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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.

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

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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. If your feet tend to get cold, then foot warmers are another option. 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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Finland , Things to Do

31 amazing things to do in finnish lapland (for all seasons).

There are so many things to do in Finnish Lapland that creating a comprehensive guide is almost impossible… but I have tried my best!

This guide will take you through nearly everything you can do in Arctic Finland throughout the year. Some things are season-specific, and others are more general.

If you think I have missed anything on the list of things to do in Finnish Lapland, please leave a comment below!

Why Finnish Lapland?

Visiting Finnish Lapland may seem like a challenging and difficult trip, but fortunately, the Arctic in Europe is incredibly accessible compared to other places in the world.

Finnish Lapland is easy to reach with multiple small airports dotted throughout the towns and cities in the north. During the high season in winter, regular flights arrive at these airports directly from numerous cities throughout Europe.

Throughout summer, you will likely need to transfer through Helsinki. The Finnish Arctic is unbelievably beautiful with lakes spread out across the land and small peaks rising out of the forests.

Throughout the land, there are several settlements where you can find outstanding accommodations and plenty of activities to do during all seasons. This makes the Arctic in Finland one of the best places to visit year-round, in my opinion.

Season in Finnish Lapland

Past the Arctic Circle , seasons morph into a different beast, with long drawn-out winters that encroach well into what would normally be spring and summers that burst into life with never-ending days before fall quickly sneaks in.

Winter dominates the year running from December through to as late as the middle of May, when a thick blanket of snow covers Lapland . This is the perfect time for enjoying the many winter activities offered in the Arctic .

Spring and summer merge into one as the never-ending daylight speeds up the melting of the snow and life springs into action. The long days are perfect for hiking and exploring the countryside, but it does come with swarms of mosquitoes.

Fall arrives in early September, spreading from the north of Lapland down to the southern reaches quickly. This is one of the best times to see the northern lights . Called ruska in Finnish, the arrival of fall foliage brings out a new level of beauty in the Arctic.

When does it snow in Lapland?

The arrival of the snow that lasts throughout winter is becoming harder and harder to predict with the warming planet. It tends to arrive first in the northern areas of Lapland, around mid-November.

Then by late December, the snow should be further south in places like Rovaniemi . However, between September and November, you will see many snow flurries that will most likely not stick around long.

The snow will stay until April or May depending on how thick it is and how warm the weather gets. Most snow-based tours will stop in April.

Temperatures in Finnish Lapland

Lapland covers much of the northern reaches of Finland and temperature differences between the southern limits and the northern reaches can be around up to 10°C different.

I have provided average temperatures below for rough seasonal parameters.

• Winter: November to March temperatures are on average around -13°C
• Spring: April to May temperatures generally hover on average around 0°C
• Summer: June to August temperatures are in the high teens and often go above 20°C
• Fall: September to October average temperatures are around 10°C

Naturally, temperatures will wildly fluctuate depending on where you are. For example, winter in Rovaneimi is not as cold as Inari, given both its location and the size of the city.

Best things to do in Finnish Lapland

Here is my list of the most amazing things to do in Lapland.

This list is a mixture of year-round, summer, and winter activities. Is there something I have missed? Please add it to the comments below!

1. Explore the lakes and rivers of Finnish Lapland

One of the best summer activities in Lapland is canoeing. Known as the land of a thousand lakes (187,188 to be exact), there is no shortage of water throughout the country. Many of these lakes are located in Lapland with connecting rivers that flow south towards the northern edge of the Baltic Sea .

Thrill seekers should head to Kuusamo or Savukoski , where rapids form and white water rafting is the only way to travel down the river, especially once the meltwater starts to arrive.

For those looking to attempt rafting for the first time, I recommend visiting Kuusamo. Alternatively, the Teno River, which forms a natural border between Finland and Norway, is the perfect place to do multi-day kayak trips, with the river eventually tipping out into the Arctic Ocean .

For those looking for a more chilled-out experience or just wanting to learn to canoe, I recommend taking a tour canoeing under the midnight sun. There is something so peaceful about paddling through the water as the midnight sun basks upon you.

2. Try to land a catch ice fishing in Lapland

The clean clear waters of Lapland are the perfect habitat for fish. Once the lakes become encased in ice, the fish slow down and move to the warmer water towards the bottom of the lake. However, this does not mean they cannot be caught.

Throughout winter, locals head out onto frozen lakes, drill a hole through the thick ice, and patiently wait for a fish to bite. The most common fish you will catch are perch and Arctic char , both residing in the freshwater lakes and rivers of Lapland.

While those visiting Lapland may not be able to head out on their own to ice fish, many great tours will take you ice fishing and provide you with all the equipment you need.

Ice fishing is generally great all over Lapland, but the waters around Inari and Saariselkä are well stocked with fish.

Ice fishing tours generally run from December until April. However, this is entirely dependent on when the lakes freeze over and thaw.

The advantage of an ice fishing tour is it is often combined with another activity such as snowmobiling or snowshoeing, like the Rovaniemi ice fishing tour with snowshoeing I took.

3. Make your own path while snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the countryside of Lapland. Much of the countryside becomes completely inaccessible during winter apart from maintained paths, but with a pair of snowshoes, you can access places that haven’t seen humans since the start of winter.

Snowshoeing can be done from when the snow first starts to settle until the end of winter, but it is most fun when the snow is deeper and impassable by other means.

The best places to snowshoe are the Finnish national parks located in Lapland, like the famous Riisitunturi National Park . With over 40km of marked trails that will take you through the snow-covered forest, you can see the famous popcorn trees  here.

With snowshoes, you can leave the more congested paths and head deeper into the national park to find picture-perfect scenes. When snowshoeing, be sure not to walk on marked cross-country skiing trails.

Snowshoeing can be done on a tour, or you can alternatively rent a pair from most places and head out on your own.

4. Experience the thrill of dog sledding in Finnish Lapland

Dog sledding is one of the most exhilarating activities in Lapland. There is something about seeing the joy in the huskies as they get ready to run, barking with excitement as the breaks are taken off.

When choosing a husky tour, the most important thing is to consider the sustainability credentials of the tour operator. One of the most ethical tour operators in Lapland is Hetta Huskies based out of Enontekiö .

Located in the northern reaches of Lapland, Hetta Huskies offer short husky rides and multi-day trips where you venture out into the taiga or out onto the tundra for three to five days.

Alternatively, Bearhill Husky located close to Rovaniemi prides itself on being a sustainable farm whose top priority is the dog’s health. While the most popular time to visit husky farms is winter, the farms are open for visitors year-round.

Visiting during the snow-free months is just as fun as you can spend time getting to know the dogs and, if you are lucky, meet any new puppies born that spring!

Visiting a husky farm during the summer months is a great way to help the husky farms sustain themselves until winter. To learn more about sustainable dog sledding, I recommend reading this informative CNN article .

5. Learn about Sámi culture

For thousands of years, the Arctic has been home to the Sámi , the Indigenous people of the north. Their historical lands are referred to as Sápmi and stretch from Norway to the Kola Peninsula in Russia .

In Finland, there are around 10,000 Sámi with the biggest population being in Inari. Inari is the best place to learn about the Sámi people in Finland, with the Siida Sami Museum being at the forefront of preserving the Sámi culture.

While Inari is known as the cultural capital of the Sámi, Utsjoki is the only area where the majority of the population is Sámi.

The area is a great place to learn about other aspects of the Sámi culture such as salmon fishing practices, with the Teno River being one of the best salmon spots in Europe .

6. Put the pedal to the metal snowmobiling

One of the most fun and exciting things to do during winter in Lapland is snowmobiling. Powering through the snow at speed along designated snowmobile tracks or your own path is unbelievably exhilarating.

Throughout Lapland, there are some amazing places to go snowmobiling where you can explore different landscapes. Kuusamo and Ruka are the best for those wanting to weave in and out of the trees that make up the taiga.

Alternatively, the frozen rivers that run through Rovaniemi make for incredible snowmobile highways, allowing you to concentrate on traveling at speed (within the speed limits naturally).

In the north, Lake Inari , Finland’s third largest lake, is another great place to explore. Snowmobiles allow you to reach areas of the lake that are generally only accessible by boat.

In my opinion, the best way to enjoy snowmobiling is on a tour, where your tour guide will take you to the best spots and ensure you stay on the correct trails.

Modern advancements in snowmobiling mean that many tour providers are switching to electric snowmobiles, which are not only better for the environment but also drastically cut down noise pollution.

7. Spend the night bear-watching in Lapland

One of my all-time favorite experiences in Lapland was going bear-watching . While bears inhabit all of Finland, the population is largely concentrated in Eastern Finland and Lapland.

One of the best places to see bears is Kuusamo, right on the Russian border. During the bear-watching season between May and September, bears travel over the border in search of food.

In the carefully situated huts around Kuntilampi (bear pond), where the bears know there is the possibility of finding food, you can spend the evening watching these majestic animals going about their daily business.

Ninety-nine percent of visitors will see at least one bear, although occasionally, you will need a fair bit of patience as the bears can arrive late at night.

Fortunately, during the midnight sun , the constant daylight is perfect for photographing the bears throughout the early hours of the morning.

8. Go on a moose safari in Lapland

Moose are fairly prevalent throughout Finnish Lapland, but seeing one is often challenging. For such large animals, they hide themselves superbly. One of the best places to see moose during the summer and early fall is just south of Rovaniemi. Set your satnav to the northern end of the Pisantie Road.

Once you have reached your destination, follow Pisantie Road south, until it kind of forks and you will want to turn right onto Louejoentie. Follow the dirt road and scan for moose, which inhabit this area in large numbers due to a hunting ban.

Keep an eye out on the verges as sometimes they come out of nowhere, which has happened to me the two times I have seen them in the area. Once you reach the end of the road turn left onto the main road and rejoin the Pisantie road to finish the loop.

The best time to see moose is early fall during the mating season when they are most active. During summer they are around, but seeing them is hard due to the overgrowth, there is a higher chance during the evening and morning but I did see one in the middle of the day.

Alternatively, you can book a moose-watching tour that departs from Rovaniemi, where a guide will take you to the area and drive the circuit. The advantage of taking the tour is that the guides are well-adapted to seeing moose. You will also be provided with binoculars.

9. Explore Lapland while cross-country skiing

Cross-country skiing is the national pastime of the Finnish people, and there are ski tracks nearly everywhere! Saariselkä village alone has more than 200 km (124 mi) of ski tracks! For those wanting to learn to cross-country ski, it is best to stick around a ski resort such as Ylläs .

In Ylläs there are 314 km (195 mi) of cross-country skiing trails, throughout the resort and into Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park . Some of the trails through the national park are only maintained by snowmobiles as they head deep into the more inaccessible parts of the park, so after heavy snowfall, they may not be accessible straight away.

The Pyhä and Luosto National Park has 150 km (93 mi) of cross-country skiing paths that take you between the two sectors of the national park. The designated cross-country skiing routes should never be walked or snowshoed on!

10. Visit Rudolph at a reindeer farm

There are around 200,000 reindeer in Finland, nearly all of which are semi-wild. They spend spring, summer, and fall out in the forests and tundra, before being brought back to the farms for winter where they can be fed and kept safe.

Unlike the rest of the Nordics, reindeer farming in Finland is not reserved only for the Sámi. However, some of the best places to see reindeer are around Sámi-populated areas like Inari and Utsjoki.

In Utsjoki, there are around 10,000 reindeer to the 1,400 residents, and you will often see them on the roads or even hanging outside of hotels. To get up close to the reindeer and have the chance to feed them, you can visit a reindeer farm, like Reindeer Farm Petri Mattus close to Inari.

Here, you will be taken out to the forest to meet the reindeer and learn all about the Sámi traditions around reindeer herding. Further south in Finnish Lapland, Luosto is a great place to see reindeer, with a large herd often found wandering through the town and sitting outside of the Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi .

On the road between Rovaniemi and Luosto, you will often find yourself in reindeer traffic jams as they trot down the roads seemingly with no fear of cars. While reindeer are all owned, they are still wild animals and should be treated with respect and not disturbed .

11. Visit one of the best museums in Lapland

Many of the bigger settlements throughout Lapland have a range of interesting museums that you can visit throughout the year. The museums generally focus on life in the Arctic, the environment, and the Sami.

Museums are open year-round and provide the perfect getaway from the cold during the winter. Here are a few of the best museums located in Finnish Lapland.

Located in Rovaniemi, Artikum is a great place to learn about everything to do with the Arctic, from the animals of the far north to how we need to protect it for future generations.

Address: Pohjoisranta 4, 96200 Rovaniemi

Siida is an incredible Sámi museum in Inari. For those staying in the region around Inari, it is a must-visit so that you can learn about the history of the Sámi and Sápmi. Tickets for Siida can be purchased in advance or at the museum.

Address: Inarintie 46, 99870 Inari

Särestöniemen Museosäätiö

Särestöniemen Museosäätiö is a museum dedicated to displaying the artwork of Reidar Särestöniemi, one of Lapland’s most famous artists. The museum buildings themselves make visitors feel like they are stepping back in time, having been in the Säarestöniemi family since the 19th century.

Address: Särestöntie 880, 99110 Kittilä

12. Relax in a Finnish sauna

Saunas in Finland are a big business. Nearly every single housing building will come with a sauna for the residents or individual saunas in the apartment. For visitors, it is a must-do experience while staying in Lapland. While it can be done pretty much everywhere, here are a few more unique sauna experiences throughout Lapland.

