World, Rovaniemi

Tips for Lapland Travel

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What to pack

Make sure to pack warm shoes and clothes such as gloves, a hat, and a warm coat.

Make sure to try moose, raspberries, fish, mushrooms, Västerbotten cheese, and bread cheese.

It useful to have some local currency in cash for small purchase, you will need Euro for Lapland.

How much to tip

Usually, service is included in a bill. However, it's acceptable to add about 10-15%.

Lapland in winter is snowy and cold. An average temperature range of - 16 °C (3 °F) to 3 °C (37 °F).

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Lapland are warm socks, hats, reindeer horns, and spirits.

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Visit the Arctic Circle with Nordic Visitor for the chance to see the northern lights and enjoy magical winter landscapes. As a Lapland travel agency and tour operator, our knowledgeable experts take care of arranging your special trip for you, providing personal service and 24/7 support.

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Cool Nights in Ice hotels

Stay the night in the famed SnowCastle and ICEHOTEL.

Feel the festive cheer when meeting Father Christmas.

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Look out for the aurora and stargaze from a glass igloo.

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Winter Adventure at the Arctic Snowhotel

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Find out what our wonderful customers have experienced on their Lapland adventures.

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The tour activities on this trip were some of the best things we have ever done in our many years of international... read more

The tour activities on this trip were some of the best things we have ever done in our many years of international travel and everyone we were assisted by before and during our stay were very helpful, friendly and supportive so this added greatly to our overall fantastic experience.

We enjoyed all of the elements of our tour but in particular the safari by snowmobile tour which started at Nikkaluokta... read more

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Depend on our Lapland travel experts to plan your next adventure. They’ve explored Lapland and its festive hidden gems, and know the best spots for northern lights sightings and outdoor activities. Enjoy your stay in the knowledge that all of your tour is booked and organised for you.

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Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor has been creating unforgettable travel experiences in Lapland since 2010. Our local experts have all toured around the region, and they will use their experience to create your ideal itinerary. Choose our Lapland packages and you’ll take home unforgettable memories.

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Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence . We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

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We take care of all the details and practicalities for you. You will receive a comprehensive itinerary with any additional extras you’ve requested, plus tried-and-tested accommodation. As well as this, one of our travel experts is always on call 24/7 to handle any unforeseen situations.

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Flexible tour options

Everyone’s travel wish list is different and we are here to find the right package for you. We’ll enhance your stay with upgrades in glass igloos and hotels made of ice (depending on destination). We will also organise extra nights and activities that you’re keen to do.

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With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your holiday arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event that the company experiences insolvency.

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Nordic Visitor is a travel agency with a trusted network of hotels, local guides and suppliers, so when you book with us, you know that we’ve done the legwork and have extensively tested every aspect of a package. This also saves you time, meaning you can focus on enjoying your epic Lapland adventure.

Different Ways to Explore Lapland

Whatever you want to see and experience, we have the perfect Lapland package for you.

Visit Rovaniemi

Experience kiruna, honeymoon & romance, snowmobile adventures, journey by dogsled, new year trips, exploring lapland.

Soon the crunch of fresh snow will sound your every step, and the cold crisp air fill your lungs. Each morning, you’ll have a new adventure to remember. Get ready to…

  • Meet Father Christmas and visit his festive Santa Claus Village
  • Take a chair lift up to the Aurora Sky Station for a northern lights viewing
  • Gaze upon the tranquil wilderness of Abisko National Park
  • Mush across the vast Rovaniemi countryside on a husky sledding adventure
  • Sleep under the stars in a cosy glass igloo , where you’ll get a clear view of the skies above
  • Experience Lapland's peaceful forests on a guided  snowshoe excursion
  • Learn about Sámi traditions and culture in the city of Kiruna
  • Embark on a guided snowmobile excursion   through snow-blanketed countryside
  • Visit a Sámi reindeer farm and enjoy a thrilling guided sleigh ride
  • Stay in the dazzling ICEHOTEL , where everything from the bed to the bar is made of snow and ice

Lapland Travel Advice

Get ready for your brilliant trip to Lapland by exploring our handy travel guide.

What to pack for Lapland

The best advice we could give is to prepare for all types of weather

Climate and daylight

When does the sun set? What could the weather be like?

Northern Lights in Lapland

Lapland is an ideal place to see northern lights due to its location in the Arctic Circle

Accommodation in Lapland

Accommodation choices range from ice hotels to cabins, cottages and warm hotel rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lapland

You may want more information on visiting Lapland, so we’ve answered the most commonly asked questions for your peace of mind. If you want more information on Lapland then we suggest having a read of our Lapland travel guide . If you'd like to learn more about booking with us, check out our FAQs or contact our team of travel specialists.

