Holirays

When you think of Lapland, you probably picture snow-covered forests, husky sledding, reindeer, the Northern Lights and, of course the big guy himself Santa Claus.

But Lapland is so much more than a Christmas destination. From luxury glass cabins and boutique wilderness retreats to skiing, incredible dining and traditional Finnish saunas, there are so many different ways to experience this beautiful part of the world.

There are different ways to book Lapland, from traditional Santa packages with chartered flights to luxury, tailor-made holidays through specialist suppliers.

Personally, I much prefer the smaller, more authentic wilderness experiences, but the right holiday really depends on what you’re looking for.

Getting to Lapland

Lapland is a huge area and has no less than 5 airports. Direct flights from the UK are seasonal and only operate on certain days of the week. So unlike booking a typical European holiday, you can’t necessarily choose any departure date or holiday duration you like.

This is especially important if you’re looking at a particular wilderness resort, as flights, transfer arrangements and accommodation availability all need to work together.

Ivalo – Northern Lapland

British Airways operates seasonal direct flights from London Gatwick to Ivalo. This is the gateway to Saariselkä, Muotka, Nangu, Nellim and Inari.

Kittilä – Levi and Muonio

easyJet operates seasonal flights to Kittilä, which is the main airport for Levi and Muonio. Levi is one of Finland’s largest ski resorts.

Rovaniemi – Central Lapland

easyJet and Ryanair operate seasonal services to Rovaniemi, the gateway to Santa Claus Village, Pyhä and Luosto.

Connecting via Helsinki

If the direct flight days don’t work, Finnair offers connections via Helsinki to several airports across Finnish Lapland.

Package Options

Boutique Lapland Specialists – My Preferred Option

My preferred way to book Lapland is through one of the specialist boutique suppliers I work with. These companies have excellent knowledge of the different regions, resorts and experiences, and can create a much more tailored holiday.

Rather than booking a standard package, we can choose the accommodation that best suits you, whether that’s a remote wilderness lodge, a luxury glass cabin, a boutique retreat or somewhere with activities for the whole family.

We can also arrange experiences privately or in small groups such as husky sledding, reindeer encounters, snowmobiling and Northern Lights excursions. These can be tailored to suit your needs.

Dedicated Lapland Packages with Chartered Flights

Another option is to book a dedicated Lapland holiday with a tour operator offering chartered flights from the UK. These are often designed around stays of three or four nights, particularly during the Christmas season. Flights, transfers, accommodation and organised activities are usually included, making them a convenient option for families.

Some packages focus heavily on visiting Santa, while others include a selection of traditional winter experiences. These holidays can work well if you’re looking for a straightforward, organised trip, especially if you want to travel from a regional UK airport. However, they tend to be more structured, with less flexibility around your accommodation, excursions and itinerary and have larger groups.

Santa Breaks – The Traditional Family Experience

If the main reason for visiting Lapland is to take younger children to meet Father Christmas, there are dedicated Santa breaks designed specifically for families. They tend to be slightly more budget friendly than the bespoke options.

These usually include festive activities, organised Santa visits, reindeer experiences and entertainment. Unlike some of the more remote glass-cabin resorts, these trips often use traditional hotel accommodation or there are lodge options too. This can be a really good option for families who prefer the facilities and convenience of a hotel.

Levi is particularly worth considering. It’s a proper ski resort with hotels, restaurants and facilities, so there’s more to do outside the organised Santa experiences.

Choosing the Right Area of Lapland

Ivalo, Saariselkä and Inari – For the Wilderness Experience

Located in the far north of Finnish Lapland, this region is particularly good for travellers wanting to escape the crowds. The snow season is long, typically stretching from mid-November into April, although conditions vary each year.

Saariselkä has a small ski resort, but the main attraction here is the surrounding wilderness. Some of Lapland’s best-known accommodation can be found in this region, including Northern Lights Village Saariselkä, the Wilderness Hotels and Aurora Village Ivalo.

It’s ideal for couples, Northern Lights enthusiasts and anyone looking for that magical feeling of being surrounded by snow-covered forests.

Kittilä, Levi and Muonio – Skiing or Remote Escapes

Levi is one of Finland’s biggest and best-known ski resorts, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities. Many of the more luxurious cabin resorts are located outside the centre, meaning you can enjoy a peaceful setting while still having access to Levi’s restaurants and activities.

Muonio, on the other hand, is all about the wilderness. It’s quieter, more remote and particularly good for traditional Lapland experiences such as husky sledding and exploring the snowy landscapes.

