Imagine a place where the snow glistens under the Northern Lights, reindeer roam freely, and cozy cabins offer the perfect escape from the icy chill. Welcome to Lapland, Finland, the ultimate winter wonderland. Whether you're here to meet Santa Claus, embark on thrilling Arctic adventures, or simply soak in the serene beauty of the snowy landscape, Lapland is a destination that feels straight out of a fairytale. From husky sledding through pristine forests to floating in icy waters on an Icebreaker ship, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Table of contents
Know Before You Go
It’s COLD—but absolutely magical! Lapland, Finland, is the ultimate winter wonderland, where snow blankets the landscape and the Christmas spirit lingers long after December 25th. If you're dreaming of snowy adventures and magical experiences, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip.
To save money and experience Lapland at its snowy best, visit after Christmas. By then, the landscape is fully transformed, and it’s a wonderful way to extend the holiday cheer into the new year. January and February are ideal months for thick snow cover, clear skies, and incredible northern lights viewing.
Find my full packing list here!
Tours to Take
Ice Breaker and floating in the sea
Map of Things to Do in Finland
Best Things to Do in Lapland
- Visit Santa Claus Village (Meet Santa, send postcards, cross the Arctic Circle)
- Reindeer Sleigh Ride (Led by Sámi guides for an authentic experience)
- Husky Sledding (A thrilling way to explore the Arctic wilderness)
- Icebreaker & Arctic Floating Experience (Break through the frozen sea and float in icy waters!)
- Northern Lights Hunting (Join a guided tour for the best chance of seeing the auroras)
- Snowmobiling Safaris (Ride through snowy forests and across frozen lakes)
- Korouoma Canyon (See breathtaking frozen waterfalls)
- Sámi Museum Siida (Learn about indigenous Sámi culture and traditions)
- Saariselkä Ski Resort (Skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and e-fat biking)
5-Day Itinerary for the Ultimate Lapland Adventure
Day 1: Rovaniemi & Santa Claus Village
Your first stop should be Santa Claus Village, located just outside Rovaniemi. This magical destination feels like Christmas all year round. Meet Santa, send postcards from the Arctic Circle post office, and explore the festive shops and cafes.
While the village has restaurants, they can be a bit touristy and pricey. For a more authentic experience, venture into Rovaniemi for dining. In the evening, consider skiing at Ounasvaara Ski Resort or going on a Northern Lights tour.
Day 2: Kemi & The Icebreaker Experience
Drive about 1.5 hours south to Kemi, where you can board an Icebreaker ship. This unique excursion allows you to witness the ship breaking through the frozen sea and even lets you float in icy waters in a special survival suit—an absolutely surreal experience!
Return to Rovaniemi for dinner at Roka Street Bistro, known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional Finnish dishes. End the night with drinks at Sky Hotel, offering panoramic snowy views.
Day 3: Inari & Sámi Culture
Set out on a scenic four-hour drive north to Inari, home to the indigenous Sámi people. Visit a traditional Sámi reindeer farm and take a sleigh ride through the snowy wilderness.
Stop by the Sámi Museum Siida to learn about their fascinating culture. At night, join a Northern Lights tour for a chance to see the auroras dancing across the Arctic sky.
Day 4: Saariselkä Adventures
Saariselkä is Europe’s northernmost resort and a hub for winter activities:
- Skiing & Snowboarding at Saariselkä Ski Resort
- Snowmobiling through snowy landscapes
- E-fat biking on frozen trails
- World’s Longest Toboggan Run (Over a mile of thrilling fun!)
End the day by relaxing in a cozy café or enjoying a traditional Lappish dinner.
Day 5: Winter Hiking & Departure
Take a peaceful hike through the snowy forests around Rovaniemi before heading to the airport. If time allows, consider a sled dog ride, a guided Northern Lights tour, or a visit to an ice hotel.
Extra Activities & Travel Tips
- Hunt for the Northern Lights: Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the auroras.
- Stay in an Ice Hotel: Experience sleeping in a room made entirely of ice and snow.
- Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss reindeer stew, salmon soup, and Finnish pastries.
- Dress Warmly: Layering is key! Pack thermal clothing, waterproof outerwear, and insulated boots.
- Book Early: Popular activities like the Icebreaker experience and reindeer sleigh rides fill up quickly!
Lapland is truly a bucket-list destination, filled with adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights, sledding with huskies, or meeting Santa himself, this Arctic wonderland promises an unforgettable winter experience!
Find my full packing list here!
