Magical Things To Do in Lapland in Winter – Northern Lights Tour Itinerary

Are you looking for magical things to do in Lapland in winter with a perfect Lapland itinerary? Then read this travel guide on Lapland in winter. Lapland is a destination that looks straight out of a fairytale during winter. With snow-covered landscapes, cozy log cabins, reindeer sleigh rides, and the dazzling Northern Lights, this Arctic wonderland is a dream for travelers seeking a unique winter adventure.

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Magical Things to do in Lapland in Winter – Lapland Northern Lights Tour

This Lapland itinerary is designed to help you plan a memorable trip, complete with details on things to do in Lapland in winter, why they’re worth experiencing, how to commute between places, mid-budget overnight stays, and tips to make the most of your journey.

Why Visit Lapland in Winter?

Lapland, located in the northernmost region of Finland, Sweden, and Norway, is one of the best places in the world to experience the magic of winter. The Finnish Lapland, in particular, is well-known for its snowy landscapes and as the home of Santa Claus.

Here’s why Lapland is worth visiting in winter:

• The Northern Lights: Witnessing the Aurora Borealis dancing across the sky is a bucket-list experience. Lapland offers the clearest and darkest skies to view this natural phenomenon.
• Santa Claus Village: Perfect for families or anyone who loves the holiday spirit, you can meet Santa Claus in his official hometown of Rovaniemi.
• Snow Adventures: From husky sledding and reindeer rides to snowmobiling and skiing, there’s no shortage of thrilling activities.
• Unique Arctic Stays: Stay in glass igloos or cozy log cabins to watch the snow fall or even see the Northern Lights from your bed.
• Authentic Sami Culture: Learn about the indigenous Sami people, their traditions, and their close relationship with reindeer.

Best Time to Visit Lapland in Winter

Winter in Lapland typically lasts from November to April, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• November to early December: Quiet and peaceful, with early snowfall.
• Mid-December to early January: Festive season with Christmas celebrations and the busiest and most expensive time.
• January to March: Peak winter activities, with long, snowy days and high chances to see the Northern Lights.
• April: Snow starts to melt, but it’s still possible to enjoy winter sports with fewer crowds.

For this itinerary, the ideal period is January through March, when the weather is stable, days are slightly longer, and the Lapland Northern Lights tours are at their best.

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7-Day Lapland Itinerary – Lapland Northern Lights Tour

Whether chasing the Northern Lights, visiting Santa Claus, or embarking on thrilling activities like husky sledding and snowmobiling, something is enchanting about every moment you spend here. This 7-day Lapland itinerary covers the best towns, activities, and scenic spots to help you plan a well-rounded trip.

Destinations covered:

• Rovaniemi
• Levi
• Saariselkä
• Inari

Day 1: Arrival in Rovaniemi – The Gateway to Lapland

Rovaniemi is the official capital of Finnish Lapland and the starting point for most Lapland adventures. It’s known as the home of Santa Claus and offers a perfect mix of winter activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

Things to Do in Rovaniemi

• Visit Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from Santa’s official post office.
• SantaPark: A Christmas-themed underground amusement park that kids will love.
• Arktikum Museum: Learn about the Arctic region’s history, culture, and wildlife.
• Northern Lights Hunting Tour: Book a guided tour to chase the Aurora Borealis in the wilderness.

Distance & Route – You can reach Rovaniemi by flying there, and then get to the City Center, which is 8 km, approximately 15 minutes by taxi or airport shuttle.

Getting around Rovaniemi is easy by local bus or taxi, but booking a guided tour is recommended for exploring nature more deeply.

Overnight Stay

• Arctic Light Hotel – Cozy rooms with modern amenities and an excellent breakfast.
• Unique Stay: Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle – Glass igloos for an unforgettable Northern Lights viewing experience.

Tours to Book

• Santa Claus Village Experience
• Rovaniemi Northern Lights Tour
• Snowmobile Safari through Arctic forests

Rovaniemi is easily accessible and offers many activities, making it the perfect introduction to Lapland. You’ll find everything from magical Santa experiences to breathtaking snow-covered forests and frozen rivers.

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Day 2: Rovaniemi – Snow Adventures and Local Culture

Spend your second day in Rovaniemi enjoying its thrilling winter activities and exploring its cultural side. Rovaniemi is more than just Santa Claus; it’s a hub for adventure sports and authentic Arctic experiences.

