[UPDATED IN OCTOBER 2024]

DISCLAIMER: Please note that I visited Lapland in December 2021, a time when Finland was recovering from the COVID-19 shutdowns. The experiences and prices mentioned in this post reflect the conditions at that time. Some prices may have changed since then, so check for the latest updates before planning your trip.

Visiting Lapland in Winter was on my bucket list for a long time! The pine trees dressed in white in winter screamed my name!

Now that my visit to Lapland has come true, I want to share with you the ultimate Lapland guide so you can experience it yourself.

I found myself boarding a plane to Helsinki at the end of November. Rovaniemi (Lapland) was the final destination. Despite the extreme weather conditions (a real feel of – 31ºC/-24 ºF in my last 2 days), this was, without a doubt, one of my favourite trips ever.

It’s impossible not to come back from Lapland completely in love with the landscapes and the magic one feels in the air.

When you think of Lapland, you’ll most likely think of Santa Claus and Christmas. And let me tell you: Lapland is not just for kids. It’s a true winter wonderland that I’m sure you’ll love.

Keep reading to find out why visiting Lapland in Winter is one of the best trips ever!!

In this post, you’ll find the ultimate guide for visiting Lapland (Finland):

• How to get to Lapland (Finland)
• Best time to visit Lapland
• How many days in Lapland
• Best things to do in Finnish Lapland in Winter

The vast majority of Lapland lies within Finnish territory. However, this region extends into Sweden, Norway and even Russia.

I chose to visit Finnish Lapland which is probably the best known. Much of Lapland lies within the Arctic Circle. This is an imaginary line where places above it have at least 1 day of always night or 1 day of absolute light per year.

There are different ‘Laplands’ you can visit. But, this guide is going to focus on the Finnish Lapland. More specifically, the post will cover all the tips to visit Rovaniemi – one of the best-known places in the Finnish Lapland.

Other less touristy places that are also good options in the Finnish Lapland include Luosto, Levi, Ivalo or Inari.

Often when we think of visiting Lapland, we remember Christmas and all the Christmas spirit. This is because Rovaniemi, located in Lapland and one of its main cities, is the official home of Santa Claus 😊.

So, without a doubt, the most magical time to visit Lapland is late November or early December! In fact, these months are the high season in this region.

Apart from the Christmas spirit, the remaining winter/autumn months are also the most popular for various reasons:

• Forests are covered in snow, making it extra special
• There is a higher chance you’ll observe the Northern Lights
• There are more things to do in Lapland in winter because of the snow. This includes snowmobiling, sledging, huskie sleigh rides, ice hotels and other snow activities.

This guide is focused on what to visit in Lapland in winter. However, this destination is also an excellent choice in the snow-free months (May to August).

The region is absurdly beautiful at any time of year and has breathtaking scenery. You can enjoy various nature trails, visit reindeer or huskies farms or even take advantage of one of the many saunas available!

What about the weather? You can’t ignore the fact that winters are extremely harsh here. Temperatures in December and January can easily reach -30 °C/-22 °F and it snows very often.

Don’t let snow and extreme cold scare you into visiting Lapland. It is perfectly possible to manage the cold by wearing appropriate clothing. Check out my detailed guide on what to wear in extreme weather conditions.

It is also worth remembering that during the colder months (especially between November and January), the days are very short.

For example, in early December in Rovaniemi, the sun rose at 10.30 am and set at 1.45 pm. However, there was still some light in the sky a little before sunrise and after sunset. Of course, the further up you are in Lapland, the less sunlight you get at this time of year.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Don’t let the shorter daylight hours stop you from visiting Lapland at this time of year. Whenever the sun appears, you feel a certain magic in the air that makes you dreamy. On clear sky days, the sky colours are simply magnificent!

