Getting to Levi from Helsinki – Four Ways to Reach the Heart of Lapland

Levi, perched on the slopes of the Sámi‑named “Levi” mountain in Finnish Lapland, has become one of Scandinavia’s premier winter‑sport destinations. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Levi also offers husky safaris, reindeer rides, and a bustling winter village atmosphere, as well as the chance to glimpse the Northern Lights and experience the polar magic of the far north.

Located near the small town of Kittilä, Levi lies roughly 1,000 km north of Helsinki. Reaching it can feel like a journey into another world and is a mini‑adventure in its own right.

Many visitors wonder how to get to Levi from Helsinki, or even ask more directly, “how do I get to Levi from Helsinki?” The good news: you’ve got multiple options:

1. The convenience of a direct flight.
2. The slower but scenic train + bus.
3. A budget-friendly long-distance bus.
4. The flexibility of a self-drive road trip.

Each mode of travel comes with its own trade-offs. Below we break down the options, list their pros and cons, and then compare the two most popular choices—flying versus taking the train—before answering some of the most common traveler questions, including how to get to Levi from Rovaniemi.

1. Getting to Levi from Helsinki by Plane (via Kittilä Airport)

Overview

Flying is the most direct and time-efficient way of getting to Levi from Helsinki. Finnair and Norwegian operate regular direct flights from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) to Kittilä Airport (KTT), especially during the peak ski season (December–April). The flight takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. From Kittilä, Levi is only a 15-minute taxi or shuttle ride away. Many hotels and resorts offer free shuttle services that will pick you up from the airport.

In summer, connections are fewer but still available—useful for hikers and those exploring Lapland’s national parks.

Our Experience: There is something to be said about how smooth and effortless the journey was. You get on your plane, check your luggage directly to Kittilä, and then just enjoy the flights. The layover in Helsinki is quite nice, as the airport is organized well, it’s easy to navigate, and it’s big enough so that you don’t get bored. The frequency of departures to Kittilä in the winter also gives you enough flexibility to decide if you want to run to the gate or just take your time.

We really loved the wooden flooring and furniture – it makes staying at the airport so much cozier!

😊 Pros

• Fastest option: reach Levi in under two hours, maximizing your ski time or Northern Lights chances.
• Kittilä Airport is only 15 km from Levi, so transfers are short and easy, usually provided by the accommodation for no extra cost.
• High frequency in winter: multiple daily flights during peak ski season, making it easy to fit your itinerary.
• Minimal hassle: compared to transfers with trains/buses—fly, land, and you’re practically at the resort.

🙁 Cons

• Higher cost: Return fares often range from €150 to €300, especially in December–February.
• Extra baggage fees: Skis or snowboards will cost you extra.
• Weather disruptions: Heavy snow or storms may cause delays or cancellations.
• No discounts for kids—If traveling with kids above two, you’ll have to pay the same price for their seat on the plane.
• Airport logistics: Security checks, luggage handling, and transfers add to total travel time.

2. Getting to Levi from Helsinki by Train + Bus (via Kolari or Rovaniemi)

Overview

Since Levi doesn’t have its own station, you’ll need to combine train and bus travel. The Finnish rail company VR runs overnight and daytime services from Helsinki Central Station to Kolari (the nearest rail stop, ~80 km from Levi) and to Rovaniemi (170 km away). From either station, connecting buses or taxis run directly to Levi.

You can also book your bus directly when you book your train if you put Levi as the destination on VR’s website.

The entire trip takes around 12–15 hours (including transfers). Overnight trains with sleeper cabins are popular, as they save a night’s accommodation and deliver you north by morning.

Our Experience: We’ve taken the night train twice to Rovaniemi, once with a 10-month-old. While there are trains operating during the day, we chose the night train both times. That way, not only does the journey go by faster, but you also save on accommodation for the night. The VR operates new and comfortable trains, and our experience has been very positive, arriving on time both times.

You can buy a standard seat, but we recommend opting for the sleeper cabins, as you get more privacy and can have a shuteye. They are not big but can fit two people and a toddler with luggage and even a stroller! (see pic above) – you just have to be a bit creative with storing your things.

😊 Pros

• Scenic experience—windows let you watch lakes, forests, and the fading daylight turn into twilight if you take the day train. During the night you might catch a glimpse of the auroras if you’re lucky.
• Comfortable and scenic: roomy seats, power outlets, free Wi‑Fi (though not very reliable), a dining car serving hot meals and cold beer and optional sleeper cabins.
• No luggage fees: VR allows two 30-kg bags—perfect for skis and snow gear.
• Kids travel for free – Kids below the age of 10 travel for free in sleeper cabins provided that you share a bed. This works quite well with younger children, as the beds are about 90 cm wide.
• Overnight option: Sleep on the way and wake up in Lapland, ready to hit the slopes.

🙁 Cons

• Limited frequency—only a few departures per day and not every day to Kolari, more regular services to Rovaniemi and in winter, though.
• Transfer required: No direct rail to Levi—must switch to bus or taxi, and taxi will be expensive, even if faster.
• Possible winter delays: Heavy snow can slow services, though VR is reliable overall, and both of our trains were on time even though we traveled at the depth of winter.
• Premium sleeper cost: Sleeping cabins cost more, sometimes approaching flight prices. If there is more than one person traveling and you book early enough, it still might be cheaper, as the sleeper cabins always include 2 beds, and you pay per cabin, not per bed.

