Things to do in Lapland
Lapland is full of things to do,
but not in one specific way.
What makes Lapland special is variety. You can spend one day on a snowmobile or visiting a winter park, and the next simply walking in the forest, sitting in a sauna or driving without a plan. Life here follows seasons, weather and light rather than strict schedules.
guided winter activities
Only when expertise makes the experience better
Snowmobiling, husky safaris and reindeer rides are not just rides, they’re structured ways to enter the arctic environment with confidence.
Guided activities exist for a reason in Lapland: conditions can be extreme, distances long and weather unpredictable. Local guides understand ice thickness, animal behaviour, light conditions and safety in ways visitors simply can’t.
Why choose guided activities:
- You can access places that are hard to reach on your own
- Safety is built in, even in very cold or dark conditions
- Guides add context: how people live here, how animals are treated, how nature is respected
- Equipment and clothing are included, lowering the barrier to try something new
Northern Lights in Lapland
Seeing the northern lights is one of the main reasons people travel to Lapland. At the same time, it is also one of the most misunderstood experiences. Northern lights cannot be scheduled, guaranteed or controlled. They depend on solar activity, cloud cover, darkness and location.
Some travellers choose guided northern lights tours. Others prefer northern lights hunting tours that move based on weather conditions. Many people also decide to search for auroras independently by car or on foot. All of these approaches can work when you understand how they differ.
Museums and art to get contexts for what you’re seeing outside
Shopping in Lapland
Lapland is not a trendy shopping place, many products and clothes exist because of climate, not trends.
Across Lapland, shopping often means smaller stores and local producers. Handicrafts made from wood, wool and leather are common, and many items are designed to be used rather than displayed.
Jewellery, textiles and everyday objects often reflect northern nature, seasons and traditional skills.
Sauna, spa and ice swimming in Lapland
After hours spent outdoors in cold temperatures, sauna, spa visits and ice swimming become such an essential part of the Lapland experience.
Traditional Finnish sauna is about simplicity
and long lasting tradition. Relax, this is the time to sit without distraction and a slow return to warmth after being outside all day in a most Finnish way.
Ice swimming just sounds extreme
The cold sharpens your focus and makes you fully present in the moment. For many visitors, this contrast becomes one of the most memorable experiences of their trip.
Spas and sauna worlds offer a softer introduction to this tradition
Warm pools, outdoor hot tubs and different sauna temperatures allow you to relax without pushing personal limits.
Free & simple things to do in Lapland
Not everything worth doing in Lapland needs to be booked or planned in advance. Some of the most memorable experiences are the simplest ones, especially if this is your first time in the snowy and cold enviorement. Snow changes how everyday activities feel.
Playing in the snow is an experience in itself
Building a snowman, snow fight, making snow angels or just standing still in falling snow.
Walking is one of the easiest ways to experience Lapland.
Forest paths, riversides and quiet neighbourhoods are often a short distance from main town centres.
Sledding is not only for children!
Most towns and villages have small hills that locals use year after year. It is a simple way to have fun outdoors.
