12 Breathtaking Places in Lapland (Finland) You Can’t Miss

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When the green aurora danced above my head in Levi, lighting up the snowy forest like something from a dream, I actually felt tears freeze on my cheeks. Lapland isn’t just a winter wonderland beautiful—it’s the kind of beauty that makes you question if what you’re seeing is even real. Trust me, no photos can prepare you for this place.

I spent weeks exploring the Arctic wilderness, and it still wasn’t enough. From watching the midnight sun paint the sky gold at Lake Inari to sleeping in a glass igloo under the stars in Kakslauttanen, these beautiful places in Lapland seem to exist in their own magical world. Here are 12 spots that left me speechless in the wild north of Finland, where the reindeer outnumber the people and the sky puts on the greatest show on Earth.

Top Sights to See in Lapland

Looking for the coolest things to do in Lapland (Finland)? Discover the fascinating exhibits at Arktikum, chase waterfalls in Autti, and experience the rich Sámi culture in Inari. Explore the Arctic wilderness of Ivalo and witness the magical frozen landscapes of Kemi. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or unique Arctic adventures, here are the top attractions to visit in Lapland.

1. Arktikum

• 📍 Location: Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland, situated on the Arctic Circle
• 🏆 Best For: Northern Lights chasers 🌌, cultural explorers 🏛️, Arctic science enthusiasts 🔬
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the interactive Arctic exhibitions, witnessing the Northern Lights, learning about Sámi culture
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Winter (November-March) for Northern Lights, summer for Midnight Sun experiences ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Arctic Light Hotel – Luxury accommodation with Arctic-themed rooms in downtown Rovaniemi

Arktikum will blow your Instagram feed up with its striking glass tunnel architecture and Northern Lights views. This isn’t just a museum; it’s your ticket to Arctic bragging rights. The immersive exhibitions showcase Arctic wildlife, indigenous Sámi culture, and survival in extreme conditions. I’ve never felt more connected to a place than standing in the panoramic glass corridor watching auroras dance overhead.

Don’t miss the outdoor Arctic Garden path showcasing polar plant species. The Provincial Museum of Lapland section gives context to everything you’ll experience throughout your Lapland adventure, making this the perfect first stop on your Finnish journey.

2. Autti

• 📍 Location: Eastern Lapland, approximately 90 km east of Rovaniemi
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌲, waterfall enthusiasts 💦, history buffs 🏠
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the historic watermill, hiking riverside trails, exploring the heritage museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June-August for optimal weather and accessibility, September for fall colors 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Arctic Riverside Villa – Cozy log cabin accommodations with riverside views and easy access to winter activities

Craving that perfect wilderness shot without tourist photobombs? Autti delivers with its stunning 16-meter waterfall and pristine forest setting. This hidden gem offers a perfect escape from digital overwhelm with its thundering Auttiköngas Rapids surrounded by untouched boreal forest. The beautifully preserved Autti Watermill Museum from 1923 showcases traditional power generation with original working mechanisms.

Nothing beats sipping coffee on the suspension bridge while watching the rapids crash below. The surrounding 3.5 km hiking trail winds through old-growth spruce forest and reveals perfect photography spots. Even in peak summer, you’ll likely have this natural wonder mostly to yourself.

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3. Inari

• 📍 Location: Northern Finnish Lapland, 40 km south of the Norwegian border
• 🏆 Best For: Sámi culture enthusiasts 🏠, wilderness adventurers 🌲, Northern Lights hunters 🌌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Siida Sámi Museum, boat tours on Lake Inari, wilderness hiking
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February-March for winter activities, July-August for hiking and boating 🚣
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Wilderness Hotel Inari – Lakeside accommodations with aurora cabins, traditional Finnish sauna and excellent northern lights viewing opportunities

Want to experience indigenous culture that predates Instagram by a few thousand years? Inari serves as the cultural heartbeat of Finland’s Sámi people. The world-class Siida Sámi Museum offers immersive insights into traditional Arctic lifestyles through interactive exhibits that respect rather than romanticize indigenous culture.

Massive Lake Inari, with its 3,000+ islands, begs to be explored by boat in summer or snowmobile in winter. When aurora hunting, I found this area’s minimal light pollution provides some of Finland’s most spectacular Northern Lights displays.