Rovaniemi – The Home of Santa Claus

Rovaniemi is probably the best-known destination in Lapland, largely because of Santa Claus Village. But something I always explain to clients is that Rovaniemi is a city, rather than a remote wilderness destination. Santa Claus Village can be great fun for families, but it has a distinctly commercial, theme-park feel. Think Christmas attractions, shops, organised experiences and plenty of queues. It isn’t necessarily the magical, peaceful wilderness experience people imagine when they think of Lapland.

Personally, I think the more remote resorts often deliver a much more special experience, particularly when Santa visits and festive activities are organised privately or in smaller groups.

That said, Rovaniemi does have some fantastic luxury accommodation outside the city, including Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, Apukka Resort and Wilderness Hotel Vaattunki. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine a visit to Santa Claus Village with a few nights somewhere more peaceful.

Pyhä and Luosto – Traditional Lapland

Both reached via Rovaniemi Airport, Pyhä and Luosto are smaller ski destinations surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. They have a much more traditional, relaxed feel than the larger resorts. You’ll find cosy cabins, boutique accommodation, opportunities for winter sports and all the classic Lapland activities. These are great choices if you want a combination of wilderness, skiing and somewhere a little less commercial.

Ruka – For Luxury and Skiing

Ruka is another of Finland’s popular ski destinations, with a longer winter sports season than many European ski resorts. It offers skiing alongside luxury accommodation, including the beautiful Lumo Resort. It’s worth considering if you want a combination of winter activities and a more luxurious place to stay.

Kainuu – A Quieter Alternative

Further south, the Kainuu region is a lesser-known option for a Finnish winter holiday. Although it’s outside the Arctic Circle, it still has a long winter season, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, wellness and enjoying the snowy landscapes. This is a good choice for those who aren’t particularly interested in Santa and would prefer a quieter winter escape.

The Best Places to Stay in Lapland

Northern Lights Village

With properties in Saariselkä, Levi and Pyhä, Northern Lights Village is one of the best-known names in Lapland. These are larger, purpose-built resorts, generally with around 80–100 cabins, and they offer everything you need in one place.

Accommodation options include Aurora Cabins sleeping up to four, larger suites sleeping up to five and, at Pyhä, Forest Cabins that can accommodate up to six. There are also Polar Sky Suites at Pyhä, positioned on the mountain with beautiful views. Full-board packages are available, with tea, coffee, juice and water included with meals. Accommodation, meals and excursions can all be organised together, making them particularly good for families and first-time visitors.

Wilderness Hotels

The Wilderness Hotels are some of my favourite options for travellers looking for something a little more special. Properties include Nellim, Muotka, Inari and Nangu, all offering beautiful settings away from the busier resorts. They’re generally more intimate and have a more premium feel than the larger Northern Lights Village properties. Food is a real highlight, with excellent buffets and à la carte dining options, depending on the hotel. Accommodation ranges from cosy cabins and glass-roofed rooms to larger properties suitable for groups of up to eight.

Harriniva Adventure Resort – Muonio

For a more traditional, rustic Lapland experience, Harriniva is a lovely option. This family-run resort has its own sled dog centre, making it especially appealing to anyone interested in husky experiences. Accommodation includes standard hotel rooms and more luxurious glass suites. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something authentic rather than an ultra-modern luxury resort.

Arctic SnowHotel – Rovaniemi

For something completely different, how about spending a night in a hotel made from snow and ice? Arctic SnowHotel is a seasonal experience, generally operating between December and March. It’s not necessarily somewhere you’d want to spend your entire holiday, but combining a night here with a luxury wilderness resort can make a really memorable trip.

Lapland isn’t Just for Kids!

One thing I particularly want to highlight is that Lapland isn’t just for children. Some of its most beautiful properties are much better suited to couples, honeymooners and adults wanting a luxury winter escape.

Aurora Village – Ivalo

Located in the far north, Aurora Village is another lovely option for adults, with a minimum guest age of 12. The Aurora Cabins are spread out across the property, creating a real sense of space and privacy. There’s plenty to do here, from traditional husky and reindeer experiences to tobogganing and horse riding. The resort even has its own reindeer enclosure. One particularly lovely touch is the option of an airport transfer by heated sleigh.

Wilderness Hotel Vaattunki – Rovaniemi

One of the biggest advantages of Wilderness Hotel Vaattunki is its location. It’s relatively close to Rovaniemi Airport, so you can enjoy a short transfer while still feeling completely surrounded by nature. Accommodation includes beautiful panoramic huts and premium Aurora Igloos. The food is another real highlight, making this a particularly good choice for food lovers. You can enjoy all the traditional winter excursions and even combine your stay with a night at Arctic SnowHotel.

