Planning a trip to Lapland? This magical region of endless forests, glittering snowfields, and shimmering auroras deserves more than just a quick visit. Whether you’re dreaming of husky sleigh rides through snowy forests, meeting Santa Claus at his official hometown, or chasing the Northern Lights across frozen lakes, this 5-day Lapland itinerary will help you experience the very best of Finnish Lapland.
We’ve spent over three weeks exploring Rovaniemi and the surrounding region, and we’re sharing our firsthand experience to help you plan an unforgettable Arctic adventure—one that balances bucket-list activities with authentic local experiences, all while respecting your budget and energy levels.
What You'll Find In This Post:
Where to Stay: Accommodation Picks for Every Budget
Before we dive into the daily itinerary, let’s talk about where to rest your head. Rovaniemi makes an excellent base for your trip, with easy access to activities, restaurants, and day trips.
Budget-Friendly: Lauri Guesthouse B&B (€150-350/night)
This charming, historic wooden house offers a uniquely cozy and authentic stay right in the heart of Rovaniemi. Just a short walk from the city center, it’s full of local character with warm hospitality and homemade breakfasts. What makes it extra special is the lovely gift shop featuring handmade Finnish crafts—you’ll likely want to browse before you leave. The traditional home feeling and central location make it excellent value.
🎖️ Best for: Families, those seeking authentic atmosphere, couples, convenient city access
Mid-Range: Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara (€300-800/night)
Perched high above Rovaniemi on the Ounasvaara hill, this hotel offers panoramic views of the surrounding Arctic wilderness. With modern Nordic design and direct access to outdoor adventures like skiing and hiking, it’s a perfect blend of comfort and nature. The breakfast is amazing, and it’s ideal if you’re renting a car and want something quieter, away from the bustle of town, but still only 10 mins away from the action.
🎖️ Best for: Couples, families, active travelers, anyone seeking scenic views
Splurge Option: Apukka Resort (€900-1,700/night)
Apukka blends comfort and adventure seamlessly, offering rustic-chic lodges, glass igloos, and Kammi Suites. You’ll have immediate access to reindeer safaris, snowmobile trails, and husky rides—all from your doorstep. Wood-fired saunas with frozen lake dips complete the immersive Lapland experience. Many activity packages include thermal clothing and transfers, making this an all-inclusive Arctic retreat.
🎖️ Best for: Luxury seekers, adventure enthusiasts, families wanting an all-in-one experience
Once-in-a-Lifetime: SkyView Igloos Resort (€800+ /night)
If you’re after a unique stay with a touch of extravagance, the SkyView Igloos in Rovaniemi are hard to beat. These are two-storey, 50 m² glass-roof suites designed specifically for Northern Lights viewing. The most striking feature is the transparent dome roof that offers an open view of the sky—perfect for aurora spotting without ever leaving the warmth of your suite.
Each igloo features a private spa area with a sauna and jacuzzi on the second floor, next to the bedroom. The jacuzzi is placed on the balcony, allowing you to soak under the night sky. Every morning, a gourmet breakfast basket (fresh pastries, smoked fish, berry compote, and hot coffee) is delivered directly to your suite.
🎖️ Best for: Luxury seekers, romantic getaways, architecture enthusiasts, Northern Lights viewing
⭐ Pro Tip—Shoulder-Season Savings for any of the hotels: November and March/April (still plenty of snow) offer good aurora chances but rates drop 20–40% compared to the Christmas rush.
Day 1: Arrival & Santa Claus Village
Your Lapland adventure begins in Rovaniemi! Today is all about settling in and diving straight into the Christmas magic.
Morning: Arrive and Head to Santa Claus Village
After arriving at Rovaniemi Airport (there are direct flights from major European cities), head to your accommodation to drop off your bags and settle in.
Once you’re ready, make your way to Santa Claus Village, just 8 km from Rovaniemi (about 10 minutes by car or taxi). If you’re using public transport, Bus 8 runs from the railway station and takes about 35 minutes.