Kiilopää Sauna World

Kiilopää Sauna World is located close to Saariselkä, forming part of the wonderful Suomen Latu Kiilopää resort. In the resort’s little world of saunas, you will find both a traditional smoke sauna and an electric sauna. After warming up in the sauna, take a plunge into the Kiikopää River pools.

Address: Kiilopääntie 620, 99830 Saariselkä

Apukka Ice Sauna

At Apukka Resort , you will find one of the world’s most unique sauna experiences, an ice sauna . Built each winter, the sauna is made up of ice logs and creates an odd feeling of both cold and hot.

Address: Tutkijantie 28, 96900 Rovaniemi

Floating Sauna

During summer, there is a chance for another unique sauna experience, the floating sauna . Departing from Rovaniemi, Nordic Unique Travels offers a special sauna lake cruise where you can spend the evening on their special sauna boat in the middle of the lake.

Once you are sufficiently hot, plunge into the lake under the glow of the midnight sun.

13. Eat traditional food from Finnish Lapland

The gastronomic scene in Lapland is superb, with plenty of incredible dishes that utilize fresh local ingredients. Despite short growing seasons, the lands in the north are productive and many fresh ingredients are unique to the Lapland and the Arctic.

Reindeer meat has sustained the people of the north for millennia. It is considered to not only be healthier lean meat, but it is also a more sustainable way of consuming meat .

Here are a few of the dishes you must try while in Lapland:

Sautéed Reindeer (Poronkäristys)

One of my all-time favorite dishes is sautéed reindeer, consisting of thin shavings of reindeer meat that have been sautéed and cooked in a delicate sauce, served over mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Finland’s rivers in the north produce some of the most incredible salmon, and this traditional hearty soup is a great way to consume salmon in a delectable creamy sauce.

Finnish Squeaky Cheese (Leipäjuusto)

While not necessarily a dish of its own, Finnish squeaky cheese is a great way to finish off a meal and can make up part of a cheese board or be served with cloudberry jam for a traditional dessert.

14. Take a road trip during the midnight sun

Summer in the Arctic is perfect for epic road trips as the midnight sun shines throughout the night. The long days make road trips easy as you don’t feel the constraint of wanting to finish driving for the day before nightfall.

Take the opportunity to drive as far north as you can, taking in the sights and towns of the high Arctic. One of the most amazing road trips I have done is from Rovaniemi to Vardø in Northern Norway .

The journey from the Arctic Circle to the Arctic Ocean can be done in around eight hours without stops. Instead, I took the time to experience the towns of Ivalo , Inari, and Utsjoki along the way before heading into Norway and marveling at the drastically different scenery.

You can choose to stay in hotels along the way or you can wild camp on public land along the way.

15. Hunt for the Aurora Borealis in Finnish Lapland

The chance to see the A urora Borealis draws visitors in their droves to Lapland every year. Seeing this natural phenomenon is incredible and really should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Lapland is one of the best places to see the northern lights in the world. However, seeing the aurora does involve a little bit of luck, requiring both solar activity and clear skies that no one can control.

While clear skies are the most important thing, the location you choose will make the photo.

Lakes are a great place to view the lights early in the season before the water freezes as they reflect the aurora in the sky, making for epic pictures. Given the size of Lake Inari, it makes for an incredible picture.

During the depths of winter, the famous popcorn trees of Riisitunturi National Park make for incredible pictures. Rovaniemi is one of the best places for starting a northern lights adventure as the well-connected city has roads heading in pretty much every direction and makes it more convenient to hunt for clear skies.

I always try and take a Rovaniemi northern lights tour when I am there.

16. Pick wild berries

Throughout summer and fall, you will find thousands of berries that are growing wild and ready to pick!

Seasons for berry picking vary depending on the type of berry, but normally, by the end of July, you can find plenty of edible berries and the supermarkets will start selling numerous tools that help you pick them!

I have included some information about some of the berries you can expect to find in the Arctic.

Blueberries

Blueberries are abundant throughout Lapland. They start appearing in August and can be pretty much found everywhere in the forest. As they get older, they start to ferment a little, and they say they get the moose and reindeer a little drunk.

Cloudberries

Cloudberries are some of the most valuable berries in the world. They grow sporadically and are generally some of the first to be harvested due to their worth. Generally, they are best to be picked in August.

Lingonberries

One of the most iconic berries of northern Europe is the lingonberry. This sour berry is great in sauces and the perfect accompaniment for reindeer and moose dishes. They can be found pretty much anywhere and are picked from late August into fall.

17. Spend a day hiking

Hiking in Lapland is awesome. The terrain throughout Lapland is not super challenging with relatively small peaks that rise out of the boreal forest . Given the importance of nature in the Finnish way of life, there are plenty of marked trails and boardwalks that keep you raised above the boggy lands.

Along the routes, there are often little huts where you can light a fire and cook food on the grill; dry wood is generally available for free or for a small cost.

Here are a few of the best hikes in Lapland:

Karhunkierros Trail

Located largely in the Oulanka National Park , Karhunkierros Trail is one of the most famous and popular hiking trails in Lapland, full of scenic sites such as rapids, forests, and fells.

The route is an 82 km (51 mi) multiday hike that can begin In Ruka or Hautajärvi and is generally done over 4 days. Alternatively, you can take the shorter 12 km (7.5 mi) day hike that is a circular route from Oulanka Basecamp or Juuma village parking area.

The hikes are both quite demanding but can be done by those with basic hiking skills. They are not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Saana Fell popular hiking destination located in northern Lapland by Enontekiö. This short 4 km (2.5 mi) hike takes you to the summit of the Saana Fell at 1,029 m (3,376 ft).

Saana Fell is the starting point of the Scandinavian mountain range, offering incredible views out over the tundra below. The hike is not too strenuous but is not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Arctic Circle Hiking Area

The Arctic Circle Hiking area is a great location close to Rovaniemi where you can enjoy many different trails that are all well-marked and range from easy to medium difficulty.

This area has accessible trails for those with mobility issues, such as the Könkäänsaari Accessible Nature Trail. This trail is a 1.5 km (0.9 mi) circle trail and has access to accessible toilets too.

18. Stay in a Lapland glass igloo

Glass igloos are one of the most sought-after accommodation types in Lapland, with their promise of stunning views of the aurora overhead as you lie in bed.

However, not all of them are igloo-shaped! These hotels are generally on the higher end of the budget spectrum but are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I highly recommend for at least a night if your budget allows it.

Here are three glass igloo hotels that I highly recommend staying at throughout Lapland:

Glass Resort

Located behind Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is Glass Resort , which offers multi-level igloos that are perfect for those wanting to enjoy a luxury stay while visiting Rovaniemi.

Each igloo comes equipped with a sauna, kitchen, living area, and mezzanine bedroom. On the outside, every igloo has its own secluded outdoor hot tub.

Address: Tähtikuja 16, 96930 Rovaniemi

Aurora Village

Aurora Village is situated just outside of Ivalo and is, in my opinion, one of the best aurora resorts in Lapland. The glass-roofed cabins are cozy, with a large double bed, coffee and tea-making facilities, and a nice bathroom.

At night, the resort is away from any natural light. They also minimize their own light pollution as much as possible.

Address: Aurorakuja 38, 99800 Inari

Arctic Skylight Lodge

Found in Äkäslompolo , the Arctic Skylight Lodge has 10 secluded forest lodges, where you can look out over the forest and hopefully at the clear skies above.

Each lodge offers uninterrupted views of the sky and forest from a comfortable bed.

Address: Äkäslompolontie 2748, 95970 Äkäslompolo

19. Hit the slopes in Finnish Lapland

While Finland may not have the reputation of the Alps or even its neighbor Norway for skiing and snowboarding. there are several great resorts in Lapland that are perfect for beginners and those looking for a more relaxing ski trip where you can mix in some other winter activities.

Below I have listed some information about three amazing resorts in Lapland:

Located close to Kuusamo, Ruka has the longest ski season running from early October until May. Snow from the previous season is preserved so that the ski season can start in October before the snow arrives.

There are about 19 km (11.8 mi) of slopes in Ruka, most of which are blue runs, although there are some reds and blacks available for more advanced skiers and riders. The snowpark is known to be one of the best in Finland. The closest airport to Ruka is Kuusamo.

Levi is one of the most famous resorts in Finland and each year hosts a leg of the women’s alpine skiing World Cup. The winner of this stage of the World Cup is given a reindeer that they can name and visit whenever they want!

There are 38.5 km (23.92 mi) of ski slopes of varying difficulty with just under 50% of those being red runs. There are also several snowparks in Levi for those looking to improve their freestyle technique. The closest airport to Levi is Kittilä .

Ylläs is the largest resort in all of Lapland, boasting 53 km (32.93 mi) of slopes. Most of the slopes are of red and blue difficulty, but there are about 6 km (3.73 mi) of black runs.

There are also four snowparks in the resort. The closest airport to Ylläs is Kittilä.

20. Cook in the wild

Lapland is a paradise for those who love to spend time outdoors. Be it the well-built hiking routes or the endless summer days, there is very little reason to spend the day inside even during the middle of winter.

To make an outdoorsy life easier, there are hundreds if not thousands of public fireplaces located throughout the countryside. These little huts come in various sizes from small lean-to shelters called laavu to larger enclosed buildings where you can even spend the night.

Near many of the laavu is a shed containing free or cheap firewood so you can enjoy your meals outside.

There is nothing better than heading out into the wild with some food for grilling, knowing at the end of your hike or hunt of the aurora you can stop and warm and fill up by a roaring fire. Some of these laavu are located in the most scenic spots such as the Kuninkaanlaavu lean-to near Rovaniemi or Otsamo, Inari.

21. Celebrate Midsummer the Finnish way

One of the most significant dates in the Arctic is the arrival of Midsummer or Juhannus in Finnish. This is the day when the sun officially does not set and you can enjoy the endless daylight.

Experiencing the midnight sun is truly a unique experience and you will easily lose track of time. On the actual day of Midsummer, there are normally plenty of activities going on as people celebrate outdoors.

Look out for bonfires on the beach or sauna experiences where you slap each other with birch brushes, to name a few activities! As this is a celebratory time, there is often plenty of cake going around, utilising strawberries that are in season during this period. These are some of the best strawberries in the world!

Midsummer is a different day each year, but it is always between the 20th and 26th of June. Despite the potential for all-day sunshine, it will not necessarily be warm and it has snowed on occasion.

22. Revel at ruska

While Lapland may be known for its picturesque landscapes during winter, fall might just be the most beautiful time of year.

Known as ruska , the forests of Lapland begin to change their colors at the start of September. Ruska arrives in the north first where places like Utsjoki start seeing the trees with their fall foliage in early September.

By the end of September, ruska reaches the southern end of Lapland and the dense boreal forest is transformed into autumnal hues. During this period, the northern lights tend to be at their strongest, the forests are abundant with food, and the weather is perfect for hiking.

The ruska period ends when the snow starts to arrive and a white blanket is laid over Lapland.

23. Marvel at the Polar Night

When people imagine the Arctic during the winter, they assume it is plunged into complete darkness. However, this is only true for the high Arctic in places like Svalbard . The polar night in Finnish Lapland is dark, but during the middle of the day, there is a glimmer of light on the horizon as the sun fails to rise above it.

The further north you go in Lapland, the earlier the polar night starts and the longer it lasts. In Ruka there is an incredible Polar Night Light Festival , where light installations are lit around the resort, most of which can be seen for free. Others you will need to hit the slopes to experience. The festival runs every year throughout January.

24. Chase frozen waterfalls

As the winter freeze starts, little trickles of water down the sides of canyons and hills build into giant frozen waterfalls . This incredible transformation is one of the coolest things to see in Lapland and there is no better place to see frozen waterfalls than Korouoma Canyon in southern Lapland.

Numerous frozen waterfalls line the canyon, but most people, including myself, take a Korouoma Canyon hiking tour to see the three most famous ones. You will head down into the canyon approximately 5 km (3.11 mi), passing three frozen waterfalls.

The hike is relatively easy, but there are some challenging icy sections where you will need spikes on your shoes or help from a guide to navigate. Some of the waterfalls are used for ice climbing, which makes for pretty epic views as people attempt to get to the top of the frozen waterfall.

The frozen waterfalls form as the big freeze sets over the Arctic. However, I recommend going to see them in later winter when there is more daylight to really enjoy the hike and scenery.

I advise taking a tour of the canyon from Rovaniemi as the challenging parts are very difficult. I personally do not think I would have completed the hike without the knowledge of my tour guide.

25. Try local drinks

When it comes to the national drink of Finland, there is only one winner… black coffee. It is available everywhere, comes with free refills in most cafes, and seemingly powers the whole population.

As someone who doesn’t drink coffee, I do not understand the obsession! However, there are a few other must-try drinks when visiting Finnish Lapland.

Glögi is a spiced berry drink that can be with or without alcohol. This is traditionally consumed around Christmas time, but is a great winter warmer throughout the long Arctic winter.

Lapland Brewery

Lapland Brewery is Finland’s most northern brewery. They look to be inspired by their Arctic surroundings, which are reflected in the names of their brews such as the Pyhä-Luosto Wilderness Lager.

The brewery is located in Rovaniemi and is open every day apart from Sundays. Tours of the brewery are offered every Friday, but you will need to book your visit in advance via their website.

Address: Teollisuustie 14 B, 96320 Rovaniemi

26. Visit incredible national parks

Lapland is home to some of Finland’s most amazing national parks. The great thing about the national parks of Lapland is they can be visited in every season! Summer is perfect for hiking with long drawn-out days, while fall brings the beautiful changing of colors, making for awe-inspiring and colorful vistas.