Wilderness Hotel Nangu – Ivalo

If you’re looking for somewhere really peaceful, Nangu is one of my top recommendations. This is an adults-only property set beside a frozen lake, away from towns and ski resorts. It’s intimate, quiet and ideal for those who want to disconnect. The food is excellent, and there’s still a full range of Lapland experiences available. Accommodation varies from traditional cabins to Aurora accommodation, so you could even combine different room types during your stay. For something really memorable, there are just five lakeside huts. These are a more rustic experience without running water, so I’d recommend them for a single night rather than your whole stay.

Northern Lights Ranch – Levi

Northern Lights Ranch is a beautiful, design-led property close enough to Levi to enjoy the ski resort and its restaurants. All the cabins have large sky-view windows, making the most of the surrounding landscape. Premium accommodation options include private outdoor hot tubs. There’s also ice skating, while the à la carte dining makes this another excellent choice for foodies. Although not adults-only, it has a grown-up, luxurious feel.

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – Rovaniemi

Probably one of Lapland’s most recognisable luxury hotels, Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is known for its striking design and beautiful suites. It’s a family-friendly property, but the sophisticated atmosphere makes it particularly appealing to couples. Some suites have private saunas, and the hotel’s award-winning restaurant is a major attraction. It’s also conveniently located near SantaPark, with Santa Claus Village a short journey away. One thing to consider is that activities generally need to be arranged separately rather than being based on site. Experiences such as ice floating can also be organised. It’s one of the more expensive options, but it’s a fantastic choice if design, dining and luxury accommodation are priorities.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Lapland?

November and December – Christmas Magic

This is the most popular period for families wanting the traditional Christmas experience. Santa visits, reindeer rides, husky sledding and festive activities are the main attractions. December is particularly busy, and the most popular resorts can sell out well in advance. If you’re travelling in November, remember that snowfall can be less predictable earlier in the month, particularly further south.

January to March – Snow and Northern Lights

Personally, I think this is a fantastic time to experience Lapland, particularly for adults. There’s usually plenty of snow, the Christmas crowds have disappeared and you can enjoy all the traditional winter activities. Santa is here year round, so instead of asking him for gifts, kids can thank him for their presents!

It’s also an excellent period for Northern Lights viewing. January is particularly atmospheric, with long, dark evenings, while February and March offer increasing daylight for exploring.

April – Spring Snow and Quieter Escapes

April can be a lovely time to visit, particularly for skiing and outdoor activities. There’s generally more daylight, the temperatures can feel less extreme and some resorts are much quieter. However, not all winter experiences operate throughout April, so it’s important to check what’s available.

Summer – A Completely Different Lapland

Lapland isn’t just a winter destination. In summer, the snow gives way to forests, lakes, hiking trails and the Midnight Sun. It’s a completely different experience but equally beautiful for those who love nature and the outdoors.

Can You See the Northern Lights in Lapland?

One of the biggest reasons people visit Lapland is to see the Aurora Borealis. And while there are some fantastic places to stay specifically designed for Northern Lights viewing, it’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can never be guaranteed. You need a combination of solar activity, darkness and clear skies. Generally, the Northern Lights season runs from late August through to early April, with the darkest winter months providing plenty of opportunities.

Staying further north, away from city lights, can improve your chances. This is one reason I particularly like the Ivalo and Inari region. Glass-roofed cabins and Aurora Suites can be wonderful, allowing you to watch the sky from the comfort of your accommodation.

However, you don’t have to stay in a glass igloo to see the Northern Lights. Many resorts offer guided Aurora excursions, and sometimes the best views are simply found by stepping outside.

What Can You Do in Lapland?

There is so much more to Lapland than meeting Santa.

Depending on where you’re staying, experiences can include:

• Husky sledding: One of the most memorable ways to explore the snowy wilderness.
• Reindeer experiences: Meet the animals, learn about local traditions and enjoy a sleigh ride.
• Snowmobiling: A fantastic way to cover more ground and explore the forests.
• Northern Lights excursions: Head away from artificial light with an experienced guide.
• Skiing and snowboarding: Particularly around Levi, Ruka, Pyhä and Saariselkä.
• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: A quieter way to enjoy the landscape.
• Traditional Finnish saunas: Especially memorable when combined with an ice dip.
• Ice floating: Float in icy water wearing a specialist thermal suit.
• Horse riding and tobogganing: Available at selected resorts.
• Ice hotels and snow restaurants: A really unusual experience to add to your itinerary.

What I Would Avoid When Booking Lapland

There are some fantastic Lapland holidays available, but there are also certain experiences I wouldn’t personally recommend if you’re looking for that magical, authentic wilderness feeling.

