Planning a trip to Lapland and pondering the best activities to enjoy? Lapland, situated in Northern Finland, is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, frequent sightings of the Northern Lights, and Santa’s Village.
Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Lapland will find an abundance of activities to indulge in. There are ski resorts, numerous hiking trails, cross-country ski tracks, and more to keep you engaged and delighted.
Sounds intriguing? Ready to explore? But what should you prioritize on your visit to Lapland? We’ve put together a list of some of the must-visit places and activities to assist you in planning your trip.
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One of the most mesmerizing things to witness is an aurora, commonly referred to as the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon occurs in high-latitude regions like the Arctic and Antarctic. The Northern Lights are created by solar winds—streams of charged particles from the sun—that clash with oxygen and hydrogen atoms in the upper atmosphere, resulting in luminous displays. Lapland is among the top destinations globally to view this spectacle. Northern Lapland offers the best odds, with potential sightings every other clear night. Guided tours are available if you’re hesitant about navigating on your own.
It’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are not visible all year round. The prime viewing season is from September to early April, and visibility is influenced by solar activity and cloud cover. Checking the Northern Lights forecast daily while you’re in Lapland can ensure you don’t miss this extraordinary experience.
Ever dreamed of meeting Santa Claus? You can make this dream a reality at Santa Claus Village! Just 8 kilometers from Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, this village is among the top attractions in the region. It offers a range of accommodation, dining, and shopping options. Visitors can explore Santa’s quaint cottage, visit a snowmobile park, send postcards from the Santa Claus Main Post Office, and meet Santa’s reindeer and adorable huskies. One unique feature is the chance to cross the Arctic Circle, which runs through the village. The entry to Santa Claus Village is free.
While you’re there, don’t miss Santa Park, located 2 kilometers from Santa Claus Village. This family-friendly Christmas theme park boasts activities and attractions like the Elf Show, Elf Workshop, and Ice Gallery.
A trip to Lapland wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a husky or reindeer sled ride or a snowmobile safari. These exhilarating activities are unique to a handful of places globally and are among the top things to do in Lapland. Many local travel agencies offer tours that include these unforgettable adventures. We highly recommend opting for a tour that encompasses all three activities.
Another remarkable experience awaits at the Arctic Snow Hotel, one of the world’s most unique hotels. It features glass-roof igloos offering a 360º view of the sky, perfect for watching the midnight sun and, during Aurora season, the Northern Lights from the comfort of your igloo. The hotel also features rooms made entirely of snow and ice. Additionally, guests can enjoy the Ice Bar and Ice Restaurant, also constructed from snow and ice. The Arctic Snow Hotel is pricey, but if you’re on a budget, consider joining a guided tour from Rovaniemi.
Levi is a well-known ski resort in Lapland, famous for its ski slopes and stunning views of the Northern Lights. The slopes are ideal for beginners and children, but there are also challenging runs for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Levi offers some of the best cross-country ski tracks in Finland. If you visit Levi, make sure not to miss the Levi Ice Gallery.
For an extraordinary sauna experience, head to Ylläs! At Ylläs Ski Resort, you can enjoy the unique Sauna Gondola, the only one in the world. This converted ski lift offers a sauna experience with a view of the beautiful Lapland landscape, creating an unforgettable moment.
Lapland is also a fantastic hiking destination. Its stark yet captivating landscape is best explored on foot, with numerous national parks offering trails suitable for both summer and winter hiking. These trails range from short routes to challenging, multi-day treks.