Shortly, the best time to visit Lapland largely depends on what you want to experience, but winter is by far the most magical season. Have this in mind:

• Daylight Hous: In December and January, Lapland experiences Kaamos. You’ll only find a few hours of daylight—perfect for northern lights viewing. By February and March, days lengthen, offering up to 10 hours of daylight for more exploration.
• Seasonal Temperatures: In December and January, expect extreme cold. Temperatures range from -10°C to -20°C (14 °F to -4 °F). By February and March, it becomes milder at -5°C to -15°C (23 °F to 5°F), making outdoor activities more comfortable.
• Best Months for Activities: The best time to see the northern lights is from November to March. You’ll find dark, clear nights offering ideal conditions. For winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling, February and March are perfect.

Reaching Lapland is an adventure in itself, but with well-connected routes, it’s easier than you might think. Lapland is accessible by air, rail, and road. Here’s an overview of the best ways to travel to this winter wonderland.

Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to get to Lapland. This is especially true during winter when roads can be icy. There are several airports in Lapland. Rovaniemi is the most popular for international tourists.

Other key airports include Kittilä, Ivalo, and Kuusamo. All have flights from Helsinki and other major European cities, especially during the winter season.

Direct flights are often available from cities like London, Paris, and Berlin during peak holiday months.

• Rovaniemi: Known as the official home of Santa Claus. This is the busiest airport in Lapland, with regular flights year-round.
• Kittilä: A gateway to popular resorts like Levi and Ylläs, ideal for skiing enthusiasts.
• Ivalo: Perfect if you’re heading to Saariselkä for northern lights or wilderness adventures.

For a scenic journey, you can take a night train from Helsinki to Lapland. The Finnish railway system (VR) operates regular services connecting southern Finland to Rovaniemi. Some options to continue to Kemijärvi or Kolari.

The trains are well-equipped with sleeper cabins. So, an overnight trip will be comfortable and a memorable part of your winter journey. This is a popular choice for families and travellers who want to enjoy Finland’s stunning snow-covered landscapes.

• Helsinki to Rovaniemi: The journey takes about 8-12 hours depending on the service. Buy here your online train tickets.
• Helsinki to Kolari or Kemijärvi: Slightly longer routes, perfect if you plan to explore northern areas like Ylläs or Pyhä-Luosto.

I chose to travel to Rovaniemi by night train from Helsinki. We left around 11 pm and at 11 am the next day we were in Rovaniemi. The one-way ticket cost me 49€/person. It included access to a private cabin with 2 bunk beds. In the cabin, we also had a small sink, soap, pillows, duvets and a bottle of water.

The bathrooms are shared and there is more than one per carriage. There are also some showers, where it is possible to take a shower.

How was sleeping on a train? You hear a lot of noises (even with earplugs). So, if you’re like me, this certainly won’t be your best night’s sleep! But it is amazing to wake up, open your cabin’s window and see the white forest outside.

In one of the carriages, there is also a bar service, where they serve meals and, of course, breakfast! The prices are normal for a country like Finland.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Using an overnight train allows you to save one night in accommodation since you’ll be sleeping on the train.

If you’re up for a road trip, driving to Lapland is also an option. But, winter driving conditions can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with icy roads.

The E75 highway runs from Helsinki to Utsjoki, the northern tip of Finland. It passes through Rovaniemi and other key towns in Lapland.

Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. But make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tyres and you’re prepared for limited daylight hours.

Long-distance buses operate regularly between southern Finland and Lapland. It’s an affordable option for those not in a rush.

Companies like Matkahuolto and Onnibus provide services to Rovaniemi, Levi, and other major towns. The journey can be long but it’s a budget-friendly way to reach the region.

If you’re starting your journey in Helsinki and prefer not to fly directly to Lapland, I recommend travelling by overnight train. This is an unforgettable experience!

This will allow you to experience Finland’s beautiful winter landscapes, but also save you the cost of one night’s accommodation.

For your return trip to Helsinki, fly back. The flight takes about one hour. This is a great time-saver, especially if you’re planning to catch a connecting flight or want to make the most of your remaining time in Finland.

Finnair, Norwegian and SAS offer frequent flights from Lapland’s main airports to Helsinki.