Don’t miss hiking to the historic Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church, one of Finland’s oldest wooden structures accessible via a scenic 7 km trail through untouched forest.

4. Ivalo

• 📍 Location: Northern Lapland, 20 km south of Inari and 160 km north of Rovaniemi
• 🏆 Best For: Winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️, wilderness trekkers 🥾, aurora photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Husky sledding adventures, gold panning in the Lemmenjoki River, Northern Lights safaris
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-March for winter activities, June-August for hiking and river experiences 🚣
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Wilderness Hotel Nellim – Remote lodge with glass-roofed aurora cabins

Fellow adventure-seekers, Ivalo is where Lapland gets real. This gateway to Finland‘s far north offers authentic Arctic experiences without coach buses full of tourists. Winter transforms the landscape into a playground where you can command your own husky team through snow-laden forests or master the art of ice fishing on frozen lakes.

The thrill of spotting green auroras from a glass-roofed cabin at Wilderness Hotel Nellim is unbeatable. Summer brings endless daylight and chances to pan for gold in Hammastunturi Wilderness Area streams that launched Finland’s 1870s gold rush.

You haven’t truly experienced Finnish culture until you’ve joined locals in a traditional smoke sauna followed by a plunge into an icy lake.

5. Kemi

• 📍 Location: Southern Lapland on the Gulf of Bothnia, 90 km from Rovaniemi
• 🏆 Best For: Ice structure enthusiasts ❄️, icebreaker adventurers 🚢, winter wonderland seekers ☃️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the SnowCastle, taking an icebreaker cruise, exploring the gemstone gallery
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January-April for snow attractions, June-August for seaside activities 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Seaside Glass Villas – Modern glass-walled accommodations with sea views

Game of Thrones fans rejoice: Kemi lets you live out your Winterfell fantasies in the world’s largest snow fort. The magnificent SnowCastle, rebuilt annually since 1996, features epic ice sculptures, snow suits, and a bar where even the glasses are made of ice.

For a truly bucket-list experience, board the Sampo Icebreaker as it crushes through the frozen Gulf of Bothnia. I still get chills remembering floating in Arctic waters wearing only a survival suit with ice surrounding me. The Gemstone Gallery houses impressive treasures including a golden Taj Mahal model.

Summer reveals Kemi’s alter ego as a pleasant Baltic seaside town with boat tours to nearby island nature reserves.

6. Levi

• 📍 Location: Western Finnish Lapland, 170 km north of the Arctic Circle
• 🏆 Best For: Skiers and snowboarders 🎿, hikers 🥾, nightlife seekers 🍹
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing Finland’s largest resort, mountain biking, experiencing Lappish saunas
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February-April for prime skiing, September for fall colors, December for Christmas magic 🎄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Design Hotel Levi – Stylish accommodation with spa facilities at the foot of the slopes

Après-ski with reindeer tartare and Arctic cloudberry cocktails? Levi combines pristine slopes with surprisingly sophisticated nightlife. Finland’s largest ski resort boasts 43 runs and extensive cross-country trails without the pretentiousness of Alpine resorts. Beyond skiing, winter adventures include reindeer safaris and evening aurora hunts. The resort village buzzes with restaurants serving modern takes on Lappish cuisine. Summer transforms Levi into a mountain biking paradise with over 100 km of marked trails. 

Taking the Levi Summit gondola to the 531-meter peak reveals panoramic wilderness views that extend into Sweden. After active days, unwind at Levi Spa & Wellness Center with a traditional smoke sauna followed by a refreshing icy plunge.

7. Levin Lapinkylä

• 📍 Location: Western Lapland, near Levi Ski Resort, 170 km north of Rovaniemi
• 🏆 Best For: Cultural experience seekers 🏠, foodies 🍲, northern traditions enthusiasts 🔥
• 📸 Top Experiences: Participating in traditional Sámi ceremonies, sampling authentic Lappish cuisine, learning about northern heritage
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-January for winter atmosphere, June-July for midnight sun celebrations
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lapland Hotels Sirkantähti – Traditional accommodation with modern amenities near cultural sites

Need content that actually stands out on social media? Levin Lapinkylä offers cultural experiences most travelers miss. This living museum provides an authentic glimpse into indigenous Sámi life that has thrived in harsh northern conditions for millennia. Step inside traditional “kota” huts to hear ancient stories around crackling fires. Learn about reindeer herding from local families who still practice this centuries-old livelihood.

