Lapland is a region of immense cultural significance and record-breaking natural beauty, and this is why it is the perfect holiday destination.Located in the Arctic Circle, at the northernmost tip of Finland, Lapland is considered the real North Pole because it is the official residence of none other than Santa Claus. Contrary to popular belief, getting to the North Pole does not have to be treacherous and unaffordable. In fact, the region has six operational airports and attracts thousands of tourists every year. This remote destination has plenty to offer for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
What To Do In Lapland
There is no shortage of activities in Lapland. The region is made up of numerous cities and municipalities, each with unique features. Depending on risk appetite, personal preference, and skill level, there is something for every tourist.
In the majority of destinations, the northern lights only make an appearance for a few days out of the year. For the prospective tourist interested in observing the Aurora Borealis, there is a small window of opportunity, which is further complicated by the fact that viewing the polar lights depends heavily on weather and luck.
In Lapland, the Aurora Borealis make an appearance in the sky on most nights of the year. This means that visitors can behold the cosmic spectacle without compromising on convenience.
One of the best ways to experience this phenomenon is to go for a hike through the ancient forest and ascend to higher ground. Ivalo Trek Lapland organizes immersive private tours for tourists with a flair for adventure. Ice fishing, overnight hikes, and cultural excursions are some of the activities offered.
Keep in mind that hiking in the Arctic Circle is not for the faint-hearted. Freezing temperatures require that visitors prepare accordingly.
- Cost: Prices range from $80-100 per person depending on the activity and weather
- Packages: Private tours are available for solo travelers, couples, and small groups
- Perks: The tour includes food, equipment, and photography lessons
However, visitors needn't go out of their way to see the lights. Make the most of the experience by staying at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel.
Located in Rovaniemi, the capital city of Lapland, this hotel is a short walk from Santa Claus village. Visitors can lay in bed inside a luxury treehouse and witness the northern lights and midnight sun through floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooms come equipped with everything a discerning tourist might want, from an espresso machine to a private sauna.
- Nightly cost: $493/night in a double suite treehouse with breakfast included
- Amenities: Minibar, sauna, free WiFi, kitchenette, fireplace
- Nearby attractions: Backyard forest, Santa Claus village, the plasma sky show
Another spot worth visiting is slightly off the beaten path. A 20-minute drive from the nearest airport in Levi, Luvattumaa is a gallery, wedding venue, and hotel carved entirely out of ice. Tourists can choose to visit for a day or stay the night.
This surreal venue in Levi, Lapland also has a fully stocked bar and karaoke lounge. Often tourists will spend the day here and leave with a warm buzz and unforgettable memories.
How To Visit Lapland
How exactly does one get to this incredible place?
Most tourists enter Lapland through Rovaniemi, which boasts the largest and busiest airport in the region. From most points of departure, a layover is usually necessary in either Helsinki or Oslo.
Flights are frequent and not much more expensive than average. A trip from London to the hometown of Santa Claus is comparable and possibly even cheaper than flying from London to New York.
- Route: London Heathrow to Rovaniemi, Lapland
- Duration: Around 10 hours including a layover in Helsinki
- Cost: More or less $400 for a round trip, depending on the time of the year
Once in Lapland, there is a robust transport system that includes trains, taxis, and shuttles. Many hotels provide shuttle services to and from the nearest airports. Additionally, a surprisingly developed network of trains connects the various cities of Lapland. It takes less than four hours on the real-life Polar Express to get from Rovaniemi to Ivalo.
Tourists need not worry about the logistics of visiting Lapland. Finland is a part of the European Union, so a Schengen visa is all that is necessary to enter the country. The Euro is the official currency, and a vast majority of Finns speak English. These facts - coupled with the reliability of transport - mean that visiting the North Pole is no more complicated than visiting France.
Lapland, the "real" North Pole, is simple to access and easy enough to navigate. This remote destination offers an eclectic mix of activities and attractions that make it the perfect holiday destination for tourists of all ages and interests.