Start at Santa’s Main Office to meet the man himself. It’s completely free, though expect to queue 20 minutes to an hour depending on the season. You’ll get a quick chat with Santa—possibly in one of the 12 languages he speaks—and then be offered optional photos to purchase; prices start at 35 €.
Next, send postcards from the Santa Claus Post Office. You can send cards that arrive normally or drop them in a special box to be delivered next Christmas with an official North Pole postmark. We sent ours in late November, and they all arrived before Christmas—our family loved the surprise!
Don’t miss crossing the Arctic Circle. Large pillars mark the exact line, and there’s a giant thermometer perfect for photos (especially on chilly days). Head up the tower next to the post office to get an official certificate proving you’ve crossed into the Arctic.
Our experience: We like Santa Claus Village. It’s festive, Christmassy, and has nice restaurants and experiences. However, it is also very touristy; there are plenty of people, overpriced souvenir shops, and talking to Santa might take forever. For us, it’s one of those places that you go to, see for a couple of hours, and then leave to experience something more authentic.
Lunch: Santa’s Salmon Place
Stay in the village for lunch at Santa’s Salmon Place. They do one thing—salmon grilled over an open wood fire—and they do it incredibly well. Simple, smoky, and unforgettable.
No fish alternative – Lapland Restaurant Kotahovi. It’s just behind Santa’s main office, and they offer more options. It’s usually full, but you shouldn’t have to wait too long for a table to become available.
Afternoon: Explore Rovaniemi City Center
Head back to Rovaniemi and take a stroll through the compact city center. Here’s a suggested route:
- Lordi Square – Start at this main public square, named after the Finnish hard rock band and Eurovision 2006 winners. You’ll know you’re there when you see the big TV tower in the middle.
- Sampokeskus Shopping Mall – Just a short walk away, this is Rovaniemi’s main shopping center. Pop in to browse local shops or just warm up for a bit.
- Café Break – Grab a coffee at one of the cozy cafés in the city center. It’s the perfect way to recharge after your morning adventure.
- Lauri Handicrafts – About 10 minutes from Lordi Square, this charming spot doubles as a guesthouse and shop for beautiful, locally made crafts. We highly recommend picking up a bag of chaga chai—made from a mushroom that grows mainly in the Arctic and has been used for centuries by the Sámi for its potential health benefits.
- Kemijoki River Promenade – Take a peaceful walk along the river toward the Arktikum Museum.
Evening: Traditional Lappish Dinner
Cap off your first day with dinner at Restaurant Nili, Rovaniemi’s premier spot for traditional Finnish cuisine. Expect dishes featuring salmon, reindeer, and seasonal specialties like wild porcini mushrooms. The Chef’s Surprise Menu is a four-course journey through Lappish flavors. Reservations are recommended, but we walked in successfully around 7:10 PM when no-shows freed up tables.
After dinner, if the sky is clear and the aurora forecast looks promising, head to the park next to the Arktikum—it’s one of the best places in the city to spot the Northern Lights without leaving town.
Day 2: Husky Safari & Arctic Museums
Today brings one of Lapland’s most iconic experiences in the morning, followed by an afternoon diving into Arctic culture and nature.
Morning: Husky Sleigh Ride
This was an absolute highlight of our trip! Book a tour with Apukka or Bearhill Husky Farm for a 10-20 km safari. Most tours include pickup from central Rovaniemi and a few hotels. But you can actually drive there yourself if renting a car, as it keeps you flexible for afterward.
👇 We couldn’t decide on one specific tour to recommend, as both are incredible, so we ended up putting both links below. 👇
You’ll get to ride and command your own sleigh with a team of huskies. These magnificent animals are intelligent, friendly, playful, and remarkably strong—capable of running up to 70 km per day. The basics are simple to learn, and you’ll get a full safety briefing. If you’re traveling as a couple, you’ll share a sleigh and swap drivers midway.