The village hosts fascinating seasonal festivals celebrating the eight distinct seasons of the Sámi calendar. When I tasted authentic “poronkäristys” (sautéed reindeer) prepared by a local grandmother, it completely changed my understanding of Nordic cuisine. Artisans demonstrate traditional “duodji” crafts with opportunities to create your own souvenirs using techniques unchanged for centuries. The village maintains deep authenticity through strong connections with local Sámi communities.

8. Nuorgam

• 📍 Location: Northernmost point of Finland, in Utsjoki municipality, 5 km from Norwegian border
• 🏆 Best For: Midnight sun chasers ☀️, northern lights hunters 🌌, fishing enthusiasts 🎣
• 📸 Top Experiences: Fishing in the Teno River, crossing the Arctic Circle, experiencing 24-hour daylight in summer
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for midnight sun, winter (November-March) for northern lights
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Nuorgam Holiday Village – Cozy cottages with river views and sauna access

Thinking of sending a selfie from the literal top of Europe? Nuorgam delivers bragging rights as the EU’s northernmost point. The sun never sets here for over 70 summer days, creating perfect conditions for landing trophy salmon in the legendary Teno River. Winter transforms this remote village into an aurora playground where northern lights dance almost nightly across the Arctic sky.

I’ve never seen stars shine brighter than against Nuorgam’s pitch-black winter skies. The surrounding tundra offers pristine snowmobile routes through untouched wilderness. Despite its remoteness, the small community of 200 residents welcomes visitors with traditional Sámi culture and crafts that have thrived in this harsh landscape for centuries. The Finland-Norway border runs nearby, allowing you to easily visit two countries in one trip.

9. Riisitunturi National Park

• 📍 Location: Eastern Lapland, near Posio, 130 km east of Rovaniemi
• 🏆 Best For: Winter photographers 📸, hikers 🥾, snow enthusiasts ❄️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing snow-covered spruce trees, hiking to Riisitunturi fell summit, exploring frost-covered landscapes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January-March for unique crown snow formations, September for autumn colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Himmerki Holiday Village – Family-friendly cottages with lake views and traditional Finnish saunas

Instagram-worthy winter wonderland? Riisitunturi National Park creates nature’s most surreal photo backdrop. The park’s famous “tykkylumi” transforms trees into ghost-like sculptures under accumulated snow and ice. This otherworldly landscape might be the most unique winter shot in your social feed. The 466-meter Riisitunturi falls reward hikers with panoramic views over Lake Kitkajärvi and surrounding wilderness.

I still remember the complete silence at the summit, broken only by the soft crunch of snow. Though compact at just 77 square kilometers, the park packs remarkable diversity with spruce forests, alpine heaths, and hundreds of small ponds. Summer brings lush hillsides covered in berries and wildflowers along the 4.3 km circular Riisin Rääpäsy trail. The park connects to the longer Karhunkierros trail system for those seeking multi-day adventures.

10. Rovaniemi

• 📍 Location: Capital of Finnish Lapland, at the Arctic Circle, 830 km north of Helsinki
• 🏆 Best For: Santa Claus enthusiasts 🎅, Arctic Circle crossers ⭕, northern lights seekers 🌌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Meeting Santa at Santa Claus Village, crossing the Arctic Circle, visiting Arktikum museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-February for winter magic, August-September for autumn colors without extreme cold
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – Unique cube-shaped suites with panoramic windows for northern lights

Looking to recapture childhood wonder while drinking adult beverages? Rovaniemi, the top place to visit for Christmas, lets you meet Santa before hitting stylish Arctic bars. This modern northern city serves as the “Official Hometown of Santa Claus” year-round. The city follows an innovative reindeer-antler street pattern after its post-WWII reconstruction. Santa Claus Village sits directly on the Arctic Circle, marked by a white line you can straddle with one foot in each zone.

I couldn’t resist sending postcards with the special North Pole postmark to make friends jealous. The striking Arktikum Museum houses fascinating exhibits on Sámi culture and Arctic science. Adventure seekers can try husky safaris, snowmobile tours, or ice floating under the northern lights in a survival suit. The city offers excellent transport connections, making it the perfect gateway for exploring deeper into Lapland.