In winter, the thick covering of snow turns the parks into a winter wonderland, where you can enjoy various winter sports. Here are a few of my favorite national parks in Lapland:

Lemmenjoki National Park

Located in northern Lapland, Lemmenjoki National Park is the largest nature reserve in Finland. Located in the heart of the Finnish part of Sápmi, it’s a great place to see reindeer roam wild.

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park boasts to have the cleanest air in the world! The Taivaskeronkierros Circle Trail will lead you to the top of the Fell with panoramic views of the surrounding nature.

During winter, this is a great place to see the famed popcorn trees like those found in Riisitunturi National Park.

Hugging the Russian border, Oulanka is one of the most beautiful parks in Lapland, especially during fall. The park is home to awesome waterfalls that are some of the best in all of Finland.

27. Take an icebreaker cruise

During winter the Bothnian Bay , in the northern Baltic Sea freezes over, with thick sea ice blocking the shipping routes for busy ports.

To clear passages in the ice, special ice-breaking ships are called into action. This provides an opportunity for one of the most unique experiences in Lapland, where visitors can spend a day onboard an ice breaker ship.

Numerous tours depart from Rovaniemi, Kemi , and Tornio . These tours will either take you to a ship located in Kemi, Finland, or Axelsvik, Sweden . I recommend taking an icebreaker cruise that takes you to the port in Sweden, as onboard you will get a three-course dinner included in the cost of the tour.

Once on the boat, you will receive a guided tour of the seven decks and learn all about how these ships function in such challenging circumstances.

The boat will eventually stop and you will be given the opportunity to stand on the sea ice and then enjoy ice floating in the path the boat has cleared in the sea (providing the captain deems it safe to do so). If you take the tour from Rovaniemi, it will last for around 10-11 hours.

28. Forage for mushrooms

As summer in the Arctic draws to an end, the forests of Lapland become a treasure trove of forgeable mushrooms, which, thanks to everyman’s right, can be picked by anyone!

While most mushrooms in Lapland are edible, it is advisable to go with an expert the first time you head out to forage mushrooms.

You can also read a little more about mushrooms on the Arktiset Aromit website .

Matsutake (Pine Mushroom)

Matsutake is one of the most expensive types of mushrooms in the world. They are found amongst the pine trees and can be harvested between the end of July and October. You must partially boil them before they can be consumed.

Northern Milkcap

The northern milkcap is a common variety of mushrooms that can be found throughout Lapland. They can be harvested in August and September and should be boiled before being used. The water they are boiled in should be disposed of and not reused.

29. Visit a unique ice hotel in Lapland

One of the coolest things to do in Finnish Lapland during winter is visit an ice hotel . Built every year, these sculptured structures are both a functioning hotel and a work of art. Many of the rooms are individually designed by ice sculptors.

Staying in an ice hotel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and while the outside might be incredibly cold, the inside temperatures are comparably warm at -1°C (30.2°F) compared to up to -30°C (-22°F) outside. While staying the night in an icy room might not be everyone’s cup of tea, the hotels are open during the day for visitors to just walk around the structures and admire the rooms.

Below I have listed the best ice hotels in Lapland:

Arctic Snow Hotel

Arctic Snow Hotel is probably the most well-known of all the ice hotels in Finnish Lapland. Located close to Rovaniemi, it opens each year in mid-December and sleeps around 70 people.

Address: Lehtoahontie 27, 97220 Sinettä

Lapland Hotels Snow Village

Each year, close to Kittilä airport , the Lapland Hotels Snow Village is built. Every year the designers think up a new theme, taking inspiration from cities like New York to more mythical themes.

There are 12 ice rooms that sleep between 2-4 people and an on-site restaurant serving delicious three-course meals.

Address: Lainiotie 566, 99120 Kittilä

30. Meet Santa Claus at his office

Every year thousands of tourists flock to Lapland, to meet Santa Claus . Finnish Lapland is widely known to be the home of Santa Claus and you will not be short of opportunities to meet him.

While many locations in Lapland offer the chance to meet the big man, Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa Claus .

Santa Claus Village is a free-to-visit park on the outskirts of Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa Claus in person, cross the Arctic Circle, and send mail from Santa’s own personal post office!

While Santa Claus Village is free and so is visiting Santa Claus, there are up-charges. For example, you can’t take your own photos with Santa. Instead, you must pay around 40 euros for the one they take.

Santa Claus Village is primarily designed for children, although adults love it just as much. Along with the numerous activities available, there are some fantastic places to eat.

My favorite by far is Santas Salmon Place , where you can devour a huge piece of salmon that has been cooked over an open fire in the middle of the restaurant.

31. Dive into culture at a festival

Throughout the year, some incredible festivals in the Arctic celebrate its rich culture, look to entertain after a long dark winter, or take advantage of the never-ending summer days.

Here are some of the best festivals and events that are held in Lapland each year:

Held between February and March, the Poro Cup is a reindeer racing event that guarantees to be entertaining.

The racers hold on behind the reindeer with skis as they compete in races across frozen lakes. However, reindeer are stubborn animals, so if they decide they don’t wish to run, they will not move, creating an open playing field, to say the least!

The event moves around with the final race always being held in Inari in March.

Midnight Sun Film Festival

Held in Sodankylä each year during Midsummer, the Midnight Sun Film Festival brings the heavyweights of Finnish and international cinema to the Arctic. Spread across four venues, you can watch films for 24 hours a day for five days straight.

The highlight of the festival each year is their silent movie concerts.

Ijahis Idja

Hosted in Inari, Ijahis Idja is the only Sámi music festival in Finland. Each year, new and established Sámi artists have the chance to perform for the crowds at this two-day festival.

After the live music stops, the night doesn’t end, with club nights featuring Sámi DJs, keeping the revelers going until the early hours.

I hope this post has helped you decide how to spend your time in Finnish Lapland! If you have any comments or additional things you feel should be included, please let me know in the comments below!

More Finnish Lapland travel guides

• Winter in Rovaniemi: The best things to do
• How to take a Rovaniemi ice fishing tour
• The perfect Korouoma Canyon tour
• My favourite Rovaniemi northern lights tour
• Incredible National Parks in Finnish Lapland
• 12 reasons to visit Rovaniemi in summer
• Incredible places to visit in Finnish Lapland

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Ultimate 7 Day Finland Itinerary for Winter

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 24 Comments

If you’re looking for the perfect winter wonderland destination, look no further than Finland.

We’ve had some incredible trips to Finland in winter. It was the first place I saw the Northern Lights , the snowy landscapes are spectacular, and there are loads of fantastic winter activities to choose from.

Finland is a fairly big country though, so you might be wondering how best to spend your time here when visiting in winter. Well, wonder no more. With our detailed 1 week Finland itinerary we’ve got you covered.

This itinerary will have you visiting many of the highlights of Finland, including Finnish Lapland and the capital city of Helsinki. It will take you deep into the Arctic Circle, give you the chance to sleep in a glass igloo, and even have you meeting Santa himself.

We’ve also put this itinerary together to offer you flexible transport options. Whilst we generally prefer to hire a car and self-drive, we appreciate not everyone will be comfortable driving in Finland in winter. So this itinerary can be done with or without a car.

In terms of time, we’ve put this guide together for around a week in Finland. We think this is a good length of time to visit Finland in winter.

Of course, you can visit for as long or short a time as you want, but if you are hoping to experience phenomenon like the Northern Lights, giving yourself a bit of extra time will significantly increase the chances of experiencing them.

Ok, that’s enough preamble. Let’s take a look at our detailed day by day itinerary for visiting Finland in winter.

Finland Itinerary for Winter

This itinerary covers a range of activities and sights in Finland. Obviously everyone’s interests will vary, so do please adjust it to suit your personal preferences.

Also, don’t forget that it can be very cold in Finland in winter, with temperatures likely to be well below freezing throughout your visit. We have a detailed guide to what to pack for Finland in winter , which we recommend taking a look at so you are prepared for your trip.

Day 1: Helsinki

We recommend that you spend your first couple of days in Helsinki, the capital city of Finland. There’s a huge amount to do in the city, which has a great many museums, restaurants, a historical sea fortress, and other attractions.

On your first day in Helsinki, we’d suggest getting acquainted with the city center and visiting some of the attractions. The city center of Helsinki is fairly compact, and you can get pretty much anywhere with public transportation and walking.

A great starting point is the Helsinki City Museum . Here, you will learn all about the history and development of the city. It’s free, and open every day.

Just near to the city museum is Helsinki Cathedral . This large white building is one of the more recognizable landmarks of Helsinki. It’s spectacular to view from the outside, but you can also go inside too of course. It’s open every day, and free to visit.

If you want a more in-depth overview of the history, culture and people of Finland, then we can recommend a visit to the National Museum of Finland . This covers a huge time period, from prehistoric times to the present day, and is an excellent way to learn a lot about the whole country. It’s open Tuesday – Sundays, and there’s an entry fee.

We could go on listing museums in Helsinki, as the city has a huge number to choose from, catering for almost every interest. From design , to contemporary art , to photography , to architecture , there’s really an incredible choice. There’s even a museum about hotels !

You won’t have time to visit all of these of course, but we can definitely recommend visiting a few during your time in the city. There are lots of choices, so you can just choose a few that appeal to you.

If you do plan on visiting a number of the museums or other attractions in Helsinki, consider investing in either a museum card or the Helsinki Card (buy the latter here ).

These cover a range of attractions, and the Helsinki card also includes transport around the city, which will save you walking around in the cold. The Helsinki card can be great value for money – see our full review of the Helsinki card to see if it’s worth investing in for your trip.

Of course, there’s also more to do in Helsinki than visit museums. We can suggest taking some time to go Christmas shopping (even if it’s after Christmas, you can stock up for the next one!).

If you do visit in December before Christmas, then you will also definitely want to check out the Helsinki Christmas market and try some traditional Christmas foods and drinks. These include Glögi (a type of mulled wine) and star-shaped Christmas pastries.

Kankurin Tupa would be our recommended destination for Christmas shopping in Helsinki. This is a department store which specialises in Finnish items, and has a whole section dedicated to Christmas.

We can also recommend getting coffee and cake at one of Finland’s best known cafes, Ekberg 1852 . This has been in Helsinki since, you guessed it, 1852, and they have an excellent selection of Finnish delicacies which obviously include baked goods.

Finally, find somewhere for a delicious evening meal, and retire, having gotten your first day of sight-seeing in Finland under your belt.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

We have stayed at a number of accommodation options in Helsinki, including apartment rentals and hotels.

Some options we suggest you take a look at include:

• Hostel Diana Park
• Hellsten Helsinki Senate
• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel
• Hotel Katajanokka .

You can also see listings for Helsinki on Vrbo here .

Day 2: Helsinki

For your second day in Helsinki our suggestion is to head out to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress .

This is a UNESCO world heritage site, and in our opinion is a must-do attraction when visiting Helsinki.

There is a huge amount to see and do on the island, and you could easily spend from half a day to a full day here, depending on what you want to see and do.

First, you can explore the six islands that the fortress spans on foot, admiring the impressive fortress construction. As you’re visiting in winter, you will of course want to wrap up warmly and have good footwear. Be wary of icy ground which can make for slippery conditions.

There are also five museums on the island, although not all of these are open year-round. The ones that are open in winter are the Suomenlinna Museum and the Military Museum. I would definitely encourage you to visit the former at least, as this details the history of the fortress and the island.

Both of these museums have an entry fee, and they are also both included on the  Helsinki Card . Holders of this card also get ferry transport to and from Suomenlinna Fortress, which otherwise costs €5. Ferries run every day, and you can see the schedule here .

After Suomenlinna Fortress, you might still have time to fit in a few more sights. Some other attractions in Helsinki we would suggest which are near the ferry point from the island include the Helsinki Skywheel for great views across the city, Uspenski Cathedral and the Old Market Hall for food.

Finally, a really popular activity that you must try while you are in Finland is to take a sauna. This is one of the most traditional Finnish experiences you can have.

There are a few options when it comes having a sauna in Finland. Most hotels and even some apartments will come with a sauna, which will often be the easiest way. There are also public saunas in Helsinki.

You can also take a tour which includes a sauna. From Helsinki for example, take a look at this tour , which includes a traditional smoke sauna and the chance to do a cold icy plunge – if you’re feeling brave!

And that wraps up your second day in Finland and your last day in Helsinki. If you’d like some more ideas for what to do in the city, see our guide to things to do in Helsinki , which has many more ideas.

How to Get to Rovaniemi from Helsinki

Your next destination is Rovaniemi. You have a few options for getting from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. The fastest option will be to fly. There are a number of airlines offering flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, with the flight time being around an hour. Flights are relatively inexpensive and there are multiple departures a day.

If you fly, you can either depart on the evening of day 2 or early in the morning of day 3. You can check flight times and prices, and  book online here .

You can also take the overnight sleeper train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. This route is known as the Santa Claus Express, and the journey takes around 12 hours. If you choose to do this, you will need to leave on the evening on day 2. You can see timetables and book this train online  here .

It’s also possible to take a bus from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. This takes around 13 hours. Just note that taking the bus will eat up quite a bit of your day so is the least time efficient option. Check bus times and prices, and book tickets here .

You can also drive to Helsinki to Rovaniemi. This is around a 9.5 hour drive of 500 miles / 800km. Again, this is a long journey and we’d advise against this as well as it will be a tiring journey that will use up your holiday. However, if you want to do this, you can compare car rental prices across a range of suppliers  on Discover Cars here .

