Lapland holiday: Everything you need to know for your dream trip in Finnish Lapland

Planning a Lapland holiday is a dream for many families and couples. Whether you’re looking for romantic experiences under the northern lights or unforgettable moments with your children, Finnish Lapland offers a unique blend of nature, tranquillity, and authentic Arctic adventures.

Why choose a Lapland holiday?

A holiday in Lapland is unlike any city break or typical vacation. Instead of crowds, noise, and traffic, you’ll find peaceful snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and clear skies. Here, nature isn’t something you visit, it’s where you live during your stay.

Even in Rovaniemi, known as the capital of Finnish Lapland, visitors from larger cities are often surprised at how small and quiet the town actually is. With a population of just over 60,000, Rovaniemi feels more like a peaceful village than a bustling city. Once you leave the town center, you’re immediately surrounded by wilderness, pure nature begins right outside the urban area.

Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon or planning a winter holiday with children, Lapland offers something truly unique.

Lapland holiday packages

Booking Lapland holiday packages can make your trip easier and more enjoyable. Packages typically include accommodation, activities, meals, and sometimes transportation, all planned and booked in advance. This saves you time and allows you to simply relax and enjoy your holiday. 

Common packages often include:

  • Husky and reindeer safaris
  • Snowmobile tours
  • Guided northern lights excursions
  • Accommodation in cozy cabins or igloos
  • Traditional Finnish meals or full-board dining

     

At Napapiirin Järvilomat, we offer peaceful accommodation in nature and help you customize your holiday with activity options, so you can create your perfect Lapland experience, without stress. Please contact us and we’ll help you plan your dream holiday.

What is a holiday in Lapland like in different seasons?

Lapland’s nature in Winter

Lapland’s winter landscapes are something truly unique. From late autumn until early spring, forests and lakes are covered in deep snow. The air is crisp and silent, creating a calm atmosphere that many visitors find unforgettable. Frozen lakes turn into vast white open spaces, and snow-laden trees create enchanting forest paths.

In winter, nature is not just something to look at, it’s something to experience. Whether you are walking through snow-covered forests, riding a snowmobile across frozen lakes, or watching the northern lights in complete silence, Lapland’s winter makes you feel part of the Arctic wilderness.

At the same time, winter also offers cozy experiences indoors: the warmth of a cabin, the heat of a Finnish sauna, and evenings spent by the fireplace while snow falls softly outside. Winter is the time when Lapland shows its most magical side.

Lapland’s nature in Summer

In summer, Lapland transforms completely. The snow melts, rivers and lakes sparkle under the midnight sun, and forests come alive with green. The light never fades, from May to August, the sun barely sets, creating endless days of soft, golden light.

Lapland’s summer is ideal for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and simply enjoying the tranquillity of nature. Nature trails take you through quiet forests, across fells, and along lakeshores. Berries, wild animals, and fresh air surround you.

While most people associate Lapland with snow, summer offers a different kind of magic, endless daylight, peaceful nature, and total freedom to explore without crowds. Whether you relax at a lakeside cabin or venture into the forests, Lapland’s summer is calm, quiet, and surprisingly warm.

Lapland’s nature in Autumn

Autumn in Lapland, known locally as the “ruska season”, brings dramatic changes to the landscape. From late August to early October, forests turn into a mosaic of deep reds, bright yellows, and soft oranges. The clear, cool air and colourful forests create some of the most beautiful hiking conditions of the year.

Unlike the busy summer period, autumn offers a quieter, more reflective atmosphere. The forests are peaceful, and the first crisp nights signal the approaching winter. It’s also one of the best times to see the northern lights, as the skies are dark again after the summer’s midnight sun.

For visitors, autumn in Lapland is ideal for hiking, photography, and relaxing stays in cozy cabins. The calm lakes, vibrant colours, and fresh air create the perfect setting to slow down and enjoy the pure beauty of Arctic nature before the snow arrives.