Combine an overnight train with a quick return flight to find the perfect balance between convenience and cost.

Getting to and from Rovaniemi Airport and the Rovaniemi Train Station is quite easy. There are several convenient transport options available to suit different preferences and budgets.

One of the most convenient options for getting from Rovaniemi Airport to the city centre or the train station is the airport shuttle bus.

Shuttle services are scheduled to align with most flights, making it a hassle-free choice for travellers. The ride from the airport to the city centre or train station takes around 15-20 minutes.

• Airport Shuttle Companies: You can book through services like Airportbus or Santa’s Express. They offer reliable transfers to major hotels and the train station.
• Ticket Prices: Shuttle fares are affordable. They usually are around 7-10€ per person, depending on your destination.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, public buses also connect Rovaniemi Airport and the city centre.

Bus line 8 runs between the airport and the Rovaniemi Train Station, passing through the main stops in the city. Public buses may have fewer services on weekends or during the off-peak season, so check schedules in advance.

Public bus tickets typically cost around 3-4€ per trip. Check more information about bus number 8.

For a quicker and more private option, taxis are available right outside the airport and train station.

A taxi ride from Rovaniemi Airport to the city centre or train station takes around 10-15 minutes.

Taxis can be pre-booked or hailed upon arrival, but it’s always a good idea to check for availability during busy holiday seasons.

Expect to pay between 25-35€ for a taxi ride to most city-centre locations or the train station.

If you arrive by train and are staying in Rovaniemi’s city centre, you can even consider walking. The train station is located about 1.5 kilometres from the city centre, making it a 15-20 minute walk.

This is a great option if you want to stretch your legs after your journey. However, if visiting Lapland in winter, don’t forget about the snow and cold!

Rovaniemi, the heart of Finnish Lapland, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every type of traveller. Whether you’re seeking the luxury of a glass igloo or budget-friendly options close to the city centre, Rovaniemi has it all.

Here are the top choices for where to stay when visiting Rovaniemi in winter!

One of the most iconic accommodation experiences in Rovaniemi is staying in a glass igloo. These unique accommodations allow you to enjoy the beauty of the Arctic wilderness from the warmth and comfort of your bed. Plus, they offer panoramic views of the night sky.

Many glass igloos are located outside the city, providing an ideal setting for spotting the northern lights.

The bad news is that a night in such accommodation in high season costs, at least, 400€. Believe me, I tried to look for a more affordable option, but unfortunately, it doesn’t seem to exist.

Anyway, I share here some popular places around Rovaniemi:

• Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara: no igloos, but there are some very cosy rooms with huge windows
• Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
• Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle
• Apukka Resort
• Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you are not planning to rent a car on this trip, opt for a hotel in the centre of Rovaniemi. This allows you to walk to restaurants and take transport to/from the train station/airport. The famous igloos are usually in more isolated locations and can be more difficult to get to without a car.

If your budget is limited, you can still find some cheaper options in Rovaniemi.

Many of these hotels are conveniently located in the city centre. So, it’ll be easy to access restaurants, shops, and public transportation. These options provide a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.

As staying in an igloo was not an option for the budget I had for this trip, I chose Hostel Café Koti. Although it is a hostel, I stayed in a private room with a private bathroom and the conditions were excellent.

In addition to being modern and quite comfortable, the rate included a buffet breakfast with some variety. The location couldn’t be better, both in terms of transport and restaurants.

Rovaniemi is known as the official home of Santa Claus! Thus, there is a whole village dedicated to him and, as you can imagine, delights not only kids but also adults.

It’s hard to feel more Christmassy than in Santa’s Village. This is one of the best things to do in Rovaniemi in winter (and actually, any time of the year!).

Entering the village is free. Yet, inside, there are several places to visit, activities, restaurants and even souvenir shops available. Of course, most of these places and activities are paid for.

There are also different accommodations in the village, such as the Santa Claus Holiday Village, Nova Skyland or the Glass Resort.