If you are planning your own trip and booking your own transport, our recommendation for getting from Helsinki to Rovaniemi would be to either fly or take the overnight train.

If you’d rather not have to worry about planning your own transport, you might also consider taking a guided tour. These will generally cover your transport and accommodation as well as some meals and activities, leaving you to focus on just enjoying yourself.

There are a few tours we suggest that have similar itineraries and activities to our itinerary, and include Helsinki, Rovaniemi and the Arctic Circle. Note that most tours from Helsinki use the overnight train service, and focus on activities in and around Rovaniemi.

• this 6 day tour which includes Helsinki and Rovaniemi, and a number of activities
• this 5 day tour which includes Helsinki and Rovaniemi
• this 7 day tour which also includes Helsinki and Rovaniemi

If you take one of these tours, they will arrange all your transport and connections for you during your trip, which is definitely an option to think about.

Day 3: Rovaniemi

Welcome to Lapland! Rovaniemi sits right on the edge of the Arctic Circle, the most northerly of the lines of latitude. Above this line you can experience the Midnight Sun in summer, as well as days in winter when the sun never rises at all!

Rovaniemi makes an excellent base for a wide range of winter activities in Finland . These includes Northern Lights viewing, ice karting, snowmobiling, husky sledding, reindeer sledding, sleeping in a snow hotel, ice fishing – the list goes on!

For this itinerary, which I’ve put together on the basis that you don’t need a car, the plan is to base yourself in Rovaniemi for three days and to do a number of winter activities from the city. There are also several attractions in and around Rovaniemi to visit.

This itinerary will of course also work perfectly well with a car. I’ve visited Rovaniemi in winter with and without a car on my two visits. If you plan to rent a car, you can arrange to pick up a rental car either at the airport or in the town center once you arrive. The only consideration if you do hire a car is to ensure that your accommodation includes free parking.

Now, on with the itinerary. Note that many of the museums and attractions in Rovaniemi are not open every day, with Monday being a popular day for them to close. So depending on your timings you might want to juggle this itinerary around a little bit.

First, I’m going to suggest you head to the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. This is around a 10-minute drive outside the city. If you’re arriving from the airport, it’s between the airport and Rovaniemi, so makes for a logical first stop if you arrive in the morning.

You can get to Santa Claus Village by driving, taking the   S anta’s Express bus , a local bus, or by taxi.

There’s a lot to do at the Santa Claus village, and it’s a great place to check off a few of your winter activities. First though, you’re going to want to actually meet the man himself.

Yep, as the name suggests, the Santa Claus village is actually home to Santa Claus himself. He lives here year round with his elves, planning for the big day, and sorting and reading all the mail he receives.

It’s free to visit Santa, although if you want a photo or video with him there’s a fee for that.

As well as visiting Santa, you can also visit Santa’s post office. A fun thing you can do here is mail a Christmas card that will be kept and posted at Christmas time. So even if you visit Rovaniemi in January, you can get all your Christmas cards mailed!

Beyond Santa, there’s plenty more to see and do at Santa’s Village. You can take a photo of you standing on the Arctic Circle marker, and can also arrange other activities such as a reindeer sled ride, a husky ride, or a snowmobile ride.

Of these, we’d suggest that a husky ride would be a great option. Bear Hill husky is our favourite husky operator in this region, and I actually took a two day husky safari with them. They operate a number of tours with pickup from Santa’s village, including this one .

You can also book an experience like this which includes your visit to Santa Claus and a snowmobile ride to a reindeer farm.

You can also do a longer 7 hour tour if you want a more complete experience.

Assuming you take the shorter tour, our suggestion for the rest of your day is to visit Rovaniemi and familiarise yourself with the town. There’s plenty to do here. We’d particularly recommend a visit to Arktikum .

This museum and science center is perfect for learning all about the people, history and culture of the area. There are a number of permanent exhibits here, with the content on life in the arctic being my favourite.

Once you have explored some of the highlights of Rovaniemi, you will likely want to have your evening meal.

If you’re still feeling adventurous, we can highly recommend scheduling some time to try and spot the Northern Lights. You can do this yourself by finding somewhere away from the city lights. If you don’t have a car, the area by Arktikum is a popular spot.

Alternatively, you can take a dedicated Northern Lights tour. Some of these also include other activities like snowmobiling or a traditional Finnish sauna. These are a good option because the Northern Lights are definitely not guaranteed, so doing another activity will ensure you are occupied and having fun, with seeing the Northern Lights as a bonus!

Some options to consider for seeing the Northern Lights from Rovaniemi are:

• This 5 hour tour where you look for the Northern Lights whilst having a traditional firewood sauna experience
• This photography-focused Northern Lights tour
• There are lots more Northern Lights tours from Rovaniemi to choose from, which you can see here .

If you want to get photos of the Northern Lights, you will need to read up a little in advance as they can be quite challenging to photograph. I have a complete guide to how to photograph the Northern Lights , which I can definitely suggest you take a look at so you are prepared.

I also recommend you download an app for your smartphone that will notify you of aurora activity. I have tried a few of these, and have settled on My Aurora Forecast Pro.

I have found it to be the most reliable app that doesn’t drain my phone battery, but has always reliably alerted me to aurora activity. This is available for both Android  and  iOS , and is available in both free (ad-supported) and paid versions.

We think that’s enough for your third day in Finland! Of course, you can schedule a Northern Lights tour for any of your days in Rovaniemi, but we recommend popping out every evening if you can to at least try and see them yourself, as they can be fickle. If you have a car, driving a little out of the city will afford you the best viewing experience.

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi

You’re obviously going to need somewhere to stay for your time in Rovaniemi. We’ve tried a few different accommodation options, and have shortlisted the following as our favourites.

• Hostel Cafe Koti – a well rated hostel with a good restaurant on site
• Guesthouse Borealis – convenient for the train station and great value
• Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus – centrally located well rated 3* hotel
• Arctic Light Hotel – boutique hotel in the centre of Rovaniemi
• Arctic Treehouse Hotel – unique accommodation just outside Santa Claus village

We can also recommend checking out the options for Rovaniemi on Vrbo here .

Day 4: Rovaniemi

We’re going to suggest a full day trip today out of Rovaniemi and down to the town of Kemi on the coast.

Here, you’re going to take a truly unique trip – a ride on an icebreaker boat!

Launched in 1961, the Sampo is a genuine icebreaker built for serious arctic conditions. She had a long and distinguished career in the Gulf of Bothnia, where for thirty years she kept the shipping lanes clear of ice.

In 1987, the town of Kemi bought the Sampo, and since 1988 she has been operating as a tourist attraction from the town port.

This was one of the most fun experiences that I had in Finland in winter. Riding an ice breaker across a frozen sea is a really amazing adventure that is quite unique. The sound of the breaking as the ship ploughs through it is incredible, and I could have just watched the ice breaking and the bow and the frozen sea stretching off to the horizon all day.

However, there’s more to a trip on the Sampo than just watching the ship do her thing. You can also don a full dry suit, and go for a swim in the frozen sea! The ship creates a hole in the ice, and the passengers then take it in turns to don full dry suits and bob around.

This was a lot of fun, although it was definitely less like swimming and more like floating. During this time, it was also possible to take a walk on the snow covered ice, which was also a unique experience.

All in all, I can highly recommend the trip on the Sampo icebreaker. The ship is also very comfortable, and there’s a restaurant on board. Depending on the ticket you choose, there’s an option which includes a buffet meal on board as well.

It’s worth checking the dates and times for the icebreaker well in advance of your trip as it doesn’t sail every day, so if this is something you want to do you will need to plan your trip around it. It also often sells out in advance. You can see times and prices here .

If you are driving, it’s around 90 minutes each way from Rovaniemi to Kemi. If you want to travel by train you can take the train from Rovaniemi to Kemi, and select shuttle pick-up from the Kemi train station to the harbor.

Or you can book a day tour which includes your round-trip transport directly from Rovaniemi to the ice breaker.

Day 5: Rovaniemi

For your last full day in Rovaniemi I’m going to suggest you have a full day of winter activities. After all, you came to Finland in winter to have a winter adventure!

There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to winter adventures, so I’ll just provide some options and let you decide what you might enjoy the most. Some of these activities are shorter, so you could do more than one if you wanted, whilst others are full day trips.

Hiking / Snowshoeing

One of the best way to experience winter in Finland is to get out into the countryside and take a walk!

Of course, walking in snow can be a bit challenging, as we tend to sink in. The solution? Snowshoes! These are large and wide devices which clip onto your shoes, and spread your weight out on the snow. This lets you walk without sinking in.

If you want to explore on your own, you can either buy a pair of snowshoes or rent them.

Another option is to take a tour. For example, this tour has you snowshoeing through the snow covered forests near Rovaniemi, before trying your hand at another popular Finnish winter activity – ice fishing!

There are some other great hiking tours you can take from Rovaniemi. I’d particularly recommend going hiking in the Korouoma National Park. This is found 160km from Rovaniemi, so will take a couple of hours to drive to. However, in winter the park is famed for its frozen waterfalls, of which there 14.

The best way to see these is to take a hike in the park. You can either drive yourself, or you can take a tour from Rovaniemi which should include an experienced guide and the correct outerwear and footwear.

We’d recommend either this half day hike or this full day hike .

Ice Fishing

A really popular activity amongst Finnish people in winter is ice fishing. This sport has you drilling a hole into the ice on a frozen lake or river, and then using special ice fishing equipment to try and catch a fish.

We have tried ice fishing a few times, and to be honest, we have never caught a fish.

That said, other people on the tours we’ve taken have caught fish, as has our guide, so it is definitely possible!

Even though we’ve never caught a fish, we’ve always had a lot of fun ice fishing. It’s a wonderful way to get out into the outdoors, and most tours include some kind of food or at least hot drinks cooked over a fire.

The best way to go ice fishing is definitely to take a tour. Whilst you could hire your own equipment and go yourself, it is definitely a lot safer to accompany a local expert when heading out onto frozen lakes and rivers!

There are a number of ice fishing tours that depart from Rovaniemi, including the following.

• A 2.5 hour tour which focuses on ice fishing – great if you just want to get an idea of what it’s all about without committing to a longer trip.
• This 4 hour tour includes both snowshoeing and ice fishing
• A 7 hour full day tour that includes ice fishing, a traditional Finnish sauna experience as well as a BBQ lunch – which will include your fish if you catch any!

You can also pair up an ice fishing experience with snowmobiling. For example, this is a 5 hour snowmobile and ice fishing day, whilst this is a half day tour with snowmobiling and ice fishing .

Snowmobiling

I love snowmobiling, and every time we’ve visited Finland I’ve done my best to go snowmobiling at least once.

Snowmobiling is, in my opinion, a huge amount of fun. It’s also a great activity to pair with other activities, such as watching the Northern Lights or going ice fishing. You use the snowmobile to get to where you are going, do the activity, and then ride the snowmobile back.

Of course, you can also have a “pure” snowmobiling experience too, where you just ride the vehicle.

Snowmobiles are nearly all for two people, so when you go on a snowmobile tour there will usually always be one person driving, and one person as the passenger. On all the tours I’ve been on the guides have always ensured that people swap so both can have the experience of driving if they want. Additionally, it’s usually possible to pay a supplement to ride on your own if you prefer.

If you are visiting Finland with children, you should be aware that most snowmobiles can’t be operated by children under 15 years of age.

Some children can ride as passengers, but this isn’t universal, so you will want to check the tour details and contact the company to be sure before booking. For example, this is a family friendly snowmobile tour.

Some snowmobiling tours from Rovaniemi to consider include the following.

• This tour which just has you snowmobiling and is a good way to get a feel for riding these machines.
• This half day tour which includes snowmobiling, a visit to a reindeer farm, and a husky and reindeer sled ride. If you want to experience a number of activities in one tour, this is a great option.
• This half day tour which includes snowmobiling, ice fishing, campfire, and lunch.
• This evening snowmobile tour to see the Northern Lights which also includes a traditional Lappish BBQ. This tour is family friendly, and would make a great evening out after doing other activities in the daytime. Plus you might catch the Northern Lights!

Hopefully this gives you plenty of ideas for the types of snowmobiling tours you can do from Rovaniemi.

Husky Sledding

If you prefer your snow transport to be bit more traditional but still lots of fun, then husky sledding is likely going to be something you’ll enjoy a great deal.

As the name suggests, husky sledding involves a team of huskies, and a sled. Huskies are a special breed of dog which are well adapted to long periods of intense activity as well as cold conditions. Put more simply, they love running in the snow.

Husky sledding has you harnessing a team of husky dogs to a sled. There are usually between six and eight dogs, and each sled will generally have a driver and a passenger. The driver will stand at the back of the sled to steer and brake, whilst the passenger relaxes and enjoys the view.

Husky sledding is a really popular activity when visiting Finland in winter, and one we highly recommend. I’ve written a whole post outlining my experience dog sledding in Lapland , which you should find useful.

Like most of the other activities on our list, there are lots of operators running husky sledding tours in Rovaniemi. We recommend and have used Bear Hill Husky, they really care about their dogs, and they have a range of sledding experience to suit everyone. Some examples to consider are as follows.

• The offer shorter tours which usually include 45 minutes of actual dog sledding over a 2.5 hour visit. As well as the sledding, you also get the opportunity to learn about and meet the dogs – and get plenty of photos. For example, see this morning tour .
• If you want a more immersive and complete experience, they also offer a longer full day tour which includes around seven hours of husky sledding as you cover a distance of 30-40km. This also includes a campfire lunch, hot juice, and cookies.

We think one of these options would be great for anyone looking for a wonderful husky sledding experience in Lapland.

