Upper Lapland holidays

Good to know before your Lapland holiday

Planning a holiday to Lapland? You're in for something special! But before you dust off your winter coat and start dreaming of snowy adventures, there are a few things worth knowing. From Arctic temperatures and surprisingly short winter days to choosing the right airport, a little preparation can make all the difference. After all, the only surprises you want on your trip are the magical kind!

When is the best time to visit Lapland?

It all depends on what you're hoping to find! December is one of the most popular months for Lapland holidays, especially for families looking to experience the magic of Christmas. Expect festive decorations, snowy landscapes and plenty of excitement, but also higher prices and busier attractions. For a quieter winter escape, January and February offer beautiful snowy scenery, while March brings longer days and excellent conditions for outdoor adventures. And here's something you might not expect: Lapland is lovely in summer too, with endless daylight, green forests and hiking trails waiting to be explored.

How cold does Lapland get?

Let's put it this way: you'll definitely need more than your favourite Christmas jumper! Winter temperatures in Lapland often fall between -10°C and -20°C, sometimes dropping below -30°C during particularly cold spells. The secret to staying comfortable is layering up. Pack thermal underwear, warm woollen socks, insulated boots and a proper winter coat, along with gloves and a hat that covers your ears. Many organised winter excursions provide thermal suits and specialist equipment, so check what's included before filling your suitcase. And don't forget lip balm — Arctic air can be surprisingly drying!

Getting to Lapland from the UK

Getting to this winter wonderland is easier than you might think. Rovaniemi, Kittilä and Ivalo are three of the main airports serving Finnish Lapland, with seasonal direct flights from selected UK airports and connecting services through Helsinki. Rovaniemi is a popular choice for Christmas-themed holidays, while Kittilä is convenient for ski resorts such as Levi and Ylläs. Heading further north? Ivalo is a good gateway to Saariselkä and Inari. Once you've landed, airport transfers, shuttle buses and taxis can take you to your accommodation. Just remember to check distances before booking — Lapland is rather bigger than it looks on a map!

What about the Northern Lights and winter daylight?

Here's where things get interesting. During December and January, daylight hours are extremely short, and in the far north, the sun doesn't rise above the horizon for several weeks. This phenomenon, known as kaamos or polar night, creates beautiful shades of pink, blue and purple across the snowy landscape. It's also a wonderful time to look for the Northern Lights in Lapland, although sightings depend on solar activity and clear skies. The aurora season generally runs from late August to early April, so Christmas isn't your only opportunity to catch nature's most spectacular light show. Keep your fingers crossed and your camera ready!

Getting around the snowy north

Fancy exploring beyond your resort? Getting around Lapland requires a little more planning than your average European holiday. Buses and organised transfers connect many popular destinations, while guided excursions often include transport from your accommodation. Hiring a car gives you extra freedom, but driving in Lapland during winter means dealing with snow, ice and limited daylight. If you're not comfortable with Arctic road conditions, letting someone else take the wheel is usually the more relaxing option. And remember, distances between towns can be considerable, so it's worth planning your adventures before setting off.

Money, language and a few useful essentials

Lapland is part of Finland, which means the currency is the euro (€). Finnish is the main language, although English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions. You'll need a European plug adaptor for your UK devices, and Finland is two hours ahead of the UK. British passport holders can generally visit for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa, provided they meet Schengen entry requirements. One final tip: book popular winter activities in advance, particularly around Christmas. You wouldn't want to travel all the way to the Arctic Circle only to discover that every husky adventure is fully booked!

Best things to do in Lapland for an unforgettable Arctic adventure

Forget ordinary holidays. In Lapland, even a simple walk through the forest can feel like stepping into a Christmas film! From racing across snowy landscapes on a husky sled to watching the Northern Lights dance overhead, things to do in Lapland are anything but ordinary. Whether you're planning a magical family Christmas, a romantic winter escape or an adventure packed with snowy thrills, there's plenty to keep you entertained. And don't worry, there's always time for a hot chocolate between adventures.

Meet Father Christmas in Rovaniemi

You can't visit the home of Father Christmas without popping in to say hello! Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is one of Lapland's most famous attractions, and it's every bit as enchanting as you'd imagine. Meet the man in red, send a postcard from Santa's official post office and step across the Arctic Circle line. Little ones will love the festive atmosphere, while grown-ups might find themselves getting rather caught up in the magic too. And here's a secret: Santa welcomes visitors all year round, so there's no need to wait until December to get into the Christmas spirit.

Let the huskies lead the way

Ready for a ride you'll be talking about long after you've unpacked your suitcase? Husky sledding in Lapland is a wonderful way to explore the Arctic wilderness. Wrapped up against the cold, you'll glide along snowy trails as a team of energetic huskies leads you through forests and across frozen landscapes. Depending on the experience, you might even get the chance to help steer the sled under expert supervision. Just be prepared for some enthusiastic barking before you set off. These four-legged adventurers certainly know how to make an entrance! Choose a reputable operator that puts animal welfare first.

Enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride through the snow

For something a little gentler, swap the excited huskies for Lapland's most famous residents. Reindeer sleigh rides offer a wonderfully peaceful way to discover the snowy countryside, with traditional wooden sleighs gliding through quiet forests. Many excursions also include a visit to a reindeer farm, where you can learn about these remarkable animals and their importance to local culture. It's a particularly lovely experience for families with younger children. And yes, you'll probably spend the whole journey wondering whether one of them is called Rudolph.

Chase the magical Northern Lights

Few experiences can match the excitement of looking up and seeing the Northern Lights in Lapland. On a clear night, ribbons of green, purple and sometimes pink light can sweep across the Arctic sky, creating a spectacle that's difficult to put into words. Guided aurora excursions take you away from the brightest town lights, often to peaceful wilderness locations where the stars are just as impressive. Some even include a campfire and warm drinks to keep the chill at bay. Of course, nature doesn't work to a timetable, so sightings are never guaranteed. But when those lights finally appear? You'll be glad you stayed up past your bedtime.

Hit the slopes in Levi or Ylläs

Who says you need the Alps for a brilliant skiing holiday? Lapland's ski resorts offer beautiful slopes, snowy forests and a relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Levi is one of Finland's best-known resorts, with runs for different abilities, ski schools and plenty of après-ski options. Ylläs is another fantastic choice, particularly if you love wide-open landscapes and cross-country skiing. Never put on a pair of skis before? This could be the perfect place to start. And if skiing isn't your thing, there's always snowboarding, sledging or simply admiring the views from a cosy mountain café.

Explore the wilderness on a snowmobile

If your idea of a great holiday involves a little adrenaline, snowmobiling in Lapland should be high on your list. Imagine speeding along marked trails through frozen forests, past snow-covered trees and across vast Arctic landscapes. Guided snowmobile safaris are available in popular destinations such as Rovaniemi, Levi and Saariselkä, with different routes and experiences depending on your confidence and ability. Some excursions even take place after dark, adding an extra touch of adventure. Prefer something less speedy? Snowshoeing is a lovely alternative, allowing you to explore quiet forest trails at your own pace. Either way, the scenery is worth getting wrapped up for.

Warm up with a traditional Finnish sauna

After a busy day in the snow, it's time to embrace one of Finland's favourite traditions: the sauna. And no, it's not just an excuse to escape the cold! Sauna bathing is an important part of Finnish culture, with locals enjoying the relaxing heat throughout the year. Many hotels and cabins in Lapland have their own saunas, making it easy to experience this wonderfully soothing ritual. Feeling particularly brave? Some visitors follow their sauna session with a quick dip in icy water, although that's entirely optional. There's absolutely no shame in choosing a warm shower instead! Finish the evening with a cosy meal and a crackling fire, and you've got yourself a pretty perfect Arctic day.

Food and drink in Lapland worth braving the cold for

Forget fancy ingredients and complicated recipes. Food in Lapland is all about hearty dishes, fresh Arctic flavours and the kind of comfort food that makes you feel warm from the inside out. Think tender reindeer meat, creamy salmon soup, wild forest berries and freshly baked treats enjoyed beside a crackling fire. Whether you're stopping for lunch after a snowy adventure or settling in for a cosy dinner in a traditional log cabin, Lapland's food and drink scene has plenty of delicious surprises waiting for you. And with temperatures well below freezing in winter, you've got the perfect excuse to order seconds!

Reindeer on the menu? Absolutely!

You might know them best for pulling Santa's sleigh, but reindeer have also been an important part of northern Finnish cuisine for centuries. One of Lapland's most famous dishes is poronkäristys, made with thin slices of reindeer meat slowly cooked until beautifully tender. It's traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes, pickles and a generous spoonful of lingonberry jam. The combination of rich, savoury meat and tart berries is surprisingly delicious. You'll find reindeer on menus throughout Lapland, from traditional restaurants in Rovaniemi to cosy eateries in Levi and Saariselkä. A proper taste of the Arctic!

Nothing beats a steaming bowl of salmon soup

After a morning exploring snowy forests, there's something wonderfully satisfying about sitting down to a bowl of lohikeitto, Finland's famous creamy salmon soup. Made with chunks of salmon, potatoes, carrots, leeks and fresh dill, it's simple, comforting and exactly what you need when your fingers are still recovering from the Arctic chill. It's often served with dark Finnish rye bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop. Fancy trying more local fish? Look out for smoked salmon, Arctic char and crispy fried vendace, a small freshwater fish that's particularly popular in Finnish cuisine.

Wild berries and a cheese that squeaks

Lapland's forests are full of edible treasures, particularly during the summer and early autumn. Cloudberries, lingonberries and bilberries are some of the region's favourite ingredients, appearing in everything from jams and desserts to sauces served alongside savoury dishes. For a truly Finnish treat, try leipäjuusto, a mild baked cheese affectionately known as squeaky cheese because of the sound it makes when you bite into it. It's often served warm with sweet cloudberry jam. Cheese for dessert might sound a little unusual, but give it a chance. Your taste buds may thank you!

