The Perfect Finnish Lapland Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Planning your Lapland itinerary but not sure how much time you need or what to include in your trip? We’ve been there! Lapland had been on our bucket list for the longest time, and when we finally decided to visit Lapland, we spent a lot of time crafting the perfect itinerary to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. From chasing the Northern Lights to riding a husky sled through snow-covered forests, we wanted to experience everything Lapland is famous for – without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

One of the biggest challenges when planning a trip to Lapland is deciding how many days to stay. Should you spend three days or a full week? What’s the ideal balance between adventure and relaxation? After experiencing Lapland firsthand, we’ve put together a detailed itinerary that covers the must-do activities while allowing enough time to soak in the magic of the Arctic.

Whether you’re dreaming of staying in a snow-covered cabin, meeting Santa in Rovaniemi, or exploring the untouched wilderness, this Lapland itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable trip. Get ready for an Arctic adventure filled with stunning landscapes, bucket-list experiences, and plenty of insider tips to make your Lapland vacation truly magical.

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Lapland Itinerary – Quick Tips

Dive right into my top picks for hotels, tours, places to visit, insider tips, and more, and make the most of your Lapland holiday. Your journey starts here!

Best Places to Stay | Polaris Villas, Northen Lights Village, Vaattunki Wilderness Resort

Best Time to Visit | December – April

How to Get Around | Rental Car

Stay Connected | Get your Europe eSIM

Best Experiences & Tours

✨ Northern Lights Tour (with guaranteed sightings)

🐕 Self-Drive Husky Safari (my top tip!)

🦌 Local Reindeer Farm Visit with Sleigh Ride (a once-in-a-lifetime experience!)

❄️ Snowmobile Safari with Barbecue (such a fun activity!)

🏔️ Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls Tour (a hidden gem)

🔥 Sauna & Ice Swimming Tour with Dinner and Aurora (perfect for couples)

🧊 Arctic Snow Hotel Tour (a must-do!)

To be fully prepared for your Lapland trip, be sure to check out my post on What to Wear in Lapland in Winter. ✅

Keep reading for my complete Lapland travel guide!

How to Get to Lapland, Finland

Reaching Lapland is easier than you might think, with multiple travel options available depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation. 

We flew directly to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, which was the most convenient and time-saving option coming from Europe. Rovaniemi is generally well-connected to all major airports in Europe. However, if a direct flight isn’t available from your location, you can travel to Helsinki first and then choose between: 

• A domestic flight: Fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi or other airports in Lapland such as Kittilä, Ivalo, and Kuusamo.
• A train ride: Take the ‘Santa Claus Express’ night train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, or travel during the day with regular trains from VR (Finnish Railways) that connect Helsinki to Rovaniemi, with the train station conveniently located near the city center.
• A bus ride: Travel by bus between Helsinki and Rovaniemi for a budget-friendly option with scenic views along the way.

Once you arrive in Lapland, rental cars, buses and even snowmobiles can take you further into the wilderness, depending on your adventure plans.

How to Get Around Finnish Lapland

Exploring Finnish Lapland requires some planning, as the region is vast and sparsely populated. While public transport is available, renting a car is by far the best option, offering the most flexibility to visit remote locations, chase the Northern Lights, and explore at your own pace. Lapland is the perfect place for a road trip. The roads are well-maintained, even in winter, but winter tires are essential, and reindeer crossings are common.

Public transport mainly consists of buses connecting major towns and popular ski destinations like Levi, Saariselkä, and Inari. However, schedules can be limited, especially outside the peak tourist season.

Domestic flights between cities like Rovaniemi, Kittilä, and Ivalo are an option if you’re short on time, but you will still need transportation upon arrival.

For the ultimate Lapland adventure, a rental car is the way to go. It allows you to experience the region on your own terms, whether it’s a scenic drive through snow-covered forests, a remote stay in your dream cabin, or a detour to a hidden reindeer farm.

Best Time to Visit Lapland

Lapland is a year-round destination, but the experience varies greatly depending on the season. Winter is the most magical time to visit, with thick snow, frozen landscapes, and the best chance to see the Northern Lights. From December to April, Lapland transforms into a winter wonderland, offering activities like husky sledding, snowmobiling, and reindeer safaris. December also marks the start of peak season as the holiday season approaches, attracting visitors to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. 

We visited Lapland in January and found it to be a perfect time to experience Lapland. The region was covered in deep snow, creating a true Arctic atmosphere, but it wasn’t as crowded as the peak holiday season in December. Prices for accommodations and activities were also more reasonable, making it a great balance between cost and experience. 