Things to Do in Rovaniemi on Day 2 of Lapland Itinerary

• Husky Sledding Adventure: Ride through snowy forests with a team of eager huskies.
• Reindeer Sleigh Ride: A peaceful ride while learning about the Sami culture and their reindeer herding traditions.
• Ice Fishing Tour: A fun and authentic Arctic experience on a frozen lake.
• Evening Aurora Tour: Increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights.

Distance & Route – Most activities are 15-30 minutes from the city center. Tour operators usually provide pickup and drop-off, so no car rental is needed.

Overnight Stay – Scandic Rovaniemi City – Comfortable rooms, central location, and good breakfast options.

Tours to Book

• Husky and Reindeer Combo Tour
• Guided Ice Fishing Experience
• Aurora Hunting by Snowmobile

Day 3: Rovaniemi to Levi – Skiing and Winter Sports

After two days in Rovaniemi, head to Levi, Lapland’s most popular ski resort town. Known for its well-maintained slopes, lively atmosphere, and excellent facilities, Levi is perfect for skiing enthusiasts and those looking for fun winter activities.

Distance & Route – Rovaniemi to Levi: 170 km (2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus). Regular buses run between Rovaniemi and Levi, making it convenient even without a car.

Levi offers world-class skiing, snowboarding, and après-ski fun. Even non-skiers will love its cozy vibe, scenic landscapes, and Northern Lights opportunities.

Things to Do in Levi

• Skiing and Snowboarding: 43 slopes and various runs for all skill levels.
• Snow Village: A magical ice and snow structure with sculptures and themed rooms.
• Snowmobiling: Explore vast Arctic landscapes at thrilling speeds.
• Aurora Hunting: Levi’s clear skies make it one of the best places to see the Northern Lights.

Overnight Stay – Break Sokos Hotel Levi – Centrally located with comfortable rooms and sauna facilities.

Tours to Book

• Ski passes and equipment rental package.
• Guided snowmobile safari
• Snow Village tour with dinner

Day 4: Levi – More Winter Adventures

Spend another day in Levi to fully enjoy its snowy playground.

Things to Do

• Ice Karting: An exciting activity perfect for families and groups.
• Visit a Traditional Lappish Sauna: A quintessential Finnish relaxing experience after a day in the snow.
• Evening Aurora Photography Tour: Capture the magic of the Northern Lights with expert guidance.

Overnight Stay – Hotel K5 Levi – Features a reindeer enclosure and a warm, rustic atmosphere.

Day 5: Levi to Saariselkä – Lapland Wilderness Escape

Next, journey to Saariselkä, a charming village surrounded by untouched wilderness. It’s a top destination for Northern Lights hunting and outdoor winter adventures.

Distance & Route – Levi to Saariselkä: 260 km (4 hours by car or bus). Buses run daily, but consider a private transfer or rental car for a more scenic route.

Saariselkä is quieter and more remote than Levi or Rovaniemi, offering a truly immersive Arctic experience. It’s also near Urho Kekkonen National Park, ideal for nature lovers.

Things to Do in Saariselkä

• Aurora Snowshoeing Tour: Trek through the forest at night under a sky filled with stars.
• Reindeer Farm Visit: Learn about reindeer herding from local Sami people.
• Cross-Country Skiing: Saariselkä has over 200 km of trails.
• Aurora Borealis Viewing: The minimal light pollution makes it a prime spot for Northern Lights sightings.

Overnight Stay – Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna – Comfortable rooms and great access to trails and activities.

Tours to Book

• Guided Aurora Snowshoeing Adventure
• Sami Cultural Experience with Reindeer Farm Visit
• Cross-Country Ski Rental and Lessons

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Day 6: Saariselkä to Inari – Culture and the Northernmost Lapland

Travel north to Inari, a region rich in Sami culture and stunning Arctic landscapes.

Distance & Route – Saariselkä to Inari: 70 km (1 hour by car or bus). Easy bus connections are available, making it a smooth journey.

Inari is a cultural gem where you can deeply connect with Lapland’s indigenous heritage while enjoying pristine Arctic wilderness.

