Lapland in winter is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable trip. Think frozen lakes, snowy forests and vast landscapes, with a thick layer of snow as far as you can see. But which Lapland trip suits you? Are you looking for winter sports, an exciting husky safari, the magical northern lights or, above all, peace in unspoilt nature? We are Go to Sápmi.
A trip to Lapland is often about more than just snow. It is about the silence, the vast wilderness and the time to really experience what the far north has to offer. That is the magical Lapland many travellers dream of. Every region has its own charm, and that makes choosing difficult.
The best destinations in short
- For a real reindeer experience and peace: northern Sweden around Luleå.
- For skiing and plenty of facilities: Levi and Ruka in Finnish Lapland.
- For the northern lights: northern Sweden around Luleå.
- For Sámi culture: northern Sweden around Luleå.
- For an ice hotel: Jukkasjärvi near Kiruna in Swedish Lapland.
Swedish Lapland: wintry Lapland with peace and quiet
Luleå and surroundings: peace, reindeer and short distances
Luleå lies on the coast in the north of Sweden. This is our own region, and a good choice if you prefer small-scale accommodation and small groups to a large resort. The airport is close to the city, so you lose little travel time after your flight.
From December through March we welcome guests here for our reindeer experience: you sit by a campfire, we cook the food over an open fire and you feed the reindeer yourself. That gives you an unforgettable holiday without the crowds. Our Winter Wonderland package lasts 5 days and 4 nights. You choose between a luxury cabin at the lodge and Clarion Hotel Luleå.
Abisko: clear weather and seeing the northern lights
Abisko lies further north and is known for relatively little cloud cover. That makes it a well-known place for seeing the northern lights. There is also an observation point for the northern lights.
Jukkasjärvi near Kiruna: unique places to stay
Anyone looking for unique places to stay looks at Jukkasjärvi. The ice hotel is rebuilt there every winter. It is a tourist destination with its own character, especially for those who want to book something spectacular. With a bit of luck you also see elk along the road in Swedish Lapland.
Finnish Lapland
Levi: the most winter sports facilities
Levi has the most popular winter sports facilities in Finland. It is a good choice if you want to ski or snowboard and want plenty of choice in restaurants and accommodation. After a day on the slopes, a Finnish sauna is often part of the experience in Finland.
Ruka: lively ski resort
Ruka is a lively ski resort with many activities. It is busy and atmospheric, and suits families and groups of friends booking a group trip.
Äkäslompolo: access to the largest ski area
Äkäslompolo gives access to the largest ski area in Finland. The village itself is smaller and quieter than Levi, but you have all the slopes within reach.
Saariselkä: ideal for the northern lights
Saariselkä is ideal for spotting the northern lights. It lies far to the north and is a well-known base for hiking, cross-country skiing and husky tours.
Inari: the heart of Sámi culture in Finland
Inari is the centre of Sámi culture in Finland. The Siida Museum shows Sámi culture and nature. A good choice if you want to learn more about the original inhabitants of Lapland and their beautiful nature.
Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Village
Rovaniemi is mainly known for Santa Claus and Santa Claus Village, which lies on the Arctic Circle. It is very touristy and can be busy, but it is easy to reach and there is plenty on offer for families with children.
Northern Norway
You can also book a winter holiday in northern Norway, for example around Bodø. The Norwegian coast is dramatic, with fjords and mountains, and the northern lights are easy to see there. It is a different type of trip, more on the coast than in the forest.
What can you do in Lapland in winter?
There are winter activities and various adventurous activities to choose from everywhere. Popular excursions are an exciting husky safari, a snowmobile tour and a snowshoe walk through the snowy landscape. For a long trip through the wilderness there are also reindeer trips. Anyone looking for a real adventure combines several activities in one trip.
How to choose the best destination
- You want peace and a personal experience: choose northern Sweden, small groups and a local guide.
- You want to ski or snowboard: choose Levi, Ruka or Äkäslompolo.
- The northern lights come first: northern Sweden, and book at least five nights.
- You want to learn more about the Sámi: Luleå or Bodø with Go To Sápmi.
- You are travelling with young children: look at Sweden, where you do not find mass tourism.
For most travellers the best time to travel to Lapland is from the end of December to the end of March. In the winter months the chance of snow is greatest. The necessary clothing is also part of your preparation: warm layers, thermal underwear and good shoes, because cold temperatures are normal. When the sun comes out in March, it already feels lighter.
Accommodation: from luxury hotels to simple cabins
Accommodation in Lapland ranges from luxury hotels to simple cabins. When booking, check whether the transfers from the airport to the accommodation are included. That is usually the case. Also look at the departure: a well-organised trip arranges transport and planning in advance.
How we choose at Go to Sápmi
We deliberately choose the far north of Sweden around Luleå. It is quieter than in the big resorts. You get time with the animals, a real campfire and a guide who lives here. We have been offering our reindeer experience for about five years, work with other local partners for Lapland activities and arrange the entire trip for you. That makes it a beautiful trip with unforgettable and unique experiences that you have seen with your own eyes.
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