Large, Commercial Santa Packages

Operators such as TUI offer popular, organised trips that appeal to lots of families. But personally, they’re not my preferred way to experience Lapland. These trips can be very busy and commercial, particularly during the peak Christmas period, with large groups, scheduled activities and queues. For some families, the convenience of having everything organised is exactly what they want. However, if you’re imagining quiet snow-covered forests, intimate Santa encounters and a more personal experience, I think there are much better options. I much prefer working with smaller specialist suppliers who can offer a more tailored holiday and, where available, quieter experiences away from the crowds.

Staying in Rovaniemi City Centre

Rovaniemi is often the first place people think of when planning a Lapland holiday, but I wouldn’t recommend staying in the city centre if you’re looking for a magical wilderness escape. It’s a commercial city with shops, restaurants, traffic and everyday life. Of course, it has its advantages, particularly if you want plenty of facilities nearby, but it isn’t necessarily the Lapland experience people picture.

Santa Claus Village is also very commercial. It can feel more like a Christmas theme park than an authentic wilderness experience, especially during busy periods.

My preference would always be to stay outside the city in a beautiful resort surrounded by nature. Properties such as Wilderness Hotel, Apukka Resort and Arctic TreeHouse Hotel allow you to enjoy the Rovaniemi area without staying in the city itself. You can still visit Santa Claus Village if you want to, but return to somewhere peaceful afterwards.

Booking Too Late

This is probably one of the biggest mistakes people make when planning Lapland. There are a limited number of direct flights from the UK, and some of the most desirable accommodation has relatively few cabins or suites. The most popular resorts, particularly Northern Lights Village and the smaller luxury wilderness properties, can sell out a long way ahead.

For Christmas travel, I’d ideally recommend starting to plan 12–18 months in advance, particularly if you’re travelling as a family, need a larger cabin or want specific dates.

For January to March, there can be a little more flexibility, but I’d still recommend booking six to twelve months ahead if you have a particular property in mind.

Booking early gives you the best choice of flights, accommodation categories and experiences. It also means we can plan the holiday around what you really want, rather than what’s left.

My Top Tips for Booking Lapland

1. Choose your location before your hotel.

Lapland covers a huge area, and the experience varies enormously between destinations. Decide whether you want Santa, skiing, luxury, wilderness or a combination before choosing where to stay.

2. Don’t assume Rovaniemi is the best option.

It’s certainly the most famous and easiest to get to, but if you’re dreaming of peaceful forests, frozen lakes and remote glass cabins, you may prefer somewhere further north.

3. Book early for December.

The most popular resorts, particularly those with Aurora Cabins and family accommodation, can sell out well in advance.

4. Think about your board basis.

Many wilderness resorts are remote, so you won’t necessarily have restaurants within walking distance. Full board can make much more sense than bed and breakfast or self catering. Some of the smaller luxury properties offer exceptional dining, so it’s worth choosing somewhere that suits your food preferences too.

5. Consider combining accommodation types.

You don’t necessarily need to spend every night in an expensive glass cabin. A few nights in a traditional lodge followed by a night or two in an Aurora Suite can be a lovely combination. You could also add a night at Arctic SnowHotel for something different.

6. Don’t plan your entire holiday around seeing the Northern Lights.

They are incredible when you see them, but there’s so much else to enjoy. Choose somewhere you’ll love regardless of whether the Aurora makes an appearance.

7. You don’t need to visit at Christmas.

If Santa isn’t your priority, January, February and March can be brilliant months to visit, with excellent snow conditions and a much quieter atmosphere. You can always visit in January and thank Santa for your gifts.

8. Consider whether a hotel or cabin is right for you.

Glass cabins are beautiful, but they’re not necessarily the best choice for every family. If you prefer more space, hotel facilities and somewhere to relax between excursions, a traditional hotel or larger lodge might suit you better.

9. Check flight days before choosing your dates.

With limited direct services from the UK, it’s important to make sure the flights, accommodation and excursions all fit together before committing to a trip.

10. Don’t be tempted by a Day Trip

A 20 hr day with kids in tow…. that screams stress!

Planning a Trip to Lapland?

Whether you’re dreaming of taking the children to meet Santa, staying in a glass-roofed cabin beneath the Northern Lights or escaping to a luxury wilderness retreat, I can help you find the right destination and accommodation.

With so many different regions, resorts and experiences available, it’s worth getting the details right.

At Holirays, I work with specialist suppliers who know Lapland incredibly well, allowing me to put together holidays that go beyond the standard package.

From choosing the right airport and resort to arranging accommodation, transfers and excursions, I can help create a Lapland holiday that works for you.

Get in touch to start planning your Lapland adventure.