As soon as we enter the Village, we are welcomed with the Christmas spirit!

Right in the central square, we can find a giant thermometer that shows the live temperature. This is also where you can find the famous line that marks the beginning of the Arctic Circle. At night, the line becomes more visible with its bluish colour.

💡 EXTRA TIP: There is a Youtube live streaming camera next to the giant thermometer. Take the opportunity to call someone while you appear on the camera 😉.

Of course, Santa’s Village wouldn’t have this name if we couldn’t meet him. Santa’s office is probably one of the most popular places in the village and usually, there is a queue to meet him.

You can’t take pictures when meeting him, but they photograph and record the moment for us to buy later (35€ for a printed photo or 45€ for the photos and video). The experience was pretty cool and I highly recommend it!

Besides the visit to Santa Claus, we can also visit Mrs. Claus’ House or Santa’s Post Office. The visit to the Post Office is free and from there you can send a postcard to any place in the world. This is also where you will find the thousands of letters that are sent from all over the world every year.

You can do the famous reindeer sleigh rides, huskies or even snowmobile rides. I personally chose to do these activities with other companies (keep reading this Lapland winter guide to find out). Anyway, check all the available activities.

Still inside Santa Claus Village, I chose to visit the Elf’s Farm Yard – a kind of zoo with some animals, such as alpacas, sheep, rabbits, goats and reindeer.

The entrance costs 15€ per adult, but honestly, I don’t recommend it that much. The animals are confined to relatively small spaces and there is not that much diversity of animals. It is also possible to have barbecues inside the farm, and there is food for sale at the reception.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Santa’s Village is located about 15 minutes by car from the centre of Rovaniemi. However, getting there is quite simple. There is bus number 8 (one-way ticket costs 3,6€) or the Santa Claus bus (one-way ticket costs 4€). Both stop at various stations in the centre of Rovaniemi and drop you off right outside the village.

One of the best things to do in Lapland in winter is riding a snowmobile. I didn’t know what snowmobiling was until I started to put together my Lapland itinerary. A snowmobile is a kind of motorbike that you ride in the snow.

I booked through Get Your Guide with Wild Nordic and it was my favourite activity on this trip 😊. The company offers pick-up service at the main hotels in the centre of Rovaniemi and is located right in front of Santa’s Village!

When we arrived, they checked our driving licences and gave us a balaclava and also a helmet for safety reasons. If you need it, Wild Nordic also has its own clothes and shoes available.

After some instructions on how to drive a snowmobile, off we went into the middle of the forest. The ride lasted about 40 minutes (various lengths are available) and it was amazing. Although we drove at low speed, I felt a certain adrenaline rush!

Honestly, even though it was my first time driving a snowmobile, I found it relatively easy. One or two people can go in the snowmobile, and we stop in the middle to take some photos and change drivers.

But you can take a peek at other snowmobile experiences here:

A reindeer sleigh ride is also one of the incredible winter activities in Lapland and should be considered in any Lapland guide.

I booked a tour with Sieriporo Safaris (110€/person). It was a 2.5 km reindeer ride in the middle of a forest a few kilometres from the centre of Rovaniemi by car and it was truly magical, despite the cold.

The company offers a pick-up service in the centre of Rovaniemi. We arrived at the farm (around 3 pm) and it was almost nightfall and the photos turned out terrible… but it’s the experience that counts, am I right? 😊

The route is always led by the guide who goes on the first sled and the other sleds follow his directions. They cover us with a blanket to keep our legs warm and off we go!

Sieriporo Safaris is a family business, which has been in the reindeer herding business for many years. After our ride, the owner invited us to a heated wooden cabin, where he served us warm tea, ginger cookies and cinnamon rolls. I confess I’m not even a big tea fan, but it was so cold that it felt really good 😊.

While we were in the cabin warming up, the owner of the farm told us a little more about the history of his farm. We learned that the reindeer are used for these activities during the high season (winter). During the other months of the year, most of the reindeer freely inhabit the forest surrounding the farm.