1. Is Lapland a real country?

Lapland isn’t a country but a region of Northern Europe with over 170,000 inhabitants and 100,366 square kilometres of sparsely populated land. Rumoured to be the home of Santa Claus and his workshop, Lapland also has a reputation as a winter wonderland, with snow blanketing the land for a lot of the year.

2. Is Lapland in Sweden or Finland?

Lapland is a region within the Arctic Circle that is spread across both Sweden and Finland. Parts of Lapland also cover Norway and the Kola Peninsula of Russia.

3. When should I visit Lapland?

A popular time to visit Lapland is during the winter months between December and March, as this is when you can experience thrilling excursions like snowmobiling, cross country skiing and reindeer sleigh rides. As well as this, it’s peak northern lights viewing season so you’ll have a good chance of seeing them “dancing”.

In our blog, we’ve written about visiting Lapland in the winter and chasing the northern lights .

4. Which airport do you fly to for Lapland?

Depending on where you’re visiting from and whether you decide to fly to Swedish Lapland or Finnish Lapland , the airport you fly into could be Kiruna, Rovaniemi or Kemi. If you’re not sure which would be best for you, get in touch with our team of travel consultants as they’ll be able to advise which airport you’ll need to travel to.

5. Do they speak English in Finland?

Yes – English is widely spoken in Finland. English is taught in schools so most people will know basic phrases. When you travel on our tours, this isn’t something you’ll have to worry about as your guides will be English speaking.

6. Is Lapland in the North Pole?

Lapland is far north and located in the Arctic Circle, but it is not in the North Pole. However, Rovaniemi is home to Santa Claus Village , "the official North Pole residence" of Father Christmas.

7. How many days do you need in Lapland?

Depending on the attractions and activities you want to see and do, you can spend anywhere from a long weekend to a week in Lapland. However, for the sake of enjoyment, you won’t want to rush your visit. This is why all of our holidays are tried and tested by staff to ensure you get to experience the best of Lapland at a comfortable pace.

8. What country does Lapland belong to?

Lapland is a region that is spread across many countries, and so does not technically belong to any one of them. Finnish Lapland makes up for almost one third of Finland, and Swedish Lapland a quarter of Sweden, but the region also covers Norway and part of the Kola Peninsula in Russia.

9. Does Lapland have snow all year round?

It snows in Lapland for a lot of the year due to its subarctic climate and location within the Arctic Circle. This is why it’s a popular destination for winter trips and ski holidays. However, in the summer months, the snow and ice melts to reveal green forests and tranquil lakes and rivers.

For a detailed guide to Lapland’s climate, read our weather guide .

10. Can I choose the arrival date?

Yes, you can choose the best arrival dates to suit you, however we advise that you book as soon as possible as accommodation is limited and in-demand, especially in the ICEHOTEL and Arctic SnowHotel. All of our tours are available to book online, so secure your chosen dates as soon as you find them.

11. How much can I customise my tour?

All our packages are created to give you the best experience in Lapland, so whether you’re keen to explore the wilderness, add a meeting with Santa to your visit or stay in the ICEHOTEL, we have a tour to suit you.

However, if you want to do something extra, like spending additional days at either end of your journey or adding on another destination like Iceland or Norway , then all you have to do is ask.

Simply choose the Lapland package that best suits you and then contact our travel consultants about customising it. We’re happy to modify your itinerary where we can so you can tick off more attractions and areas on your travel wish list.

12. When should I book my flight tickets?

We’d advise that you look over flights for timings and dates, but hold off purchasing until you’ve booked your preferred tour. Once you’ve had a confirmation email from your personal travel consultant, you should then choose and pay for your flights. This is especially important as Lapland has the popular SnowCastle and ICEHOTEL to stay in and rooms can go quickly.

Our packages come with daily itineraries and all of your accommodation organised for you, so once you have all of the information you can make an informed choice on your flight times. If you have any questions, you can always contact your consultant for advice.

13. How should I dress for Lapland in winter?

We advise that you dress for the cold weather as you’ll be spending some of your tour in the outdoors. The snow-covered countryside can be uneven or slippery, so sensible footwear like walking shoes or boots is a must. Here are a few more of our suggestions:

  • Thick woollen socks, ideally several pairs
  • Thermal base layers
  • Warm woollen sweater
  • Jeans or other casual trousers
  • Thin wool or fleece gloves (ideal as a base layer under snowmobile gloves)
  • Warm gloves, scarf and cap
  • Camera with extra batteries
  • Small backpack/rucksack for day tours
  • Heat pads for hands and feet  

For a more detailed list of what to bring, read our Lapland packing guide .

