Lapland is Finland's vast, mystical northern wilderness, stretching above the Arctic Circle and home to the Northern Lights, endless fells, pristine national parks, and the legendary Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. This subarctic region offers extraordinary experiences year-round, from dogsled adventures and snowmobile safaris in winter to midnight sun hiking and wild berry picking in summer. Lapland is also the ancestral homeland of the indigenous Sámi people, whose rich culture and reindeer-herding traditions add a unique dimension to any visit.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Lapland.
-
1
Santa Claus Village
The official hometown of Santa Claus sits right on the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, offering year-round meetings with Santa himself, reindeer sleigh rides, elf training, and magical Christmas experiences. The village spans a forest setting on the banks of the Kemijoki River and is especially enchanting in winter when draped in snow.
Tip: Book Santa meeting slots in advance during December · Stay overnight at the village for Northern Lights views from glass igloos
-
2
Arktikum Science Centre & Museum
Arktikum is Rovaniemi's landmark cultural institution, housed in a striking glass tunnel that extends toward the Ounasjoki River. The museum features two permanent exhibitions covering the history and culture of Lapland and the science of the Arctic regions, including fascinating displays on the Aurora Borealis and indigenous Sámi culture.
Tip: Combined ticket available with Pilke Science Centre · The glass tunnel is architecturally stunning; walk through it at dusk
-
3
Ranua Wildlife Park
Finland's only polar bear park is home to over 50 Arctic and subarctic animal species, including polar bears, wolves, wolverines, lynx, Arctic foxes, and brown bears. The park's natural enclosures sprawl through a pristine boreal forest, offering close-up encounters with animals that are rarely seen in the wild.
Tip: Visit early morning for best animal activity · Feeding times are posted daily at the entrance
-
4
Urho Kekkonen National Park
Finland's second-largest national park covers 2,550 km² of untouched Arctic wilderness near Saariselkä, featuring vast fell plateaus, ancient pine forests, glittering wilderness lakes, and rich wildlife including wolverines and golden eagles. The park is a premier destination for multi-day trekking, skiing, and Aurora hunting.
Tip: Register hike at the visitor centre · Bring bear spray for wilderness treks · Kiilopää fell offers excellent day hike views
-
5
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Glass Igloos
The world-famous glass igloos of Kakslauttanen offer the ultimate Northern Lights viewing experience from the warmth of your own bed. Located in Saariselkä's pristine wilderness, the resort features both glass igloos and traditional log cabins, plus a giant igloo restaurant and world-class reindeer and husky safaris.
Tip: Book 6–12 months in advance; high demand year-round · Best Northern Lights viewing from igloos is midnight–2AM
-
6
Levi Ski & Outdoor Resort
Levi is Finland's most popular ski resort, featuring 43 slopes, 26 ski lifts, and a vibrant après-ski culture spread across a stunning fell. Beyond winter skiing and snowboarding, Levi offers summer hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor concerts, making it a year-round destination.
Tip: Buy multi-day passes for savings · Book ski lessons in advance during peak season
-
7
Ylläs Ski Resort
Ylläs is Finland's largest ski resort by vertical drop and number of slopes, with 63 trails spanning two fells connected by ski passes. It's renowned for its long ski season, excellent powder conditions, and the scenic Äkäslompolo village at its base, plus world-class cross-country skiing tracks.
Tip: Ylläs has excellent beginners' slopes on the Ylläsjärvi side · Combine skiing with a reindeer sleigh ride from local farms
-
8
Pyhä-Luosto National Park
Pyhä-Luosto National Park encompasses two fell resorts and some of Lapland's most dramatic canyon scenery, including the Noitatunturi fell and the stunning Pyhäkuru gorge. The park is home to the Luosto Amethyst Mine and offers excellent hiking, skiing, and reindeer experiences.