Sieriporo Safaris offers other services, such as ice fishing. It is also possible to visit the reindeer if you are not interested in the sleigh ride. For other reindeer tours and rides in Rovaniemi, take a look at these activities:

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you don’t have warm enough clothes for the reindeer ride, Sieriporo Safaris, like other companies, has warm clothes/shoes that you can borrow.

And because a reindeer sleigh ride wasn’t enough, I also had to include huskies in my Lapland guide. I booked my tour with Apukka Resort (138€/person), which also offers pick-up service in a central location in Rovaniemi.

As with other activities of this kind, here too they have more appropriate clothes and footwear.

First, we met the huskies and then our guide explained the basics of how to drive a sled. Unlike the reindeer, here only one person was sitting on the sledge and another standing to control it.

The tour was still quite long and we even stopped in the middle for photos. But, although the huskies love to run in the forest and pull the sledges, I didn’t like to see the space where the huskies were kept for the rest of the day.

Thus, and similarly to reindeer, you can choose to just visit a husky farm, without having to go sledging. In this case, the price of the activity is probably even cheaper.

A Lapland travel guide doesn’t have to be all about outdoor activities! So, you can always take the opportunity to get to know Rovaniemi’s 3 main cultural places:

• Korundi Museum
• Arktikum
• Pilke Science Centre

I bought the Cultural Pass for 25€ which gives us access to the 3 spaces for 7 days. However, I only had the opportunity to visit the first two.

The Korundi Museum is more dedicated to contemporary art. On the other hand, the Arktikum has a more scientific side, including some exhibitions on life in the Arctic and Lapland’s history.

I have to confess that I found both spaces not that interesting and if it were today, I wouldn’t visit them. But what’s of little interest to me doesn’t mean that it is to others 😉.

However, I thought the Arktikum building was quite beautiful. If nothing else, the Arktikum is worth visiting for its surroundings.

At the back of the Arktikum building, you can find a beautiful lake (which freezes in winter!) with the best views over the glass building. To get there you have to go through an underground passage next to the car park, but the easiest thing is to search for Arktikum Arboretum on Google Maps.

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you want to visit the Korundi Museum for free, you can do so every Thursday from 4 pm to 6 pm.

Let’s face it! Nobody visits Rovaniemi for the city itself. However, there are still a few things in the city centre to add to this what to do in Lapland list.

First of all, Lordi Square is in honour of the band that won the Eurovision festival in 2006 and is originally from Rovaniemi. This is also where you can find the famous clock that tells you the temperature all the time.

There is also the Rovaniemi Church, built in 1950. It is a small church, located about 10 minutes walk from the city centre.

Also in the centre, you can find the Rovaniemi garden right by the river, which freezes over during the winter. It is from here that you have probably one of the most privileged views of the Jätkänkynttilä bridge.

And finally, a few meters from the church, you can find what is the most photographed island in Rovaniemi – Kotisaari. For those who have a drone, this island can guarantee you an amazing photo!

Another option for those with some more time available in their itinerary is the Ounasvaara trail. This is especially beautiful in winter.

The trailhead is about 1.5 km from the centre of Rovaniemi and you have to cross the Jätkänkynttilä bridge to get there. The trail runs 6 km in total and is well-marked.

About 1.5 km from the start, we can climb to the top of an observation tower. And it is impossible not to be surprised! As soon as I reached the top of the tower I was sure that this was one of the most special trips ever.

Lapland is truly magical! Wait until you see the noon light hitting the tall pine trees full of snow and the city of Rovaniemi in the background in shades of pink.

The day I decided to go to the trail was the coldest and also the day I had less time available because I was returning to Helsinki.

I ended up just going to the observation tower and back. Although I didn’t do the whole trail, this was one of my favourite activities and it clearly couldn’t be missing in this Lapland guide. This is totally a must-visit in Lapland!

Of course one of my biggest dreams, when I booked this trip, was to see the Northern Lights.

