The Ultimate Lapland Family Holiday Guide

From snowshoeing through snowy landscapes to embarking on an exciting reindeer sleigh ride, Lapland is filled with unique experiences that make it one of the most captivating family-friendly destinations in the world. This guide will help you plan the ultimate Lapland family holiday, providing insight into the best activities and experiences for families with kids.

Last updated: 31.03.2025

Is Lapland Worth It with Kids?

Absolutely! Lapland family vacations are not just worth it, they’re a dream come true for families looking for a combination of winter fun and magic. Kids will be captivated by the endless snow-covered landscapes, while adults will appreciate the chance to unwind in the serene environment. From meeting Santa Claus to participating in winter safaris, Lapland provides experiences that are both thrilling and educational. The region’s wildlife and the chance to spot the elusive Northern Lights further adds to the wonder. It’s a destination that caters to children of all ages, making it a perfect family getaway.

Travelling in Style on a Husky Sled

For families seeking excitement, husky sledding is a thrilling activity that kids will absolutely love. The speed of the sled, combined with the exhilarating sense of adventure, makes this experience one the whole family will treasure. As you race across vast, snow-covered landscapes, the stunning beauty of the Arctic wilderness surrounds you, creating an unforgettable adventure. The experience is not just about the ride; it’s about connecting with nature and the animals.

Families can learn how to interact with the huskies, feed them, and even take turns driving the sleds, making it an interactive and engaging activity. This is the perfect opportunity for kids to experience the thrill of sledding while learning about Lapland’s wildlife. For a comprehensive husky sledding experience, families can book the Finnish Arctic Adventure tour, which includes a thrilling husky sledding excursion, allowing families to enjoy the beauty of Lapland while connecting with these magnificent animals.

Family on Lapland husky sledding excursion

Discovering the Sami Way of Life

An unforgettable part of any Lapland family holiday is learning about the indigenous Sami culture. The Sami people have lived in Lapland for centuries, and experiencing their traditions provides families with a deep, immersive way to connect with the region’s history. This unique cultural experience offers children a valuable opportunity to learn about the customs, language, and lifestyle of the Sami, enriching their understanding of the Arctic environment and the people who call it home. Families can join guided tours that take them to traditional Sami villages, where they can meet local artisans and discover the intricate craftwork passed down through generations.

The experience often includes visits to reindeer farms, where children can interact with the animals and learn about the importance of reindeer herding in Sami culture. Some tours also offer the chance to participate in hands-on activities such as traditional Sami cooking or handicrafts, giving families an interactive way to appreciate the local customs. These cultural activities, set against the backdrop of Lapland's breathtaking winter scenery, make for an enriching and unforgettable experience. For a truly cultural adventure, the Finnish Lapland & Northern Lights for Families tour is a great option, offering insights into the Sami way of life alongside stunning Northern Lights viewing.

Going on a Reindeer Sleigh Ride

No Lapland family vacations are complete without experiencing a traditional reindeer sleigh ride. These serene rides take families through the peaceful, snow-covered forests of the Arctic, offering a tranquil and magical escape into Lapland’s pristine nature. As the sleigh glides through the snow, families can enjoy the quiet beauty of the winter landscape, with towering trees, sparkling snowflakes, and the sounds of the wilderness all around. Kids will especially love meeting the gentle reindeer, learning about their role in Lapland’s winter tradition, and watching them as they eagerly pull the sleighs across the frozen terrain.

For families seeking a calming yet adventurous way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, the reindeer sleigh ride is the perfect activity. The ride offers an authentic Arctic experience, allowing families to enjoy the beauty of the winter wilderness from a unique and peaceful perspective. For a truly immersive family adventure, consider the Great Winter Lapland tour, which includes a reindeer sleigh ride along with other exciting activities, ensuring a memorable time for all ages.

Hiking the Arctic Wilds

Winter hiking is another wonderful activity for families seeking to explore Lapland’s breathtaking landscapes. These guided hikes offer an immersive opportunity to discover the region’s stunning snowy forests, frozen lakes, and vast tundra. These winter hikes are typically easy and suitable for all ages, which makes them an ideal experience for families with kids. The routes are designed to be accessible while still offering awe-inspiring views of the Lapland family vacation scenery, from the sparkling snowflakes in the trees to the distant peaks.

Families can enjoy walking through thick forests, across vast frozen lakes, or along snow-packed trails, making every step a new adventure. For those looking for a comprehensive family experience, the Winter Scandinavia and Northern Lights + Helsinki & Rovaniemi tour offers guided hikes that showcase the very best of Lapland’s winter wonderland, making it an unforgettable journey for all members of the family.

As you trek through the pristine wilderness, you may spot wildlife like reindeer, Arctic foxes, or snowshoe hares, adding an educational element to the adventure.

Visiting Santa Claus' Workshop

Finally, the highlight of any Lapland family holiday is meeting Santa Claus at his official residence. Located in Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Village is where children can meet the jolly old man himself, pose for photos, and even hear stories about his adventures from his friendly elves. Visiting Santa's workshop is another fun activity, where families can watch as elves make toys and souvenirs, adding to the magic of the experience. The chance to send letters from Santa’s official post office is an unforgettable moment for kids, as they can write their wishes and send them straight to the North Pole.

Santa Claus Village itself is just the beginning—Rovaniemi is widely considered the best part of Lapland to visit with kids. Thanks to its wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions, you can ensure that everyone is comfortable during their stay. To experience the full enchantment of this town, families can book the Lapland Adventure: Santa Claus Express, a cozy train ride straight to Santa's home, making this experience even more magical for children.

Lapland is a magical destination for holidays, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure, stunning natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences for families with kids. Whether it’s meeting Santa Claus, exploring snowy landscapes on a husky ride, or chasing the Northern Lights, Lapland offers something for everyone. Families can experience the beauty of the Arctic in comfort and style, ensuring that every member has a memorable time.

Ready to book your Lapland family holiday? Start planning today and let this winter wonderland sweep you off your feet!