About Nordic Visitor Tours

Nordic Visitor is a Lapland tour operator and has been creating incredible travel experiences for customers in the region since 2010. Since then, we have grown across the Nordic region, while retaining our passionate belief that your trip should be memorable for all the right reasons. These include:

  • Tailor-made itinerary: we personalise the itinerary with your dreams and needs in mind, and add on our recommended hidden gems, so you have the vacation of a lifetime.
  • Quality checked accommodation: wherever you stay is guaranteed to be tried by our travel specialists and tested to our exacting standards, so whether it's a cosy glass igloo or charming hotel, you’re going to have a comfortable stay.
  • Travel guide: add some secret sauce to your getaway with our insider travel tips and recommendations.
  • 24/7 helpline: for your peace of mind, there’s always a travel expert on the other end of our 24/7 helpline.

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Want to find out more about our Lapland trips and holiday packages? Get in touch with our team to help you plan your tour.

Our Swedish phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

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Read about Lapland

Top 15 european christmas markets, glass igloos in finland: your guide, a few fun facts about swedish lapland, 7 reasons to visit lapland in winter.

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  • Finland and Lapland

Lapland itinerary: the ultimate travel itinerary through Finnish Lapland in winter!

A tour through Finnish Lapland : the ultimate winter experience! In this blog, you will find an itinerary for a five-day trip through the north of Finland: one of the most beautiful parts of Lapland. During this itinerary, you will have the chance to see the northern lights several times or to enjoy the other magical things that Lapland has to offer. We also give you tips on other highlights of Finland. This gives you a good idea of what there is to see in Finland and which destinations you want to include on your Finland itinerary.

Lapland itinerary

A trip to Lapland: the number one thing on Ries’s bucket list before he turned 30. Especially because of the northern lights that you can see well above Lapland in the winter months. But there are many more reasons to take a tour of Finnish Lapland. For instance to visit Santa Claus Village (together with your kids). You can also take a husky ride through the thick snow, or drive a snowmobile. All in all, a winter trip to Finnish Lapland is magical!

Round trip in Finnish Lapland

The northernmost part of finnish lapland.

In this blog, we focus on the northernmost part of Finnish Lapland, the region around Ivalo . A little further south are the cities of Rovaniemi, Levi & Kiitala. Here too you have the real Lapland feeling in winter. With snow-covered lakes and igloos to sleep in. However, here you are in a more southern part of the polar circle, which reduces the chance of seeing the northern lights. These areas are also more touristy.

Ivalo or Rovaniemi / Levi?

Not sure whether you should visit Ivalo (northernmost region of Finnish Lapland) or Rovanimie / Levi (southern region of Lapland)? Then consider what kind of a holiday you would like to have. If you go with small children , and you want to visit Santa’s village ( Santa Clause Village ), to sleep in an igloo or ice hotel, and you don’t mind if the region is touristy, visit Rovanimie or Levi . Also nice, in the surroundings of Levi you can ski and from here you can take a day trip to go out to sea with an icebreaker .

How expensive is a trip to Lapland Finland? Read all about prices and a realistic Lapland budget during your trip in this blog!

5-day itinerary for Lapland

The Lapland itinerary below is based on our own experience in the area around Ivalo (the northernmost tip of Finnish Lapland). And those experiences were great, so we would like to share this Finnish Lapland itinerary with you.

You start your journey (after a short stopover in Helsinki) in the city of Ivalo. Here you will pick up your rental car and then drive to the village of Inari . Inari is located on the beautiful Lake Inari which you can walk on in winter. After two days you drive on to Kaamanen , an even more northern area. Here you are close to the border with Norway. You will stay here for two days.

On the way back to Ivalo , it is nice to make a stopover in Saariselkä ! This is a large tourist village with a Christmas atmosphere, an ice bar and shops. Nice to have seen to complete your trip through Lapland.

The 5-day route through Finnish Lapland is as follows:

Ivalo (arrival & departure).

Your itinerary through the north of Lapland starts in Ivalo. This small village with an airport is located 300 kilometres above the Arctic Circle. If you have rented a car, this village is the place to do some shopping. We cooked in our lodges almost every day, and the supermarket in Finland is not much more expensive than the one in the Netherlands.

An activity that you should definitely not miss here is a snowmobile safari ! The lakes in Finnish Lapland are frozen over from mid-October to mid-April and therefore ideal to drive over with your snowmobile! So special how fast these snowmobiles go! Our snowmobile tour departed from Ivalo. For this, we drove up and down from Inari, the place where we slept. The distance Ivalo – Inari is only 35 km , you are already there in half an hour.

Inari (2 nights)

The snowy lake Inari: really a picture-perfect! We stayed in Inari for 2 nights, and highly recommend this to you too! This is the least populated municipality of Finnish Lapland and therefore perfect for star photography and for photographing the aurora (northern lights). We stayed in a lodge that was on the lake on which we created some snow angels! In the morning when we came out of the lodge, we saw fresh traces of reindeer everywhere. We also saw these beautiful animals in the wild several times around the lake.

From Inari you can do a cool activity: visiting a husky farm and then taking a husky sledge tour ! Seeing these beautiful dogs with their bright blue eyes was truly a highlight of our Lapland trip. Curious about what you can expect from this? Read our tips in the blog about a husky tour in Lapland !