Things to Do in Inari

• Siida Museum: Learn about Sami culture, Arctic wildlife, and Lapland’s history.
• Northern Lights Tour on a Frozen Lake: A unique way to view the Aurora Borealis.
• Snowshoeing in the Wilderness: Explore untouched snowy landscapes with a guide.
• Visit a Traditional Sami Village: Gain insights into Sami life and traditions.

Overnight Stay – Hotel Inari – Lakeside hotel with comfortable rooms and Northern Lights viewing potential.

Tours to Book

• Inari Northern Lights Tour on Frozen Lake
• Sami Cultural Village Tour
• Guided Snowshoeing Adventure

Day 7: Return to Rovaniemi and Departure

On your final day, return to Rovaniemi for your flight back home.

Distance & Route – Inari to Rovaniemi: 320 km (4.5 hours by car or bus). Consider booking a morning transfer to align with flight timings.

Helpful Tips for Lapland in Winter

1. Dress in Layers: Temperatures can drop to -30°C, so wear thermal layers, a quality down jacket, snow pants, gloves, and insulated boots.
2. Book Early: Winter is peak season, so book accommodations and tours well in advance.
3. Aurora Forecasts: Check apps like My Aurora Forecast for real-time updates.
4. Daylight Hours: In mid-winter, daylight can be as short as 3-4 hours, so plan outdoor activities accordingly.
5. Currency and Payments: Finland uses the Euro, and most places accept credit cards.
6. Language: English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
7. Transportation: Guided tours often include hotel pickups, reducing the need for car rentals.

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Lapland Northern Lights Tour Guide – Places to Spot the Best Viewing Experience

One of the biggest highlights of visiting Lapland in winter is witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). These natural light displays occur when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating glowing patterns of green, purple, and red dancing across the sky.

Rovaniemi – Gateway to the Northern Lights

Rovaniemi, while a bustling town and the capital of Finnish Lapland, still offers some fantastic spots for Northern Lights viewing if you escape the city lights.

Best Northern Lights Spots in Rovaniemi

1. Ounasvaara Hill: Located just 3 km from the city center, this hill provides a slightly elevated view away from urban light pollution. How to get there: Local taxi or a 20-minute walk from many hotels.
2. Arktikum Shoreline: The frozen riverbanks behind the Arktikum Museum offer a surprisingly clear sky view. How to get there: Walk from the Rovaniemi city center.
3. Northern Lights Tours: Many guided tours will take you deep into the surrounding forests or frozen lakes for the best chances. Why worth it: Guides use real-time Aurora forecasts and take you to remote locations with no artificial light, maximizing visibility.

Recommended Tours

• Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting Tour by Minibus or Snowmobile
• Private Aurora Photography Tour
• Northern Lights Reindeer Sleigh Ride Experience

Best Time to See: Late September to mid-April, peak visibility between 8:00 PM and 2:00 AM.

Levi – Ski Town with Starry Skies

Levi is one of Lapland’s top Northern Lights viewing spots due to its excellent infrastructure and clear, dark skies. Since Levi is smaller and less populated than Rovaniemi, you don’t need to travel far to escape light pollution.

Best Northern Lights Spots in Levi

1. Levi Ski Slopes (Top of Levi Fell): Take the gondola up the fell for a panoramic night sky view.
2. Immeljärvi Lake: A frozen lake just 2 km from Levi center, perfect for reflections of the Aurora on the ice. How to get there: Take a taxi or a 20-30 minute walk.
3. Kätkätunturi Fell: A quiet hiking area with no artificial lights, ideal for uninterrupted Aurora views.

Recommended Tours

• Aurora Hunting by Snowmobile from Levi
• Northern Lights Husky Sledding Adventure
• Small Group Aurora Photography Tour

Pro Tip: Levi’s ski lifts sometimes operate at night for Aurora viewing, giving you a unique high-altitude perspective.

Saariselkä – Remote and Pristine Skies

Saariselkä is more remote and less commercialized than Rovaniemi or Levi, making it an ideal destination for serious Aurora hunters. Its location near Urho Kekkonen National Park ensures wide-open skies and zero light interference.

