The Enchanting Lapland in Winter
Lapland, stretching across northern Finland, Sweden, and Norway, is one of the most captivating winter destinations in the world. Known for its pristine snow-covered forests, glowing Northern Lights, and cozy glass igloos, this Arctic wonderland is where fairytales come alive. Whether you’re planning a Lapland vacation for adventure or relaxation, winter is the best time to experience everything the region has to offer – from reindeer sleigh rides to dog sledding under the stars.
Best Time to Visit Lapland in Winter
The best time to visit Lapland depends on what you want to experience.
- For the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis):
The Northern Lights Lapland season runs from late August to early April, with the darkest winter months (December to February) offering the clearest skies for aurora photography and northern lights tours. - For snow activities and Christmas magic:
Visit from November to March, when Lapland is blanketed in snow. This is also when Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is at its most festive, with Christmas lights, reindeer herding displays, and winter markets. Visiting Lapland in winter is always a good choice! - For a slightly milder winter experience:
March and April offer longer days, perfect for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing across frozen lakes.
Top Things to Do in Lapland in Winter
1. Chase the Northern Lights
No Lapland winter trip is complete without witnessing the Aurora Borealis Lapland sky dance. The best regions include Finnish Lapland, Norway Lapland, and Swedish Lapland, especially around Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, and Abisko.
Join one of the guided northern lights tours or venture out on your own for aurora photography — the key is to find a dark spot away from city lights.
2. Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Located right on the Arctic Circle, Santa Claus Village is a highlight of any Lapland holiday. Here, you can meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle line, and send postcards with a special Arctic stamp. The surrounding Rovaniemi area also offers reindeer safari rides, husky sledding, and snowmobile tours, making it perfect for families and couples alike.
3. Stay in a Glass Igloo or Ice Hotel
For a truly unique experience, spend a night in one of Lapland’s glass igloos or ice hotels. These incredible accommodations let you gaze at the Northern Lights Finland from the comfort of your warm bed.
- Glass igloos: Found in areas like Kakslauttanen and Levi, these transparent domes are ideal for couples.
- Ice hotel Lapland: The Icehotel in Swedish Lapland and Arctic SnowHotel near Rovaniemi are rebuilt every year from ice and snow — a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
4. Go on a Reindeer or Husky Safari
Lapland is synonymous with reindeer sledding and husky sledding. These traditional Arctic experiences let you explore snowy forests and frozen lakes while learning about reindeer herding — a vital part of Sami culture.
You can choose from short rides or full-day reindeer safaris, often ending with a warm drink around a campfire.
5. Experience Snowmobiling and Ice Fishing
If you love adrenaline, snowmobiling through the Arctic wilderness is a must. There are guided snowmobile tours in Finnish Lapland and Norway Lapland that take you across frozen rivers and through pine forests.
For a slower pace, try ice fishing – drill a hole in a frozen lake, drop your line, and enjoy the peaceful silence of the Arctic.
6. Enjoy Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Lapland is a paradise for winter sports. The region offers hundreds of kilometers of cross-country skiing trails and opportunities for winter hiking and snowshoeing through untouched snow. Resorts like Levi, Ylläs, and Ruka cater to both beginners and experts.
Where to Stay in Lapland
Lapland offers everything from cozy log cabins to luxury igloo resorts.
- Rovaniemi: Ideal for first-time visitors, close to Santa Claus Village, museums, and Arctic adventures.
- Saariselkä: Great for northern lights tours and glass igloo stays.
- Levi: Known for skiing, snowmobiling, and vibrant nightlife.
- Abisko (Swedish Lapland): One of the best spots in Europe for aurora borealis Lapland sightings.
Many Lapland tours combine accommodation, transport, and activities in one package, making travel planning simple.
How to Get to Lapland
From Helsinki to Lapland
You can reach Lapland easily from the capital Helsinki:
- By plane: Flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, Kittilä, or Ivalo take about 1–1.5 hours.
- By train: The scenic overnight Santa Claus Express train connects Helsinki and Rovaniemi in about 12 hours.
- By car: The drive from Helsinki Finland to Lapland takes around 10 hours, offering beautiful views along the way.
If you’re coming from abroad, you can also fly directly to Swedish Lapland or Norway Lapland airports, depending on your itinerary.
When to See the Northern Lights in Lapland
The Northern Lights Lapland season generally runs from late August to early April, but the peak visibility is between December and February when the nights are longest.
To maximize your chances:
- Stay at least 3–4 nights in the Lapland region.
- Choose accommodations away from big cities.
- Use local apps or northern lights tours that track aurora activity.
Clear, cold nights with little light pollution give you the best view of this natural spectacle.
Lapland Tours and Vacation Packages
Many travel companies offer Lapland trips that include reindeer sleigh rides, dog sledding, and visits to Santa Claus Village.
Popular options include:
- Lapland tours from Helsinki – combining city culture and Arctic adventure.
- Lapland holidays with icehotel stays, snowmobiling, and aurora photography workshops.
- Family-friendly Lapland vacations with Christmas Finland experiences and cozy log cabins.
Practical Tips for Your Lapland Travel
- Dress in layers: Temperatures can drop to –30°C in the heart of Finnish winter, so thermal clothing is essential.
- Book early: Especially during Christmas, as Lapland holidays and glass igloos sell out fast.
- Respect local culture: Learn about Sami traditions, including reindeer herding, before joining cultural tours.
- Stay flexible: Weather changes fast in the Arctic, so plan extra time for your Lapland in winter travel.
A Lapland Winter Fairytale Awaits
Whether you dream of meeting Santa Claus, staying in an ice hotel, or watching the northern lights dance across the Arctic sky, Lapland in winter promises an unforgettable experience. Between reindeer safaris, snowmobiling, and aurora borealis adventures, this magical region of Lapland captures the very essence of the holiday season.
Where is Lapland located?
Lapland is a region located in the northernmost part of Europe, spanning across Finland, Sweden, Norway, and a part of Russia. Most travelers visit Finnish Lapland, known for its magical winter landscapes, reindeer, and Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.
When is the best time to visit Lapland in winter?
The best time to visit Lapland in winter is from late November to early April.
December to February offers the most snow and Christmas atmosphere.
March and early April have longer daylight hours and clearer skies, ideal for seeing the Northern Lights and enjoying outdoor activities.
Can I see the Northern Lights in Lapland?
Yes! Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).
They are visible from September to April, but the peak viewing season is between December and March when nights are longest and skies are darkest.
What are the best things to do in Lapland in winter?
Top winter activities include:
Husky and reindeer safaris
Snowmobiling and ice fishing
Visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Sleeping in an ice hotel or glass igloo
Chasing the Northern Lights
Skiing and snowshoeing in Levi, Ylläs, or Saariselkä
Do I need travel insurance for Lapland?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance, especially for winter sports and activities. Make sure your policy covers snowmobiling, skiing, and husky sledding.