Hotel tip: Wilderness Hotel Inari & Igloos

Travel time from Ivalo to Inari: 30 minutes by car

Kaamanen / Kielajoki (2 nights)

Kaamanen is a small village, even further north in Finnish Lapland. The village lies on a swamp and is surrounded by rivers and lakes. It’s a peaceful destination, really off the beaten path ! A stay near Kaamanen guarantees an authentic experience. No tour buses here full of tourists, but peace and a lot of space! We stayed near Kaamanen in the village of Kielajoki and the Giellajohka  hotel of the same name.

Activities you can do here include enjoying a Finnish sauna, ice fishing, hiking on the frozen lakes and cross-country skiing. In addition, you are so northern and with little light pollution that the chance of spotting the northern lights is even bigger here!

Kaamanen will always have a special place in our hearts. Here, in the snow on a frozen lake, Ries got on his knees to ask me to marry him ! It was amazing! And as icing on the cake, it was so bright that same evening that we saw the northern lights dance from our bedroom while we were warm in bed.

Hotel tip: Giellajohka Travel time Inari to Kaamanen: 30 minutes by car

Back to Ivalo via Saariselkä

If your journey is almost over but you still have some time to spare, consider heading back from Kaamanen to Ivalo, passing the village of Saariselkä . This nice and touristic village is about 30 minutes drive from Ivalo. Surrounded by mountains, Saariselkä is a good base for activities such as downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and hiking. We made a beautiful aurora night walk in Saariselkä where we saw the northern lights dance beautifully above the snow.

Hotel tip: Top Star Saariselkä

Travel time Kaamanen to Ivalo Airport: 1-hour drive.

Curious about what we packed and wore to stay warm in Lapland? Then read our Lapland packing list tips !

What are the most special & unique hotels to sleep in Finnish Lapland? Read this blog with the best hotels in Lapland !

Tips itinerary Finnish Lapland

Now that you’ve read the Lapland itinerary above, we have a few more tips to help you create your ultimate Lapland trip!

The Northern Lights in Lapland

It was a big dream of Ries to have seen the northern lights for its 30th year. Unfortunately, he did not succeed, he was 30 years and 3 months. But don’t feel sorry, because, during the 4 nights in Lapland, he was able to see the northern lights not once, but four times. Every night it was spot on! This is not normal, it can just as easily happen that there are clouds every day and unfortunately you do not see the northern lights once. You do have some influence on your chance of seeing the Northern Lights! How? You can read that in our blog about the northern lights in Lapland !

Flying on Ivalo:

Driving a car in lapland.

Although buses run between the villages in Finland, we recommend that you rent a car. We picked up this car immediately upon arrival at Ivalo airport. A rental car gives you all the freedom you want. In the evening, for example, we went for a drive by car to a place where there were no clouds. Because of this we also saw the northern lights that evening. We recommend renting a car through Sunny Cars . We are a big fan of Sunny Cars ourselves because it saves a lot of hassle, as you are always fully insured, and you can easily (and often free of charge) change or cancel your booking.

Driving a car in Lapland is not nearly as scary as it sounds. Cars have good winter tires and the roads are kept free of snow. In the evening there is good street lighting and everyone drives quietly and obeys the traffic rules.

Other destinations in Finland

Finland is not only a nice destination in the winter but also a great destination during summertime. An additional advantage: you are in the north, so you have very long summer days and you will find beautiful nature parks in Finland. A trip to Finland is a great adventure! You can do outdoor activities here such as canoe trips, multi-day treks and (wild) camping. See below a map of Finland with the best destinations.

Read more about Finnish Lapland here! 

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More blogs on Finland

Lapland tips: all you need to know for a winter holiday to lapland in finland, budget finnish lapland: costs and prices of a trip to (finnish) lapland, what to pack for lapland our packing list for lapland in finland.

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Thanks for the great blogposts about visiting Lapland! We are currently planning our trip for March, and we probably only want to stay in the most Northern part (Inari/Saariselka) because we want the least touristy area and highest chances for seeing the Northern lights. In your experience, how different is the Inari area from the Saariselka area? We are debating whether it is worth the hassle to stay in two different places, or just book one hotel and do all activities from there.

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Hi Kirsten, Oooo nice!! Well Saariselka is more touristic (with a whole village focused on tourisme) then Ivalo. So I would recommend Inari or even more north, Kaamanen. It isn't far from Saariselka so you can still do activities there. Northern light chances are highest in the most Northern and less light polluted area so that would also be Inari. Enjoy!

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I traveled beyond the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights. Here are 4 things to know before you go.

  • I traveled north of the Arctic Circle to a tiny village in Finland for a chance to see the northern lights.
  • I booked a tour as far north as I could afford for the best chance of seeing the colorful auroras.
  • The location made viewing the northern lights easier, but they were different than I expected.

