Why Do So Many People Want to Travel to Finnish Lapland?

Enjoying these experiences is easy — accommodation ranges from campsites and cosy cottages to exclusive hideaways visited by world-famous guests. What truly sets Finland apart from southern European destinations is its cottage culture – a deep connection to nature, tranquillity, and local traditions.

Winter in Lapland is magical with its snow-laden forests and crystal-clear starry skies. Yet Lapland is not only a winter destination: there are five distinct travel seasons, each with its own charm:

• Midwinter (polar night) – calm, dark beauty and Northern Lights
• Late winter – sunshine, snow, and skiing
• Summer – the Midnight Sun and lush greenery
• Autumn – fiery red and golden foliage
• Early winter – Europe’s most snow-sure season

How Does Finnish Lapland Differ from Other Arctic Destinations?

People and Culture

Finland consistently ranks among the world’s safest and most peaceful countries. Visitors experience this through reliable services, friendliness, and effortless travel.
Lapland is also home to the Sámi people, the EU’s only recognised Indigenous population. Ethical guidelines have been created to help visitors engage respectfully with Sámi culture.

Nature

Lapland’s landscape is a mosaic of vast forests, fells, and wetlands – less dramatic than Norway’s fjords, but home to Europe’s largest and most accessible wilderness areas.
Well-marked trails, ski routes and open wilderness huts (free for short overnight stays) make exploring safe and rewarding.

Sights and Attractions

The Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village are open all year round – you can meet Santa every day. Other highlights include the Amethyst Mine of Pyhä–Luosto, SnowCastle of Kemi, Arktikum Science Centre, and several breathtaking national parks.

Accessibility

Lapland’s airports saw a record 1.8 million passengers in 2024 (Rovaniemi alone hosted 948,000). Seasonal direct flights from across Europe make access easy.
Finland’s night trains (including car-carrier wagons) run from Helsinki and Tampere to Rovaniemi, Kolari, and Kemijärvi — a comfortable and scenic way to arrive.

Services

Lapland’s ski and activity resorts offer comprehensive rental shops, guides, and well-marked routes. National parks provide maintained trails and safety instructions, though recent government budget cuts have reduced maintenance in some areas.

Climate and Natural Phenomena

The Northern Lights are visible from August to April, while the Midnight Sun shines for weeks north of the Arctic Circle. In the far north, visitors experience the polar night, when the sun doesn’t rise for almost two months.

Travel Seasons

The main winter season runs from December to March, attracting those seeking snow, Christmas magic, and skiing.
Autumn (ruska) and summer are increasingly popular for hiking, cycling, and nature holidays under the endless daylight.

Accommodation

Lapland offers a wide variety of stays: cottages, chalets, hotels, glass igloos, and even ice and snow hotels used for weddings and special events.
For hikers, the network of open wilderness huts is a cherished part of Finnish outdoor culture.
Caravanners will find heated parking spots and service buildings in most ski resorts.

Prices

Among EU countries, Finland belongs to the higher price range for restaurants and hotels. During the peak season (December–February), prices can be two to three times higher than in quieter months.
Cottages and apartments often offer the best value, especially for families and groups.

Safety

Finland ranks among the world’s safest countries according to the Global Peace Index.
The 112 Finland app shares your location automatically in case of emergency.
However, distances in Lapland are long — never head into the wilderness alone on foot, skis or a snowmobile without proper planning.

Where Does Lapland Begin?

Administratively, Lapland (Lappi) comprises 21 municipalities, including Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Inari, Sodankylä, Kolari, and Kemijärvi.
The Arctic Circle (66°33′) crosses Rovaniemi.
Note that Ruka (Kuusamo) and Syöte (Pudasjärvi) belong to Northern Ostrobothnia, not Lapland, even though they are popular fell resorts.

