In recent years, Lapland has become an increasingly popular destination for international travellers. During the winter months, visitors from around the world come to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, explore untouched Arctic landscapes, and meet Santa Claus. Lapland truly is a winter wonderland, offering a wide range of activities for all ages. In this guide, I’ll show you why should visit Lapland and provide all the essential information you need to plan your perfect winter getaway.
What is Lapland?
Let’s begin by clarifying what Lapland actually is. While it’s often associated with the northernmost region of Finland, Lapland spans a vast area that includes northern parts of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia. Most of Lapland lies within the Arctic Circle. This is a line of latitude that marks the southern boundary where, during the summer, the sun remains above the horizon for at least 24 hours. This unique geography means that you can experience both the Polar Night and the Midnight Sun. However, in southern parts of Lapland, where most tourists visit, the Polar Night can be as short as one day. These natural phenomena are fascinating, and if you’d like to learn more, I recommend this National Geographic article – What it’s like to live through ‘polar night’.
When to Visit Lapland: The Best Times
While Lapland can be enjoyed year-round, it is particularly popular during the winter months. The region offers a perfect winter getaway with guaranteed snow, a wealth of winter activities, and the mesmerising Northern Lights. Due to its northern location, Lapland’s winter season is long, spanning from October to April. However, to experience the best winter conditions, the ideal time to visit is from December to March. Early in the winter, snow is not always guaranteed, and by April, rising temperatures mean snow starts to melt, which which can get in the way of many winter adventurous.
December
December is a peak month for visitors to Lapland, especially those looking to experience the magic of Christmas and meet Santa Claus. The allure of this winter wonderland during the holiday season is undeniable. However, this is also when prices are at their highest and major attractions, including Santa’s Village, are crowded with tourists. For these reasons, I would recommend avoiding December unless you are traveling with children and your main reason for travelling to Lapland is to meet Santa.
January – February
After the Christmas and New Year’s rush, the crowds in Lapland thin out, allowing for a more intimate and authentic experience. January and February are the coldest months, with average daytime temperatures around -8°C and nighttime lows typically dropping to -17°C. However, the days start to lengthen, offering an average of 6 hours of daylight by February. This period provides a good balance of winter conditions and more reasonable prices, allowing you to enjoy the many activities Lapland has to offer with fewer tourists.
March
I believe March is the best time to visit Lapland. While many European countries transition to spring, Lapland still has its peak snow cover and below freezing temperatures. Days lengthen quickly, offering nearly equal daylight and darkness, ideal for exploring the Arctic landscape. Temperatures are milder, making it more comfortable for those who aren’t fond of extreme cold. Additionally, March offers a higher chance to see the Northern Lights, as aurora activity peaks around the equinox. For more on spotting the auroras, check out this guide to Best Months to See Northern Lights.
If you can choose when to visit Lapland, March is ideal for its longer days, milder temperatures, and better chances of seeing the Northern Lights. If March isn’t an option, January and February are also great months. December is most suited for those whose priority is experiencing the Christmas spirit.
Top Destinations in Lapland
Lapland’s expansive region across multiple countries makes choosing a destination challenging. While you’ll find similar activities throughout, landscapes and cultures differ. Finnish Lapland is often the top choice due to its excellent transport links, including direct flights from some European cities, its association with Santa Claus, and its diverse accommodations and tours. It’s ideal if you want to plan your trip independently, as you’ll find plenty of information online to help with trip planning. Tromsø, Norway, is another option, renowned for its dramatic mountains, glaciers, and fjords. For a more tranquil and authentic Arctic experience, Swedish Lapland provides a quieter alternative.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi is a great base for exploring the Finnish Lapland. You can fly there directly or with a change over in Helsinki. In Rovaniemi you can find Santa Clause Village, where you can cross the Arctic Circle. You’ll also find almost all winter adventurous offered there. There’s plenty of accommodation as well as restaurant and bar options. The main downside of Rovaniemi in my opinion is that it doesn’t have a lot of charm. It’s a small city, not a cute village. It’s a very practical destination but you won’t be in the middle of nature.
Levi, Finland
Levi is the second largest ski resort in Finland. It is located around 2 hour drive north from Rovaniemi. It’s a great choice for winter sport enthusiast. Here you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, winter fat tyre biking, snowshoeing without leaving the town. It’s a charming village with great facilities making it a great choice to enjoy the outdoors at ease. To dive deeper into everything Levi has to offer, don’t miss my full post on Levi Ski Resort.
Saariselka, Finland
Saariselka is Finland’s northernmost ski resort. It’s remote location makes it a little harder to reach but once you get there all key facilities are a stone’s throw away from each other. Saariselkä is an ideal destination for those looking for an authentic and natural experience in Lapland. A good local infrastructure and a nice selection of hotels provides a comfortable base to explore winter at its best.
Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø is the largest city in Northern Norway, renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant activities. It has a long and rich history, from the connections with the Sami people to being the main departure port city for expeditions to the North Pole. Tromsø is also highly regarded for its prime location to view the Northern Lights.