11. Saariselkä

• 📍 Location: Northern Lapland, 250 km north of Rovaniemi, near Urho Kekkonen National Park
• 🏆 Best For: Winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️, wilderness hikers 🥾, aurora hunters 🌌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cross-country skiing on extensive trails, hiking in Urho Kekkonen National Park, sledding Finland’s longest toboggan run
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February-April for perfect snow, September for fall colors, December for Christmas magic
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Famous glass igloos for northern lights viewing

Want to impress Tinder matches with glass igloo selfies under the aurora? Saariselkä delivers the ultimate Lapland experience. This compact fell resort borders Finland’s second-largest national park with immediate wilderness access from your hotel doorstep. The area offers Finland’s most reliable northern lights viewing with minimal light pollution and nearly 200 aurora nights annually.

By day, over 200 km of maintained cross-country ski tracks attract Nordic skiing enthusiasts worldwide. My thighs still burn from racing down Finland’s longest toboggan run – a 1.2 km slope illuminated in winter darkness. After adventures in -20°C temperatures, nothing beats an 80°C sauna followed by a snow plunge – a practice locals swear improves both circulation and life outlook. The nearby Ivalo Airport provides convenient access to this remote Arctic paradise.

12. Ylläs Ski Resort

• 📍 Location: Western Lapland, 170 km north of Rovaniemi, between seven fells in Kolari municipality
• 🏆 Best For: Downhill skiers 🎿, cross-country enthusiasts 🏂, mountain bikers 🚵
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing Finland’s longest slopes, witnessing alpenglow on the fells, riding the Gondola2000 for panoramic views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-April for perfect snow and increasing daylight, July-August for midnight sun activities
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lapland Hotels Ylläskaltio – Ski-in/ski-out access with traditional Finnish saunas

Tired of overcrowded Alpine slopes with their outrageous prices? Ylläs stands as Finland’s premier ski destination with the country’s longest runs and greatest vertical drop of 463 meters. The surrounding landscape features seven distinct fells rising dramatically from flat terrain. This creates a breathtaking panorama unlike anywhere else in Finland. The area maintains an incredible 330 km of cross-country skiing tracks linking the twin villages of Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi.

The futuristic Gondola2000 lift provides access to stunning viewpoints where Sweden appears on clear days. I could barely feel my fingers while photographing the sunset alpenglow here. Summer transforms Ylläs into a mountain biking paradise with trails ranging from family-friendly routes to technical challenges through the ancient forests of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. The region is accessible via the Kittilä Airport, just 40 km away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Lapland

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Lapland? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Lapland attractions and activities.

Which part of Lapland is best?

Lapland is a vast region with diverse attractions, and the “best” part often depends on individual preferences. For those seeking a blend of urban sophistication and Arctic wilderness, Rovaniemi stands out as a top choice. It’s the official hometown of Santa Claus and offers a mix of cultural attractions like Arktikum. For ski enthusiasts, Ylläs Ski Resort and Levi are top picks. Meanwhile, those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Lappish culture might find Levin Lapinkylä or Inari to be the best. Each area has its unique charm, making Lapland destinations varied and appealing for different reasons.

What is Lapland Finland best known for?

Lapland Finland is best known for its stunning Arctic landscapes, the Northern Lights, and being the official home of Santa Claus. It’s a region where the midnight sun shines in summer, and polar nights envelop the land in winter. The rich Sami culture, reindeer herding, and unique phenomena like the polar nights and midnight sun are also significant attractions. Moreover, Lapland’s beautiful places, from its fells to its dense forests, make it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

How can I experience the Northern Lights in Lapland?

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the most sought-after experiences in Lapland. The best time to witness this natural spectacle is during the winter months, from September to March. Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, and Levi are popular spots. However, venturing to more remote areas like Nuorgam can increase your chances of a clear sighting. Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings can’t be guaranteed, but Lapland scenery offers some of the best opportunities to witness them.

Are there unique culinary experiences in Lapland?

