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Where is Lapland?
It is no surprise that Lapland is one of Europe's gems and one of the best places in the world to spend winter vacations. But how far away is this place? And where is it on the world map? Here is all information about Lapland's location you'd find interesting to know before setting off on a Lapland tour.
Last updated: 10.06.2024
Last updated: 10.06.2024
Where is Lapland?
Lapland draws crowds of travelers who're looking for a fairytale winter vacation full of different breathtaking experiences. And it is a small wonder, as this Scandinavian region is packed with wonderful activities to spend a perfect winter getaway with family and friends: snowmobiling, meeting and riding reindeers, getting to know the native Sami people, and, of course, hunting for the Northern Lights. But where is this Lapland? Here we'll look closer at Lapland's location.
Lapland on the World Map
"Lapland" is situated in Scandinavia and often referred to as the northern area of Finland. But, in fact, it occupies the northern part of Sweden, Norway (which is ¼ of all Scandinavia), Finland, and even Russia. The word itself is derived from "Lapp" - Scandinavians used this word to refer to the indigenous Sami people, who have been living in the region since ancient times. Interestingly, the Sami find the word "Lapland" offensive and prefer to use their own language and name this region "Sápmi". Lapland lies within the Arctic Circle, full of amazing unspoiled nature.
This land is literally comprised of different parts of Scandinavia, which makes it a very diverse and truly unique place: Russia and Finland formed the eastern part, Russian and Finnish Lapland, which occupies lowland territories; Sweden makes the central Swedish Lapland, which is mostly taiga lands; and Norway gifted us the western mountainous part, Norwegian Lapland, the place of many picturesque fjords. Interestingly, Iceland and Denmark are the only exceptions: they are located in the Arctic Circle yet are not part of Lapland.
The rough and unfriendly climate is the reason why the Lapland region is under-populated. But where one finds harsh and rough, others find a home. The native Sami people, who have been living here since the ancient times, have successfully preserved their centuries-long traditions, reindeer-herding lifestyle, and a unique language.
Where to go in Lapland?
Lapland is very rich for different sights and activities. However, it depends on the season of travel. Traditionally, most travelers come to Lapland in winter. They usually start by visiting the glorious capital of Finland, and then take a train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi to visit famous Santa Claus Village, hunt the magical Northern Lights, take a ride with a team of huskies, feel the adrenaline on a snowmobiles ride, and more.
With the best trips to Lapland, you can choose packages with itineraries that include several destinations or comprehensive northern explorations. For example, a Finnish Lapland tour or a Great Winter Lapland. The Northern Lights hunters won't be disappointed by choosing any of the Lapland or Iceland destinations. Those who are dreaming of visiting Santa Claus's official residence may take Finland packages, and if you're looking for fjords, whales, and unique places, choose Norway tours.
Despite the stereotypes, Lapland is a place worth visiting all year round. Undoubtedly, if you want a perfect winter getaway with the Northern Lights, husky sledding, and other winter activities, the cold season is your best option. But summer also has many wonders to offer, from beautiful sceneries to the Midnight Sun, a natural phenomenon when the sun doesn't leave the sky almost 24 hours every day. Ready to discover Lapland? Start planning today.