Top Things to Do in Lapland

The Northern Lights are the crown jewel of things to do in Lapland, and experiencing this natural wonder should be at the top of every traveler’s list. The aurora borealis dances across the Arctic sky, creating vivid, colorful displays of light that leave visitors in awe. Finland, particularly Lapland, offers some of the best conditions to witness the Northern Lights, with clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution. The best time to visit for this breathtaking phenomenon is between September and March, when the nights are longest. Many tours, like the Finland Northern Lights Adventure tour, offer unique Aurora camps and glass igloos, allowing guests to stay warm and comfortable while watching the lights from the comfort of their beds. Lapland’s snowy landscape, combined with the vivid hues of the Northern Lights, creates a truly surreal atmosphere that is impossible to replicate anywhere else. Whether you’re staying in a glass igloo or on a snowmobile ride under the stars, witnessing the Northern Lights is an experience that should not be missed.

A visit to Lapland wouldn’t be complete without learning about the indigenous Sami people, who have lived in the Arctic region for thousands of years. The Sami culture is deeply connected to the land, with a strong emphasis on reindeer herding, traditional handicrafts, and unique forms of music and dance. Visitors can explore Sami villages, meet local herders, and learn about their way of life through interactive experiences. Many Sami tours also include traditional activities such as reindeer sledding, Sami cuisine tasting, and Joik, the ancient form of Sami singing. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the Sami’s connection to the land and their sustainable approach to life in the Arctic. If you're looking for an immersive cultural experience, consider visiting as part of the Finnish Lapland & Northern Lights for Families tour, where you can discover the rich heritage of the Sami people while enjoying the best of Lapland.

One of the most authentic and peaceful Lapland activities is reindeer sledding, a traditional mode of transportation for the Sámi people. Reindeer herders have used sleds to navigate the snow-covered forests of Lapland for centuries, and now, visitors can try their hand at this unique experience. Riding in a sleigh pulled by reindeer through the peaceful winter wilderness gives you the chance to slow down and enjoy the beautiful landscape. As you glide through forests and across frozen lakes, the gentle movement of the sled and the soft sound of reindeer hooves create a tranquil, magical atmosphere. Reindeer sledding is not just about the ride, but also about learning about the culture of the Sámi people and their centuries-old relationship with these animals. Reindeer sledding is truly one of the most memorable things to do in Lapland.

Lapland is famously known as the official home of Santa Claus, making it a top destination for families and those who want to add some Christmas magic to their travels. Located in Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Village is a must-visit, where you can meet Santa himself, send postcards from the Arctic Circle, and cross the magic Arctic Circle line. The village is open year-round, but it’s especially enchanting during the winter when the snow adds to the festive atmosphere. In addition to meeting Santa, visitors can explore a variety of Christmas-themed attractions, including Santa’s Workshop and a selection of Christmas shops. For those wondering what to do in Lapland with kids, this is one experience you can’t miss. The Helsinki and Finnish Lapland tour offers a fantastic way to explore both the capital and Rovaniemi, where you can enjoy the full Santa Claus experience, making it a perfect trip for the whole family.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, a husky safari should be at the top of your list of Lapland activities. These energetic sled dogs are trained to pull you through the snowy wilderness at high speed, offering an exhilarating experience that combines speed, nature, and the thrill of the open air. Huskies are friendly, intelligent, and incredibly strong, making them the perfect companions for a safari across frozen lakes and through snow-covered forests. Most husky safaris involve guiding your own sled, giving you the chance to control the pace and feel the rush of the ride. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Lapland’s winter landscapes, and learn about the role of sled dogs in Arctic history. For a true adventure, consider booking the Great Winter Lapland tour, which includes a husky safari, providing an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Arctic wilderness.

For thrill-seekers, snowmobiling across the Lapland landscape is one of the most exciting things to do in Lapland. With its vast, snow-covered forests and frozen lakes, Lapland is the perfect playground for snowmobiles. You can join guided tours that take you through the wilderness, across frozen rivers, and through remote forests, all while enjoying the stunning views of the Arctic landscape. Snowmobiling is an activity for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders, and it’s a great way to explore parts of Lapland that are otherwise difficult to reach. Some tours also offer night-time snowmobiling trips under the Northern Lights, making it a truly magical experience. For an unforgettable snowmobile adventure, join the Finnish Arctic Adventure tour, where you’ll glide across the Lapland wilderness and experience the region in a way that only snowmobiles can provide.

While not technically in Finland, Abisko Sky Station in Sweden is just a short drive from Lapland and is worth a visit for those looking to see the Northern Lights from a different perspective. Situated above the Arctic Circle, Abisko offers one of the best locations in the world to view the aurora borealis. The station’s location, in a natural light hole, provides clearer skies and fewer clouds, which increases your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. In addition to the aurora, Abisko also offers other winter activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing. It’s a perfect destination for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful setting away from the crowds. For an experience that combines the best of Finnish and Swedish Lapland, consider a visit as part of the Norway Northern Lights Tour, offering the opportunity to explore the Arctic from both sides of the border.