Finnish pastries for a sweet little break

If you need an excuse to pop into a cosy café, Lapland has plenty. Korvapuusti, Finland's much-loved cinnamon and cardamom buns, are perfect alongside a steaming cup of coffee. Soft, fragrant and wonderfully comforting, they're particularly tempting after a few hours in the cold. Another favourite is karjalanpiirakka, a traditional Finnish pastry with a thin rye crust and a creamy rice filling, usually topped with egg butter. And if you're visiting during berry season, keep an eye out for mustikkapiirakka, a delicious bilberry pie. Who knew a coffee break could become such an important part of your holiday itinerary?

Cosy drinks for chilly Arctic evenings

When it's freezing outside, even your choice of drink becomes part of the adventure. During the festive season, glögi, Finland's version of mulled wine, is a favourite. Made with warming spices such as cinnamon, cloves and cardamom, it comes in both alcoholic and alcohol-free versions, often using berry juice as a base. Coffee lovers will feel right at home too. Finns take their coffee seriously, and there's something rather special about enjoying a freshly brewed cup beside an open fire in the snowy wilderness. For something different, try a hot berry juice made with local bilberries or lingonberries. Add a warm blanket, a cosy cabin and perhaps a glimpse of the Northern Lights outside, and you've got yourself a pretty perfect Lapland evening.

Sports in Lapland for a little Arctic adventure

Who says you need to stay indoors when the temperature drops below freezing? In Lapland, winter is when the fun really begins! From skiing down snowy slopes to cycling through frosty forests, sports in Lapland offer a brilliant excuse to get outside and embrace the Arctic wilderness. And the fun doesn't stop when the snow melts. Summer brings hiking trails, mountain biking and plenty of opportunities to explore under the Midnight Sun. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or trying something for the first time, there's an outdoor activity with your name on it.

Skiing and snowboarding in the Finnish fells

If you love the thrill of gliding downhill, skiing in Lapland is hard to beat. Resorts such as Levi and Ylläs offer well-maintained slopes surrounded by beautiful Arctic scenery, with runs for beginners and experienced skiers alike. Unlike the towering peaks of the Alps, Lapland's gentle fells make it a particularly welcoming destination for families and first-timers. Ski schools and equipment hire are widely available, so there's no need to arrive with all the gear. And after a few exhilarating runs? A cosy café and a steaming hot chocolate sound like a well-deserved reward.

Give cross-country skiing a go

Want to experience the snow like a local? Cross-country skiing is practically a way of life in Finland, and Lapland has an extensive network of trails winding through forests, across frozen landscapes and over rolling fells. It's a fantastic way to combine exercise with sightseeing, without the rush of downhill skiing. Beginners can book lessons to master the basics, while more experienced skiers can tackle longer routes through the wilderness. Don't be surprised if you discover muscles you never knew existed. At least the scenery provides a lovely distraction!

Explore snowy forests on snowshoes

There's something wonderfully peaceful about walking through a forest covered in fresh snow, especially when the only sound is the crunch beneath your feet. Snowshoeing in Lapland lets you explore beautiful winter landscapes without needing any special sporting skills. Strap on a pair of snowshoes, follow a marked trail or join a guided walk through the wilderness. Some excursions include stops at traditional shelters, where you can warm up beside a fire and enjoy a hot drink. It's a great choice for anyone who prefers their Arctic adventures at a more leisurely pace.

Try fat biking for a different kind of winter ride

Cycling on snow? Yes, really! Fat biking is becoming an increasingly popular winter sport in Lapland, and it's easier than you might imagine. These specially designed bicycles have extra-wide tyres that provide better grip on packed snow, allowing you to pedal along designated winter trails. Electric fat bikes are also available, giving you a little help when the going gets tough. It's a fun way to explore the forests around Lapland's ski resorts, particularly if you love cycling but have never tried it in winter. Just remember to wrap up those fingers and toes!

Swap your skis for an ice-fishing rod

Not every winter sport needs to get your heart racing. Ice fishing in Lapland is a traditional pastime that combines patience, fresh air and the thrill of wondering what's swimming beneath your feet. Join a guided excursion to a frozen lake, where you'll learn how to drill a hole through the ice and try your luck at catching fish such as perch. The pace is wonderfully relaxed, with plenty of time to admire the surrounding scenery. Will you catch dinner? Perhaps. Will you come away with a good story? Almost certainly! Always go with an experienced guide who can assess the ice conditions.

Hiking, mountain biking and paddling under the Midnight Sun

Think Lapland is only for winter sports? Think again! When summer arrives, the snow gives way to green forests, sparkling lakes and spectacular landscapes that are perfect for outdoor adventures. Hiking in Lapland is a wonderful way to discover the region's national parks, with trails ranging from gentle nature walks to challenging fell hikes. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore scenic routes through forests and hills, while kayaking and canoeing offer a peaceful way to enjoy the region's rivers and lakes. And with the Midnight Sun bringing almost endless daylight, there's no need to rush back before sunset. Just don't forget to check the time now and then!