Our experience: This was one of the best activities we did in Lapland. It’s a surreal feeling being on a sled, pulled by the dogs, with just snow and trees around. We did the 1-hour ride, and it was way too short. We wanted more. We’ll definitely get a longer safari on our next journey to Lapland.
The tours typically lasts one to two hours (although actual driving time is less), and I promise you’ll enjoy every second. Watching the huskies work together, hearing the swish of the sled on snow, and gliding through the silent forest is pure magic.
Even if you’re on a budget, we highly recommend splurging on this experience—it’s absolutely worth it.
⭐ Good news: Most tour companies provide thermal overalls and boots for activities, so you don’t need to buy an entire Arctic wardrobe.
Lunch: Arktikum Café Buffet
After your husky adventure, head to the Arktikum Museum for lunch at their café, which offers an all-you-can-eat buffet from 10:30 AM to 2 PM. You don’t need a museum ticket to eat there—just walk in and turn left. The food is delicious, surprisingly diverse, and includes vegan, vegetarian, and omnivore options. It’s seriously one of the best value meals in Rovaniemi.
Afternoon: Museum Time
After lunch, explore the Arktikum Museum itself (€20 for adults). It’s divided into two sections: a science center focused on Arctic ecosystems, Northern Lights, and wildlife, and a museum showcasing Lapland’s history and culture. The science center was the highlight for us—fascinating and beautifully presented.
If you have time and energy, the Pilke Science Centre next door (€7) is a fun, interactive look at Finland’s forests. Given that 74% of Finland is covered by forest, it’s only fair they have a museum dedicated to them!
⭐ Budget Tip: Get the Rovaniemi Culture Pass (€30) if you plan to visit multiple museums. It gives you unlimited 7-day access to Arktikum and Korundi Museum of Modern Art—you’ll break even with just two visits.
Evening: Relax and Recharge
After an action-packed day, head back to your accommodation. If you’re staying somewhere with a sauna, now’s the perfect time to use it. Pair it with a simple dinner—either cook something at your accommodation or grab a casual meal at Roka, a bistro-style restaurant with mains from €15-30.
Day 3: Reindeer Farm, Snowmobiling & Aurora Hunting
Day three ramps up the adventure with two more quintessential Lapland activities, capped off with an evening Northern Lights hunt.
Morning: Reindeer Farm Visit
Start your day at a local reindeer farm. A visit usually includes a guided tour where you’ll learn how each farmer recognizes their own reindeer, the chance to feed them (perfect for photos), and a sleigh ride.
The sleigh rides vary from 500 m to 5 km. We did the shorter version, which felt sufficient—it’s not as thrilling as the husky ride, but you’ll leave with a fun souvenir: a reindeer driving license, valid worldwide!
Expect to pay around €100-150 per person, depending on the package.
Afternoon: Snowmobiling on a Frozen Lake
After lunch it’s time for snowmobiling—a bucket-list Lapland experience.
⚠️ Important: You’ll need a valid driver’s license, and alcohol is strictly prohibited. This is legally treated as DUI, and police do random breath checks. You will be driving on the official snowmobile roads in Lapland.
Book a tour like the Wilderness Snowmobile Safari (around €140 for 2 hours). After a comprehensive safety briefing, you’ll drive through Lappish forests and across frozen lakes. The controls are similar to an ATV and might take a bit of getting used to if you haven’t driven one before.
Tours vary in length (1-3 hours), and some include stops for ice fishing or visits to reindeer/husky farms. We did the 2-hour version, in unpleasant weather to be honest—it was sleeting. The ride was nice, though physically tiring by the end—so plan accordingly.
✅ Book this top-rated snowmobile safari by clicking here!
Evening: Aurora Hunting
The Northern Lights are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, creating glowing waves of green, pink, or purple across the night sky. While breathtaking, they’re also unpredictable—sightings depend on solar activity, clear skies, and minimal light pollution.