Insider Today

In February, I finally checked off one of my top bucket list items — seeing the aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights.

The auroras occur when charged solar particles from the sun interact with the Earth's upper atmosphere, resulting in an array of colorful lights beaming from the planet's poles. They occur year-round but can only be seen in winter months during the long polar nights.

I journeyed all the way to Finland's northernmost municipality, Utsjoki, about 280 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The trek required two plane rides from New York to Ivalo, Finland, via Helsinki, plus a two-hour drive deep into the snow-covered Lapland.

The secluded village is home to Aurora Holidays , the tour company I used for my trip. I paid about $2,000 total, which included guides, full room and board, a village tour, reindeer feeding, a king crab fishing trip in Norway, and dog sledding — though prices have increased since I booked. Flights on Finnair were another $1,000.

Aurora Holidays boasts a 100% success rate over five years of seeing the auroras thanks to a lack of light pollution in the northern location — and, fortunately, the streak continued on my trip.

Here are four things to know when planning a trip to see the aurora lights and why I recommend getting as far north as possible to maximize your chances — even if it means facing bone-chilling temperatures and relying on a little bit of luck.

Location, location, location

While recent environmental phenomena have made the northern lights visible in places as far south as England and Denmark, the aurora borealis are best viewed within the Article Circle.

The far north is hard to reach, though, and popular viewing spots like Fairbanks, Alaska, Tromsø, Norway, and Canada's Northwest Territories sit below the 66° 34' N latitude that defines the region.

Plus, these often-crowded tourist destinations have light pollution that requires people to venture out of the city into darker areas to see the lights.

Utsjoki, however, is so remote that it offers complete darkness during the long polar nights. Even better, my accommodation was perfectly situated facing north across Lapland — meaning I could see the auroras from my cabin porch.

"A lot of people don't know that for the highest possibilities to see the lights, location matters," Aurora Holiday's owner, Tiina Salonen, told me during the tour. "The rule of thumb is that the further north you travel, the less [solar] activity you need to have lights in the sky."

Related stories

Other places within the Arctic Circle, like Abisko National Park in Sweden or Ilulissat, Greenland, are also good viewing spots.

Pack for below-zero temperatures

During my trip, the temperature reached -8°F, which is even colder than what I experienced in Antarctica . Fortunately, my previous polar expedition taught me how to pack.

I opted for a merino wool base layer from REI, which I prefer due to its moisture-wicking abilities . I also wore a fleece pullover and a Kathmandu puffer as my mid-layers and a 600-fill jacket as my shell. I also wore snow pants, ski gloves, wool socks, a fleece buff, a beanie, and hiking boots.

All of that combined, I was easily warm enough to stand outside under the lights. I also recommend bringing hand and foot warmers if you plan to do other winter activities like snowshoeing or snowmobiling.

One thing to remember about going to extremely remote places like northern Lapland is how far you are away from a proper hospital — the closest to Utsjoki being a few hour's drive, according to Tiina. Wearing the right clothes to prevent frost bite or illness is important, but it wouldn't hurt to get travel insurance , too — just in case.

The vibrant colors that appear in photos are not what humans see

Not every color of the northern auroras is visible to the naked eye. During my trip, I could clearly see streaks of green and white, but the intensity and array of colors were more vivid in photos taken on my iPhone.

Tiina explained this is because cameras can take in more light than a human's nighttime vision can, therefore allowing it to capture otherwise invisible colors, like pink, red, and purple.

I'll admit that the auroras were much fainter than I expected, but that didn't take away from the beauty. Nevertheless, some people may be disappointed it isn't the extravagant Disney-like display social media sometimes makes it seem.

Seeing the lights takes a little bit of luck

During my six-day, five-night tour in Utsjoki, we only saw the auroras once — which is the reality of lights chasing, and why I booked a longer vacation to better my odds of seeing them.

That night was perfectly clear, and the solar activity was relatively strong, allowing the beautiful green beams to dance across the sky. The other nights, however, were too cloudy to see anything.

"The lights are there, but if it is super cloudy — we can't, of course, see them," Tiina told me. I noticed this when I was further south in Ivalo before and after the tour in Utsjoki. I couldn't see the auroras either night I was there due to the clouds, even though the online tracker said they were out.

Sometimes tour companies like Tiina's can drive around to find pockets where the auroras are visible, but it's not always possible — which makes seeing the lights a roll of the dice and why I now warn people to manage their expectations before booking a trip.

"Even here in Utsjoki, we cannot guarantee the lights — after all, it is a natural phenomenon, and Mother Nature is in charge," Tiina said.

Watch: What upstate New York looks like after record winter storm

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Is it safe to travel to Iceland? Latest advice amid volcano eruption

Tourists in Iceland have been evacuated from their accommodation following the fourth volcano eruption since December.

Icelandic police declared a state of emergency as a violent volcanic eruption continues to rock the Reykjanes Peninsula. 