The days were short but still long enough for all our planned activities. The long, dark nights gave us plenty of opportunities to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. I also loved that the sunrises and sunsets lasted for hours, filling the sky with beautiful pastel colors all day. Later in winter (February to April), the days become longer again, providing more daylight for outdoor adventures while still offering excellent snow conditions.

Where to Stay in Lapland

Lapland offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy hotels to unique stays that make the Arctic experience even more special. In towns like Rovaniemi and Levi, a hotel provides comfort and convenience, especially, where many activities start right at your doorstep.

For a more immersive Lapland experience, we decided to rent a cabin surrounded by snowy forests, which was the perfect way to enjoy nature and the peacefulness of Lapland. Waking up to snow-covered trees and absolute silence made the experience feel even more magical.

Our first cabin was located in Muonio, directly on the shores of a frozen lake. It had two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy living room with big glass windows and a fireplace. Moreover, we had our own outdoor jacuzzi and sauna which was truly amazing.

Our second cabin, close to Rovaniemi, was a bit smaller but also offered lovely views from the bed through a large window. It was conveniently located near the famous Santa Claus Village and Rovaniemi Town, yet still nestled in nature by a frozen river and a great winter hiking area.

Next time, we would love to spend a night in a glass igloo. It must be incredible to watch the Northern Lights through a window or glass ceiling from the warmth of your bed. Glass igloos can be found at many resorts across Lapland. Here’s a list of some of the best glass igloos in Lapland:

• Northern Lights Village Levi
• Golden Crown – Levin Iglut
• Apukka Resort
• Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle
• Northern Lights Ranch
• Glass Resort

Another extraordinary option is staying in an ice hotel, where everything from the walls to the furniture is sculpted from ice and snow. While it may sound extreme, thermal sleeping bags ensure a surprisingly cozy night. Check out these amazing ice hotels in Lapland below:

• Arctic Snow Hotel
• Snow Village Kittilä

💡 Insider Tip: You can also visit the Arctic Snow Hotel as part of this incredible Arctic Snow Hotel Tour, even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

No matter where you stay, Lapland’s magical winter landscapes will make it an unforgettable experience.

Lapland 5-Day Itinerary Overview

Below, you can find a breakdown of our 5 days in Finnish Lapland. We split our time between two regions, spending the first few days in Muonio, surrounded by breathtaking Arctic wilderness, before heading to the Rovaniemi area for the second half of the trip. This itinerary begins with our first full day in Lapland, as we arrived the day before to drive up to Muonio, settle in, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Each day was packed with unforgettable experiences, from exploring snow-covered forests and meeting reindeer to chasing the Northern Lights and soaking in the magic of the Arctic winter.

Day 1 in Lapland: Reindeer Farm and Northern Lights

• Visit a reindeer farm
• Enjoy a magical reindeer sleigh ride
• Chase the Northern Lights

Day 2 in Lapland: Dog Sledding and Finnish Sauna

• Go Dog Sledding 
• Experience a Finnish Sauna
• Try the Finnish Cuisine

Day 3 in Lapland: Road Trip from Muonio to Rovaniemi (via Levi)

• Explore Levi Town
• Soak in the scenic views

Day 4 in Lapland: Santa Claus Village

• Cross the Artic Circle
• Meet Santa Claus
• Send postcards from Santa’s post office
• Try Mrs. Claus’ famous hot chocolate
• Optional: Snowman World
• Have dinner at Santa’s Salmon Place

Day 5 in Lapland: Rovaniemi and Arctic Snow Hotel

• Explore Rovaniemi Town
• Visit the Artic Snow Hotel

If you have 7+ days in Lapland:

With more than seven days to explore Lapland, you can take your time to really immerse yourself in the region’s unique experiences. In addition to the highlights of a shorter trip, you’ll have the opportunity to go on day trips to explore even more remote areas, visit additional nature reserves, or engage in specific activities. Having some extra time also means more opportunities to hunt for the Northern Lights in different locations, increasing your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis.

Consider a day trip to Saariselkä for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, or explore the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, known for its stunning natural landscapes and excellent hiking trails. For a deeper dive into local culture, you could visit Inari and the Siida Museum, which showcases the history and traditions of the Sámi people.