Our honest advice: Don’t book an aurora tour by snowmobile in advance. Here’s why: there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights, and because it’s dark, you won’t enjoy the snowmobiling as much. Aurora predictions are only reliable a few days out, so booking weeks ahead is like shooting in the dark.
Instead, if you’re staying in Rovaniemi, head to Arktikum Park for a free attempt. It’s one of the best spots in the city. Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute website for real-time Northern Lights predictions before heading out.
Most aurora tour operators accept same-day bookings, so you can stay flexible and only commit when conditions look promising.
Day 4: Day Trip to Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls
Today takes you beyond Rovaniemi to one of Lapland’s most spectacular natural wonders: the frozen waterfalls of Korouoma National Park. This was an absolute highlight of our week-long trip!
Our experience: One of our absolute favorites! We did the trek with snowshoes and went a bit off-road with our guide. It’s complete peace and quiet, extreme tranquility. We couldn’t get too close to the waterfalls, unfortunately, as the snow cover wasn’t enough, but nonetheless the whole hike was worth it. Also the recharging by the fire at the end – you can’t experience this in many other places.
Full Day: Korouoma National Park
Located about 100 km from Rovaniemi (1 hour 20 minutes by car), Korouoma National Park near Posio offers a stunning 5 km circular hiking trail through a canyon where three massive waterfalls freeze into glistening ice walls (typically late November to mid-April).
Getting There:
While you can drive yourself, we highly recommend booking a small-group guided tour (around €120-150 per person, including hotel pickup and transfers).
Here’s why: guides know the trail intimately, share fascinating stories about the geology and local wildlife, help you spot the best photo opportunities, and—best of all—they bring snacks and prepare hot berry juice around an open fire at the rest area. It transforms a beautiful hike into a truly immersive Arctic experience.
What to Expect:
This is an easy hike in terms of technical skills, but be aware there are altitude differences and you’ll need a generally good fitness level. The trail is well-marked, starting and ending at Saukkovaara parking (go clockwise for the best experience).
The route takes you down into the canyon, where you’ll cross the river and marvel at the frozen waterfalls up close. Ice climbers often scale these walls, so keep an eye out! Your guide will point out the 9 information boards along the route and explain the park’s geology, the waterfalls’ formation, and the surrounding forest ecosystem.
At the rest area near the end, there is a traditional campfire area where you can light a fire (although fires are usually lit from other groups before you, you can also find dry wood in a little hut nearby). You can grill sausages (or vegetables) and warm berry juice—the perfect way to recharge before the final 500 m walk back to the parking lot!
Practical Tips:
- Bring: Warm LAYERS (you’ll get warm while hiking so might need to remove some clothes), waterproof boots (guides often provide these)
- Duration: Plan for 4–5 hours total, including breaks and the campfire
- Book with: Look for small-group tours on GetYourGuide or Airbnb Experiences
Evening: Return to Rovaniemi
Head back to Rovaniemi in the late afternoon. After a full day of hiking, you’ve earned a relaxing evening. Pick up some ingredients and cook at your accommodation, or treat yourself to dinner at Roka for something heartier than last night.
Day 5: Finnish Sauna Experience & Departure Preparations
Your final full day in Lapland is about embracing one of Finland’s deepest cultural traditions: the sauna. With more saunas in Finland than cars (and almost three times more saunas than people), it’s an experience you simply can’t skip.
Morning: Leisurely Start
Sleep in a bit—you’ve earned it after four days of adventure! Enjoy a slow breakfast at your accommodation or head to a local café. Cafe & Bar 21 is a good option.
If you have time, revisit any spots you loved earlier in the trip, do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Lauri Handicrafts or Sampokeskus, or take another stroll along the Kemijoki River promenade.
Afternoon: Traditional Finnish Sauna & Ice Dip
Book a lakeside sauna experience in a traditional wooden hut. While sauna sessions are enjoyed year-round in Finland, experiencing one in winter gives you the chance to do the full ritual: heating up in the sauna, then cooling off with a plunge into a frozen lake.