 

Most Popular Travel Destinations in Finnish Lapland

Rovaniemi – The Capital of the Arctic Circle

Why visit: Santa Claus Village (open daily), Arktikum museum, great restaurants and tours, easy access to nature

Season: December–March; in summer, enjoy the Midnight Sun and the Ounasjoki riverfront

Getting there: Direct seasonal flights from Europe, night trains from southern Finland, or by car via Sweden or Norway

 

Levi (Kittilä)

Why visit: One of Finland’s most versatile ski resorts (44 slopes, 25 illuminated), lively après-ski and events

Nearby: Pallas–Yllästunturi National Park

Access: Kittilä Airport; Kolari railway station 80 km away

 

Ylläs (Kolari & Kittilä)

Why visit: Finland’s largest ski resort (63 slopes, longest 3 km, 28 lifts), extensive cross-country and fatbike trails

Access: Night train to Kolari + bus; seasonal flights to Kittilä

 

Saariselkä (Inari)

Why visit: Family-friendly resort (24 slopes), vast ski and hiking trails in Urho Kekkonen National Park, Sámi Museum Siida

Access: Ivalo Airport; bus from Rovaniemi (260 km)

 

Pyhä (Pelkosenniemi)

Why visit: Compact, atmospheric resort (14 slopes), Pyhä–Luosto National Park and the unique Lampivaara Amethyst Mine (open year-round)

Access: 50 km from Kemijärvi railway station, 130 km from Rovaniemi

 

Ruka (Kuusamo) – Gateway to Lapland

Why visit: 39 slopes, family and pet-friendly, Oulanka National Park and the famous Karhunkierros Trail

Location: Northern Ostrobothnia

 

Syöte (Iso-Syöte & Pikku-Syöte)

Why visit: Finland’s southernmost fell, peaceful and ideal for families and nature lovers

Access: Nearest airports in Oulu and Kuusamo

 

Other Resorts and Sea Lapland

Luosto, Olos, Pallas, Ounasvaara (Rovaniemi), Enontekiö, Muonio, Salla and Kilpisjärvi offer quieter wilderness experiences.
In Kemi–Tornio, winter highlights include the SnowCastle and Sampo Icebreaker cruises.

 

When to Book Your Accommodation

Christmas & New Year, late January: book 9–12 months in advance

• Winter holidays & Easter: book 6–9 months ahead
• Autumn colours (September–October): book 3–6 months in advance
• Summer & Midnight Sun: plenty of options, but events and festivals fill up early

Night trains & car wagons: dynamic pricing – the earlier you book, the better the rate

Varaamökki.com tip:
Cottages and apartments are often more cost-effective than hotels for families and groups — you can cook your own meals, enjoy a private sauna, and often charge an electric car.
Avoid peak weeks or travel Sunday–Thursday for the best deals.

 

Preparing for Your Lapland Trip

Clothing and Gear

In winter, dress in layers: merino wool base layers, wind- and waterproof shells, warm boots and a headlamp for the dark season.
For Northern Lights watching, pack warm mittens, a thermos flask, tripod, and power bank for your phone.

Driving and Transport

Winter tyres are mandatory from November to March when conditions require (studded tyres allowed).
Night trains to Lapland are an excellent alternative – combine your own car with a sleeping cabin and arrive well rested.
Roads may be snowy and icy, and some minor roads are not ploughed. Always inform someone about your route and expected return time.

Weather and Daylight

• Northern Lights: best seen August–April, under dark, clear skies
• Midnight Sun: from late May to August north of the Arctic Circle
• Polar night: lasts up to two months in the far north

Safety and Connectivity

Download the 112 Finland app to share your location in emergencies.
Watch weather forecasts and be cautious of reindeer on the roads.

Sustainable and Respectful Travel

Follow Everyman’s Rights and the rules of national parks.
In Sámi regions, respect the ethical guidelines set by the Sámi Parliament – don’t wear borrowed Sámi outfits as costumes, buy authentic handicrafts, and honour sacred sites.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lapland

Can you see the Northern Lights in summer?
No – it’s too bright. The best viewing months are September to March, peaking around the equinoxes.

When are prices lowest?
Early November, April (after Easter), and post-autumn foliage in late October.

Can I travel to Lapland without flying?
Yes. Night trains from Helsinki and Tampere to Rovaniemi, Kolari, and Kemijärvi are convenient, with optional car transport.

Is Lapland only a winter destination?
Not at all. The Midnight Sun season from early summer to early autumn, together with hiking, cycling and fishing, attracts more visitors every year.