Make sure to also check out these bucket-list Lapland activities if you have extra time:

• ✨ Northern Lights Tour in Rovaniemi or Levi (both with guaranteed sightings!)
• ❄️ Snowmobile Safari in Rovaniemi or Levi (such a fun experience!)
• 🔥 Sauna & Ice Swimming Tour with Dinner and Aurora (in Rovaniemi)
• 🧊 Ice Floating in Rovaniemi (a unique activity)
• 🏔️ From Rovaniemi: Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls Tour with BBQ

In the following, you can find our detailed Lapland itinerary, including the best things to do in Finnish Lapland.

Complete 5-Day Lapland Itinerary

Day 1 in Lapland: Reindeer Farm and Northern Lights

After arriving at Rovaniemi Airport the night before, we drove directly to Muonio, where we woke up to a stunning winter landscape for our first full day in Lapland. We kicked it off with a visit to a reindeer farm, immersing ourselves in the region’s traditions. Later, as darkness fell, we set out in search of one of Lapland’s most breathtaking natural wonders – the Northern Lights.

Visit a reindeer farm

Our first stop in Lapland was the Northern Lights Village Levi, a cozy winter retreat surrounded by untouched wilderness. Here, we visited a traditional reindeer farm, where we had the chance to get up close to these iconic Arctic animals. We began our visit with a magical reindeer sleigh ride – an experience I’ll share in more detail shortly.

After the ride, we warmed up inside with a bowl of traditional salmon soup and a cup of hot berry juice, while listening to fascinating stories about the deep connection between the Sámi people and their reindeer. Learning about herding traditions and daily life in the Arctic made us appreciate just how important these animals are to the region.

Before leaving, we spent some more time wandering among the reindeer, feeding them and watching them in their natural environment. It was a peaceful and unforgettable start to our adventure.

Enjoy a magical reindeer sleigh ride

Our reindeer sleigh ride was one of our absolute highlights of our Lapland visit. After a brief introduction to the reindeer and the sleighs, we set off on a magical one-hour sleigh ride through the snowy landscapes, covering about 3 kilometers. Bundled up under warm blankets, we glided silently through a winter wonderland, with only the soft crunch of snow beneath the sleigh runners breaking the stillness. The slow pace made it easy to take in the beauty of the snow-laden trees and the crisp Arctic air. It felt like stepping into a fairytale – an experience that truly captures the magic of Lapland.

Looking for a reindeer farm experience in Rovaniemi instead of Levi? Check out this tour: Local Reindeer Farm Visit in Rovaniemi with Sleigh Ride.

Chase the Northern Lights

After returning from a delicious dinner at a local restaurant (Ravintola Kamari), we eagerly ventured out to chase the Northern Lights, one of the main reasons we’d chosen to visit Lapland. We drove around for a bit, looking for the perfect photo backdrop for when the lights appeared.

Then, suddenly, the night sky above us came alive with vibrant green hues, right on the side of the road. So, we immediately pulled into the next parking bay and watched as the Northern Lights danced across the sky. It was such a mesmerizing display of nature’s beauty.

Watching the Aurora Borealis felt like a dream, and we couldn’t believe our luck in witnessing such an awe-inspiring spectacle on the very first full day of our Lapland trip.

💡 Insider Tip: For better chances of seeing the Northern Lights, joining a professional Northern Lights Tour with guaranteed sightings is a good option.

Day 2 in Lapland: Dog Sledding and Finnish Sauna

Our second day in Lapland began with an exhilarating dog sledding adventure through the snow-covered wilderness, led by a team of enthusiastic huskies. After the thrill of the sled ride, we enjoyed a relaxing sauna experience at our villa’s Finnish sauna, the perfect way to unwind and warm up after our Arctic adventure.

Go Dog Sledding

For us, dog sledding is by far one of the best things to do in Lapland. After adding some layers at the hut to stay warm, we began with a brief introduction to steering and operating the sled, where we learned the basics before getting hands-on. Then, we helped harness each and every eager husky and positioned them in front of our sled, ready for the journey ahead.

Our 10 km husky tour was breathtaking, leading us through snow-covered forests and across a frozen lake, making us feel truly immersed in the Arctic wilderness. Afterward, we helped remove the dogs’ harnesses, showered them with affection and cuddles, and treated them to their well-deserved snacks.

Once all the dogs were taken care of, we gathered around an open fire in a cozy Kota, sipping hot berry juice and enjoying some cake. This was the perfect opportunity to ask any questions about the dogs and to reflect on the incredible journey.

