The initial impression most individuals have of Lapland is its association with Santa Claus, a destination that can significantly enhance a child’s Christmas experience. However, for adults, the region offers a different kind of enchantment: the ethereal Northern Lights, the breathtaking beauty of Nordic woodlands in autumn, or the seemingly endless days of the midnight sun during summer. Throughout the lengthy winters, visitors have the opportunity to engage in various Arctic activities, ranging from ice-fishing to cross-country skiing or riding with reindeer.

Below, we detail the top activities to experience in Lapland:

1. Aurora Borealis

For approximately 200 nights each year, from late August through April, there exists the possibility of witnessing one of nature’s grand spectacles.

For those not residing near the Arctic Circle, this phenomenon may represent a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Northern Lights typically manifest on clear nights, thus visitors may find they require some luck regarding weather conditions.

Individuals can choose their method of viewing; during winter, one may venture into the frigid wilderness on a snowmobile or trek to an observation point using snowshoes.

However, if this effort seems excessively daunting, numerous luxury accommodations such as glass igloos offer visitors the chance to view the Aurora Borealis in comfort.

2. Ruska

During a two-week period in mid-September, the forests of Lapland showcase their most striking appearance.

This season, known as Ruska, attracts locals and visitors alike for “leaf-peeping” activities.

The region’s forests are predominantly coniferous, yet these evergreens intermingle with hardwood trees.

In autumn, this combination results in a stunning array of soft hues, as oranges, reds, and light browns contrast against a backdrop of deep greens.

This time occurs roughly a month prior to snowfall, making it a favored period for walking in Lapland, long after the mid-summer mosquito season has ended.

3. Skiing

For those seeking towering slopes, Lapland may not fit the bill.

Instead, the region is a veritable paradise for cross-country skiers, with a thick layer of snow that blankets the landscape from October through April.

Cross-country skiing is not only a national favorite but also a convenient means of traversing the area.

The rounded fells of Lapland host many of the region’s prominent ski resorts, including Levi, Pyhä-Luosto, Ruka, and Ylläs.

If you desire comprehensive resort amenities, Levi stands out as the prime location, featuring 43 slopes, nearly half of which are illuminated for night skiing.

4. Meet Santa Claus

Rovaniemi, the principal town of Lapland, is officially recognized as the hometown of Santa Claus.

It is practically unthinkable to visit Lapland with children and not arrange for them to meet Santa.

Three major Santa-themed attractions are located in Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Village features his office and the post office where children’s letters from around the globe are processed.

Santa Park functions as a Christmas-themed amusement park, offering rides and shows tailored for young audiences.

Meanwhile, Jolukka serves as a rural attraction, allowing children to interact with Santa’s elves year-round while engaging in activities such as fishing, caring for reindeer, and berry picking.

5. Inari

Inari represents the northernmost point of Lapland (and the European Union), characterized as one of Finland’s least densely populated areas.

There are numerous reasons to venture to this remote region: the scenery remains pristine, with shimmering rivers and rolling low fells set against a backdrop of coniferous forests.

Culturally, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the indigenous Sámi people, who inhabit the northernmost parts of the Nordic countries as well as Russia’s Kola Peninsula.

In the village of Inari, Siida, a museum, provides insight into Sámi beliefs, history, and traditional lifestyles.

6. Ranua Zoo

Located in the town of Ranua, you’ll discover the northernmost zoo in the world.

This establishment does not focus on exotic species; rather, Ranua Zoo showcases the wildlife native to Finland’s polar region.

The zoo encompasses 50 different Arctic species, featuring prominent predators such as brown bears, polar bears, lynxes, and wolves.

Additionally, visitors can observe more benign populations of moose and deer.

The zoo operates every day of the year, offering a distinctly different experience in mid-summer compared to the snow-covered depths of winter.

7. Levi Ice Gallery

Around six kilometres along a cross-country trail from the Levi ski resort lies this unique attraction, which features structures entirely carved from ice.

While accommodations are available, many visitors come merely to admire the sculptures while enjoying a meal or beverage.

For those stopping by for a drink, they can participate in what is likely to be the most unusual karaoke experience ever!