Kiruna, Sweden
Kiruna is the most northerly town in Sweden. It is surrounded by diverse and expansive landscapes, including dense forests, vast marshes, lakes, rivers, and mountains. Nearby, you’ll find the renowned Jukkasjärvi Icehotel, which is rebuilt each year using ice blocks from the nearby river. The hotel provides a one-of-a-kind experience with its stunning rooms carved entirely from ice.
Must-Try Attractions for Your Lapland Adventure
When visiting Lapland, you’ll find a wealth of winter attractions that ensure you won’t run out of things to do. Here are some of my top recommendations:
Husky safari
One of the most iconic experiences in Lapland is a husky sled ride. You’ll be pulled through snowy landscapes by a team of enthusiastic huskies—it’s as magical as it sounds. Usually, you can also visit the kennel, learn about its operations, and pet the dogs. For an ethical experience, choose a provider that treats the animals well. Husky safaris vary in length; a short 1-2 km ride can give you a taste of the experience if you’re on a budget, but a longer 10-20 km tour allows to enjoy the ride for longer. Although the cost can be high, reflecting the expense of feeding and training the dogs year-round, a husky safari is an unforgettable and essential part of any Lapland visit.
Aurora hunting
Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket list experience for many travellers visiting Lapland. To maximize your chances, you’ll need clear skies, a favourable aurora forecast, and dark nights with minimal light pollution. While you can’t control the weather, avoiding light pollution improves your odds. Many tours offer aurora hunting trips, which can be costly but improve your chances. Keep in mind that seeing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed, so it’s best to check aurora forecasts before booking a tour. Alternatively, you can seek out known aurora spots on your own. It’s more budget-friendly and even if you miss the lights, the Arctic landscape at night remains enchanting.
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing involves traveling across snow-covered terrain with skis and poles, without using ski lifts. Popular in Scandinavia, Lapland offers excellent conditions for this sport with its ample snow cover and well-maintained tracks. While it might seem straightforward, it’s a good idea to start with a lesson or guided tour. A 1.5-hour lesson can teach you the basics, allowing you to later explore Lapland’s forests independently. On the trails, you’ll encounter locals and find small cafes along popular routes where you can enjoy a drink and local dishes after a rewarding ski session.
Snow show hiking
Snowshoe hiking is another fantastic winter activity to try in Lapland. Snowshoes are specialized gear designed for walking over snow. Their large surface area distributes your weight, allowing you to walk on top of the snow without sinking. Walking on snow shoes is very easy, so you won’t need an instructor. It might feel a bit awkward at first, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it. You can rent snow shoes easily in most rentals places. If you want to venture out on your own I’d recommend sticking to marked trails to avoid getting lost. If you feel more comfortable you can opt for a guided tour.
Snowmobile safari
A snowmobile safari is the fastest, loudest, and most adrenaline-pumping way to explore Lapland’s nature. It’s an exhilarating adventure, speeding through trails and navigating curves. Snowmobiles can accommodate up to two people, so if you’re not confident driving alone, you can share a snowmobile with someone else, which can also save you money since prices are often per snowmobile, even on guided tours.
Staying in a glass igloo
Glass-roofed igloos offer a unique chance to sleep beneath the stars and possibly witness the Northern Lights, all while staying warm and cosy indoors. This popular Lapland accommodation brings you closer to nature, often located far from towns to avoid light pollution. While the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, many hotels offer wake-up calls if the lights appear, increasing your chances of catching them. The biggest drawback is the cost, as even a one-night stay can be quite expensive. However, if you rent a car, you can find more affordable options located further from the main tourist areas.
Planning Your Perfect Trip to Lapland
If you’re eager to visit Lapland’s winter wonderland, planning your trip can seem overwhelming. Many providers offer package holidays, but they can be quite pricey and give you less flexibility. Alternatively, planning your own trip is a feasible and a more affordable option. If you’re not sure option is best for you check out my guide Pros and Cons of Package Holidays vs Independent Travel.
If you decide to book a trip on your own consider choosing an easily accessible town with various accommodation and activity options, like Rovaniemi, Levi, or Tromsø. I’d recommend booking a week long trip to allow you to try many attractions, while also giving you a higher chance to see Northern Lights. If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, use public transport, which is reliable and cost-effective within and between major towns. However, without a car, you won’t be able to reach more remote destinations, so there’s a trade-off.
Before your trip, prioritize the main attractions you want to experience and book tours in advance, especially popular ones like husky safaris, which fill up quickly. Equipment rentals like skis or snowshoes usually don’t require pre-booking which gives you flexibility to change yours plans as you wish. While it’s helpful to plan an itinerary, leave room for rest and spontaneous activities. Lastly, make sure you have appropriate clothing for the cold. Tours like husky or snowmobile safaris often provide winter gear, but it’s best to confirm when booking.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found this post informative and feel inspired to visit Lapland yourself. It’s a truly breathtaking destination with unforgettable experiences, from the magic of the Northern Lights to thrilling winter activities. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Lapland offers something for everyone. Start planning your trip, and get ready for a winter escape like no other!