Welcome to the best things to do in Lapland, Finland in the winter!
Lapland, Finland, is a magical winter wonderland that comes alive when the snow starts to fall.
Known for its pristine landscapes, enchanting forests, and mystical northern lights, Lapland is the ultimate winter destination.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, Lapland is the perfect place to visit.
Let’s dive in.
My posts may contain affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase through my link, I’ll receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping me continue to create free content for you!
1. Chase the northern lights
One of the most iconic and mesmerizing experiences in Lapland is witnessing the Aurora Borealis, or northern lights.
This natural light show, caused by the collision of solar particles with the Earth’s atmosphere, paints the sky with vibrant greens, pinks, and purples.
Lapland’s location within the Arctic Circle makes it one of the best places in the world to see this phenomenon.
To maximize your chances of catching the northern lights, plan your visit between September and March, when the nights are longest and the skies are clearest.
There are many ways to experience the lights, from guided tours to staying in special accommodations like glass igloos or aurora cabins, which offer unobstructed views of the sky from the comfort of your bed.
Whether you venture into the wilderness on a snowmobile or settle into a cozy spot with a hot drink, the northern lights are a must-see in Lapland.
2. Visit Santa Claus Village
No trip to Lapland would be complete without a visit to Santa Claus Village, located in Rovaniemi.
Rovaniemi is the biggest city in Lapland, and known as the official hometown of Santa Claus.
This magical destination is open year-round, but it’s especially enchanting during the winter months.
At Santa Claus Village, you can meet Santa himself, send postcards from Santa’s official post office, and cross the Arctic Circle—a line marked right within the village.
The village is filled with charming shops and festive decorations that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas movie.
This place is definitely geared more towards families with children, but it’s still fun to see as an adult if you’re already in the area.
For families and kids, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that captures the true spirit of Christmas.
Related: Best Christmas Vacations In The USA
3. Go on a husky safari
Racing through the snowy landscapes of Lapland on a husky safari is an exhilarating experience that combines adventure with the beauty of the Arctic wilderness.
In fact, this is one of my favorite things I did in Lapland!
(And it’s a must-do for dog lovers.)
Husky safaris are one of the most popular activities in Lapland, and there are multiple options available, ranging from short rides to full-day adventures.
Before the journey begins, you’ll get a chance to meet the eager huskies, who are always excited to run.
After a brief introduction and safety briefing, you’ll set off on your sled, gliding across the snow as your team of dogs pulls you through the serene and snowy forests.
Husky safaris are not only a thrilling experience but also a chance to connect with these intelligent and energetic animals, making it an unforgettable part of any Lapland trip.
4. Experience a reindeer sleigh ride
For a more traditional and slower-paced journey through the Lappish wilderness, a reindeer sleigh ride is a quintessential activity.
Reindeer have been an integral part of Sami culture for centuries, and riding in a sleigh pulled by these majestic and semi-wild creatures offers a unique glimpse into the region’s heritage.
The rides are typically guided by local Sami herders, who share their knowledge and stories about reindeer herding and life in Lapland.
5. Stay in a glass igloo
For an extraordinary and immersive experience, staying in a glass igloo in Lapland is a must.
These unique accommodations offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to sleep under the Arctic sky with unobstructed views of the northern lights and starry nights, all from the comfort of a warm and cozy bed.
Glass igloos are designed with thermal glass that keeps the inside warm, while the outside remains clear and frost-free, allowing for perfect stargazing conditions.
Located in remote and quiet areas, these igloos provide an intimate experience with nature, whether you’re watching the auroras dance across the sky or simply enjoying the peaceful snowfall.
Most glass igloo resorts also offer additional amenities like saunas, snowmobile tours, and traditional Lappish dining experiences.
This offers a convenient way to experience Lapland’s highlights all in one place.
We stayed at the Northern Lights Village in Saariselkä and loved it!
6. Visit a traditional Finnish sauna
No visit to Finland would be complete without experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna, and in Lapland, this age-old tradition is taken to new heights.
Saunas are deeply ingrained in Finnish culture, offering both relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of winter activities.
In Lapland, you can find everything from lakeside saunas to saunas built inside snow igloos, providing a range of unique and authentic experiences.
One of the most exhilarating sauna traditions in Lapland is the combination of a hot sauna session followed by a plunge into an ice-cold lake or a roll in the snow.
While it might sound daunting, this ritual is said to have many health benefits, including boosting circulation and relieving stress.
Whether you’re looking to unwind after a busy day or simply want to immerse yourself in Finnish culture, a sauna session in Lapland is an absolute must.
7. Spend the day at Kotatieva Winter Leisure Park
Kotatieva Winter Leisure Park, located near Rovaniemi, is a hidden gem in Lapland that offers a perfect blend of traditional winter activities.
In fact, it’s been one of my most unique travel experiences to date!
This family-friendly park is designed to showcase the best of Lappish outdoor fun, including snow tubing and ice skating.
The park’s snow tubing run is particularly popular, providing thrilling rides down a well-maintained slope.
However, I think the ice skating track is the most unique feature, and it’s perfect for a more leisurely pace.
The 1-km long track winds through the natural forest, offering the chance to ice skate amidst beautiful snowy scenery.
Ice skating through the frozen forest is such a dreamy experience I’ll never forget!
In addition to its winter sports offerings, Kotatieva features a cozy Lappish hut where visitors can warm up by a fire and enjoy hot drinks and snacks.
Kotatieva is ideal for families, groups, couples, or anyone looking to experience a variety of winter activities in one picturesque location.
8. Snowmobiling in the Arctic wilderness
For adrenaline junkies, snowmobiling offers a thrilling way to explore Lapland’s vast and varied terrain.
With endless snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and rolling hills, snowmobiling in Lapland is an exhilarating adventure that allows you to cover more ground than any other mode of transport.
Guided snowmobile tours cater to all levels of experience, from beginners to seasoned riders, and often include stops at scenic viewpoints, frozen waterfalls, and remote wilderness areas.
Many tours also offer the opportunity to combine snowmobiling with other activities, such as ice fishing or visiting a reindeer farm.
The combination of speed, scenery, and the sense of freedom makes snowmobiling one of the top activities in Lapland.
9. Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
For those who prefer a slower-paced adventure, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing offer a fantastic way to explore Lapland’s serene winter landscapes.
With hundreds of kilometers of well-maintained trails, Lapland is a haven for cross-country skiing enthusiasts of all skill levels.
The trails wind through silent forests, across frozen lakes, and over gentle hills, offering stunning views and a peaceful connection with nature.
Snowshoeing is another excellent option, allowing you to trek through deep snow and access areas that are otherwise unreachable.
Guided snowshoeing tours are available, often including a visit to a traditional Lappish kota (tent) for a warm drink by the fire.
Both activities provide a great way to stay active while enjoying the tranquility and beauty of Lapland’s winter scenery.
10. Explore the Snow Village
The Snow Village in Lapland is a stunning seasonal attraction made entirely of snow and ice, rebuilt each winter with a new theme.
Located in the town of Kittilä, the Snow Village spans over 20,000 square meters and includes ice sculptures, snow corridors, and even an ice restaurant and bar.
Each year, the village features intricately designed rooms, hallways, and sculptures that reflect the chosen theme, which has included everything from fairy tales to famous TV shows.
Visitors can take guided tours of the Snow Village, enjoy a meal served on ice tables, or even stay overnight in one of the beautifully crafted ice suites.
The attention to detail and the sheer scale of the Snow Village make it a breathtaking attraction that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to experience the artistry of ice and snow.
Leave a Reply