Take a guided or self-driven husky ride through snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and scenic Arctic trails, learning sled dog handling techniques and team dynamics.
Explore Rovaniemi’s best attractions and winter adventures
Lapland is a land of contrasts, where endless snowy forests meet charming Arctic villages and the sky dances with the Northern Lights. From husky and reindeer adventures to frozen lakes and hidden nature trails, every moment offers a chance to immerse yourself in the region’s unique culture and stunning landscapes. Whether chasing the Aurora, tasting traditional dishes, or wandering scenic trails, Lapland promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Why Lapland is the ultimate winter destination
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A snow-covered wonderland
Lapland’s landscapes transform into sparkling white forests, frozen lakes, and snow-dusted villages, creating a magical backdrop for adventure and photography.
Husky & reindeer adventures
Glide through the Arctic wilderness on a husky sled or reindeer-drawn sleigh, enjoying hands-on encounters with these iconic animals.
Northern Lights magic
The long winter nights offer one of the world’s best chances to witness the Aurora Borealis dancing across pristine skies.
Santa Claus & festive cheer
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, lets visitors meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and immerse themselves in festive holiday traditions.
Winter sports & thrills
From snowmobiling and cross-country skiing to snowshoeing and ice fishing, Lapland offers thrilling outdoor activities for all ages and experience levels.
Sámi culture & Arctic heritage
Learn about the indigenous Sámi people, reindeer herding traditions, and Arctic survival skills for a deeper cultural connection beyond the snowy adventure.
Family-friendly experiences
With short sled rides, farm visits, and magical winter landscapes, Lapland is perfect for families seeking safe, immersive, and memorable Arctic experiences.
Top things to do in Lapland
Lapland transforms with the seasons, from snow-blanketed forests and frozen lakes perfect for sledding and snowmobile safaris in winter, to sunlit trails, rivers, and green expanses ideal for hiking and kayaking in summer.
Winter activities (December to March)
Husky sledding
Reindeer sleigh rides
Glide silently through snowy landscapes on a reindeer-pulled sleigh while discovering Sámi herding traditions and the history of Arctic transport.
Snowmobile safaris
Zoom across frozen rivers and snow-dusted forests on shared or solo snowmobiles, with stops for hot drinks and photography.
Northern Lights tours
Chase the Aurora Borealis in remote, light-free areas, combining sled rides, quiet forest stops, and expert guidance on aurora photography.
Santa Claus Village
Cross the Arctic Circle, meet Santa Claus, explore festive shops, and enjoy seasonal activities in Rovaniemi’s iconic holiday destination.
Ice fishing
Drill a hole in the ice, learn traditional fishing methods, and enjoy the serene Arctic surroundings while trying your luck for local fish.
Summer adventures (June to August)
Farm visits
Spend time at husky and reindeer farms interacting with animals, learning about sled dog training, and observing reindeer grazing in summer pastures.
Midnight Sun hiking
Trek through lush forests, hills, and river valleys under 24-hour daylight, capturing Lapland’s green landscapes and long summer light.
Kayaking & canoeing
Paddle calm rivers and lakes while observing the flora and fauna of Lapland’s vibrant summer environment.
Berry & mushroom foraging
Look for wild Arctic berries and mushrooms with local guides while exploring Lapland’s summer landscapes.
Unique Lapland experiences
Ranua Wildlife Park
Observe Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, lynxes, and reindeer, in naturalistic habitats, ideal for those interested in learning more about Arctic wildlife.
Arktikum & Pilke Science Center
Explore interactive exhibits on Arctic history, ecosystems, and science, with panoramic views of Rovaniemi.
Sámi culture hotspots
Visit cultural centres or local farms to learn about indigenous life, handicrafts, and reindeer herding traditions.
Snow & ice sculptures
Look for intricately carved snow and ice structures, including seasonal snow castles and ice art exhibitions.
Best Lapland destinations to explore
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Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus and a hub for Arctic adventures, offering husky and reindeer farms, Santa Claus Village, Northern Lights tours, and cultural attractions like Arktikum and Pilke Science Centre.
Kemi
Kemi is famous for its SnowCastle, ice hotels, and frozen sea safaris, giving visitors a unique chance to explore Arctic ice architecture and experience snow and ice like nowhere else.
Levi
Levi is Lapland’s premier ski resort with downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, husky safaris, and Northern Lights excursions, perfect for adventure seekers and winter sports enthusiasts.