The ongoing eruption is located 30km southwest of Iceland’s capital Reykjavik, close to Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction, the Blue Lagoon wellness complex and hotels. 

The attraction had reopened earlier this month, however, was forced to evacuate guests and temporarily close when lava began spewing from a new volcanic fissure on Saturday night. 

Flights to and from Iceland are unaffected by the eruption. Online flight tracker flightradar24.com shows planes have been arriving and departing without interruption at Keflavík International Airport, which is 10 miles to the north-west of the eruption.

Here’s what you need to know if you are booked to travel to Iceland – and your rights if you choose to cancel your trip.

Is it safe to visit Iceland?

The FCDO is not currently warning against travel to Iceland. Those heading to the region should “monitor local media for updates and follow the authorities advice on travel to the area,” it advises. 

Travellers should “check for alerts and advice from the: Icelandic Met Office , Safe Travel Iceland , Almannavarnadeild Facebook page and Twitter (@almannavarnir) .”

I’m in Iceland now – can I come home early?

That depends on your airline or tour operator. The FCDO is not currently warning against travel to, or around, Iceland, so your transport provider is not compelled to curtail your trip, nor offer a refund if you choose to head home early. As above, you should monitor the situation via the IMO’s official channels.

If you do change your travel plans, it is likely that you will have to pay for the privilege – though if you have a flexible ticket, the charge may be waived. Speak to your airline or tour operator directly, before you take any decisive action. 

Should I cancel my holiday to Iceland?

Unless the FCDO changes its advice to warn against travel to Iceland, or the area to which you are headed, it is likely that your holiday will proceed as planned. 

If you choose to cancel your holiday, it is highly unlikely that you will be covered by travel insurance.

Iceland holidays are currently going ahead as normal, says Georgina Hancock, Marketing Director of regional specialist Discover the World. “To date we have had to rearrange a few of our clients’ itineraries who were set to visit the Reykjanes area including the Blue Lagoon. They are all still travelling but will just be visiting other areas in south Iceland.”

An easyJet holidays spokesperson said: “Our holidays are currently going ahead as planned, however we are continuing to very closely monitor the situation and, should anything change, we will be in touch with our customers directly.”

Will I be covered by travel insurance if I visit Iceland? 

Yes, as long as the FCDO does not warn against travel to Iceland. If you are concerned, speak to your provider directly – and ensure that you keep the “emergency” phone number to-hand while abroad, in case the situation intensifies. 

Where is the Blue Lagoon – and is it safe to visit?

The Blue Lagoon wellness complex reopened to visitors on March 4, however following the latest eruption has temporarily closed. 

“Due to a volcanic eruption that commenced at Sundhnúkagígar on March 16, we have evacuated and temporarily closed all our operational units,” read a statement on the attraction’s website. 

The seismic activity is focused in the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system of the Reykjanes peninsula, in south-west Iceland. Svartsengi, where the Blue Lagoon is located, has experienced extensive earthquakes and land rise in recent weeks. 

The Blue Lagoon geothermal pool, Blue Cafe, Lava Restaurant, Retreat Spa, Spa Restaurant and the on-site Blue Lagoon Skincare store will remain closed through Tuesday, March 19. All guests with bookings during this temporary closure period will be contacted.

The wellness complex in Svartsengi, near Keflavik Airport, had been closed since November 9 due to seismic activity on the Reykjanes peninsula, before reopening earlier this month.

How long will the Iceland volcano risk last?

“There has been some discussion, led by the IMO, about this eruption being part of an uptick in activity that could see decades of increased activity,” says Matthew Watson, Professor of Volcanoes and Climate at the University of Bristol. 

“The evidence for this is the fact that there have been multiple eruptions along the same series of fissures in the peninsula in the last few years, and before that an 800 year gap.

“Looking at previous eruptions in the region, a single outburst typically lasts weeks to months: this is true of the three most recent eruptions on the peninsula, for example. Some eruptions in Iceland can last longer.”

Last year, residents of nearby town Grindavík were evacuated by Iceland’s Civil Protection Agency amid cautions of a “river of magma”, noxious gases and “fire fountains” in the area. 

The Reykjanes peninsula is a key tourism area of Iceland, home to Keflavik Airport, the nation’s busiest air hub, which is connected to Britain by easyJet, British Airways and other major airlines. 

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is located around 50km from the volcanic system. 

Will the Iceland volcano affect flights, like during the Eyjafjallajokull ash cloud?

The billowing ash cloud of Eyjafjallajokull volcano caused global travel disruption in spring 2010, amid worries that the particles and debris could damage aircraft engines. Commercial flights across Europe were halted for almost a week – leaving 50,000 flights grounded, and an estimated 10 million travellers stranded.

The disruption lasted for almost a week, causing the highest level of air travel disruption since the Second World War. 

Could this new wave of seismic activity lead to similar chaos?

