The Ultimate Winter Travel Guide to Levi, Finland

Dreaming of snow-covered landscapes, exhilarating winter sports, and a chance to see the Northern Lights? Levi, Finland, is one of Lapland’s gems and a perfect winter destination. With its charming atmosphere, cozy accommodations, and endless activities, Levi offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all kinds.

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Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long adventure, this guide will help you explore Levi like a seasoned traveler. From how to get there and where to stay, to the best local dishes and must-try experiences—we’ve got you covered.

Where is Levi, Finland?

Levi is located in Finnish Lapland, above the Arctic Circle. It’s a winter wonderland known for its stunning fells, scenic trails, and snowy activities. The main area, Levi Ski Resort, is centered in Sirkka, where you’ll find the majority of accommodations, restaurants, and some activities conveniently clustered together.

If you’re looking for a cozy, snow-covered escape with easy access to Lapland’s finest attractions, Levi is it.

How to Get to Levi

Reaching Levi is easier than you might think. Here’s how to make your way to this Arctic paradise:

Fly: Most travelers fly to Kittilä International Airport, about a 20-minute drive from Levi. Both domestic and international flights are available during winter. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus for around €10, or grab a taxi or rideshare like Uber or Bolt (€40–€60). Renting a car at the airport is another option, especially if you plan to explore beyond Levi.

Train: For a more scenic and adventurous route, take the night train from Helsinki to Kolari, which is a little over an hour’s drive from Levi. Buses are available to transfer you directly from the Kolari train station to Levi Ski Resort.

Drive: If you’re up for a road trip, you can drive to Levi from southern Finland. However, winter road conditions can be challenging, so check weather forecasts and road reports before setting off.

Finnair flight at the Kittilä Airport, Finland

Getting Around Levi

While in Levi, there are a few convenient ways to get around:

Rent a Car: Ideal for those wanting to explore the surrounding areas or visit nearby ski resorts and attractions.

Ski Bus: The ski bus operates daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, connecting many key points around Levi, including the ski slopes.

Walk: Levi’s central area is compact, making it easy to walk to restaurants, shops, and some activities.

Taxis: Available but sometimes pricey, and you may have to wait longer during peak seasons.

When to Visit Levi

Levi is a year-round destination, but let’s face it—winter is when it truly shines. The snowy season runs from November to April, with peak months for skiing, snowboarding, and the Northern Lights being September through March. However, winter can get very cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping to -40 degrees.

Timing Tips:

Holiday Season (Christmas & New Year’s): December is magical, but it’s also the busiest time and the priciest. Book accommodations months in advance.
Mid-February to Early March: This is when Finnish schools are on ski holidays, making it a busy time for families.
Northern Lights Season: The best chances to spot the Aurora Borealis are from September to March.

Where to Stay in Levi

Levi offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly apartments to luxurious glass igloos. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

Levi Center (Sirkka): If you want to be in the middle of everything, stay near Levi Center. It’s within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and some activity hubs. Hotels and apartments here are ideal for convenience.

Cabins: For a cozy, authentic Lapland vibe, rent a cabin with a private sauna. These are perfect for couples or families looking for warmth and charm after a day in the snow. We believe cabins are the best option to experience the authentic Lapland vibe. You can find cabins within walking distance of Levi Center, making it possible to stay even without a car. Additionally, many cabins are located along the ski bus route.

Luxury Stays: Lapland is famous for its glass igloos—offering a surreal experience of watching the Northern Lights from your bed. They come at a premium cost but are absolutely worth it for once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Things to Do in Levi

Once you arrive in Levi and settle in, it’s time for the fun to begin. There’s no shortage of winter activities and adventures.

Chase the Northern Lights

The Aurora Borealis is one of Levi’s biggest draws. Join a guided Northern Lights tour, or simply head to a dark spot away from light pollution for a chance to see this breathtaking phenomenon.

To help you to see Aurora Borealis, we made a post only about finding Auroras.

How to See the Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland?

Hit the Slopes

Levi’s ski resort is one of the best in Finland, with excellent runs for all levels. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or just watching others zip by as you enjoy a hot drink, the slopes are a must-visit.

Husky & Reindeer Safaris

Meet adorable huskies or gentle reindeer and experience traditional Arctic transportation through unforgettable safaris. There are many different types and lengths of tours available. Sometimes, you can even see the northern lights during your tour.

Explore Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking

Trek through snow-covered trails at your own pace and soak in the natural beauty of Lapland. You can rent snowshoes and explore on your own or join a tour.

Visit the Ice Hotel & Snow Village

Just a short drive from Levi, the Snow Village is a magical destination featuring incredible ice sculptures and stunning frozen architecture. It’s perfect for a day trip.

Sauna and avanto are a must-try for anyone visiting Finland!

Relax in a Finnish sauna after a cold day out. There are both private and public saunas in Levi available a few times a week, along with an avanto. Most cottage houses and many apartments come with their own private saunas. You can enjoy a relaxing session in the sauna, then step outside into the snow for a refreshing cooldown.

Saunaworld, located around 30min drive from Levi, offers many saunas and an avanto (dip in a frozen lake).

Visit Tonttula – Elves’ Village

Tonttula is a magical destination filled with activities for little ones and adults alike. A complimentary shuttle bus operates frequently each day from Levi Center, offering convenient transportation.

Ice karting and snow tubing

For those seeking a little more adrenaline, ice karting and snow tubing are perfect activities. Race around an icy track in a go-kart or slide down a snowy hill on a tube for some winter fun.

Experience Stunning Views from Santa’s Cabin

Located atop Levi Fell, Santa’s Cabin offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Take a gondola uphill. Santa’s cabin is located close to the gondola. You can reach it by skiing, snowboarding, or walking.

Travel Guide to Levi, Finland: Santa’s cabin during the sunset

Visit Arcadia Adventure park

Arcadia Adventure Park is a fun-filled destination for families. It’s the perfect place to spend a day with friends or family.

Snowmobiling tour

Explore the beautiful snowy landscapes of Finland on a snowmobiling tour. There are various tours available, from short trips to longer excursions that take you through the nearby national parks.

Where to Eat in Levi

Levi boasts a variety of dining experiences, from local delicacies to international favorites. Here are some options:

NiiliPoro: Famous for its reindeer meat dishes—a true Lapland specialty.
Hook Restaurant: Perfect for chicken wings lovers.
Pizzeria Via Tribunali: Arguably the best pizza in Levi for Italian food fans.
Chef’s Burger: Treat yourself to some of Levi’s tastiest burgers.
Coffee House: A cozy spot for your caffeine fix and a snack.

What’s Next? Nearby Destinations

While Levi has plenty to offer, the surrounding areas are worth exploring too:

Ylläs Ski Resort: Just a short drive away, Ylläs is another fantastic ski destination with equally stunning slopes.
Olos and Pallas: Great place for nature lovers. Smaller ski resorts close to Levi that offer a more relaxed vibe for skiing or snowboarding.
Rovaniemi: A must-visit for any Christmas lover. Just 2.5 hours from Levi, Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus! Regular buses make it an easy side trip.

Where to go next after Levi: Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi

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