Many experiences provide a private hut where a guide walks you through the basics, then leaves you to enjoy up to two hours of blissful heat and cold therapy. There’s something incredibly rejuvenating about the contrast—intense heat followed by a blast of cold air, or for the bold, an icy dip.
Our experience: I gifted this to Neva, and she absolutely loved it. The staff were welcoming and helpful, the setting was peaceful (a few other huts around but still secluded), and she braved the lake twice—going in up to her neck! She came back glowing, refreshed, and full of energy.
Even if you’re hesitant, try it anyway. It’s surprisingly energizing, and dipping into a frozen lake is truly unforgettable.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
For your final dinner in Lapland, return to Restaurant Nili if you loved it on Day 1, or try something you missed earlier. Toast to an incredible Arctic adventure with a glass of Finnish berry liqueur.
If the aurora forecast is favorable, make one last attempt at Northern Lights viewing—it would be the perfect way to close out your trip.
If You Have More Time: Extending to 7 Days
Day 6: Ranua Wildlife Park
Take a day trip to Ranua Wildlife Park (80 km south of Rovaniemi, about 1 hour by car or regular bus service). This isn’t just a zoo—it’s a walk-through wildlife park showcasing northern species in a tranquil forest setting.
Our experience: A great day outdoors. Even if you’re not the biggest animal lover, the whole park is a super nice experience and kind of a must if traveling with kids! The whole park is stroller-accessible.
Ranua is home to Finland’s only polar bear, plus over 50 species, including lynxes, wolves, arctic foxes, and 8 species of owls. The enclosures are thoughtfully designed to be as close to wild habitats as possible while offering great viewing opportunities.
For a more in-depth experience, book a guided tour where you’ll feed some animals and learn about conservation efforts—worth it if you’re an animal lover!
Plan to spend the whole day. The park includes a restaurant and café for warming up between outdoor strolls (you can exit and re-enter with your daily ticket). The restaurant also offers a buffet lunch option.
Day 7: Lampivaara Amethyst Mine
For something truly off the beaten path, visit the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine in Luosto (110 km from Rovaniemi, about 1.5 hours by car or 2 hours by direct bus).
Our experience: This was an interesting day trip. It’s off the beaten track, and while there are hotels and some tourists in Luosto, it can’t be compared to Rovaniemi or Levi. The advantage of this is that you get an authentic experience in a fairy tale setting.
This was the place with the coldest temperatures and the most snow during our trip, so much snow that you could barely see the trees. It’s a bit of a drive from Rovaniemi, but quite worth it. You can book a safari if you prefer. It does make the logistics a bit easier.
✅ Book your mine visit and transfer from Rovaniemi here!
High atop Luosto Mountain, this sustainable mine lets you dig for your own amethyst—and keep it! The experience starts with a unique Pendolino snow train ride to the mine (€76 from the parking lot or €96 from the village center—drive to the parking lot to save €20; it’s just around the corner from the center).
At the mine, a guide explains the history and mining practices in a cozy wooden chalet, then you get hands-on time digging. There’s also a small shop with locally made amethyst jewelry.
There are not that many options for lunch in the tiny village of Luosto. There are a couple of restaurants, but they were closed when we visited, so your best bet is to pack something to eat so that you don’t starve before returning to Rovaniemi.
If You Have Less Time: Condensing to 3 Days
Short on time? Here’s how to experience Lapland’s highlights in just three days:
Day 1: Rovaniemi City + Santa Claus Village
- Morning: Visit Santa Claus Village, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards
- Afternoon: Explore Rovaniemi city center (Lordi Square, Sampokeskus, Lauri Handicrafts)
- Evening: Dinner at Restaurant Nili
Day 2: Husky Safari + Reindeer Farm
- Morning: Reindeer farm visit and sleigh ride
- Afternoon: Husky sleigh ride (10-20 km safari)
- Evening: Aurora hunting at Arktikum Park
Day 3: Sauna Experience + Arktikum Museum
- Morning: Visit Arktikum Museum
- Afternoon: Traditional Finnish sauna and ice dip
- Evening: Farewell dinner at Roka
This condensed version gives you the quintessential Lapland experiences—Santa, animal safaris, Finnish culture, and a chance at the Northern Lights—without feeling too rushed.
