10-Day Winter Itinerary to Finnish Lapland (No Car Needed!)

Welcome to Finnish Lapland, a land of sparkling snow, magical auroras, and unique Arctic adventures. This stunning destination is home to fluffy snow-laden fells, cozy saunas, reindeer safaris, and charming villages.

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With this carefully curated 10-day itinerary, we’ll guide you through Lapland’s most breathtaking highlights while making it easy to travel via public transportation.

Check bus schedules !

Check train schedules !

Day 1–4: Levi – Slopes & Winter Magic

Day 1: Arrive in Levi and Unwind

Whether you fly into Kittilä Airport—just 20 minutes from Levi—or take the night train to Kolari followed by a short bus ride, Levi is your gateway to Arctic fun. After you’ve settled in at your accommodation, take some time to explore this picturesque ski resort town. Wander through Levi’s charming center and treat yourself to an authentic Lapland meal. For something truly special, head to Niiloporo restaurant and taste their delicious reindeer dishes.

Tip: If you’ve been dreaming of staying in a cozy glass igloo, you might want to check your accommodations early. Levi has amazing options if it fits your budget.

SEE AVAILABLE HOTELS ->

Day 2: Hit the Slopes and Chase the Aurora

Start your day by skiing or snowboarding down Levi’s famed slopes. Not a skier? No problem! Rent snowshoes and take the gondola up the mountain, where you can hike back down at your own pace while soaking in the panoramic views. Don’t miss Santa’s Cabin near the Gondola top—it’s a beautiful spot you’ll love.

A couple during the sunset time in winter wonderland Levi, Finland

10-Day Winter Itinerary to Finnish Lapland (No Car Needed!)

When night falls, it’s time to chase the northern lights! You can go aurora hunting on your own, but for the best chance of spotting this natural wonder, consider joining an organized tour with local guides.

Northern lights next to cottage house in Lapland

Day 3: Reindeers, Huskies, and Sauna Bliss

Choose between a magical reindeer safari or an adrenaline-pumping husky sledding adventure—or better yet, find a tour that lets you experience both!

Alternatively, for a budget-friendly option, head to Elves Village to enjoy shorter reindeer rides or meet and feed reindeer near the K5 Levi Hotel.

End your day like a true Finn by indulging in a rejuvenating Arctic sauna and ice-dipping session (known as avanto). Places like Immelkartano offer private sauna rentals with avanto, while public options can be found at Saunabaari, Elves Village or Sammontupa (not every day, check schedules and book advance!). If you rent a car, visit Arctic Sauna World—just a 30-minute drive.

Day 4: Explore Ylläs or Discover Pallas

Spend your final day in Levi skiing—or spice things up with a side trip to Ylläs, another incredible ski destination nearby. Easiest way to visit Ylläs is to rent a car. The Snow Village is on the way to Ylläs, making it a great stop on your return to Levi. It also features an ice restaurant, ideal for a unique dining experience (reservations required).

If skiing isn’t your thing, consider exploring the serene beauty of Pallas. It’s located just around 45min drive from Levi. You can try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing while enjoying stunning landscapes. Pallas is also great place for off-slopes skiing. Combine this with a visit to Arctic Sauna World (located very close to Pallas) for one last taste of sauna bliss before heading to your next destination.

Read more about Levi -> The Ultimate Winter Travel Guide to Levi, Finland

Day 5–6: Rovaniemi – Santa’s Hometown and City Vibes

Day 5: Travel to Rovaniemi

Hop on a bus for a scenic 2.5-hour ride to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus and the capital of Finnish Lapland. Check into your accommodations and prepare to immerse yourself in a unique blend of Arctic nature and urban culture.

For your evening activity, why not go aurora hunting again? Rovaniemi offers fantastic opportunities to witness the northern lights, either on your own or through a guided tour.

Day 6: Visit Santa Claus Village

No trip to Rovaniemi is complete without meeting Santa Claus himself at Santa Claus Village. Located right on the Arctic Circle, this magical destination lets you cross into the Arctic, send a postcard from Santa’s official post office, and shop for unique souvenirs. You might even spot a few reindeer hanging out nearby!

Spend the rest of the day exploring Rovaniemi’s cultural and natural wonders, such as the Arktikum science center or lovely local boutiques.

10-Day Winter Itinerary to Finnish Lapland

Day 7–10: Saariselkä – Aurora Bliss and Arctic Adventure

Day 7: Journey to Saariselkä

Board a comfortable bus for the 3-hour drive to Saariselkä, a winter wonderland known for its endless opportunities to spot the aurora borealis. After you arrive, settle in and get ready to go aurora hunting once more—Saariselkä is one of the best spots in Finland for witnessing this mesmerizing light show.

Day 8: Tobogganing and Skiing Fun

Start your day with a thrilling ride down the longest toboggan run in Northern Europe, located right in Saariselkä’s ski resort. If you’re a fan of skiing, hit the slopes here and take in the breathtaking views from the top of the fells.

For a relaxing evening, unwind with a spa visit or try the sauna and avanto at Kiilopää. Alternatively, enjoy a laid-back night of bowling or delicious food at one of Saariselkä’s charming restaurants.

Day 9: Discover Sami Culture or Snowmobile Through the Wild

For your final full day in Lapland, learn about the Sami people—Lapland’s indigenous population—by visiting the quaint village of Inari. Many tour operators offer immersive cultural experiences, complete with storytelling, traditional music, and local cuisine.

Prefer more action? Book a snowmobile safari to zip through snowy forests and across frozen lakes. There’s nothing quite like feeling the Arctic wind rush past as you explore Lapland’s untouched wilderness.

Day 10: Depart from Lapland

All good things must come to an end. Saariselkä’s Ivalo Airport makes leaving Lapland as seamless as arriving, with direct flights to Helsinki and some other major hubs internationally.

Read more transportation in Lapland -> Exploring Finnish Lapland: An In-Depth Guide to Transportation

Packing Tips for Finnish Lapland

Warm, waterproof clothing is essential (think thermal layers, down jackets, and snow boots).
Don’t forget a good pair of gloves, a hat, and a scarf to keep you cozy during outdoor activities.
Headlamps and power banks are handy for aurora hunting.

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