No, because the activity is occurring beneath solid ground, not under a glacier, says Paavo Nikkola, Research Scientist at the Geological Survey of Finland GTK. 

“A volcanic ash cloud like in 2010 is not possible now,” Nikkola told Finnish broadcast organisation Yle. “Back then, the ash was generated by a large explosive eruption beneath a glacier.”

The region has experienced several eruptions in recent years, none of which affected flights,  advises a spokesperson from PLAY, a low-cost airline headquartered at Keflavik International Airport. “Iceland is no stranger to volcanic activity, with three eruptions having taken place on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the last two years and no disruption to flights. It has some of the most advanced volcanic preparedness systems in the world to safeguard the public and is well prepared for every eventuality.”

Are flights to Iceland being cancelled?

Online flight tracker flightradar24.com shows aircraft arriving and departing without interruption at Keflavík International Airport, which is 10 miles to the north-west of the eruption. 

The likes of Icelandair, easyJet and British Airways connect Keflavik, the nation’s major airline hub, with Britain – and it is a key stopover hub for transatlantic flights. It is the gateway to Reykjavik, the nation’s capital 50 minutes’ drive away.

This story was first published in November 2023 and has been revised and updated.

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A volcano spews lava and smoke as it erupts in Grindavik, Iceland on December 18, 2023 - REUTERS

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  5. 8 Best Places to see Northern Lights

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  6. The Perfect Itinerary For 5 Days In Lapland, Finland

    lapland travel advice

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  1. Lapland Travel VLOG

  2. LAPLAND Guide

  3. Lapland, Finland

  4. Swedish Lapland

  5. A magical festive trip to LAPLAND 🎄

  6. Travel Day

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  1. How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Lapland in Finland

    Finnair and Norwegian Air each offer a 90-minute nonstop to Rovaniemi, or you can board a one-stop Finnair flight to Kemi via Kokkola-Jakobstad Airport in Kronoby. If you've got the time, a scenic ...

  2. Top Lapland Travel Tips & Advice

    Warm pants that are waterproof are a must, for example, flannel ones for skiing are a good choice. Some people even prefer to put on warm thick leggings underneath them when planning to spend a lot of time outside in winter Lapland. You won't go wrong by taking extra sweaters, especially wool ones, as more layers of clothes will help keep you ...

  3. How to get the best out of four nights in Lapland

    Day 2: Snowboarding in Pyhä and Northern Lights. Day 3: Visit a reindeer farm / Snowmobiling to the amethyst mine. Day 4: Husky safari and Northern Lights hunt with snowshoeing. Day 5: Ice hotel and departure. Top travel tips for Lapland in winter.

  4. Lapland travel blog

    Sámi - Finland's indigenous people | lapland travel blog Lapland travel tips. If you go with a few people but still want to experience all kinds of winter activities without spending too much, join the tour group of ESN (Erasmus Student Network) organized by the Finnish schools. Most of the people going are exchange students coming to ...

  5. Lapland Travel Guide : Information & Advice : Nordic Visitor

    Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you. Contact Us Live Chat. Check out Nordic Visitor's Lapland travel guide to discover the top places to visit and prepare for your trip with our handy travel tips.

  6. Travel Guide to Lapland, Finland in Winter

    This article is also perfect for first-timers and covers all the best things to do for an unforgettable winter gateway. In addition, I share my 7-day experience for more travel tips and insights. Enjoy! My Lapland experience: Duration 7 Days Dates visited Jan 10 - Jan 17 Season Winter

  7. Lapland travel tips

    Swedish Lapland's charms. Maya Rao, from our supplier, Aurora Retreat, shares her Swedish Lapland travel tips: "Five major rivers flow across Swedish Lapland from the mountains to the Gulf of Bothnia - and they're so pure you can simply dip your cup and drink. Watching a free-flowing river is like sitting in front of a fire and dreaming ...

  8. Lapland Travel Guide: Travel Tips on Lapland & Northern Ligths

    lapland travel guide Lapland Travel Tips Winter Destination Comparison Scandinavian Winter Destinations Visit Santa Claus in Lapland Northern Lights in Lapland Best Activities in Lapland Firebird Tours ® 401 E. Las Olas Blvd, Suite 1400, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301, USA.

  9. Feel the Magic of Lapland

    Welcome to the official travel website for Finnish Lapland, the home of Santa Claus, the last wilderness in Europe, and part of the Sámi homeland.Lapland is a destination above ordinary, full of contrasts and unique natural phenomena: Midnight Sun, Polar Nights, autumn colors, Northern Lights, and Arctic cites nestled among Ice Age fells. Virtual Lapland is your gateway to an Arctic ...

  10. Travel like a local in Lapland

    Our expertise comes from generations of Lapland natives and newcomers. Most of our travel companies and the guides they employ are locals, people not just trained but practically experts in keeping warm when the temperatures drop to -20 °C, keeping the mosquitoes at bay at midsummer, and how to de-stress and unwind in a steamy sauna, no matter ...

