Guess where I just landed? If you’re like me, always chasing new adventures, then buckle up because I’m about to take you on an express frosty ride to Lapland – Finland’s enchanting northernmost region. Trust me, even a beach lover like myself couldn’t resist the allure of this snowy paradise so here is how to plan an epic trip to Lapland.
The legendary North Pole
Truth be told, my Lapland trip was a last-minute decision driven by a craving for snow and to dive into the Christmas spirit. However, planning ahead can save you some bucks in this not-so-budget-friendly destination so make sure to do your research in advance.
Santa Claus Express: Because Trains Are Cooler
Started my journey flying in and out of Helsinki, not just for Lapland but also to snoop around the Finnish
capital (well worth it!). Then, we hopped on the Santa Claus Express for a 12-hour double-decker night train to Rovaniemi. Yep, I went all in for the sleeper cabin life at €110 a pop. Views of Finland rolling by, Wi-Fi onboard, and breakfast delivered to my cozy bunk bed? Um, yes, please! It’s a unique, budget-friendly way to travel so it was a no-brainer. Plus, it saved us a night’s accommodation.
Alternatively, you can just fly directly to Rovaniemi from several European cities including London, Manchester, Milan, Paris, Amsterdam, Naples, Dublin, Brussels, Milan, Istanbul, Madrid, Berlin, Vienna and Barcelona. I flew from London with EasyJet but there are other low-cost airlines that operate direct routes like Ryanair and Vueling.
Accommodation in Rovaniemi: Where to Stay
Lapland offers really unique stays with luxurious view of the Northern Lights like the Arctic Treehouse Hotel, the Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos or the Apukka Resort but, given our impromptu escape, options were very limited. We ended up staying at the Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna right in the centre of Rovaniemi in the middle of all the action. Location is key and this hotel was conveniently in front of the bus stop that takes you all around town, including the Santa Claus Village.
Top 5 Activities in Rovaniemi
Now, here’s where the fun really kicked in. You can go all-inclusive with tours, or wing it like we did. The former, usually offer less time at each activity and you do most of them at (or very close to) the Santa Claus Village. This latter allows you to venture out and further explore the stunning scenery in Lapland. Top picks?
1. Santa Claus Village
Okay, Santa Claus Village is like Disneyland but with snow and reindeers instead of roller coasters. Free to enter, open 24/7, and it feels like you are inside a snow globe! Restaurants, tours, experiences, shops, Santa’s Post Office, Reindeers; you name it they have it.
Quick tip: Seeing Santa is free, but the photo op will cost you and the lines are huge so unless you have a child or are very eager to see the man himself, skip this. Don’t miss the Arctic Circle line though, it’s cool to stand on mark of the southernmost point where the sun can stay above or below the horizon for an entire day.
2. Husky Safari: Sleds and howls
This was undeniably my most favourite experience of all times and a lifelong dream of mine.
I went with Bearhill Husky, a family owned and operated husky kennel that are dedicated to responsible and sustainable tourism – they aren’t cheap but their ethics are world-class. I did the 3-hour Husky Safari, steering my own pack of Alaskan dogs through the wilderness. Snowsuits, boots, and blankets are included in the price and the end of the safari, you get to enjoy some hot juice with cookies in a cozy hut and an informative chat on their mushing practices.
I also recommend Parpalandia Husky Safari, equally a local and family-owned company concerned about ethical animal care. Although they offer a comparable experience at a slightly lower cost, their standout feature is the location: conveniently near Rovaniemi yet distant enough to minimize light pollution, enhancing the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights!
3. Northern Lights Hunt: Aki, the Aurora Whisperer
Talk about the most epic bucket list tick of the season. For an unforgettable northern lights experience, I really recommend you invest in a local photographer and aurora hunting specialist. We embarked on an 8-hour hunt with One Day in Lapland waiting for nature to do its thing, and luckily got an epic display of the aurora borealis. Again, going with someone local and less “commercial” allows for you to experience a less packaged experience and fewer crowds. Not only does Aki take phenomenal photos but he does not give up until there really isn’t a choice. He was also the only tour who offered a refund if you didn’t see the aurora.
4. Snowmobile Tour: Vrooming in a Winter Wonderland
I didn’t think I would love this as much as I did! Picked the 2-hour snowmobile tour with Safartica, zooming through Lapland’s wild side instead of the local Santa Claus Village route. Tea break in the middle? Essential as I could not feel my hands at one point. Bonus: Did a cliché snow angel video – because, why not? A blast, very well organized and a highlight of the trip. But then again, what isn’t a highlight in this magical land?
5. Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls Tour: An Artic Stroll Hike
Finland’s most stunning frozen waterfalls and one of the most popular day tours in Rovaniemi is in this 30-kilometer-long and 130-meter-deep canyon. Wild About Lapland take you on this insanely beautiful hike in Korouoma nature reserve for some epic views of their ice formations and snowy paths. Quick tip: Keep your eyes peeled for Arctic critters in their natural habitat as you might just spot some furry friends out and about (including wolves, lynx, wolverines, moose, reindeer!). After your Arctic escapade, gather ’round the campfire for Finnish snacks and hot drinks. Don’t worry about bundling up as they’ve also got you covered with winter clothing and boots.
Departure and Helsinki Stopover
After your Arctic adventure, return to Helsinki by plane – It’s a quick and convenient way to wrap up your journey, giving you a last glimpse of Finland’s beauty from above. We took a Finnair flight from Rovaniemi airport, priced at about €80, with very convenient well-spaced flight schedules. If you find yourself in Helsinki, indulge in traditional Finnish cuisine at this rustic restaurant on Senate Square called Ravintola Savotta. Their reindeer dish? Chef’s kiss!
Comments are closed.