Lapland is not just a place – it's a feeling.
It's where winter becomes magical, where the skies light up with the Northern Lights, and where silence feels like luxury. This northernmost region of Skandinavia offers experiences you simply can’t have anywhere else in the world.
Here are 15 unforgettable things you can only do in Lapland – and every one of them is easily found through YourCityGuide.fi, your go-to tool for discovering local highlights, experiences, and events.
1. Meet Santa Claus at the Arctic Circle
Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus. Visit Santa’s Village, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from the real Santa’s Post Office – open every day of the year.
2. Watch the Northern Lights Over 200 Nights a Year
Lapland is one of the world’s best places to see the Aurora Borealis. Sleep in a glass igloo, trek to a hilltop, or watch from a frozen lake – the northern lights season runs from late August to April.
3. Experience the Polar Night (Kaamos)
For weeks in midwinter, the sun never rises above the horizon. But instead of darkness, Lapland offers deep blues, soft purples, and an atmosphere that feels otherworldly. This is kaamos, and it’s magical.
4. Ride a Reindeer Sleigh with Sámi Herders
Travel through snowy forests in a sleigh pulled by reindeer and guided by Sámi herders, the indigenous people of Lapland. Learn their traditions and feel connected to the Arctic way of life.
5. Sleep in a Hotel Made of Ice
Lapland’s ice and snow hotels are hand-carved masterpieces that melt away each spring. Every winter, new designs await – offering an unforgettable night in sub-zero artistry.
6. Try Ice Floating in a Frozen Lake
Dressed in a warm drysuit, you can float in a hole cut through thick lake ice – a peaceful, almost meditative activity unique to Arctic destinations like Lapland.
7. Drive a Snowmobile Through Arctic Wilderness
Lapland offers thousands of kilometers of snowmobile trails. Ride across frozen rivers, snow-covered forests, and open fells – it’s freedom in its purest, coldest form.
8. Visit a Sámi Village and Discover Indigenous Culture
Learn about the rich culture of Europe’s only recognized Indigenous people. Discover Sámi music, crafts, language, and their deep relationship with nature and reindeer herding.
9. Go Skiing Under the Northern Lights
Ski resorts like Levi, Ylläs, and Pyhä offer scenic slopes far from crowds. And in Lapland, you might just spot the Northern Lights while skiing under the stars.
10. Celebrate Christmas in a Real Winter Wonderland
Snow-covered trees, glowing lanterns, cozy cottages, and Santa himself – Lapland is the most magical place in the world to spend Christmas.
11. Go Ice Fishing on a Frozen Lake
Drill a hole in a frozen lake and fish like the locals do. Enjoy the peaceful stillness, sip warm berry juice, and maybe even cook your catch over an open fire.
12. Explore Snow Castles and Ice Sculptures
Walk through entire castles made of snow and ice, complete with slides, art, and even ice chapels for Arctic weddings – a true frozen fantasy.
13. Cross-Country Ski in the Arctic Wilderness
Lapland has over 3,000 km of groomed trails, winding through forests, across swamps, and up to snowy peaks. It's one of the world’s most serene ways to explore nature.
14. Ring in the New Year at the Arctic Circle
Celebrate with fireworks, glowing snow, and hot drinks – often under a sky filled with Northern Lights. New Year’s Eve in Lapland is unlike anything else.
15. Mush Your Own Husky Team Through the Snow
Meet friendly Arctic huskies and take control of your own sled. Husky safaris are fast-paced, fun, and deeply connected to Lapland’s traditions.
Travel Tip from Your City Guide
Every one of these experiences – and many more – can be found with ease on YourCityGuide.fi. Whether you're in Rovaniemi, Levi, Saariselkä, we help you find activities, locations, and hidden gems near you.
Plan your trip, discover what’s nearby, and explore Lapland like a local –
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