First Time Visiting Lapland

Visiting Lapland for the first time is a little like visiting another planet. Here's what I wish every first-timer knew before booking.

Get the basics right

• Fly into Rovaniemi (RVN) — direct flights from Helsinki (1h20) and several European cities in winter. You can find more information about the airport on the Finavia website. Consider searching for flights to Lapland for the best deals.
• Stay at least 4 nights — see how many days you need. It's wise to check hotel availability in Lapland well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Pick your season carefully: winter for snow & aurora, summer for midnight sun & hiking. For guidance on the best time to visit, check out our month-by-month guide.

What to pack (winter)

• Thermal base layer (merino, not cotton).
• Fleece mid layer.
• Waterproof shell jacket + insulated coat.
• Snow boots rated to -30 °C.
• Thick gloves + thin liner gloves.
• Wool socks, beanie, neck buff.
• Hand warmers.

Many tour operators rent thermal suits — use them. If you need more specific advice, our winter packing guide has you covered.

Things people get wrong

• Booking only 2 nights. Weather will not cooperate.
• Trying to do Helsinki + Lapland in 4 days. Pick one.
• Forgetting that it's dark by 3 pm in December. Plan accordingly.
• Underestimating travel time between activities.

Things people love

• The silence of the forest.
• Saunas. So many saunas.
• Reindeer wandering across roads.
• The taste of cloudberry.
• The first time the aurora actually appears.

Quick tips

• Buy a local SIM or use eSIM — coverage is great even in the wilderness.
• Tipping is not expected but appreciated for guides.
• Credit cards work everywhere. You barely need cash.
• Learn three Finnish words: kiitos (thanks), moi (hi), sauna (sauna).

Welcome to the Arctic. You're going to love it. — Buddy 🦊

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Book your Lapland trip

• 🏨 Stay — Compare hotels, cabins and glass igloos in Lapland
• ✈️ Fly — Find flights to Rovaniemi and Lapland
• 🦌 Do — Browse husky, reindeer and aurora tours

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