Best Northern Lights Spots in Saariselkä

1. Urho Kekkonen National Park: Hike into the park or take a guided tour to witness the Auroras in the untouched wilderness.
2. Kaunispää Fell: Just 2 km from Saariselkä village, this hilltop offers sweeping views perfect for spotting the Northern Lights. How to get there: Many hotels offer shuttle or guided night tours.
3. Aurora Glass Cabins: Staying in a glass igloo or Aurora cabin here allows you to watch the lights without leaving your bed.

Recommended Tours

• Guided Aurora Snowshoeing Adventure
• Aurora Hunting by Reindeer Sleigh
• Private Aurora Chase in a Heated Minivan

Why It’s Special: Saariselkä’s remoteness means there’s very little light pollution, dramatically increasing the odds of seeing a vivid Aurora display.

Inari – Ultimate Northern Lights Destination

Inari is one of the most famous locations in Lapland for Northern Lights sightings. Located well above the Arctic Circle, this area has some of Finland’s clearest, darkest skies.

Best Northern Lights Spots in Inari

1. Lake Inari: A vast frozen lake where you can witness the Aurora reflecting on the snow and ice. Many guided tours take you here for the best visibility.
2. Siida Museum Area: While primarily a cultural site, the area around it has minimal light pollution and can be a good viewing spot.
3. Wilderness Camps: Many tours take you deep into the surrounding forests and frozen landscapes for complete darkness and ideal viewing conditions.

Recommended Tours

• Northern Lights Snowmobile Safari on Lake Inari
• Aurora Hunting by Snowshoe or Cross-Country Skiing
• Private Aurora Tour with Sami Cultural Experience

Pro Tip: Combine an Aurora tour with a traditional Sami dinner for an authentic evening.

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General Tips – Northern Lights Viewing

1. Check the Aurora Forecast: Apps like My Aurora Forecast or the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s website provide real-time updates.
2. Stay Up Late: The best viewing window is between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM.
3. Escape Light Pollution: Even in small towns, artificial light can affect visibility. Travel 5-10 km outside populated areas for the clearest skies.
4. Dress Warmly: Expect temperatures to dip as low as -30°C. Wear multiple layers, insulated boots, and hand warmers.
5. Book a Guided Tour: Experienced guides know the best spots and increase your chances of seeing strong displays.
6. Photography Tip: Use a tripod, wide-angle lens, and long exposure settings (5-20 seconds) to capture the best images of the Aurora.

Why is the Lapland Northern Lights Tour worth it?

Lapland sits directly beneath the Aurora Oval, meaning it has some of the highest chances of Northern Lights sightings anywhere in the world. Unlike other destinations, the combination of remote wilderness, minimal light pollution, and high-quality guided tours makes it a dream location for casual travelers and serious photographers.

If your main goal is to experience a Lapland Northern Lights Tour, prioritize staying in Saariselkä or Inari for the darkest skies, and include at least two or three guided tours during your trip to maximize your chances of seeing the magical Aurora Borealis.

With the right planning and some luck, your Lapland winter trip will include unforgettable nights spent under the glowing Arctic sky.

FAQs – Things to do in Lapland in Winter – Lapland Itinerary

1. How many days are ideal for a Lapland trip?

A 6-7 day trip is perfect to experience multiple destinations, winter activities, and Northern Lights hunting.

2. Can I see the Northern Lights every night?

While Lapland offers great visibility, sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. Joining a guided tour improves your chances.

3. Do I need to rent a car?

Not necessarily. Buses and guided tours cover most major routes, but car rental gives more flexibility.

4. What’s the budget for a mid-range Lapland trip?

Expect to spend €200-€300 per day per person, including accommodations, meals, and activities.

5. Are tours family-friendly?

Yes, many tours like reindeer rides, Santa visits, and husky sledding are perfect for families with children.

Lapland is one of the best regions in the world to view this spectacle because of its location above the Arctic Circle, clear skies, and minimal light pollution. While sightings are never guaranteed, knowing where to go and when to look significantly improves your chances.

Here’s where you can find the Northern Lights in each destination covered in this itinerary:

Lapland in winter is a magical destination that combines thrilling adventures, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, gliding across snowy landscapes on a husky sled, or enjoying a cozy evening by the fire in a glass igloo, this itinerary ensures you experience what Lapland offers.

With careful planning, the right tours, and a spirit of adventure, your trip to Lapland will be an unforgettable winter wonderland journey.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

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