Visiting an Amethyst mine

The final option we have on our list of things you could do on your last day in Rovaniemi is to visit an Amethyst mine .

There’s one working amethyst mine in Finland, and it’s found on the top of a hill in the Pyha-Luosto National Park .

This national park is home to the remnants of a mountain chain which is over two billion years old. It’s a popular place for a range of outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, hiking and skiing.

However, it’s the amethyst mine that I think you should visit. This is found in Lampivaara, and here you can learn all about amethyst mining, as well as having a go at mining for amethyst yourself!

If you have your own vehicle it’s around a 90 minute ride from Rovaniemi to Lampivaara. Here, there’s a tracked vehicle which ferries people up to the top of the mountain to visit the mine. This experience needs to be booked in advance, which you can do here .

Of course, there’s lots more to do be in Rovaniemi and surrounds beyond everything we’ve listed here, which is why we think it makes for a great base to explore. For more inspiration, see our guide to things to do in Rovaniemi .

Days 6 & 7: Head North

From Rovaniemi, my suggestion is to head further north into Lapland. This will give you even more chances to see the Northern Lights, as well as stay at some really unique and more remote locations.

You’ll also have more chances to do lots of winter activities including dog sledding, ice fishing, ice karting, seeing Santa, staying in ice hotels, spending time in a Finnish sauna, snowmobiling, and skiing.

As always, you have choices for where you decide to go! Here are our three suggested options for you to choose from, depending on your interests. Of course, if you are driving yourself, you can visit more than one of these options.

The first option you have is to head north to Saariselka. This is found 250km / 155mi north of the arctic circle, making this an excellent place to see the Northern Lights.

You can reach Saariselka by car or public bus from Rovaniemi. There’s also Ivalo airport , 25km to the north of the city, which has services to Helsinki and other European destinations.

When we visited Saariselka, we stayed in the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort . This is one of the most popular places to stay in a glass igloo in Finland, and was where the concept of glass igloos first originated.

I stayed in a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen, and it was a night I will never forget.

Naturally there’s more to Kakslauttanen than glass igloos. The resort has a wide range of accommodation options, depending on what you are interested in. I can definitely recommend staying in a glass igloo for one night on your trip just for the experience. There’s also a range of winter activities available here.

You can see our full review of Kakslauttanen here .

Where to stay in Saariselka

Whilst we very much enjoyed our stay at Kakslauttanen, it’s not the only option in Saariselka. You might consider one of the following options:

• Wilderness Hotel Muotka & Igloos – A well reviewed and popular option with cottages featuring glass domed ceilings and a private sauna
• Log House Kuukkeli – if you’d prefer to stay in a more traditional property, this guesthouse is built in the traditional log cabin style and offers great value accommodation
• Northern Lights Village – features glass roofed cabins with private bathrooms and its own reindeer paddock.
• Saariselkä Kuukkeli Inn – a well reviewed more budget oriented option. Rooms have free-wifi, and shared bathrooms

During your time visiting Saariselka you’ll find plenty to do to keep you occupied. If there are any winter activities you want to take part in, you can of course do them, including snowmobiling, ice fishing, husky sledding, snowshoeing and more. Naturally, you’ll also want to spend time searching for the Northern Lights!

Most accommodation providers will be able to arrange these activities for you directly.

Another popular area you can visit from Saariselka, either as a day trip or overnight, is Inari. This is a little further north,  and is in fact home to Finland’s northernmost holiday resort.

This is a very sparsely populated region, and is a focal point of the Sámi culture. You can learn about this culture and people at Siida , home to the Sámi Museum and the Northern Lapland Nature Centre. This is open throughout the winter on every day except Monday, and there’s a fee to visit.

Another option is to visit the Kittilä region. This is a particularly good option if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, as it’s home to Levi , Finland’s largest ski resort.

So if you want to get some skiing or snowboarding in on your trip to Finland, this would be the best place to do just that.

There’s lots more to do in the Kittilä area than skiing though.

The area is popular for a range of winter activities, with hiking and cross-country skiing in Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park being a popular option. You can also go snowshoeing, ice fishing , ice karting, husky sledding and snowmobiling of course!

In Lanio, you’ll find the Lapland Hotels SnowVillage . This village is made every year from thousands of tonnes of ice and snow, and features a hotel, restaurant, bar, and even a chapel. There are also log cabins on site. You can stay here overnight or just visit for the day. The theme varies each year, with 2018-19 having a Game of Thrones focus.

Another excellent attraction that we enjoyed visiting in Kittilä was Samiland . This is found at Levi Summit, which you can reach by taking a lift from the ski resort.

Samiland features an indoor and outdoor exhibit space dedicated to the Sami people, and covers the history, culture and mythology of the people, as well as their traditional building and mythology. There’s a small entry fee which is well worth it.

You can reach Kittilä by car or bus from Rovaniemi. The distance is 150km / 93mi. Kittilä airport serves Kittila/Levi, with flights from Helsinki and a number of destinations across Europe.

Where to stay in Kittilä

There are a range of accommodation options in Kittilä. Some options to consider are as follows.

• Design Hotel Levi – perfect for those of you wanting to be able to ski from your door, this hotel is found right at the foot of the Levi resort ski lifts
• Lapland Hotels SnowVillage – if you want to live out your dream of sleeping in a snow hotel while in Finland, this is the place to come!
• Hotel Kittilä – 15 minutes from the Levi Ski resort, this is a great value option
• Guesthouse Golden Goose – found in the centre of Kittilä village, this is a well rated guesthouse with an on-site sauna
• Levi Northern Lights Huts – found on an old reindeer farm, this is the place to stay in Levi if you want the glass roof experience

Wherever you choose to go from Rovaniemi, we think that spending your last couple of days deep inside the arctic circle, chasing the Northern Lights and taking part in more winter activities, would be the perfect way to end your trip in Finland.

Then, you can return to Rovaniemi, drop off your hire car if you have one, and fly home. Alternatively, there are flights available from Kittilä or Ivalo airports.

That’s it for our winter itinerary of Finland! Now we want to share some practical advice to help you plan your trip.

Map of 7 Day Finland Winter Itinerary

To help you visualise this itinerary we’ve put together a map, which you can also see on Google Maps here .

Finland Itinerary Overview

Here’s an overview of this itinerary for quick reference:

• Day 1: Helsinki – Helsinki City Museum, Helsinki Cathedral, National Museum of Finland
• Day 2: Helsinki – Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Helsinki Skywheel, Uspenski Cathedral, Old Market Hall
• Day 3: Rovaniemi – Santa Claus Village, Husky Tour, Arktikum
• Day 4: Rovaniemi – Day trip on Sampo ice breaker, Northern Lights
• Day 5: Rovaniemi – Snowshoeing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, husky sledding, amethyst mine
• Day 6 & 7: North Finland – Saariselka, Kittilä

How to Get Around Finland in Winter

You might be wondering what the best way to get around Finland in winter is.

Well, you have a number of options.

For longer distances, such as the trip between Helsinki and Rovaniemi, we would recommend either taking the train or flying.

Flying will be the fastest option, and is likely to be the cheapest as well if you book well in advance. You can check flight times and prices, and  book online here . For the train, you can see timetables and book online here .

For shorter distances, such as exploring around Rovaniemi and getting between the sights on our itinerary, you have a couple of options.

First, you can rent a car and drive. We prefer to self-drive when we travel where possible as it gives us more flexibility with what we stop to see, where we go and when we leave.

Car rental in Finland is comparable to other parts of Europe. In winter, cars will come with studded tyres, and the roads are well maintained.

If you want to drive in Finland using this itinerary, we’d recommend hiring a car in Rovaniemi for pickup from the airport. You can compare car rental prices and book online here .

Of course, we appreciate that driving in the extreme winter conditions that Finland experiences is not going to be for everyone. With this in mind we have set this itinerary up so you don’t have to drive if you don’t want to.

By combining public transport and a variety of tours which include transport, you can absolutely experience Finland in winter without needing to hire a car or worry about driving.

Tours of Finland in Winter

If you love the sound of the trip I’ve put together, but don’t like the thought of planning it all out, booking activities, hotels and transport, then you might consider taking a tour instead.

There are of many tour options to consider, which we have summarised as follow.

• this selection of tours which includes a number of options in Lapland

Hopefully one of these works out for you if you choose to take a tour of Finland in winter.

You can see more tour options for Finland on TourRadar here , they list tours from a wide range of operators at various price points, so you can find the one you want. We have used TourRadar to book tours in destinations around the world and always had a good experience.

Further Reading for Visiting Finland in Winter

And that’s it for our one week winter itinerary for Finland. We hope it’s given you lots of ideas to help you plan your trip. Before you head off and start booking your adventure, we did just want to share with you some more resources we’ve put together on our time in Finland, to help you with your planning.

• We have a guide to things to do in Rovaniemi , to give you more inspiration for what to do in the town
• We have a comprehensive guide to all our favourite winter activities in Finland
• Finland is very cold in winter, and the key to a good trip is to pack appropriately! To help you out, we have put together a detailed guide to what to pack for Finland in winter
• If you’re looking for more destinations to visit in Finland, see our guides to visiting Porvoo , visiting Oulu and visiting Rauma
• Helsinki is the capital city of Finland, and one we definitely recommend you spend some time. See our guide to things to do in Helsinki , a suggested 1 day Helsinki itinerary , and our review of the Helsinki card to help you plan your time here
• Another of our favourite winter locations in Finland is Iso Syote. See our guide to visiting Iso Syote here .
• Want to try some unique accommodation? See our review of this famous glass igloo hotel in Finland
• It’s not all about winter – Finland is an awesome summer destination too! See our guide to visiting Finland in summer
• Finally, if you’re looking for a guidebook, you might checkout the Lonely Planet guide to Finland or the Insight Guide to Finland

And that’s it for our 7 day itinerary for Finland in winter. As always, we are happy to answer your questions – just pop them in the comments section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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There are 24 comments on this post

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Edimilson says

16th June 2024 at 7:50 pm

Hello, I am considering going to Finland this year, however I can only go in the first half of December, Do you think that the weather will be snowy enough at that time for a proper winter vacation? Thank you for your post, it is very helpful and informative!

Laurence Norah says

18th June 2024 at 5:24 pm

Hi Edimilson,

This is a great question. So the further north you go in Finland, the more likely you are to get snow in December. Helsinki is less likely, but Rovaniemi and further north into the Arctic circle is more likely. However, it is not guaranteed, just likely. I can’t give you an exact chance unfortunately. The Finnish Meteorlogical website shows that there is always a white Christmas in Lapland, but as you are going earlier in December this does slightly lower your chances. I think the best option would be to go as far north as possible for the best chances.

Sorry I can’t be more definitive!

Cyndi Puah says

8th March 2024 at 3:22 pm

may i know itinerary and the cost of the package

8th March 2024 at 3:52 pm

The itinerary is laid out in the guide above, and it’s designed for people to follow themselves, it’s not a guided experience. If you’d like a guided tour of Finland, I can recommend checking out the options on TourRadar for Finland here , they have lots of tours at different prices from many operators, so you can choose one that suits your needs.

Have a great time in Finland!

19th June 2023 at 3:36 pm

Do you have any suggestions on extending this to Northern Norway. Perhaps a 10-14 day trip?

19th June 2023 at 4:13 pm

You absolutely could extend this trip to Northern Norway and that would make for a wonderful adventure. However as we’ve only visited southern Norway, we don’t have any specific advice for you. We hope you have a great trip though!

17th December 2022 at 2:10 pm

hi, thanks for the detailed blog. do you have any contacts for local private driver that we can engaged to bring us around or see northern lights?

18th December 2022 at 11:51 am

We don’t have any personal contacts for drivers, however, there are plenty of operators who can drive you to see the northern lights. Here is a list of some examples. So this is definitely a service you can book! If you wanted a longer tour, over multiple days, I’d suggest checking on sites like Viator or TourRadar to see what is available.

Pearlyn says

29th September 2022 at 6:00 am

Hi Laurence, this is really a great post that summarises what I need ! I’m planning to head to rovaniemi and lapland for 8 days ,would you recommend signing up tours from websites like nordic visitor etc? Do you have a recommended tour that covers both rovaniemi and lapland ? if the transport is included then that will really make it a lot more fuss free Thank you !

1st October 2022 at 5:47 pm

Hi Pearlyn!

Thanks very much! So I’ve not used Nordic Visitor before but I am aware of them and they get good reviews I believe, so that should be fine. What I would suggest is taking a look at the Finland tours on TourRadar here – they list tours from most of the companies who run tours, and you can filter by duration and price. So that should help you narrow down your options. For example, a tour like this might be an option, but there are quite a few to choose from 🙂

Have a great trip!

Shelly says

30th August 2022 at 1:56 am

Hi, So I’m really interested in the ice breaker tour but if I go in Dec. would the tour be mostly be in the dark? Would we be able to see the ice and things around us?

30th August 2022 at 11:14 am

Great question. So daylight hours in December are definitely limited. A great website is this one , where you can plug in a location and it will show you the sunrise and sunset times, as well as the dawk/dusk times (civil twilight).

For December it shows that you are looking at sunrise between 10am and 10.45 (depending on when in December), and sunset between 2.17pm and 2.50pm. Dawn and dusk add just under two hours to that, so it won’t be totally dark, but it will be definitely be darker.

So yes, you should be able to see the ice around you, and you will also get either a sunrise or sunset from the boat, depending on which cruise you take.