Tip: Pyhäkuru gorge trail is spectacular in autumn · Luosto has an excellent amethyst mine tour
-
9
Siida Sámi Museum and Nature Centre
Finland's premier Sámi cultural institution in Inari tells the story of the indigenous Sámi people through world-class exhibitions on their traditions, reindeer herding, fishing, and Arctic survival. The adjacent nature centre covers the unique ecosystems of the Inari region.
Tip: Combine with a visit to the Sámi Parliament building nearby · The outdoor exhibits are best explored in summer
-
10
Lake Inari (Inarijärvi)
Inarijärvi is Finland's third-largest lake, a vast sacred body of water covering 1,084 km² dotted with over 3,000 islands. The lake is central to Sámi culture and mythology, and offers exceptional fishing, boat tours, island camping, and winter ice fishing experiences.
Tip: Hire a local guide for ice fishing in winter · Summer boat tours visit sacred Sámi islands
Attractions by category
Explore by your interests.
Landmarks
Santa Claus Village
Official Arctic Circle hometown of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi
Kakslauttanen Glass Igloos
World-famous glass igloo resort in Saariselkä
Arktikum Building
Iconic glass tunnel museum building on the Ounasjoki riverbank
Rovaniemi City Library
Alvar Aalto-designed library, an architectural gem in Rovaniemi
Inari Village
Heart of Finnish Sámi culture on sacred Lake Inari
Museums
Arktikum Science Centre
Finland's premier Arctic and Lapland history museum
Siida Sámi Museum
World-class indigenous culture museum in Inari
Pilke Science Centre
Interactive forest and wood industry exhibits in Rovaniemi
Tankavaara Gold Village Museum
Outdoor gold rush heritage museum near Sodankylä
Rovaniemi Art Museum
Contemporary art exhibitions in Rovaniemi city centre
Nature
Urho Kekkonen National Park
2,550 km² of pristine Arctic wilderness near Saariselkä
Lemmenjoki National Park
Finland's largest national park in northern Lapland
Oulanka National Park
Dramatic river gorges and the famous Bear Trail hike
Lake Inari
Finland's third-largest lake, sacred to the Sámi people
Pyhä-Luosto National Park
Fell landscape, gorges, and amethyst mines near Sodankylä
Cultural
Reindeer Farm Experiences
Meet reindeer and learn about Sámi herding culture
Finnish Sauna Traditions
Traditional lakeside smoke saunas with ice swimming
Sámi Handicraft Workshops
Traditional duodji craft workshops in Inari area
Rovaniemi Christmas Market
Festive December market with Lappish crafts and foods
Lampivaara Amethyst Mine
Dig your own amethysts in this rare public gem mine
Practical information
What you need to know before you go.
- Hours
- Most attractions open year-round with varying seasonal hours; many close or reduce hours in November
- Fees
- National parks free; museums €8–22; activity tours €35–200+
- Best Times
- Winter (Nov–Apr) for Northern Lights and snow activities; Summer (Jun–Aug) for midnight sun and hiking
- Booking
- Book popular activities (glass igloos, husky safaris, Santa meetings) 3–12 months in advance
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Most Lapland activities are weather-dependent; have flexible plans and backup options
Car rental is essential for reaching many attractions in remote Lapland
Pack serious winter gear (rated to -30°C) before any outdoor winter activities
Many activities require advance booking, especially during the peak Christmas season (Dec 20 – Jan 7)
Driving at night in Lapland requires vigilance for reindeer and elk on roads
Frequently asked questions
When is the best season to visit attractions in Lapland?
Winter (Dec–Mar) for Northern Lights and snow activities; summer (Jun–Aug) for midnight sun hiking and nature
Are guided tours available for Lapland's attractions?
Available at all major sites; range from €20 (short guided walks) to €200+ (full-day wilderness expeditions)
Can I take photos at attractions in Lapland?
Photography welcomed at most sites; respect Sámi cultural sites and always ask permission before photographing people
How much time do I need for Lapland's main attractions?
Plan at least 5–7 days to experience the region's highlights; 10+ days for comprehensive exploration