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3. Getting to Levi from Helsinki by Bus

Overview

Coaches run by OnniBus, Matkahuolto, and smaller regional operators connect Helsinki with Levi and Kittilä. The journey is long—14–18 hours—but overnight routes make it manageable. Buses usually stop in Rovaniemi or Oulu before continuing north.

This is the cheapest way of getting to Levi from Helsinki, especially if booked well in advance.

Our Experience: Although we haven’t used the bus for such a long journey in Finland, we have used Matkahuolto for shorter trips around Rovaniemi and the buses, staff, and overall journey experience were very nice. We’re not sure if we’d want to get through a 15-hour bus journey, but if you love, or at least tolerate, it, it’s a great option!

😊 Pros

• Lowest fares: Tickets can be as low as €40–€60 one way if purchased early.
• Direct arrivals: Buses can drop you right in Levi centre, no transfers needed.
• Frequent promotions—operators run sales during off‑peak months.
• Overnight option: Sleep en route, saving on a night’s accommodation.
• Extra luggage: Most companies allow ski or snowboard gear on top of your free luggage allowance.
  

🙁 Cons

• Very long trip: 14+ hours on a bus is tiring, especially for families with children.
• Limited comfort: Reclining seats but less spacious than train; minimal movement possible.
• Few amenities: Wi-Fi and sockets, but no hot meals.
• Weather-sensitive: Heavy snow can delay coaches, especially on Lapland’s roads.
• Limited availability in summer: Most direct Helsinki–Levi buses operate only from the end of November to the end of March.

4. Getting to Levi from Helsinki by Car

Overview

Driving from Helsinki to Levi covers roughly 1,000 km via the E75. Without stops, it takes around 12–13 hours, though many travelers break it up with an overnight in Oulu or Rovaniemi. Winter driving in Finland is generally safe thanks to well-maintained roads, but conditions can still be challenging.

In summer, the same journey is easier, offering endless daylight and the freedom to explore Lapland at your own pace.

Our Experience: We always tend to travel in winter, so we haven’t dared embark on this epic journey with a car. However, we have rented cars in Lapland to be more flexible, and we never book a car before comparing prices on DiscoverCars.com.

😊 Pros

• Maximum flexibility—stop where and when you want- lakes, towns, or scenic viewpoints.
• Scenic adventure—Drive through Lapland’s wilderness—an experience in itself.
• Luggage freedom—no weight limits beyond your vehicle’s capacity, perfect for ski gear, camping equipment, or family suitcases.
• Cost-sharing—Splitting rental and fuel costs makes it budget-friendly for groups.
• Summer ease—Long daylight hours and clear roads make driving enjoyable.
  

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🙁 Cons

• Winter driving challenges—snow, ice, and limited daylight demand caution (your rental car will be equipped with winter tires by law).
• Fuel expenses—long distances and cold‑weather fuel consumption can add up, especially with higher fuel prices.
• Time commitment—even at best, you’ll spend 12+ hours behind the wheel.

Plane vs. Train + Bus: Which Wins?

For most Levi travelers, the decision comes down to speed versus experience.

1. Time Efficiency

• Plane: 3–4 hours door-to-door.
• Train+Bus: 12–15 hours, although by choosing a night train, you save on accommodation and travel during the night, so the loss of time is not so extreme.

💡 Bottom line: Choose the plane when every hour at the destination counts. Opt for the train if you can afford a slower start and value a stress‑free, scenic ride.

2. Cost

• Plane: Prices fluctuate heavily with seasonality. In peak winter (December–January), tickets often exceed €200 round‑trip, while low‑season fares may dip to €100 + extra fees for ski/snowboard.
• Train+Bus: Standard second‑class tickets hover around €30–€60 round-trip year-round. First-class or sleeper cabins (they start as low as €80 per cabin if you’re lucky) raise the price but stay competitive with many flight options, especially when you factor in the lack of extra baggage fees or a toddler.

💡 Bottom line: For budget‑conscious travelers, the train+bus generally offers better value, particularly if you’re comfortable with standard seating.

3. Travel Experience

• Plane: quick and efficient, but little scenery.
• Train+Bus: scenic, relaxed, and part of the adventure.

💡 Bottom line: If you cherish the journey itself as a cultural vignette, the train wins. If you view travel as a means to an end, the plane is more pragmatic.

Recommendation

Choose the train if you:

• have time
• are on a budget
• love train journeys
• are eco-conscious traveler

Choose the plane if you:

• want a weekend ski trip
• money is not a concern
• travel light
• want more time at the destination

Closing Thoughts

At first glance, getting to Levi from Helsinki might seem daunting—after all, it’s nearly 1,000 km north of the capital. But with well-connected flights, reliable trains, budget buses, and a scenic road route, there’s a way to suit every traveler.

Whichever way you get to Levi from Helsinki, it awaits you with snowy slopes, cozy saunas, lively après-ski, and the Northern Lights flickering above the fells. Getting to Levi from Helsinki is just the beginning of your Lapland adventure. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions about getting from Helsinki to Levi