The gallery can also be reserved for events, offering the possibility of attending a wedding in a genuine ice palace.

8. Lappish cuisine

This represents an opportunity to sample sautéed reindeer (poronkäristys), a dish likely to please meat enthusiasts.

The preparation of this dish involves frying thin slices of reindeer meat in fat or butter, followed by the addition of beer or cream. The broth is then simmered until the meat achieves tenderness.

It is typically served atop a bed of mashed potatoes, garnished with preserves and pickled cucumber.

During summer festivals, one may encounter Suovaskebabs, a delightful fusion of smoked reindeer in pita bread accompanied by salad and garlic sauce!

9. Midnight Sun

Of course, the counterbalance to perpetual darkness in winter is the Midnight Sun during summer.

In the northern regions of Lapland, the sun remains above the horizon for 70 consecutive days.

Further south, although the sun dips below the horizon, the sky remains illuminated.

To experience the Midnight Sun as a Finn would, it is recommended to retreat to a secluded cottage and take advantage of the extended daylight by walking, fishing, or even golfing at courses extending their hours during summer.

For those near a fell, the experience of reaching a summit and witnessing vast woodlands illuminated by gentle sunlight is unparalleled.

10. Trekking

Lapland boasts an extensive network of walking trails that are ideally explored in August.

This time of year offers abundant daylight and mild temperatures, making excursions more enjoyable.

Surprisingly, many visitors learn how relatively flat the terrain can be.

This ease of travel becomes particularly appealing after the mosquito season has passed, allowing for exploration of some of the most remote areas one may ever encounter.

In National Parks, trail-side log cabins provide essential shelter, and informational boards offer insights into the local ecology.

Although the remoteness carries inherent risks, detailed guides are available for digital download.

11. Reindeer experiences

Reindeer play a crucial role in Lappish life, with their population nearly matching that of humans!

Each town or resort in Lapland is likely to offer reindeer rides, and witnessing these elegant animals in the natural landscape contributes to Lapland’s reputation as a “winter wonderland.”

In northern Lapland, reindeer are rounded up biannually for a population count.

These semi-domestic creatures are a source of pride for the local population, especially within Sámi culture, where reindeer husbandry is a traditional practice.

12. Ice Fishing

What could be a more suitable pastime for a nation known for its reserved and contemplative nature such as Finland?

Indeed, ice fishing requires patience, as hours may pass without any action.

It presents an opportunity for solitary reflection amidst the serene beauty of nature at the center of a frozen lake surrounded by lush green forests.

During winter, the lakes of Lapland generally have a sufficient layer of ice—approximately five centimeters—for this activity.

The procedure is straightforward: carve a hole in the ice, bait your hook, and cast your line.

Then, simply sit back and wait…

13. Saunas

Finland is well-regarded for its strong inclination towards saunas!

With a ratio of more than one sauna for every three inhabitants, experiencing this tradition in Lapland is particularly rewarding during winter’s chill. It serves as an optimal retreat from the cold. Moreover, after summer hiking, it acts as an ideal remedy for tired feet and backs.

The general etiquette suggests maintaining quiet and relaxation in the sauna.

Visitors typically find they can tolerate only brief periods in the heat before taking a moment to cool down before re-entering for another round.

14. Husky Safaris

Another semi-domesticated animal integral to the Lapland experience is the husky.

Participating in a dog-sledding safari is one of the quintessential Lappish activities available at major ski resorts such as Luosto, Levi, and Suomo, as well as in Rovaniemi.

After receiving a bit of training, participants can become “mushers,” taking control of their own dog teams while racing through both Nordic woodlands and across frozen lakes.

15. Luosto Amethyst Mine

Open year-round for tours during the summer months, this mine extracts amethyst from a seam located south of Luosto, dating back 2,000 million years.

The entrance to the mine is situated at the top of Lampivaara Hill, offering splendid views of the northern aspect of Pyhä-Luosto National Park.

Visitors have the chance to spend a few moments mining for their own amethyst, which they can keep as a souvenir, while guides provide insights into the history and cultural significance surrounding these precious stones.