We opted for a small, local operator in Muonio with only 35 dogs (Doghill Huskys), ensuring a more intimate, authentic experience with just three sleds and a maximum of six people – almost like a private tour.

If you prefer doing dog sledding in Rovaniemi, this Self-Drive Husky Safari Tour is the perfect choice!

💡 Looking for more outdoor adventures? Check out this fun Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park Snowshoeing Tour!

Experience a Finnish Sauna

After our exhilarating dog sledding adventure, we headed back to our cabin to enjoy our private sauna – a true highlight of our Lapland experience. In Lapland, the sauna is an essential part of the local culture, and we couldn’t miss the opportunity to try one ourselves. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of outdoor activities.

The warmth of the sauna was a comforting contrast to the crisp winter air outside (80°C inside vs. -20°C outside, a 100-degree difference!).

Once we’d soaked in the heat, we stepped outside to enjoy the peaceful winter landscape, feeling the chill on our skin as we walked around, breathing in the fresh air, and embracing the serenity of nature around us.

If you don’t have a sauna at your accommodation, you could also visit the Arctic Sauna World, where you can experience Finnish sauna culture in a beautiful lakeside setting.

Try the Finnish Cuisine

To round off our day, we headed to Takka Restaurant, a local restaurant that was highly recommended by our host, to savor the rich flavors of traditional Finnish cuisine. From delicious salmon dishes to traditional reindeer delicacies, the food was as much a part of the experience as the activities in Lapland themselves.

Finnish cuisine is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on fish, game, and wild berries. Trying these authentic dishes was a must, giving us a deeper appreciation for the culture and flavors of Lapland. A perfect ending to an unforgettable day!

Day 3 in Lapland: Road Trip from Muonio to Rovaniemi (via Levi)

On our third day, we took a scenic road trip from Muonio to Rovaniemi, passing through snowy forests and charming villages. We made our first stop in Levi before continuing our journey south to Rovaniemi. During the drive, we were treated to a beautiful hour-long sunset, so we stopped frequently to take pictures and capture the breathtaking views of Lapland’s stunning landscapes.

Explore Levi Town

Levi is one of the most popular ski resorts in Lapland, attracting visitors from all over the world with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning landscapes. Despite our visit in January, when the town was a little bit quieter, it still offered plenty to explore. Known as a hub for various winter activities, there are opportunities for skiing, snowmobiling, and even ice karting.

💡 Craving an adrenaline rush in the snow? Don’t miss this top-rated Levi Fell Snowmobile Tour!

If you are looking for a bit of magic, Levi is also home to Santa’s Cabin, one of the most photographed places and a must-see for anyone visiting Lapland. Additionally, the surrounding nature provides the perfect backdrop for relaxed outdoor adventures such as winter hiking.

Soak in the scenic views

The road trip itself was an unforgettable journey, with jaw-dropping views at every turn. As we drove through endless snow-covered forests and past frozen lakes and rivers, it felt like we were in a real-life winter wonderland.

We couldn’t help but stop a few times to take in the views and snap some photos of the stunning scenery.

Day 4 in Lapland: Santa Claus Village

On our fourth day, we visited the world-famous Santa Claus Village just outside Rovaniemi, where the magic of Christmas never ends. Here, you can meet Santa Claus himself, cross the Arctic Circle, and experience the festive atmosphere that fills the air year-round. Whether you’re visiting the Santa Claus post office, sending a postcard with a special Arctic stamp, or simply taking in the enchanting surroundings, this is a place where childhood dreams come true. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Lapland, no matter the time of year!

Cross the Artic Circle

One of the highlights of our visit to Santa Claus Village was crossing the Arctic Circle right in the main square of Santa Claus Village. We excitedly stepped over the imaginary line, entering the land where the sun doesn’t set in the summer and doesn’t rise in the winter. While we didn’t grab a certificate, they were available for anyone who wanted a special keepsake to mark the occasion. We also had fun watching others cross it in their own unique ways – hopping, jumping, and even doing cartwheels!

Meet Santa Claus

One of the most popular attractions at Santa Claus Village is meeting Santa Claus himself, no matter the time of year. There are actually two Santas in the village: one in his office and the other in the souvenir shop. You can chat with him and get a photo or video, and while the meet-and-greet is free, we decided to skip it during our visit because of the long line. If you’re willing to wait, you can also pay for a photo with Santa. For many, it’s a special experience – whether you’re a kid or an adult – that really brings the Christmas magic to life in the heart of Lapland.