  11. 30 Incredible Places To Visit In Finnish Lapland in 2024 (+ Map!)

    Best places to visit in Finnish Lapland 1. Rovaniemi. Rovaniemi is most famously known for being the capital of Lapland and the "official" home of Santa Claus.It is also one of the best places in Finland for catching a glimpse of the northern lights.. During World War II, Rovaniemi was almost destroyed, but today, it is a vibrant modern city jam-packed with things to do.

  12. Lapland Travel Advice & Information

    Stay up to date with the latest travel advice and information for travelling to Lapland. Book. Santa's Lapland Travel Information The imp o rtant bits. Find out all you need to know about travelling to Lapland with us. In Safe Hands. If things change and we have to cancel your holiday because of Covid-19, you can pick another date, or get a ...

  13. Top 10 Tips For Travelling To Lapland

    A good ski jacket, salopettes and snow boots are essential. Most package deals will provide these, but if you are travelling independently make sure you bring these with you. 4. Normal clothes. A jumper/ fleece over your base layer is ideal and jeans / trousers in case you are going out to dinner. 5.

  14. Lapland travel guide

    All our Lapland guides. Find all our guides about this region in one place, and make big plans for your next winter wonderland adventure up north. Lapland travel guide. Honest and easy to read Lapland travel guide with our views on what's rated, underrated or overrated including maps, itineraries, family info, photos & responsible tourism tips.

  15. Lapland Travel Blog : Inspiration & Advice : Nordic Visitor

    Emma Jackson. Christmas is an enchanting time of year. This is especially true in Europe, thanks to the hundreds of markets that spring up every winter. The air smells like sweet cinnamon, twinkling lights appear on lamp posts, and the anticipation for Christmas starts to build. During winter, you can stroll the frosty, cobbled streets and ...

  16. 12 Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland

    Perched in the northernmost part of Finland, Lapland is a stunning and pristine wilderness to explore that's got everything from the northern lights, - 12 Best Things to Do in Lapland, Finland - Travel, Travel Advice - Europe, Finland, Lapland - Travel, Food and Home Inspiration Blog with door-to-door Travel Planner! - Travel Advice, Travel Inspiration, Home Inspiration, Food Inspiration ...

  17. Lapland Travel Advice: Travellers guide & top tips 2024

    Lapland travel advice. Check the latest travel advice on visiting Lapland from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions. UK traveller advice for Lapland - UK FCDO; Irish traveller advice for Lapland - Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland;

  18. Best Lapland Tours & Vacation Packages with Northern Lights

    Learn more about Lapland below, travel tips, and highlights of the itineraries. Lapland Tour Highlights. Savor legendary Lapland, its colorful Aurora Borealis, and Arctic cities. Learn more about snow-covered cities in Lapland, which activities and landmarks are worth adding to your Lapland itinerary. Arrange your dream tour together with a ...

  19. Lapland Travel Agency & Tour Operator : Nordic Visitor

    As a Lapland travel agency and tour operator, our knowledgeable experts take care of arranging your special trip for you, providing personal service and 24/7 support. ... Lapland Travel Advice. Get ready for your brilliant trip to Lapland by exploring our handy travel guide.

  20. Lapland Travel Advice

    Read our travel advice and tips for Lapland. Get the latest guide & essential information before going to Lapland. Discover your smile with TUI%2C the world%27s biggest travel group%2E We offer you even more handpicked holiday choices%2C city breaks%2C short breaks%2C cruises %26 more%2E.

  21. Finland travel advice

    Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes: advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks. information for women, LGBT+ and ...

  22. Lapland itinerary: the ultimate travel itinerary through Finnish

    A tour through Finnish Lapland: the ultimate winter experience! In this blog, you will find an itinerary for a five-day trip through the north of Finland: one of the most beautiful parts of Lapland. During this itinerary, you will have the chance to see the northern lights several times or to enjoy the other magical things that Lapland has to offer. We also give you tips on other highlights of

  23. Lapland Travel Guide

    Jabs, visas and other advice. For up-to-date advice on jabs, visas and other foreign advice, we recommend following the government's website. Emergency numbers. 112. Language. Finland has two official languages - Finnish and Swedish, but the indigenous Sami language is also spoken particularly in Lapland.

  24. I Traveled Into the Arctic Circle to See the Northern Lights: My Tips

    I spent $3,000 to travel to a tiny Arctic village in Finland for a chance to see the northern lights. ... plus a two-hour drive deep into the snow-covered Lapland. The secluded village is home to ...

  25. Is it safe to travel to Iceland? Latest advice amid volcano eruption

    Latest advice amid volcano eruption. Tourists in Iceland have been evacuated from their accommodation following the fourth volcano eruption since December. Icelandic police declared a state of ...