Inari
Inari is the heart of Sámi culture, featuring cultural centres, reindeer farms, and untouched Arctic wilderness, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in indigenous traditions and quiet nature.
Saariselkä
Saariselkä offers Arctic hiking, snowshoeing, and Aurora viewing, with access to expansive forests and fells that make it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ranua
Ranua Wildlife Park is perfect for families and wildlife lovers, allowing you to see polar bears, lynxes, Arctic foxes, and reindeer in naturalistic habitats year-round.
Tornio
Tornio, on the border with Sweden, provides a mix of cultural heritage, shopping, and river-based summer activities, offering a quieter, local perspective of Lapland life.
Plan your visit to Lapland
- Winter (December to March): These months are perfect for experiencing snow-covered landscapes, husky and reindeer sledding, and Northern Lights chases. The festive season in December also brings Santa Claus Village magic, winter festivals, and cozy Arctic charm, making it perfect for families, couples, and first-time visitors.
- Spring & early winter (November, April): These shoulder months offer quieter trails, fresh snow for sledding, and clear skies for photography, while still allowing short rides and farm visits without the crowds of peak winter.
- Summer (June to August): Summer showcases lush green forests, rivers, and the Midnight Sun, making it ideal for hiking, kayaking, berry foraging, and wildlife spotting.
All tours typically include round-trip transfers from Rovaniemi City Center or hotels within 12km, ensuring a seamless start to your Arctic adventure.
- By air: Rovaniemi Airport serves as the main gateway, with direct flights from Helsinki and seasonal international connections. From the airport, short taxi or shuttle rides take you to the city center, where most tours depart.
- By train: VR Finnish Railways operates overnight and daytime trains from Helsinki, Oulu, and other Finnish cities directly to Rovaniemi station, making it convenient to connect to local transfers or tour pickup points.
- By bus: Intercity buses run from major cities, including Helsinki and Oulu, to Rovaniemi. Local buses and airport shuttles provide access to hotels, Santa Claus Village, and other starting points for tours.
- By car: Driving allows flexibility to explore Lapland’s scenic routes at your own pace. During winter months, snow tires and experience with Arctic driving are highly recommended.
- Layer clothing strategically to stay warm during outdoor stops and light enough to remove during short indoor breaks.
- Take advantage of fresh snowfalls for pristine sledding trails and sparkling winter landscapes.
- Try midday farm visits in summer to see huskies and reindeer in their most active state under long daylight hours.
- Check local aurora and weather forecasts daily if chasing Northern Lights for the best viewing windows.
- Ask guides for hidden viewpoints along husky, reindeer, or snowmobile trails for quieter, photogenic moments.
- Bring a camera with a tripod if you plan to photograph the Aurora, snow-covered forests, or husky and reindeer rides.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Lapland
Day tours in Lapland include husky sledding, reindeer rides, snowmobile safaris, Aurora chasing, farm visits, and festive stops at Santa Claus Village, with options for full-day, half-day, and small-group experiences.
Yes, many tours are family-friendly, offering short sled rides, mini snowmobiles for children under 150cm, safe farm interactions, and festive attractions that appeal to all ages.
Yes, combo day tours like the day and evening tour and highlights tour allow you to experience husky and reindeer rides, snowmobiling, farm visits, and Santa Claus Village in one itinerary for a complete Arctic adventure.
Yes, many tours offer small-group formats of 6 to 8 participants, which provide more personalized guidance, quieter experiences, and better opportunities for photos and interaction with animals.
Many tours offer self-driven husky sled experiences, allowing you to alternate between driving and riding under professional guidance, while others provide guided rides for a more relaxed experience.
While most sledding and farm activities cannot accommodate wheelchairs, accessible cultural attractions such as the Arktikum Museum and Pilke Science Center are available, and some operators may offer alternative Arctic experiences.
Yes, select tours and attractions like Ranua Wildlife Park allow you to observe Arctic animals such as polar bears, lynxes, foxes, and owls in naturalistic habitats.
Some tours, like the highlights tour, offer traditional meals or hot drinks, such as salmon soup or berry juice, while others provide light refreshments during stops at farms or scenic points.
Most tours provide overalls, boots, gloves, and hats, but it’s recommended to bring warm base layers and accessories for additional comfort.
You can fly into Rovaniemi Airport, take trains via VR Finnish Railways, or drive to Lapland, with all tours offering round-trip transfers from city center hotels within 12km.
Yes, all tours are designed for first-time visitors, combining hands-on animal experiences, gentle rides, and cultural storytelling, with small-group options available for more personalized attention.