Send postcards from Santa’s post office

Another fun activity we loved at Santa Claus Village was sending postcards from Santa’s official post office. This charming little spot lets you mail postcards with special Arctic Circle postmarks. It felt like the perfect way to share the magic of Lapland with our loved ones back home. You can choose whether the postcard is sent immediately or delivered on Christmas Day.

The post office is filled with festive decorations and a cozy atmosphere, making it a great place to pick out unique postcards and send holiday wishes from the heart of Santa’s hometown. It’s a fun and memorable way to share a piece of Lapland with your friends and family!

Try Mrs. Claus’ famous hot chocolate

Next, we treated ourselves to Mrs. Claus’ famous hot chocolate. Served in her cozy Christmas Cottage at Santa Claus Village, this rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious drink was the perfect way to warm up. Topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate, and a gingerbread cookie, it was just as comforting as you’d imagine.

As we sipped our hot chocolate, we couldn’t help but soak in the warmth and festive charm of this place – it felt like a little taste of Christmas in a cup. Definitely a must-try when you’re in Lapland!

And if you’re up for it, you can even visit Mrs. Claus herself and have a chat about Lapland, her reindeer, or anything else you’d like to talk to her about.

Optional: Snowman World

If you have some more time to spare, Snowman World is an optional but fun stop to add to your Lapland adventure. Located in Santa Claus Village, this winter wonderland is filled with icy sculptures, snow slides, and even an ice bar where you can sip a drink served in a glass made entirely of ice. The kids will love the snow activities, and adults can enjoy exploring the cool, frosty art and architecture. Whether you’re looking for a bit of playtime or a unique photo opportunity, Snowman World offers a lighthearted and magical experience.

Have dinner at Santa’s Salmon Place

Our last activity for the day was having dinner at Santa’s Salmon Place, a cozy and welcoming Kota in Santa Claus Village, where the air is filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly smoked fish. Here, you can enjoy some of the best traditional salmon, cooked over an open fire right in front of you, creating a truly rustic dining experience.

The smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture made it the best salmon we’ve ever had. With a simple menu focused on this delicious dish, the laid-back vibe was the perfect way to wrap up a magical day in Santa Claus Village.

Day 5 in Lapland: Rovaniemi and Arctic Snow Hotel

On our final day in Lapland, we set out to explore the town of Rovaniemi. Known as the gateway to the Arctic, the town blends modernity with the rustic charm of the north. 

Explore Rovaniemi Town

After the excitement of Santa Claus Village, we spent our last day in Lapland exploring Rovaniemi itself. While the town isn’t packed with major sights, it has a relaxed atmosphere that makes for a pleasant visit. We started with a leisurely stroll down the main street, lined with local souvenir shops, before making our way to the riverbank.

We also stopped for a warm drink at one of the cozy cafés. If you love shopping, there’s a large shopping center in Rovaniemi Town (Tip: that’s where we parked our car!).

You can also take some time to visit the Arktikum, a fascinating museum where you can learn about the history of the Arctic and Lapland.

Visit the Artic Snow Hotel

If you have some extra time, a visit to the Arctic Snow Hotel is an unforgettable experience. Located just outside of Rovaniemi, this incredible hotel is built entirely from ice and snow, offering a unique winter wonderland atmosphere.

You can explore the beautifully crafted ice rooms, sweat in a snow sauna, admire the intricate ice sculptures, have dinner at the Ice Restaurant, and even grab a drink in an ice glass at the ice bar. It’s a truly magical place, where everything from the walls to the furniture is made of ice, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a winter fairy tale.

Even if you’re not staying overnight, the visit alone is worth it to experience this frozen masterpiece. Make sure to check out the tour options below:

• 🧊 Arctic Snow Hotel Tour
• 🧊🔥 Arctic Snow Hotel Tour + Sauna Experience
• 🧊🍽️🔥 Ice Restaurant Dinner with Snow Sauna

I hope you enjoyed reading our comprehensive Lapland travel guide and that it gave you a glimpse into the magic of this winter wonderland. From chasing the Northern Lights to meeting Santa Claus and experiencing unique Arctic activities, Lapland is truly a destination like no other.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or festive charm, this place has something for everyone. We’re grateful for the memories made and can’t wait to return to this enchanting part of the world. If you’re planning your own trip to Lapland, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your Lapland adventure!

FAQ – Lapland Itinerary

Check out my other Lapland travel guides below for more Lapland tips!

• What to Wear in Lapland: Packing List

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