Absolutely! Lapland offers a rich culinary scene influenced by its natural surroundings. Reindeer meat, cloudberries, and freshly caught fish are staples. Traditional dishes like sautéed reindeer, Lappish cheese with cloudberry jam, and salmon soup are a must-try when visiting Lapland. Many local restaurants and eateries pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients, ensuring an authentic taste of the Arctic.

What activities can I enjoy in Lapland during summer?

While Lapland is often associated with winter activities, summer in this Arctic paradise is equally enchanting. Hiking, fishing, and canoeing are popular pastimes. The phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun doesn’t set for several weeks, is a unique experience. This allows for night-time activities under a sunlit sky, truly one of the best parts of Lapland during the warmer months.

Where is the most Christmassy place in Lapland?

The most Christmassy place in Lapland is Rovaniemi, which is often referred to as the “Official Hometown of Santa Claus.” Here’s why:

1. Santa Claus Village: Located right on the Arctic Circle, this village is where you can meet Santa Claus any day of the year. It’s a magical place filled with twinkling lights, snowy landscapes, and the festive spirit of Christmas.
2. Santa Claus Post Office: Send a letter with a special Arctic Circle postmark. This post office handles letters addressed to Santa and also replies to children’s letters from around the world.
3. Santa Claus Main Office: Here, you can see Santa’s busy elves at work. You can even get a glimpse of Santa’s secret command center.
4. Reindeer and Husky Rides: Experience a traditional mode of Lappish transportation by taking a sleigh ride pulled by reindeer or huskies through the snowy forests.
5. Northern Lights: Lapland offers one of the best chances to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. This definitely adds to the magical Christmas atmosphere.
6. Snow Activities: From snowmobiling to ice fishing and cross-country skiing, there’s a winter activity for everyone.
7. Stay in Ice Hotels or Glass Igloos: Unique accommodations allow visitors to immerse themselves in the Arctic environment. There’s often a good chance to gaze at the Northern Lights right from their beds.

Is it possible to meet the Sami people and learn about their culture?

Yes, the Sami are the indigenous people of Lapland, and there are several cultural centers and villages, like Inari, where visitors can learn about their traditions, folklore, and way of life. Engaging in activities like reindeer herding or staying in a traditional Sami tent (lavvu) offers a deeper understanding of Lapland’s beauty rooted in its people and culture.

Is Lapland really worth it?

Absolutely, Lapland is worth visiting, but the experience can vary depending on individual preferences. Here’s why many travelers find Lapland to be a unique and enchanting destination:

1. Santa Claus Village: For those who cherish the magic of Christmas, meeting Santa Claus in his official hometown in Rovaniemi is a dream come true. It’s a festive experience regardless of age.
2. Northern Lights: Lapland offers one of the best opportunities in the world to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. The natural light display in the Earth’s sky is predominantly seen in high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic.
3. Midnight Sun: During summer, Lapland experiences the phenomenon where the sun doesn’t set for several weeks, offering a unique experience and extended hours to explore.
4. Unique Accommodations: From ice hotels to glass igloos, staying in Lapland can be an adventure in itself.
5. Winter Activities: Snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing are just a few of the activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the Lappish environment.
6. Sámi Culture: Lapland provides an opportunity to learn about the indigenous Sámi people, their traditions, and their relationship with nature.
7. Stunning Nature: The pristine wilderness, national parks, and serene landscapes offer a peaceful retreat. It’s truly a haven for nature lovers.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Lapland

Lapland is a destination that beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. It’s a place where the wonders of nature, from the mesmerizing Northern Lights to the endless horizons of the midnight sun, intertwine seamlessly with age-old traditions and modern comforts. As we’ve journeyed through some of the most beautiful places in Lapland, it’s evident that this Arctic paradise offers more than just picturesque views. It’s an experience, a feeling, a connection to a land that remains untamed and pure.

Whether you’re an adventurer seeking the thrill of husky sledding, a culture enthusiast keen on diving into the Sami way of life, or simply someone looking to find solace in the vast, serene landscapes, Lapland has something for everyone. Each destination tells a story, waiting to be discovered and cherished.

As you chart your own journey through this Arctic wonderland, remember that Lapland is not just a place on the map. It’s a realm of dreams, magic, and memories waiting to be made. So, pack your bags, set your spirit free, and let the enchanting beauty of Lapland fill your heart and soul.