The Ultimate Guide to a Holiday in: Lapland

Embarking on a Lapland adventure is a journey into a realm of wonder, and to ensure you make the most of it, we’re here to delve deeper into the answers of your most pressing questions. This comprehensive Lapland holiday guide aims to provide you with everything you need to know for your own Lapland adventure, so that you can arrive ready to focus on nothing but making the most of your time in this bucket list destination.

1. When is the best time to visit Lapland?

Lapland’s allure undergoes a transformation throughout the year. Winter, from November to March, unveils a pristine snowy landscape, creating an ideal canvas for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. For winter sports enthusiasts, the peak months of December to February promise optimal conditions, while autumn introduces a breathtaking tapestry of autumn foliage.

Of course, for those on the hunt for a Christmas holiday in Lapland, the region is ready-made to welcome guests searching for magical festive experiences such as visits to Santa and reindeer sleigh rides through the forest.

reindeer ride on a holiday in lapland

2. What should I pack for a trip to Lapland?

As you prepare for the Arctic chill, layering becomes paramount. Include thermal clothing, waterproof boots, insulated gloves, and a top-tier winter jacket in your arsenal. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture Lapland’s ethereal beauty, a power bank for sustained adventures, and adapters to keep your electronic devices charged.

On a package with Not In The Guidebooks, you will also be provided with appropriate equipment for all outdoor activities, to ensure you can experience the Arctic wilderness in as much comfort as possible.

3. How can I see the Northern Lights in Lapland?

Witnessing the celestial ballet of the Northern Lights requires strategic planning. Opt for accommodations away from city lights to enhance visibility, and consider guided tours that provide not just transportation but also insights from knowledgeable experts on this awe-inspiring phenomenon.

With Not In The Guidebooks, you can even find Northern Lights holidays in Finland designed to give you the very best chance of ticking this most elusive of items of your travel bucket list.

aurora borealis in lapland

4. What activities are available for families with children?

Lapland is a haven for family-friendly activities. Immerse your little ones in the enchantment of Santa Claus Village, where they can meet the man himself. Engage in reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris and other joyful escapades tailor-made for the young and young at heart.

On a Lapland family holiday with Not In The Guidebooks, you can find trips that incorporate all these adventures and more, all whilst staying in beautifully unique accommodation, form glass-roofed cabins to magical arctic treehouses.

5. Do I need a visa to visit Lapland?

An essential part of any Lapland holiday guide, we are asked this question more often than you may think! For visitors from the UK, you can stay in Finland for up to 90 days when travelling as a tourist, so there is no need for you to organise any extra visa.

Of course, it’s always sensible to stay informed about the latest visa requirements and ensure that your passport boasts a minimum of six months’ validity beyond your planned departure date.

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6. What are the must-visit attractions in Lapland?

Beyond the iconic Santa Claus Village, Lapland boasts a trove of attractions. Explore the wildlife wonders at Ranua Wildlife Park, conquer the slopes at Levi Ski Resort, and enrich your knowledge at the Arktikum Science Museum in Rovaniemi, offering insights into the Arctic way of life.

As the largest wilderness area in Europe, Lapland is also an attraction in its own right. Vast swathes of pine forest, rolling fells and countless lakes and rivers that freeze and thaw with the seasons are home to some spectacular wildlife and the opportunity to achieve that priceless feeling of having escaped civilisation, if only for a short time.

sunset over snowy landscape in finland

7. How do I travel around Lapland?

In the summer months, navigating Lapland’s vast expanse is made convenient with a rental car, especially for those keen on exploring less urbanized areas.

In winter however, it is best to organise transfers with your accommodation or holiday provider, as the icy conditions can make driving particularly difficult. With Not In The Guidebooks, our packages come with transfers included from the airport to your resort, and to any activities that may lie further afield from where you are staying.

8. What is the best way to dress for the cold weather?

Conquering Lapland’s sub-zero temperatures demands a strategic approach to dressing. Invest in thermal underwear, don a high-quality winter jacket, and ensure your attire includes waterproof boots and insulated gloves for a snug and warm experience.

On adventures like ice fishing, snowmobiling or snowshoeing, Not In The Guidebooks ensures that extra thermal clothing is included in your package so that you can focus on enjoying the otherworldly winter landscape.

tourists on snowmobile under northern lights

9. Are there any special events or festivals during my visit?

Lapland is a year-round playground for events. Consult the local calendar to uncover festivities, Christmas markets, and winter sports competitions that might coincide with your visit, adding a little seasonal bonus to your Lapland experience.

Whilst the winter season is obviously dominated by Christmas events and snow-based celebrations, in the summer, the Finns make the most of the long, long days and put on a number of festivals throughout the region with a focus on music, film and art, which are all well worth a research.

10. What are the best accommodations in Lapland?

Lapland offers a diverse array of accommodations catering to every taste. Consider the unique experience of staying in a glass igloo, especially during the Northern Lights season, or explore cozy cabins and luxurious hotels for a memorable touch to your Lapland adventure.

With Not In The Guidebooks, you can discover holidays in Lapland that have you staying in accommodation such as glass-roofed cabins, beautiful treehouses nestled in the pine forest canopy, and even a hotel made from nothing but ice and snow.

11. How do I plan a trip to see Santa Claus in Lapland?

A visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a must. Plan ahead by booking activities in advance to secure cherished moments, including meeting Santa, embarking on a reindeer sleigh ride, and exploring the magical post office.

Of course, any Christmas holiday in Lapland that you travel on with Not In The Guidebooks includes many of these activities as standard, so rather than spending time planning your itinerary, you can simply relax and drink in the winter wonderland you find yourself immersed in.

12. What winter sports and activities are available in Lapland?

Lapland stands as a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts. Dive into the thrill of skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and husky safaris, each activity offering a unique perspective on Lapland’s wintry wonderland.


Equipped with detailed insights, your journey to Lapland is poised to be an immersive exploration, promising a rich tapestry of experiences that extend beyond the ordinary. Embrace the Arctic charm, soak in Lapland’s enchantment, and embark on a voyage that will etch memories lasting a lifetime.

Here at Not In The Guidebooks, we are constantly hunting down unique experiences and immersive holidays designed to get you in touch with the local people, and therefore to the very heart of the destination you are visiting. Whether that’s a family holiday in Lapland or a Costa Rican wildlife holiday, our packages are created by those who know the destination better than anyone – the locals.

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