How a Lapland holiday differs from a city break

A Lapland holiday offers a completely different experience compared to a traditional city holiday. If you’re used to spending vacations surrounded by shopping streets, restaurants, and tourist attractions, Lapland’s peaceful wilderness will surprise you.

Surrounded by pure nature

Unlike cities, where buildings and traffic shape the scenery, a holiday in Lapland means being surrounded by snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and silent landscapes. Here, there are no busy streets or neon signs, just untouched nature stretching as far as the eye can see.

Instead of walking from shop to shop, you’ll walk in the snow or along forest trails. The air is fresh, and the silence is something many visitors notice immediately.

Activities in the wild, not in the City

In cities, typical activities include sightseeing, museums, and shopping. Days often follow a tight schedule, moving from one attraction to the next. On a Lapland holiday, your activities are more relaxed and connected to the surrounding nature:

  • Exploring snowy forests on snowshoes
  • Driving a snowmobile across a frozen lake
  • Meeting huskies or reindeer
  • Sitting by a campfire or relaxing in a sauna after a winter day outdoors
  • Watching the northern lights dance above your cabin

     

Instead of rushing from place to place, you follow the natural rhythm of Lapland, doing what feels right in the moment.

Simple life at the cabin

Another difference is daily life itself. In cities, restaurants and shops are always nearby. In Lapland, especially in remote areas like Ylitornio, there are no shops or restaurants next door. Meals are often cooked together in your own cabin, and evenings are spent by the fireplace.

This simplicity brings people closer. Families and couples often find themselves spending more time together, cooking, talking, and relaxing without distractions. The cabin becomes more than accommodation, it becomes the heart of your holiday, where shared moments and quiet evenings turn into memories.

Why Choose a Lapland Holiday?

A Lapland holiday is not about entertainment or shopping. It’s about being present in nature, feeling the silence, and enjoying time together. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with your family, Lapland gives you the freedom to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with what matters most.

Instead of bright city lights, you’ll see the northern lights above your cabin. Instead of traffic, you’ll hear the crunch of snow beneath your boots. And instead of crowded attractions, you’ll find space, silence, and the calm beauty of Arctic nature.

  • Enjoying the silence of nature
  • Spending quality time together
  • Experiencing authentic Arctic activities at your own pace
  • Relaxing in your cozy cabin, far from distractions

In Lapland, nature isn’t a background for your holiday, it’s the heart of the experience. 

Getting to Lapland, transport tips

Rovaniemi is the main gateway to Finnish Lapland. You can reach us by:

  • Plane: Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) is served by several airlines from across Europe.
  • Train: Rovaniemi railway station connects Lapland to southern Finland, including Helsinki.

From Rovaniemi, most visitors:

  • Rent a car for flexibility and ease of travel.Drive directly to us (no public transport is available in rural Lapland).
  • By taxi.

     

Car rental is the recommended option, especially if you plan to explore and move between locations independently.

Popular activities on a Lapland holiday

A Lapland holiday is not just about the destination, it’s about the experiences you share. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with your family, the winter activities in Lapland create memories that last a lifetime. Here, adventure blends naturally with the peacefulness of Arctic nature.

Spend your days exploring snow-covered landscapes and your evenings relaxing by the fire. From thrilling safaris to quiet moments in the forest, every day offers something special:

  • Northern lights hunting: Join guided tours or watch from your cabin.
  • Husky safaris: Drive your own sled pulled by friendly huskies.
  • Reindeer rides: Experience traditional Sámi culture and peaceful sleigh rides.
  • Snowmobile tours: Explore snowy landscapes at speed.
  • Snowshoeing: Discover the forest trails at your own pace.
  • Ice fishing and sauna: Enjoy typical Finnish winter activities.

Useful things to know about Lapland holidays

Planning your first holiday to Lapland? Here are practical answers to common questions:

When is the best time to visit Lapland?
The best time for a Lapland holiday is from September to March if you want to experience snow and the northern lights. For summer activities and midnight sun, visit between June and August. Mmid-September is usually the best time to experience the beautiful autumn colors, and it’s also possible to see the northern lights already during this time.

