Fun Things to Do in Lapland | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Lapland Travel Guide
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Welcome to Lapland, a magical destination nestled in the northernmost region of Europe. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Lapland offers a truly unique travel experience that is unlike any other. This enchanting land is famous for its stunning landscapes, including vast forests, sparkling lakes, and snow-covered mountains. Lapland is also home to the indigenous Sami people, who have preserved their rich cultural heritage for centuries. Visitors to Lapland can immerse themselves in the local traditions, such as reindeer herding and ice fishing, and even have the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. Whether you are seeking adventure, tranquility, or a glimpse into a fascinating culture, Lapland is the perfect destination for an unforgettable journey.
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Things To Do In Lapland
Lapland offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to various interests and preferences. Here are some things to do in Lapland:
1. Experience the Northern Lights: Lapland is one of the best places in the world to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis. Head to remote locations such as Rovaniemi or Saariselka for the best chances of seeing this natural phenomenon.
2. Visit Santa Claus Village: Located in Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Village is a magical place where you can meet Santa Claus himself, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards with the special Arctic Circle postmark.
3. Go on a Husky Safari: Embark on an exhilarating dog sledding adventure through the snowy landscapes of Lapland. You can learn to drive your own team of huskies or simply enjoy the ride as a passenger.
4. Explore Snow Villages: Lapland is home to unique snow and ice hotels that are rebuilt every winter. Visit places like Snow Village or Icehotel to marvel at the intricate ice sculptures, sleep in ice rooms, and enjoy ice-themed activities.
5. Try Ice Fishing: Experience the traditional Finnish pastime of ice fishing on the frozen lakes of Lapland. Drill a hole in the ice, drop your line, and wait for a catch. It's a peaceful and serene activity that allows you to connect with nature.
6. Go Reindeer Sledding: Discover the traditional Sami way of transportation by going on a reindeer sleigh ride. Learn about the Sami culture, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and listen to the rhythmic sound of reindeer hooves on the snow.
7. Skiing and Snowboarding: Lapland boasts excellent ski resorts such as Levi, Yllas, and Pyha. Hit the slopes and enjoy a thrilling day of skiing or snowboarding. The well-maintained slopes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
8. Visit Ranua Wildlife Park: Located near Rovaniemi, Ranua Wildlife Park is home to over 50 Arctic animal species. Explore the park and observe polar bears, lynx, wolves, and many other fascinating creatures up close.
Tours And Activities In Lapland
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Best Time To Visit Lapland
The best time to visit Lapland is during the winter months from December to March. This is when Lapland transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes and the opportunity to witness the spectacular Northern Lights. Additionally, this is the peak season for winter activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. The sub-zero temperatures also create the perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding. However, it is important to note that the winter months can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, so it is essential to pack warm clothing and be prepared for the challenging weather conditions.
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Best Areas To Stay In Lapland
Lapland offers a variety of stunning areas for accommodation. Here are a few notable ones:
1. Rovaniemi: As the capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi is a popular choice for tourists. It is known for its vibrant city life, with numerous restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Additionally, Rovaniemi is home to Santa Claus Village, where visitors can meet Santa himself. The city also serves as a gateway to the Arctic wilderness, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
2. Saariselka: Nestled in the heart of Lapland, Saariselka is a picturesque village surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. It is renowned for its ski resorts, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. Saariselka is also a gateway to Urho Kekkonen National Park, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing oneself in the tranquility of Lapland's wilderness.
3. Levi: Located in the Kittila municipality, Levi is another popular destination for accommodation in Lapland. It is known for its world-class ski resort, offering a wide range of slopes suitable for all skill levels. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, ice fishing, and even reindeer sleigh rides. Levi also boasts a vibrant apres-ski scene, with numerous restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
4. Yllas: Yllas is a charming village situated amidst the Yllas-Pallas National Park. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an extensive network of cross-country skiing trails, snowshoeing routes, and hiking paths. The village itself has a cozy atmosphere, with traditional log cabins and a selection of restaurants serving local delicacies. Yllas is also known for its stunning Northern Lights displays, making it an ideal spot for witnessing this natural phenomenon.
5. Kemi: Located on the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia, Kemi is a coastal town that offers a unique accommodation experience. One of its main attractions is the famous SnowCastle, a magnificent structure made entirely of snow and ice. Visitors can stay overnight in the SnowHotel, enjoying the enchanting ambiance and ice sculptures. Kemi is also home to the Sampo Icebreaker, where guests can embark on an unforgettable Arctic adventure,
Hotels Map Of Lapland
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Transportation To Lapland
There are several transportation options to Lapland:
1. Flight: The easiest and fastest way to reach Lapland is by flying into one of the major airports in the region, such as Rovaniemi Airport or Kittila Airport. There are direct flights from Helsinki and other major European cities to these airports.
2. Train: You can also take a train to Lapland. The Finnish Railways (VR) operates trains from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. The journey takes approximately 8-12 hours, depending on the train.
3. Bus: There are long-distance bus services that connect Lapland with other cities in Finland and neighboring countries. You can check the schedules and book tickets through bus companies like Matkahuolto or Onnibus.
4. Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the scenic route to Lapland. The main highways leading to Lapland are E4 and E75. However, keep in mind that driving conditions in winter can be challenging due to snow and ice.
5. Ferry: If you are coming from Sweden, you can take a ferry from Stockholm to Turku or Helsinki in Finland, and then continue your journey to Lapland by train, bus, or flight.
Once you are in Lapland, there are local transportation options available, such as buses, taxis, and rental cars, to explore the region and reach your desired destinations.
Nearby Destination From Lapland
1. Rovaniemi: The official hometown of Santa Claus.
2. Kemi: Home to the famous SnowCastle and the Sampo Icebreaker.
3. Levi: A popular ski resort with stunning Northern Lights views.
4. Saariselka: A tranquil village surrounded by beautiful wilderness and hiking trails.
5. Inari: Known for its Sami culture and the iconic Sami Museum.
6. Yllas: A charming village offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
7. Kittila: The gateway to the stunning Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park.
8. Muonio: A small town perfect for outdoor activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
9. Kilpisjarvi: A remote village located near the breathtaking Three-Country Cairn.
10. Sodankyla: Home to the Midnight Sun Film Festival and the Arctic Circle Hiking Area.