Practical Information
Can You Do This Itinerary Without a Car?
Yes, though having a car gives you more flexibility. Many husky, reindeer, and snowmobile tours offer pickup from central Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village. For spots further out (like Ounasvaara or forest ice skating), taxis are your best bet at around €30-40 one-way.
Our recommendation: If you don’t want to rent for the whole trip, rent a car for the Korouoma day trip (Day 4) and Ranua/Luosto extensions if you’re doing the 7-day version. For other days, pickups and taxis work fine.
Handy Resources
- Aurora Forecast: Finnish Meteorological Institute (real-time Northern Lights predictions)
- Visit Rovaniemi Official Site: Events, bus routes, and attraction info
- Matkahuolto: Public transport routes around Lapland
- Aurora Alert App: Download for notifications when conditions are prime
Final Thoughts
Lapland’s magic isn’t just in its snowy landscapes or dazzling auroras—it’s in the way the region invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and embrace experiences that will linger in your memory long after the snow melts.
From driving your own team of huskies through silent forests to meeting Santa at his official hometown, from hiking to frozen waterfalls to plunging into an icy lake after a steaming sauna, Lapland offers a depth of adventure that goes far beyond any single highlight.
This 5-day itinerary balances the bucket-list moments with authentic local culture, gives you flexibility to match your budget and interests, and—most importantly—leaves room to simply be present in one of the most magical places on Earth.
Safe travels, and may the Northern Lights guide you to unforgettable moments!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Lapland?
December–March for classic snowy Lapland with skiing, Northern Lights, and winter activities. September–October for autumn colors (“ruska season”) and fewer tourists. June–August for midnight sun and hiking. For budget travelers, November and March-April offer aurora chances with 20-40% lower prices.
How many days should I spend in Lapland?
Five days is ideal for experiencing the highlights without feeling rushed. Three days works for a quick introduction, while seven days allows for day trips to places like Ranua or Luosto.
Can I see the Northern Lights?
Lapland is one of the best places in the world for aurora viewing. Your best chances are between late September and early April, with the darkest months (December-February) offering maximum visibility. Stay at least 3 nights to boost your chances, and check the Finnish Meteorological Institute for real-time predictions.
Do I need to rent a car?
Not necessarily. Many accommodations and activities offer transfers from Rovaniemi. However, a car gives you more flexibility, especially for day trips like Korouoma. Consider renting just for specific days rather than your entire trip if money is a concern.
Are these activities suitable for children?
Many activities are family-friendly, including reindeer safaris, husky rides (as passengers), Ranua Wildlife Park, and meeting Santa. Snowmobiling requires a driver’s license, though some operators offer family sleds. Always check age/height requirements when booking. Check out our post for a family-friendly itinerary.
How cold does it really get?
Winter temperatures can drop to -30°C, though -10°C to -20°C is more typical. With proper layering (which most tour operators provide for activities), the cold is manageable and part of the experience. The dry Arctic cold often feels more comfortable than damp cold elsewhere.
Is Lapland expensive?
It can be, but budget options exist. Activities like husky rides and snowmobiling range from €130-200. Save money by staying in an Airbnb with a kitchen, visiting during shoulder season, using the Rovaniemi Culture Pass for museums, and choosing free activities like hiking and aurora viewing from Arktikum Park.
Should I book activities in advance?
For peak season (December-March), book husky rides, reindeer farms, and accommodations well ahead. For aurora tours, wait until 1-2 days before when forecasts become reliable. Most operators accept last-minute bookings outside peak periods.
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