Can I see the northern lights in Lapland?
Yes. Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. You’ll need clear skies and to stay away from city lights for the best chance.

Is Lapland suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many activities are perfect for children, including husky rides, reindeer safaris, sledding, and snowshoeing.

How cold does it get in Lapland?
Winter temperatures usually range from -5°C to -25°C. Dressing in layers and using thermal clothing is essential.

Do I need to rent a car in Lapland?
Renting a car is highly recommended, especially in rural areas like Raanujärvi, where public transport is not available. Having your own car makes it much easier to reach your accommodation and explore the activities nearby.

Is tipping required in Lapland?
No. Tipping is not expected in Finland. All service charges are included in the prices.

Are shops and restaurants nearby?
If you stay in nature-based accommodation like at Napapiirin Järvilomat, there are no shops or restaurants nearby. Meals are usually prepared in your cabin. Most guests buy groceries in Rovaniemi before heading to their accommodation.

What activities can I do during a Lapland holiday?
Popular activities include northern lights hunting, husky safaris, reindeer rides, snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and sauna evenings.

Do people speak English in Lapland?
Yes. Most Finns speak excellent English, especially in tourist areas.

What makes a Lapland holiday different from a city holiday?
In Lapland, you are surrounded by nature, not city streets. Days are slower, activities are outdoors, and evenings are spent in your cabin with your family or partner, far from crowds and traffic.

Where to stay during your Lapland holiday

Choosing the right accommodation for your Lapland holiday depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. Whether you dream of peaceful nights under the northern lights, cozy evenings with your family, or direct access to outdoor adventures, your accommodation sets the tone for your stay.

For Couples Seeking Romance – Hidden Aurora Hut

If you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, the Hidden Aurora Hut is our top recommendation. Designed with honeymooners and couples in mind, this cozy cabin features:

  • A private outdoor hot tub
  • Fireplace
  • Large panoramic windows for aurora watching
  • Romantic, intimate atmosphere

Here, you can relax under the northern lights from your own hot tub and enjoy evenings by the fire. The Hidden Aurora Hut is also suitable for small families looking for a special experience.

For Small Families and Couples – Kaarna 

Kaarna is a great choice for small families or couples who prefer a traditional yet comfortable atmosphere. It offers:

  • A genuine Finnish feel with a natural stone fireplace
  • A private wood-heated sauna
  • Comfortable living spaces

Kaarna is perfect for those wanting to experience a classic Lapland holiday with modern comforts, ideal for both couples and families with children.

For Larger Families – Villa Honka and Chalets

For larger families who value space and privacy, Villa Honka and our chalets are excellent options. Both are designed for groups that need more room to relax together after a day of winter adventures.

  • Villa Honka stands out as the most spacious and premium choice, offering modern amenities and plenty of comfort, making it ideal for families who want both space and a higher standard of accommodation.

     

  • Our chalets provide generous space and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for bigger families who want to stay together.

     

For Large Families or Groups of Friends – Pirtti

Pirtti Lodge is ideal for larger families or two families travelling together. With multiple bedrooms, shared spaces, and a cozy common area, Pirtti is the perfect choice when you want to spend quality time together as a group while still enjoying the silence and privacy of Lapland’s wilderness.

All of our accommodations offer:

  • Tranquility and privacy in a natural setting
  • Direct access to nearby activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and reindeer safaris
  • The chance to see the northern lights from your cabin
  • Fully equipped kitchens for self-catering convenience
  • A peaceful base away from tourist crowds

At Napapiirin Järvilomat, we focus on creating a relaxing, authentic experience for our guests. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or a family, your holiday in Lapland should feel personal and unhurried.

Why choose Raanujärvi for your Lapland holiday?

Located just north of Rovaniemi, Raanujärvi offers one of the best bases for a true Lapland holiday:

  • No city lights – perfect for northern lights.
  • Nature starts at your doorstep – no need for long transfers.
  • Quiet surroundings – ideal for couples and families.
  • Local, family-run accommodation – personal service guaranteed.
  • Easily accessible by rental car from Rovaniemi Airport.