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Shelly Mcintosh says

30th August 2022 at 12:19 pm

Thank you so much! In your opinion what is the best time to go? What gives me the best chance to see the northern lights and also do all the wonderful winter activities. I was planning a trip in Nov but I see the ice breaker doesn’t start till dec and I see Dec has Limited daylight. By the way this was by far the best blog I have come across! So useful and informative.

30th August 2022 at 1:01 pm

My pleasure Shelly, and thanks! So we have visited Finland in December and the days are definitely quite short, especially in the northern areas. My favourite time is February, there is more guarantee of snow, the days are already a lot longer and there is still a good chance of seeing the northern lights. My best Northern lights experience was actually in February. So if that’s an option that would be my preference.

Have a wonderful trip, and feel free to ask any more questions as you plan!

20th April 2022 at 2:57 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica,

This is amazing blog I have never come across. It’s so detailed and to the extend you’d brought me into Finland while reading. Phenomenal!

I am planning to make a December family trip with 3 children from age 11 to 15. Your itinerary definitely suit to my plan. I am wondering how easy of the public transportation like bus from point to point as you’ve mentioned? It’s unlike other EU countries where we can get train easily.

20th April 2022 at 4:36 pm

Thanks very much, we’re glad you found it helpful 🙂 So the public transport is pretty easy to use in Finland. You will just want to check schedules for where you plan on going. If you are following this itinerary, then the easiest option is to take the train (or fly) from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. If you plan on going further north, you’ll need to take a bus. We’ve taken a few long distance buses in Finland and they have all been fine. Let me know if you have any more questions!

Samir Patrawala says

12th October 2021 at 1:20 am

Dear Laurence,

I am Sameer from Explorus Travel, India. Just read your detailed itinerary for Finland in Winter. It’s a kind of encyclopaedia for me. Amazing!

I have a question: Most of the photos on this page are clicked in daylight (they are bright, sunny pics). But what I read is that Sun almost doesn’t rise at all in Dec / Jan in Rovaniemi. So how can one get an opportunity to click such sunny and bright photos in absence of sun light / day light? Isn’t the stay experience in Dec boring and dull in absence of light? I mean how much can one enjoy darkness without good photos? Or are your photos clicked during those two hours when there’s little day light?

Many thanks in advance.

Kind regards

12th October 2021 at 10:53 am

Great to hear from you! So these photos are from a few different visits, some in January and some in February. The experience of how much light there is will vary depending on where you are in Finland. In Rovaniemi, the darkest day of the year is the 22nd December, where there’s only 2.5 hours of sunlight. However, there is still sunlight. If you visit in mid-February, you get 8.5 hours between sunrise and sunset. So there is plenty of light. I would generally suggest not visiting over the very darkest days in December, but it quickly changes and the days get longer if you visit in February or even late January.

Hope this helps!

Sameer Patrawala says

12th October 2021 at 11:35 am

Thank you so much for your prompt and satisfactory response.

Would you recommend Northern Norway for Northern Lights in December last week or Rovaniemi Finland? I am asking in terms of maximum available day-light.

Kind regards Sameer Patrawala Explorus

12th October 2021 at 12:25 pm

My pleasure 🙂

So Northern Norway is way inside the Arctic Circle. In the last week of December, or in December at all in fact, you won’t get any sunlight. You can see sunrise and sunset times for a place like Tromso in Northern Norway here: https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/norway/tromso?month=12&year=2021

Rovaniemi is on the edge of the Arctic circle, which is why you don’t get the permanent darkness. If you are looking for the northern lights, then usually the further north you go the better your chances. However, I have seen incredible displays from southern Finland too, so it’s all just a question of luck really. If you want some sunlight though, northern Norway in December might not be the best option!

Trizzy says

26th September 2021 at 6:50 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica, First off, amazing and detailed itinerary! This is the type of blog I love to read when researching- keep it up! 🙂 Also, would you say early November is a good time to visit Finland and see the northern lights?

Many thanks again!

26th September 2021 at 10:36 am

Thank you very much Trizzy! So yes, November would be a fine month to see the northern lights. The only thing to bear in mind is that there might not be snow everywhere in early November (this changes each year of course), so if you wanted snowy landscapes as well as the northern lights, it’s something to keep in mind. Of course, there could also be lots of snow! But it’s not guaranteed.

I hope this helps!

Jessica says

9th April 2020 at 5:27 pm

I am following your travel blog for a while now. Love your content and photos. I am actually planing to visit Finland later this year as soon as this quarantine is over and I have one question. Do you recommend visiting smaller cities in Finland? For example this town Sastamala – I have friend there and don’t know what to expect as it is small town and there isn’t as much information online.

9th April 2020 at 6:50 pm

Hi Jessica!

Thanks very much. So the smaller cities in Finland are worth visiting, we have been to places like Oulu, Rauma and so on. There is usually something of interest in each town or city, and if you have a friend there they should be able to give you some advice as to what there is to do and see 🙂 So I would check with them and see what they say!

have a great trip when you get to go, and stay well!

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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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• Vaccines & medicines for Lapland - CDC

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• Latest info on travel to Lapland - Government of Finland

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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

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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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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The ultimate Lapland travel guide: How to travel & what to do in Lapland Finland

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!

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

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 .

Some interesting things about Finnish Lapland:

• 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 blog: When should you visit Lapland Finland?

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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 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.

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 ).

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.

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.

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 )

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

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

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 .

Some interesting things about Finnish Lapland:

• 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 blog: When should you visit Lapland Finland?

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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 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.

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 ).

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.

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.

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 )

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!

Arktikum Museum

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

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

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.

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

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).

Some other activities when traveling to Finnish Lapland

Explore the beautiful lakes and ice fishing.

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.

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)

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.

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.

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”.

Camping in the forest

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.

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.

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 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,…

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?

• 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

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.

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

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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Winter In Lapland: The Ultimate Itinerary For Families

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Every option on this Finnish Lapland itinerary will seem like a magical winter wonderland for families! Have you ever wanted to escape to a cold-weather oasis? Perhaps meet Santa in his homeland? Or experience the Northern Lights? You can get it all in Lapland, Finland ! From the thrill of Santa’s Village to dog sledding through the wilderness, there are so many ways to enjoy this vacation as a family. Decorate cookies, spend time with local wildlife, or even meet Santa Claus himself! Here, we outline a five-day itinerary for Rovaniemi . This town is located on the Arctic Circle and the official hometown of Santa Claus. In addition to family-friendly tips on things to do, we’ve also gathered the best hotels. We also note other family-friendly destinations within a few hours to experience all the region has to offer. Keep reading for our Finnish Lapland Itinerary For Families! 

RELATED ARTICLE : Family Vacations to Plan a Year in Advance

Day 1: Santa’s Village for Reindeer Rides and Snowmobiling

Start your Finnish Lapland itinerary for families with a visit to a special spot. Santa Claus Village , located about 5 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from downtown Rovaniemi , is a one-stop shop for lodging, regional activities, shopping, and meeting Santa. Not to mention, you can see where Santa receives all of his letters! Start slowly with a short reindeer ride through the trees, then experience the thrill of a faster pace with a kids’ snowmobile track a few steps away (available for ages 4 and up). For older kids, you may want to consider a snowmobiling tour , which can last anywhere from a couple of hours to most of a day; tour companies generally offer transportation to and from your lodging. 

Research Santa Claus Village or snowmobiling tours from Getyourguide.com!

Day 2: Joulukka and Dog Sledding

Joulukka – or Santa’s Secret Forest – will make for an unforgettable family experience in Lapland . You can experience the magic of Christmas year-round by request, though the visits are most popular during wintertime. Enjoy this experience with Santa through a group or private meeting and partake in fun activities, perfect for kids of all ages. Stroll through an elf village, visit the toy factory, try gingerbread cookie baking, or drink hot chocolate heated on an open fire. You can even keep the excitement of the day going with a thrilling dog sled ride! Husky Park Arctic Circle Adventure offers walk-up, shorter rides along with pre-booked adventures, and Bearhill Husky offers longer tours if your children are older. 

Getyourguide.com has many options for dog sledding! Book your tour here!

Day 3: Lampivaara Amethyst Mine and Sledding

Do you have a gem lover in the family? You’re in luck! In the middle of Pyhä-Luosto National Park , just 90 minutes from Rovaniemi , lies Lampivaara Amethyst Mine , with gems formed millions of years ago. During winter, visitors travel to the mines via the “snow train”. Families will learn about the amethyst from local experts, and then get a chance to dig for their own stone to take home! Don’t forget to pause and take in the natural beauty of the national park around you. Families who opt not to rent a car can get to and from the mines via the ski bus. After you head back to your lodging, grab a sled and zoom down any of the nearby hills. At most resorts, and Santa Claus Village, in particular, sleds are plentiful and available for guests’ use on-site. 

Book your tour to Lampivaara Amethyst Mine through Viator here!

Day 4: Ranua Wildlife Park and the Northern Lights

Animal lovers will truly appreciate a day with arctic birds and mammals at Ranua Wildlife Park , which has 50 varieties of animals on-site. Spend time with brown and polar bears, appreciate the beauty of the various owls or watch the reindeer in action. Got some little legs in your family? Grab a sled from guest services and make the most of the visit! Tickets and guided tours can be purchased ahead of time online, and children under 4 are free. If you’re able to get in a nap after the zoo, and the weather cooperates, consider a Northern Lights safari . While it might be a late night for the littlest travelers, we highly suggest it. Vivid colors in the night sky appear from late August to early April, providing an unforgettable backdrop during your family trip to Lapland! 

Use Getyourguide.com to book Northern Lights tours or Viator to book Tours of Ranua Wildlife Park!

Day 5: SantaPark

Are you looking for somewhere to escape the weather in Lapland ? If the cold has caught up to you, there’s nothing better than a fun day indoors. Luckily, families can get that at SantaPark , a fun Christmas theme park! Children and adults alike will enjoy the abundance of activities available here, from crafts to exciting performances. Go to elf school to learn elf secrets and skills, mail holiday greetings from the Post Office, take in a stunt-filled elf show, decorate cookies, chill out in the ice gallery, and so much more! There’s also a magic train ride and a chance to see Santa (perhaps again). An on-site restaurant means you don’t have to leave to make a day of it at SantaPark !

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi with Kids

Are you wondering where to stay in Rovaniemi with the kids? Santa Claus Holiday Village is a popular place for families. The one-bedroom units with a small kitchen allow you more space and amenities; some suites are also available at Nova Skyland Hotel . Both are steps from the activities in Santa Claus Village. A bit further afield, Arctic SnowHotel and Santa’s Glass Igloos both offer clear views of the night sky from the comfort of your igloo. Or, go for something in the heart of Rovaniemi, which offers countless restaurants ( Cafe Bar 21 serves waffles all day!). Stay near a science center , a playground , and more at the family-friendly Santa’s Holiday Homes .  

VRBO has accommodation options near Santa Claus Holiday Village. Look for your stay here!

Nearby Towns for Families to Consider Visiting 

Rovaniemi isn’t the only place to have a magical adventure in Finland’s Lapland region . For avid skiers, Levi has some of the best runs in the region. Even further north is Ivalo and Saariselkä , ideal for nature lovers who want a more remote arctic experience. Kittilä , Ylläs , and nearby Äkäslompolo offer beautiful winter escapes as well. Visiting a nearby city is a great way to round out your Finnish Lapland itinerary for families .

READ NEXT : Magical Christmas Towns in the U.S. for Families

Family-Friendly Traveling Tips for Visiting Finland

Have snow gear to bring? Wear it on the plane or use compression packing cubes in your suitcase to make the most of luggage space. Alternatively, if you’re a light packer, you can rent all the needed gear from head to toe on-site. To get there, direct flights to Rovaniemi and other Lapland airports are offered seasonally from the United Kingdom and more regularly from Helsinki , Finland’s capital city. For train lovers, families can also catch an overnight train for their winter adventure. And while we’ve tried to make it easy to plan, if you’re looking for more help, explore the numerous tour options on offer. 

Have a Magical Trip!

We hope you liked this Winter In Lapland: The Ultimate Itinerary For Families by our top contributor Megan Tucker ! Surely with this Finnish Lapland itinerary for families , it will be easy to plan an unforgettable trip to Finnish Lapland , the home of Santa Claus, and a beautiful winter wonderland. You may want to consider planning this one a year in advance , but regardless of when you do, you’re sure to create a fabulous, family-friendly adventure. Enjoy the journey!

*Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article are couretesy of and belong to Megan Tucker.

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Santa claus village & dog sledding, best of lapland classic - rovaniemi, classic lapland adventure & icehotel, lapland adventure - aurora sky station, our lapland tour reviews.

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

Ranae United States

We absolutely loved our experience with Nordic Visitor! From our first inquiry to our last goodbye, we had... read more

We absolutely loved our experience with Nordic Visitor! From our first inquiry to our last goodbye, we had exceptional service and attention. It quite literally was everything we asked for and more! Our travel consultant worked diligently to accommodate our every wish, was always in communication with us, and was simply amazing! This was a trip of a lifetime!

Natalie Netherlands

Professional, well organised, friendly and extremely helpful consultant helped plan a holiday of a lifetime.... read more

Professional, well organised, friendly and extremely helpful consultant helped plan a holiday of a lifetime. Instructions were very clear and all activities were planned perfectly.

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.

Lapland Facts

Why choose Nordic Visitor

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.

Great reviews

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.

Hassle-free experience

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.

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.

Full financial protection

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.

Value for money

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

How to dress warmly and be ready for adventure

Climate and daylight

When does the sun set? And what will the weather be like?