Unfortunately, it was quite overcast all the days we were in Rovaniemi. This significantly reduced the likelihood of observing this incredible phenomenon. It didn’t happen and I will have to keep waiting to fulfil this dream.

I may not have any amazing photos to show you, but I still have some tips for you:

• The best time of year to see the Northern Lights is September, October and March
• To observe them you must escape the city lights. In Rovaniemi, the most accessible place to spot the Northern Lights is the garden behind the Arktikum (Arktikum Arboretum). At first, it may seem scary to go there at night, but trust me you’ll have company and it’s quite peaceful 😊.

• Scientists are not exactly sure how to predict this phenomenon, but you can install My Aurora App. This sends you notifications when the probability of observation is higher.
• Don’t have too many expectations about the Northern Lights. It may not happen and the trip will be no less spectacular for that!
• If you have the opportunity, book a tour with guides who will take you to more remote places and with a higher probability of catching them. They usually give you the best tips for taking that unforgettable photo (nobody said taking photos of the Northern Lights was easy!)

But this Lapland guide doesn’t end here. Although I have not tried any of these, I leave here several suggestions that may also be interesting:

• Visit Ranua Zoo: a zoo where you can observe Arctic species
• Ice fishing: a real experience to learn how to fish on frozen lakes

• Visit Santa Park (more suited to children)
• Snow sports like snowboarding and skiing at Ounasvaara Ski Resort
• Ice floating: it may sound crazy, but this is a more common activity than you might imagine

• Cross the frozen sea on a ship to Kemi (ice breaker ship)
• Dine in a restaurant made of ice or sleep in a room made of ice at the Arctic Snow Hotel
• Visit the Amethyst Mine
• Go for some snowshoeing
• Ice-karting: an exhilarating winter activity where you race go-karts on an icy track.

In Lapland, the days are short during winter, so your itinerary won’t be packed with activities. This allows you to enjoy a slower pace.

Savour the unique Arctic experiences while leaving plenty of time to relax and unwind. A week provides the perfect balance to take in the beauty of Lapland without rushing.

• Day 1 – Arrival in Helsinki
• Day 2 – Visit Helsinki + night train to Rovaniemi
• Day 3 – Arrival Rovaniemi + Santa Claus Village
• Day 4 – Korundi Museum + Reindeer ride
• Day 5 – Snowmobile tour + Santa Claus Village
• Day 6 – Huskies ride + Arktikum
• Day 7 – Ounasvaara Trail + Rovaniemi City Centre

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you enjoyed reading this guide on what to visit in Lapland and are also visiting Helsinki, take a look at my Helsinki guide.

And this what-to-visit in Lapland guide would not be complete without mentioning food! Rovaniemi is not a very big city so I had the opportunity to try several of its restaurants.

Unless you opt for fast food (there is a McDonald’s, Subway and Hesburger in the centre of Rovaniemi), eating out in Rovaniemi is expensive. On average, a one-person meal in a not-very-expensive restaurant cost me around 20€ in 2021. Alcohol is quite expensive (1 beer 33cl about 8€), but water is usually free.

Even so, although I opted for fast food a few times, I didn’t want to miss out on trying some of the city’s restaurants:

• Ravintola Roka -Street Bistro (€€): a very cosy place with a varied menu. I tried the pumpkin risotto and it was really good!
• [Santa Claus Village] Restaurant Kotahovi (€€€): very cosy log cabin for cold days. Little variety, but tasty food. We tried salmon soup, veggie burger and traditional coffee from the region.

• Monte Rosa (€€€): I liked it so much that I repeated my visit here. It was here that I tried sautéed reindeer and reindeer soup and they were both quite tasty.
• Amarillo (€€€): if you feel like escaping from traditional Finnish flavours, here you will find a very nice Mexican restaurant

• Korundi Kitchen & Café (€): buffet lunch service, very nice and varied, for 13€ (includes water and coffee)
• Hostel Café Koti (€): relatively inexpensive buffet service and a very cosy space

As you would expect, a visit to Lapland doesn’t turn out cheap – after all, we are talking about Finland. Still, I think I got a pretty good price for almost 1 week holiday in this amazing country.

