Rovaniemi and Lapland: Finland's Arctic north

Why go

Lapland is the Finland of the imagination: snow loaded spruces, husky sledges, reindeer crossing the road and green light flickering above a frozen lake. It is also far quieter and more spacious than most visitors expect. Beyond the Christmas themed attractions there are silent fells, clean air and a strong Sámi and northern culture to learn from. Summer brings round the clock daylight, hiking and fishing, and autumn, known as ruska, turns the fells red and gold.

Top things to do in Rovaniemi

Visit the **Arktikum**, a science centre and museum that explains Arctic nature, the northern lights and life in Lapland, including the burning of Rovaniemi in the Second World War. Cross the Arctic Circle at **Santa Claus Village** north of town, popular with families, and walk up **Ounasvaara** hill for views and winter skiing. The **Korundi House of Culture** shows art from the north, and the **Ranua Wildlife Park**, an hour south, has bears, wolverines and lynx.

Rovaniemi is the easiest place to book winter activities: husky and reindeer safaris, snowmobile trips, snowshoe walks and evening aurora hunts. Choose operators that treat their animals well, give clear safety briefings and supply warm overalls and boots.

Beyond Rovaniemi

**Levi** and **Ylläs**, near Kittilä, are Finland's biggest ski resorts, with downhill slopes, hundreds of kilometres of cross country trails and the **Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park**. **Saariselkä**, near Ivalo, is the base for the **Urho Kekkonen National Park** and its open fells. **Inari** on the huge Lake Inari is home to **Siida**, the Sámi museum and nature centre, and the Sámi cultural centre **Sajos**, the best places to understand Sámi history, language and reindeer herding. **Pyhä-Luosto** offers smaller resorts, an amethyst mine and quiet fells.

The northern lights

The aurora can appear whenever the sky is dark and clear, from about late August to early April. Your chances are better the further north you go and the further you are from town lights. Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute aurora forecast and cloud cover, dress very warmly and be patient. Many visitors stay several nights to improve the odds; seeing the lights is never guaranteed.

Seasons and cold

From December to February temperatures can drop well below minus twenty, and in December the sun barely rises in the far north, giving a soft blue light called kaamos. March and early April combine deep snow, longer days and milder cold, ideal for activities. Summer is mild with mosquitoes in July. Bring thermal layers, a warm hat, mittens and boots with good grip, or rent winter gear locally.

Getting there and around

Flights from Helsinki reach Rovaniemi, Kittilä and Ivalo, and in winter some flights arrive directly from other European cities. The overnight train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi and Kolari is a classic way to arrive. Buses link the towns and resorts, but distances are long and services are limited, so many visitors join organised excursions. Driving in winter requires real experience of snow and ice.

Where to stay

Rovaniemi has hotels, apartments and cabins by the river. Resorts like Levi and Saariselkä have everything from apartments to glass roofed igloos and cabins for aurora watching. Christmas and New Year sell out months ahead, so book early.

Plan your Lapland days

See the places to visit list for activities and stays, and use the free trip planner to combine Lapland with Helsinki.