Northern Lights in Lapland

Find out how to witness the magical northern lights

Accommodation in Lapland

Glittering ice hotels, cosy cabins, and more

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.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

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 full refund.

Find out more

Finland Entry Requirements 

View our easy to use table to find out what you need to enter Finland for your holiday.

View entry requirements

General FAQs

Standard text: For help and support with any of your pre or post travel questions for Santa's Lapland.

Snow guarantee and price promise 

Seeing Lapland in the snow is all part of the experience, so if we decide there’s not enough snow, you can change your travel dates within the same season or get a full refund.

Terms and conditions 

Browse our list of terms and conditions and policies for all you need to know about booking your holiday with Santa’s Lapland.

View terms and conditions

• The Complete Lapland package
• Snow guarantee
• ABTA/ATOL Protected

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Top 15 european christmas markets.

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 browse the stalls with a mug of hot chocolate in hand. That’s..

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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, 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.

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.

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.

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 

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

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

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 

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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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Guide on How to Travel from Helsinki to Lapland

A re you heading to Finland and wondering what the best way to travel from Helsinki to Lapland? Did you know that for most visitors to Finland, these are the two most visited areas? It makes sense as most visitors fly into Helsinki, spend a day or two and then head off into the vast wilderness of Finnish Lapland.

In this guide I will help you in your travel research by providing up to date information on how to travel to/from these regions of Finland, whether its by plane, train or even car. 

One of the biggest factors in your decision about how to get from Helsinki to Lapland will be the amount of time you have and your budget. Below I go through the practical details on the three main transport options, providing the positives and negatives for each so you can make the most informed decision. Let get into it!

What are the airports in Lapland?

As I mentioned there are currently 5 airports in Lapland. Below are the airports with the main locations serviced from them.

Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

Rovaniemi is the third busiest airport in Finland and is the most popular of the ones in Lapland. Located in the south of Lapland, just near the Arctic Circle, this airport is seen as the gateway to Santa Claus Village. Given the towns popularity, there are several flights a day between Helsinki and Rovaniemi. This is one of the few that also is international airport accepting flights from several major European cities. 

In general, Rovaniemi can feel a quite commercial and crowded, especially during the peak winter season. This airport also serves as the hub for Pyhä  and  Salla which are popular for their natural beauty and skiing, both downhill and cross country. 

Ivalo Airport (IVL)

Two popular destinations with skiers and snowboarders include Inari and Saariselka , which are both serviced by the Ivalo airport. The airport is within 30 minutes of both destinations and is the northernmost airport in Finland.

Kittilä Airport (KTT)

Kittila is one of the main airports in the northernmost region of Finland, and the only other accepting international flights. This airport services the popular ski area of Levi. Levi is a popular spot for families during the festive season, but is smaller and quieter than Rovaniemi. Additionally, the popular Snow Village can be found here.

Our favorite destination serviced by this airport is Muonio which is a laid back destination offering all the popular touristy activities found in Rovaniemi but without the crowds and is excellent for spotting the Northern Lights. 

Kemi Airport (KEM)

Kemi-Tornio Airport is located on the coast of the Bay of Bothnia, serving travelers heading to Southern Lapland. Kemi has slowly become more popular in the tourist circuits for their magnificent Snow Castle that is built there every winter and for the famous Sampo icebreaker cruise. 

Kuusamo Airport (KAO)

Lastly, the Kuusamo Airport serves one of Finland’s major holiday destinations Kuusamo, attracting almost a million tourists annually. Many of these arrive for skiing at nearby ski resorts, especially Ruka Ski Resort , one of the largest in Finland.

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A Finnish Lapland Winter Escape

Flying from Helsinki to Lapland

Domestic flights from the capital Helsinki to Lapland airports are operated by Finnair. While the flights can be reasonably priced if booked well in advance, domestic flights on Finnair do impose an extra fee for checked luggage. Additionally, the new Finnair carry on limits are quite strict with a maximum of 8 kg for all carry on items combined. This means, that for most travelers,  it makes most sense to upgrade to the main fare price which includes both carry on and checked baggage. Once you upgrade your flight, a round-trip flight will cost a minimum of €200.  Note, if you are looking for cheap flights, sign up for Finnair’s email blast and keep an eye out for flash sales.

That said, this is still the quickest way to travel between Helsinki and Lapland. It can be cost effective if you are a solo traveler and/or traveling with extremely light luggage. However, it can be get expensive if you need to check a bag or are traveling in high season with several people

Traveling by Train from Helsinki to Lapland

Next we will move on to traveling by train from Helsinki to Lapland , which is the second most popular option.

I personally find travelling by train in Finland to be a wonderful experience and the most convenient way to get around the country. The trains are clean and reasonably reliable depending on weather conditions of course. Additionally, it is better for the environment and saves you money on accommodation if you can take an overnight train to travel while you sleep. All long-distance trains in Finland are operated by VR Train. 

Day vs. Night Trains

The most popular train that visitors take to Lapland from Helsinki is the Santa Claus Express train which ends in Rovaniemi. It leaves close to midnight and arrives around 11 a.m. the next morning. If you are traveling with children, this train is great as the sleeper cabins are essentially sold as a two person cabin. Prices for an upstairs private compartment sleeper cabin which includes a private toilet run around 300 Euro one way. The train also has a restaurant car for snacks and meals while on the train. Note, Rovaniemi train tickets for the sleeper cars can sell out quickly, so book well in advance to ensure you have a cabin.

Another popular route is to Kolari, which is the northernmost railway station in Finland. Travel here from Helsinki takes approximately 14 hours. Boarding is around 7:45 p.m. in Helsinki with a 10 a.m. arrival.  Even though it sounds like a long trip, it goes by quite quickly once you get settled in your sleeper cabin, grab some food from the restaurant car and then hit the sack. 

If you are unable to secure a sleeper cabin, you can consider a day train. With free Wifi, power sockets and the ability to walk around, an 8 hour train would actually go quite quickly if you can keep yourself occupied! These tickets run around €75 per ticket during high season. 

Take Your Car on the Train

For readers who live in Europe or have a rental car already booked, they can consider putting the vehicle on the train as well! These trains depart from Pasila Station and can be extremely handy if you have brought your car over from mainland Europe, but don’t want to drive all the way to Lapland. This is not cheap, but is a dobale option to ensure you have more access to explore around Lapland.

Train Stations in Lapland

There are many train stations in Lapland that I can’t list them all, but the main ending/starting point for the major lines include Kolari as the furthest north, Rovaniemi and Kemijarvi in the east. 

Kolari is in the far north of Finland, northeast of Rovaniemi, and very close to the Swedish border. This station is perfect for those traveling to Levi or Muonio. You can reserve a shared taxi or bus from the station to both locations. 

Kemijärvi is located east of Rovaniemi and from here you can easily access Salla and Pyhä.

Overall, I personally feel that if you are traveling with others or even on your own that taking an overnight train to or from Lapland is a great option. Train travel is scenic, cost effective if you have a family or a lot of luggage and you also have the option of taking a vehicle. The negatives are that it does take a long time and there are times that the trains leave late at night making it awkward for families with smaller children. 

Driving from Helsinki to Lapland by Car

For many travelers further afield, this would mean renting a car and needing to return it either in Lapland or back to Helsinki which can be quite an expense.

I am not sure I would recommend this option for many, but if you have your car and you are confident on driving on the right hand side of the road, in snow or inclimate weather, you will most likely be fine.

But you must be aware that this journey is at least 800 kilometers and can take around 10 hours. That said, the journey up to Rovaniemi is along one main road and the views will be stunning for much of the way.

In general, I’d only advise driving to Lapland from Helsinki if you’re touring elsewhere in Finland, have your own vehicle and have at least a couple of weeks here to make it worthwhile and cost-effective.

Important Information for Your Finland Trip

When is the best time to visit finland.

In reality, you can visit Finland at any time of the year as there are a multitude of activities to suit any weather condition. That said, in my opinion, the best time to visit Finland is definitely during the winter months between December and February. This is when you will see the most beautiful winter wonderland landscapes and you have a great chance to see the aurora borealis. Note, it is also the coldest time of the year, so you will need to prepare for that!

What is the best way to get to Finland?

Finnair offers direct flights to Helsinki Airport from all over the world, including from here in Los Angeles. The international flights are on newer Airbus A350 planes which have ample legroom, flight cameras and more. Subscribe to their newsletter for deals and special offers if this is a trip you are looking to plan far in advance. 

If you are in mainland Europe, you can also make your way overland to Tallinn and take the Viking Express over to Helsinki for a very affordable rate. Note, this is also a great day trip idea from Helsinki.

Where do you recommend to stay in Helsinki?

There are so many amazing options to stay in Helsinki. I think where you stay is dependent on what you want out of your visit. During my stay in the city I was leaving on an early morning ferry and arriving late at night from the airport so I chose the Noli Studio Apartments which were cheap, clean and convenient to everywhere I wanted to go. There are several of them located throughout the city, so pay attention to the neighborhood that you wish to be in! 

If you want a little more luxury and don’t mind being a little further out, consider the Clarion Hotel which is a favorite for repeat visitors to the city. 

What are the best things to do in Finland?

There are so many amazing things to do in Finland that I can’t list them all here. But a start would be to check out our top experiences in Lapland that you can find all over the region. Winter activities are some of the best on offer here in Finland.

What do I need to pack for Finland?

Layers is the short answer. The longer answer will depend on what time of year you are visiting. Assuming you visit during the high season of winter, you will need to pack a lot of warm breathable layers such as merino wool . Overall, I would say to focus on layers, good boots that have room for several pairs of socks, good gloves or mittens and a warm hat.

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Traveling During a Heat Wave: Tips and Precautions

It’s summer and the temperature is rising. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

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By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Follow our updates for the latest on the heat wave across the U.S.

It’s set to be another scorching summer, with extreme and prolonged heat waves forecast across many parts of the United States and Europe.

The stifling conditions could impact millions of travelers and wreak havoc on vacations at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Multiple heat-related deaths among tourists have been reported in Greece and Saudi Arabia in June following extreme temperatures in the Middle East and Aegean regions. Even those who have booked trips in traditionally cooler places may not be spared from the summer heat because of the growing unpredictability of weather patterns.

Here are some tips on how to manage high temperatures when traveling in a heat zone.

Check government guidance

If a heat wave has been forecast at your destination, check government websites before embarking on your trip to give yourself plenty of time to plan and adapt. In extreme temperatures, governments often issue heat advisories warning people to stay indoors during peak heat hours and provide resources to help residents and visitors stay cool. In the United States, the National Integrated Heat Health Information System has a website with information and tools to help prevent illness and death during excessive heat.

Tourist attractions also provide important updates about the conditions at the sights, including any scheduled closures, as a precaution against high temperatures. Some cities grappling with intensive heat, like Los Angeles, Miami, Athens and Melbourne, have assigned chief heat officers to prepare for the heat waves and lead emergency responses.

Avoid peak sun hours

It may seem obvious, but staying outdoors for prolonged periods of time when the sun is at its peak can put many at risk of heat exhaustion. Even if the temperature does not read exceptionally high, excessive dry heat or humidity can make an environment feel hotter than it is.

Travel advisers are adapting itineraries, putting sightseeing in the cooler early morning and evening hours and prebooking tickets for their clients so they do not have to wait in long lines.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

Hiking in the middle of the day is also not advised. On June 5, Dr. Michael Mosley, a British medical journalist, died during an afternoon hike in a 104-degree heat wave on the Greek Island of Symi. Four more tourists, including an American man , have recently died in Greece as temperatures have continued to soar.

“I would always recommend going hiking with a certified local guide and under no circumstances alone,” said Franziska Basso, a Milan-based travel adviser for Dreamsteam Exclusive Travel . “Of course, avoid the hottest hours of the day. Go hiking very early in the morning. And always stick to official hiking trails.”

In some European cities, including Paris and London, air conditioning is not a given, so check if it is available before booking a hotel, restaurant or transportation to ensure you have a cool place to find respite from the scorching heat. Visiting a museum or other indoor sightseeing is another good option, but expect crowds at peak hours.

Stay hydrated and take a siesta

Dehydration and heatstroke are among the most common causes of hospitalization during heat waves and can be prevented by staying hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption. During meals, consider eating foods like melons, cucumbers and celery as it can help to sustain hydration throughout the day. Always carry a water bottle with you and consider a parasol and portable fan to help keep you cool and shaded when outdoors.

While your itinerary may be packed with activities and tours, the heat can take a toll on stamina, so consider following the European siesta ritual by breaking up your day with a short nap.

“I’m telling my clients to adapt their itineraries and take advantage of the after-lunch siesta and then push their tours to later in the day when it’s cooler,” said Sarah Johnson, who owns Paper Ink & Passports Travel, a luxury travel company based in Pennsylvania. “There’s a reason they’ve been doing it in Spain and Italy for generations. Walking around in the midday heat and waiting in line could really hurt some people.”

Wear cool clothing

The National Weather Service recommends lightweight, loosefitting, light-colored clothing for outdoor use as it reflects heat and sunlight . Hats and sunscreen are also recommended to protect the face and scalp from harmful UV rays.

Just because it’s hot, doesn’t mean it will be dry. Heat waves can bring torrential rainfall, so be prepared.

“My biggest advice to travelers is to be prepared — for hot or cold, dry or wet weather since one never knows,” said Laurel Brunvoll, the owner of Unforgettable Trips , a Maryland-based travel agency. “Pack layers.”

Book a flexible trip

Even after taking all the right precautions, traveling in a heat wave can be miserable, making it worthwhile to make flexible bookings and purchase “cancel for any reason” travel insurance to have the option to postpone your trip to a cooler time.

Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. Travelers booking through a Sensible partner in the United States will be able to add daily protection that will allow them to claim reimbursement for a booking if the temperature exceeds a threshold that is usually set between 90 and 100 degrees.

“Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder, who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold.

For more travel advice, visit our collection of Travel 101 tips and hacks.

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

What to Know During Extreme Heat

Staying Safe:  We asked emergency room doctors for their advice on protecting yourself  from dehydration, heat stroke and other serious health problems.

Heat’s Physical Toll:  High temperatures can put the body under immense stress. Here’s what it looks like .

Effect on the Brain:  While heat can have an alarming impact on our bodies, it can also impair cognition and make us irritable, impulsive and aggressive .

Keeping Cool Indoors:  Too hot to go outside? Here’s how to be comfortable in your home  — with or without air-conditioning.

Sleeping Tips:  Heat can affect both how much you sleep and how good that sleep is. These simple steps  can help you get a better night’s rest when it’s hot.

Medications:  Certain antidepressants, blood pressure pills and other drugs make you more susceptible to heat-related illness .

Travel:  Stifling conditions could impact your travel plans this summer. Use these tips and precautions  to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

Need to book a last-minute trip? These 5 tips can help you save on plane tickets.

• Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the cheapest days to fly.
• Early morning and red-eye flights are often the least popular with other travelers.
• Using online booking platforms can help you explore your options.

Sometimes, a last-minute trip pops up and it can be expensive. Airlines often raise ticket prices as the departure date draws near, so savvy travelers try to plan well ahead.

But, experts say, it doesn’t have to be that way. If you need to travel unexpectedly, there are some strategies you can use to find the best possible deals. A big part of finding the best deal is being as flexible as possible, but there are also a few best practices that can increase your odds of finding cheap tickets.

Here are five things to know if you hope to find a last-minute flight deal.

1. Fly midweek if you can

Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the cheapest days to fly, so if you’re not tied to a specific day for your travel, it’s best to seek out departures on those days.

“By flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday, you can save an average of 18% or $51 per ticket on domestic airfares this summer. For trips to Europe, flying on weekdays can save you as much as $435 per ticket this summer,” Hayley Berg, lead economist at travel platform Hopper, said in a written statement.

Are Tuesdays still the best day to book flights? Here's what major travel platforms found.

2. Book the first or last flight

Early morning and red-eye flights are often the least popular with other travelers, so tickets for those departures can be cheaper.

“These flights tend to be less desirable and thus less expensive and less crowded. That means you’re likely to score a deal and be able to stretch out comfortably across empty seats,” Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner, said in a statement. 

Berg added that an early departure comes with the added benefit of being less prone to disruptions.

3. Search nearby airports

Berg and Lindsay said it’s a good idea to seek out flights from more than one nearby airport.

“Destinations with multiple airports give you more airline, itinerary, and price options,” Lindsay said. “By expanding your search to nearby airports, you expand your flight options. So, you may end up getting a better flight time and a better deal. Consider airports that are also within driving distance of your final destination. You can book a last-minute car rental and drive the rest of the way. Depending on the flight options, you may be able to get in even earlier than the quickest direct flight.”

For example, Berg said, if you’re flying to South Florida, consider Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach in addition to Miami. Or, if you’re leaving from Boston, think about looking for flights out of Providence, Rhode Island, as well.

Renew your passport online: Here's how it works.

4. Do your research

Using online booking platforms like Hopper and Skyscanner can help you explore your options. If you’re flying at the last minute, it's best not to be too wedded to one airline.

Calling a tour operator can also help you get a good deal if there are unsold seats at the last minute, and booking two one-way flights rather than a round-trip itinerary can save some cash as well in some cases.

5. Play chicken

This high-risk, high-reward strategy can pay off but also could cost more.

“Waiting until the very last second before making a move could pay off. Flight prices can drop as the departure date draws palm-sweatingly closer. Want to travel on Friday, but can’t find the right fare on Tuesday? Don’t give up just yet – try Wednesday, Thursday, and the big day itself before you throw in the towel,” Lindsay said.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 71 Million People Expected to Travel over July 4th Week

This year’s extended independence day forecast exceeds pre-pandemic numbers, sets new record.

WASHINGTON, DC (June 20, 2024) – AAA projects 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday travel period*. For the first time, AAA looked at the entire July 4 th week, plus the Saturday before and the Sunday after the holiday. This year’s projected number of travelers for that time period is a 5% increase compared to 2023 and an 8% increase over 2019.

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We anticipate this July 4 th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”   

AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car over Independence Day week – that’s an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year. This year’s number also surpasses 2019 when 55.3 million people traveled by car over July 4 th week. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are the cities displaying the highest rental demand during the holiday week. The busiest pick-up days are projected to be Friday, June 28, Saturday, June 29, and Wednesday, July 3.   

Gas prices are lower than last year when the national average was $3.53. Pump prices will likely continue going down leading up to Independence Day.  At that point, they will likely level off and remain relatively stable until after Labor Day, similar to last year.  An important caveat is hurricane season – underway now – which could affect gas prices should a storm negatively impact Gulf Coast oil production and refining centers.  

The number of air travelers is also expected to set a new record. AAA projects 5.74 million people will fly to their July 4 th destinations. That’s an increase of nearly 7% compared to last year and a 12% increase over 2019. AAA booking data shows domestic airfare is 2% cheaper this Independence Day week compared to last year, and the average price for a domestic roundtrip ticket is $800. Airports will be packed throughout the week. AAA recommends arriving 2 hours early, reserving parking ahead of time, and traveling with carry-on luggage versus checked bags to save time and money.   

More than 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. This category is seeing an increase of 9% compared to last year, but this year’s number is shy of 2019’s figure of 4.79 million. Cruising continues its remarkable post-pandemic comeback. This time of year, Alaska cruises are in high demand, making Seattle and Anchorage top domestic destinations. Cruise travelers are also finding deals this summer. With new ships coming onto the market – and going for a premium – some cruise lines have been offering targeted discounts to fill older inventory for remaining cabins.  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says the worst times to travel by car before and on July 4 th are between 2pm and 7pm. Drivers should hit the road in the morning, and travelers returning on Monday, July 8 th should avoid rush hour traffic in the morning and afternoon.  

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3 rd , as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “R oad trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.”  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.  

Source: INRIX  

  Top Destinations 

This July 4 th week, travelers are cooling off in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska – and by the ocean! Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage are top destinations because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Beaches in South Florida, Honolulu, Punta Cana, and Barcelona are in high demand. Historical sites in European cities like London, Rome, Dublin, Paris, and Athens are also popular. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Family Road Trip Checklist    

With road trips expected to set a new record this July 4 th week, AAA teamed up with Chicco to share safety tips for families with young children.  

• Check car seat fit. Before you hit the road, check your child’s weight and height to ensure they’re in the right seat and mode of use – especially when it comes to transitioning from rear to forward-facing. Children should remain rear-facing as long as possible for better protection of their head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. If you are unsure which car seat is best for your child, Chicco offers a car seat comparison guide.    
• Double check car seat installation. Even if your car seat is already installed in the car, it’s worth checking everything is safe and secure. An easy at-home way to do this is with the “inch test.” Simply grab the seat at the car seat belt path and pull side to side and front to back. If it moves more than one inch in any direction, uninstall and start over until a secure fit is achieved. For any questions, utilize the car seat manual, QR codes, or online resources like those offered by Chicco.    
• Secure loose items in the car. Take time to organize and clean up your car before hitting the road. Storage organizers that secure to the back of the driver and passenger seats are simple solutions to make sure everything has a spot, especially loose items that can become projectiles in case of a sudden stop.  
• Be prepared for the unexpected. Pack an emergency kit with first-aid supplies, water, snacks, blankets, jumper cables, and flares. Make sure your phone is fully charged – and keep a charger in the car – to call AAA or request roadside assistance digitally if your battery dies, you lock yourself out, or you need a tow.   
• Map your route. Families with young children should plan for frequent and longer stops along the way. Map out your route ahead of time with AAA TripTik and browse hotels, restaurants, and other activities along the way on AAA Trip Canvas.  
• Bring entertainment. Make sure to place toys and books within reach to keep children entertained. If your kids use tablets or other electronics, make sure the devices are fully charged and pre-downloaded before leaving home. Another fun way to get the whole family excited for the road trip is to create a family playlist of everyone’s favorite songs!   

Holiday Forecast Methodology   

Travel Forecast    

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of May 27, 2024.   

Because AAA forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors.  

*Independence Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as the nine-day period from Saturday, June 29 to Sunday, July 7. Historically, the Independence Day holiday period included only one weekend. This is the first year the Independence Day holiday travel period is a longer timeframe with two weekends included.  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.   

He ghosted his girlfriend on a ride to the airport. Then she sued him.

A New Zealand tribunal dismissed her case. But it raises a debate: Who gets a ride to the airport?

She thought they had a deal. He was nowhere to be found.

A New Zealand woman took her boyfriend to small claims court over a broken promise to drive her to the airport and watch her dogs during her trip, arguing that the agreement represented an oral contract.

According to an order released by the New Zealand Disputes Tribunal this week, the woman had asked her boyfriend of six and a half years to watch her two dogs at her house while she traveled to see a concert. While he may have been guilty of being a jerk, he was ultimately not held responsible for financial damages tied to her missed travel.

He’d allegedly agreed, not only to the pet sitting, but also to take her to the airport . But on the morning of her flight, her beloved could not be reached. Worse, he didn’t show. She missed her flight, but salvaged the trip. After taking her vacation, she took him to the tribunal, a “quicker, cheaper and less formal than court,” its website reads.

You can use the Tribunal to settle small claims up to $30,000 over issues like car or bike accidents, hating your neighbor’s fence or chasing down debts. There are no lawyers or judges; instead, parties show up to hearings and a so-called “referee” helps parties settle disputes, or the referee settles it for them. The outcome is legally binding.

The woman sought compensation for the financial losses from her boyfriend breaching their contract. She’d had to pay for another flight, plus an airport shuttle and a dog kennel. Another slight: He never reimbursed her for a ferry ticket for another vacation, and she wanted that repayment, too.

The order was recently released, according to NBC News , and does not reveal either party’s names, or when the failed airport ride took place. The tribunal concluded its findings in March. The referee, identified in the order as “Ms Cowie DTR,” dismissed the claim.

“There are many examples of friends who have let their friend down, however, the courts have maintained that it is a nonrecoverable loss unless the promise went beyond being a favour between friends and become a promise that they intend to be bound by,” she wrote.

For an agreement to be “enforceable,” there needed to be proof of “an intention to create a legally binding relationship.”

The airport ride case didn’t seem to have that, only basic promises you’d find in a typical romantic relationship.

What would happen in a U.S. court?

Attorney Steven Krieger, who runs a civil litigation firm in Arlington, Va., said the ghosted woman wouldn’t likely have a case in the United States, either.

“In my opinion, this is just an unenforceable promise — and probably not great for the relationship … but I don’t think she can win in the court for monetary compensation,” he said.

A key component missing from her case, Krieger said, is a legal concept called “consideration,” meaning both sides get something of value from the arrangement.

While the woman claimed the boyfriend had enjoyed staying at her house in the past, she hadn’t made a deal with him based on his previous or desired use of her home. It was not a contract to perform a service (watching her dogs and taking her to the airport) or for compensation (using her house), but rather a promise that he’d help her out of a bind.

“Generally promises without anything else are not enforceable,” Krieger said.

It may not have been a slight worthy of pressing charges, it was a crime against etiquette.

“She’s standing there expectantly smiling for 5, 10, 15, 20 minutes, an hour and still no boyfriend … that is completely unacceptable for sure,” said Thomas P. Farley, an etiquette expert also known as Mister Manners .

Who should you take to the airport?

Farley says etiquette doesn’t dictate that you must take your romantic partner to the airport or watch their pets, but ghosting is never the answer.

“If, say, a work commitment had come up that he couldn’t get out of and he had to beg off picking her up from the airport, I would certainly have notified her,” he said.

Nick Leighton, a two-time Emmy-winning talk-show host and co-host of the podcast “ Were You Raised By Wolves? ” agreed.

“From the etiquette lens, we want to honor our commitments,” he said. “And whenever we need to break a commitment, good etiquette says that we let the person know as soon as possible, we apologize profusely for all the inconvenience that we’re going to cause, and we try to make it up to them if that’s possible.”

While Farley called the entire situation — from the initial ghosting to the taking the issue to a tribunal “absurd,” he did say it points to a larger question: Who deserves a ride to the airport?

“Nobody deserves anything,” Leighton said, but taking someone to the airport is “the ultimate kindness.”

Farley says it depends on the size of the airport and your relationship with the person riding shotgun. Is it a friend or an acquaintance?

“If you have a vehicle and your airport is small enough … I think it’s a really nice gesture,” he said.

For parents, grandparents or people who need help with technology or mobility, you should pick them up or arrange a ride for them.

What about loved ones landing at a chaotic major metropolitan airport who are fully capable of hailing cabs or arranging Ubers? “I think is a really lovely and romantic gesture to do, but does etiquette dictate that you must? No,” Farley said.

If you’re not in the position to take someone to the airport, or just don’t want to, Leighton added, just say no in the first place.

“The idea of setting boundaries and being polite is totally compatible,” he said. “Etiquette does not require you to say yes to everything.”

To save you some heartache, look for a romantic partner that shares your belief on the issue.

“If you need an airport pickup relationship … you need to find a person that matches your style,” Leighton said.

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.