The costs I present below are per person. This includes everything I spent from the moment I left Portugal (this also includes 1 day and one accommodation in Helsinki):

• Accommodation: 267€
• Flights: 310€
• Meals: 246€
• Activities: 350€
• Transports: 34€

I could have saved a bit more on meals if I had opted even more for sandwiches and/or fast food. But I also wanted to experience some of the local cuisine and restaurants.

No, Lapland is not a country. It is a region that spans across the northern parts of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia.

The Finnish part of Lapland is the most popular for winter tourism. It is known for its stunning Arctic landscapes, northern lights, and iconic destinations like Rovaniemi.

Each country’s portion of Lapland has its own unique culture and attractions. But they all share the magical winter wonderland experience Lapland is famous for.

Yes, winter in Finnish Lapland is worth experiencing! With its breathtaking snowy landscapes, opportunities to see the northern lights, and activities like husky sledging and reindeer safaris, it promises an unforgettable winter adventure.

Yes, most people in Lapland speak English, especially in tourist areas like Rovaniemi.

Locals working in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions are generally fluent in English. This makes it easy for visitors to communicate and enjoy their trip without language barriers.

Winter in Lapland is famously cold, with temperatures typically ranging from -10 °C to -20 °C (14 °F to -4 °F). They can sometimes drop even lower, especially in December and January.

The coldest months are ideal for northern lights viewing and winter activities like snowmobiling. But be prepared with proper thermal gear to stay warm in these extreme conditions.

By February and March, temperatures become slightly milder, making outdoor activities more comfortable.

Yes, it typically snows throughout most of winter in Lapland, with the snow starting to fall as early as October and lasting until April.

The heaviest snowfall usually occurs between December and March. It creates a thick, beautiful blanket of snow that’s perfect for winter activities like skiing, sledging, and snowshoeing.

The consistent snow cover makes Lapland a true winter wonderland during these months.

During the winter months in Lapland, daylight hours vary significantly.

In December and January, the region experiences Kaamos, or the polar night. This means you’ll only have a few hours of twilight each day, and in the far north, the sun may not rise at all.

By February, daylight begins to increase. It offers around 5 to 6 hours of sunlight, and by March, days extend to about 10 hours, allowing more time for outdoor activities.

You don’t need to rent a car in Lapland as most attractions include transportation, and public buses are available. But, if you want to explore remote areas or prefer flexibility, renting a car is convenient—just be prepared for snowy roads.

Packing for Lapland in winter requires preparation to stay warm and comfortable in the extreme cold. Here’s a list of essential items to ensure you’re fully equipped for your Arctic adventure:

• Thermal base layers: High-quality thermal tops and leggings to keep your body insulated.
• Waterproof winter jacket and pants: Essential for staying dry and warm during outdoor activities.
• Wool socks: Thick, insulating socks to keep your feet warm in freezing temperatures.
• Winter boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good grip to handle snow and ice.
• Gloves and mittens: Bring both, as mittens provide more warmth, and gloves offer better dexterity.
• Warm hat and scarf: A fleece-lined hat that covers your ears and a scarf or neck warmer for added protection.
• Hand and foot warmers: Useful for extra warmth when spending extended time outdoors.
• Moisturizing cream and lip balm: Cold air can be very drying, so pack skincare to prevent chapping.

Read my ultimate guide about what to pack in extreme cold destinations!

After your trip to Lapland, you’ll have unforgettable memories! You’ll never forget the northern lights, the snowy landscapes, and the thrilling Arctic activities. From cosying up in a glass igloo to racing through the wilderness on a husky sledge, Lapland offers a winter wonderland like no other.

What excites you most about visiting Lapland? Whether it’s chasing the northern lights or diving into winter sports, share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear about your plans!

Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