Included in this Guide:
- Travel basics and important things to know 
- Highlights of popular regions within Finnish Lapland 
- Getting to Lapland 
- Packing essential 
- Accommodation options 
- Photos to inspire your trip 

Europe

Finland

Rovaniemi, Finland

Lapland, Finland

Mini Guide to Exploring Finnish Lapland 

Arktikum Museum: Discover the rich history, culture, and science of the Arctic.

Santa Claus Village and Santa Park: A magical destination where you can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and interact with reindeer and huskies. Don’t forget to mail postcards from Santa’s official post office!

Porohaka Reindeer Farm: Experience an authentic working reindeer farm. The day tour includes a sleigh ride, feeding and petting the reindeer, a traditional lunch, hot drinks, and delicious pastries. 

Ice Breaker Cruise: Sail through the frozen Bothnian Sea and take an Arctic dip while wearing a survival suit—an incredibly unique experience! 

Rovaniemi is known as the most touristy region in Lapland. While Santa’s Village may feel somewhat commercialized, it remains a magical place for families with young children. Expect larger crowds and some tour buses.

Known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, Levi is a hub for outdoor winter sports and vibrant après-ski activities. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping slopes or cozy lodges, this region has it all.

Kemi offers thrilling Ice Breaker Tours, where you can sail on the frozen Baltic Sea and experience Arctic swimming in a survival suit. Additionally, it is home to the famous Snow Castle of Kemi, a breathtaking seasonal structure made entirely of ice and snow.

For skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, Kuusamo is the place to be. It is conveniently located near Ruka Ski Resort, which is recognized as one of Finland’s premier winter sports destinations.

As a gateway to Sámi culture and traditions, Ivalo offers a range of unique experiences. Visit Saariselkä for activities like skiing, snowmobiling, reindeer sledding, husky safaris, and stay in glass igloos for breathtaking northern lights viewing.

Main Airport: Rovaniemi serves as the largest airport in Lapland, with direct flights from major European cities including Helsinki, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Zurich.

Common Route The flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi takes approximately 2 hours, with multiple daily flights offered by:

  - Norwegian Air Int: 1 flight/day (excluding Wednesdays)

Other airports in Finnish Lapland include Kittilä (Levi), Kuusamo (Ruka), and Ivalo (Saariselkä).

  - Routes from Helsinki or Turku to Rovaniemi, Kolari, or Kemijärvi.

  - Features double-decker sleeper trains with options for private cabins and onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi, a restaurant/bistro, power sockets, and private bathrooms in deluxe cabins.

Driving from Helsinki takes 11-15 hours, depending on your final Lapland destination. 

- Merino wool base layers (e.g., Icebreaker or Uniqlo Heat-Tech)

- Fleece layers, down jackets, and a waterproof winter coat

- Thick wool socks (double layering recommended)

- Gloves (liners and mittens), balaclava, scarves, beanies, and earmuffs

- Hand and toe warmers (toe warmers make a huge difference)

- Power bank (cold air drains phone batteries faster)

- Swimsuit (for saunas, hot tubs, and arctic baths)

Book your tour here: https://www.reindeerfarmrovaniemi.fi/tour/a-day-at-the-reindeer-farm-including-reindeer-and-snowmobile-sleigh-ride-rovaniemi/ 

Santa Claus Village

Ivalo

Mini Guide to Exploring Finnish Lapland

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