Lapland is the northernmost region of Finland. It is a dreamy winter wonderland famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and wide range of outdoor activities that will leave you spellbound.
And if you plan to go there and want to know more, I got you! In this article, together we’ll explore the top things to do in Lapland, so you have the best time ever! Let’s start.
1. Witness the Northern Lights
One of the most iconic attractions in Lapland is the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. This stunning display of natural lights occurs when solar particles interact with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating magical green, pink, and purple patterns across the night sky.
The best time to glimpse this beautiful phenomenon in Lapland is from late August to early April. For the best experience, head to places with minimal light pollution, like Kilpisjärvi, Utsjoki, or Rovaniemi.
2. Explore the Arctic Wildlife
Lapland’s diverse wildlife is another major highlight for visitors. A trip to the Ranua Wildlife Park allows you to see Arctic animals like polar bears, lynxes, and owls in their natural surroundings.
The park is open throughout the year and provides an educational experience about the region’s fascinating fauna and conservation efforts.
Consider joining a guided wildlife safari for a more immersive encounter with wildlife. These tours take you deep into Lapland’s wilderness, where you might encounter reindeer, moose, and even the elusive Arctic fox.
Winter safaris often include thrilling transportation options like snowmobiles or husky sleds, adding an adventurous twist to your wildlife viewing experience.
3. Engage in Winter Sports
Lapland is like a dreamland for winter sports lovers. You’ll find a bunch of ski resorts in the region, like Levi, Ylläs, and Pyhä-Luosto, that cater to all levels of skiing and snowboarding skills.
If you prefer a slower pace, you can also give cross-country skiing a try. The extensive trail networks offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the snowy landscapes at your leisure.
For a truly unique experience, try ice fishing! Lapland’s frozen lakes are perfect for it, and you can even hire local guides who’ll provide all the equipment and expertise you need for a successful and enjoyable outing.
Oh I was forgetting one more thing. You can also try go-kart driving with friends in the snow. You are going to love this. Your skills will be tested even though you are a good driver on the road ;).
4. Relax in a Finnish Sauna
After a day filled with outdoor adventures, nothing beats unwinding in a traditional Finnish sauna. Saunas are a big part of Finnish culture, and Lapland offers a wide range of sauna experiences. You can choose from rustic lakeside saunas to modern spa facilities.
If you’re up for something unique, try out smoke saunas. They create a gentle and soothing heat through a wood-burning process. And for the brave souls, ice saunas combine the sauna experience with a refreshing plunge into an ice-cold lake.
Many hotels in Lapland have their designated saunas so that you can enjoy the Finnish tradition right in the heart of nature.
5. Sleep in an Ice Hotel
For an unforgettable experience, why not spend a night in one of Lapland’s ice hotels? These incredible hotels are built entirely from ice and snow each winter, with intricately carved ice sculptures and furnishings.
The Arctic Snow Hotel in Rovaniemi is Lapland’s most famous ice hotel. They offer a variety of ice rooms and suites, along with an ice restaurant and bar.
The rooms are kept at a constant sub-zero temperature, but don’t worry; you’ll be as snug as a bug in a rug with cozy sleeping bags and reindeer hides. Staying in an ice hotel is a bucket-list experience that gives you a fascinating glimpse into Arctic life.
6. Visit Santa clause village during Christmas.
One of the most visited place in Finland is the Santa clause village located in Rovaniemi. This place is super vibrant during the December-January period as a lot of people visit this place. Meet the Santa and get a souvenir to keep as a memory of visiting Lapland. If you have kids, they are gonna love this too. So do not forget to bring them with you. It needs some driving from Lapland but still worth it.
Conclusion
Lapland is a destination that captures the imagination and offers many experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. Lapland has it all, whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural enrichment, or a serene escape into nature.
I hope this article helps you plan your trip here in Lapland. No matter what you choose, it’ll surely be a good time. We can’t wait to have you here! Thank you for reading.