If you’re visiting Finland in winter, chances are you’re hoping to see the magical Northern Lights. While they appear often, catching them depends on location, timing and the right weather conditions.
Getting There
Fly into Helsinki (HEL), then connect to Rovaniemi, Ivalo, or Kittilä in Finnish Lapland. From there, continue by private transfer or rental car to your aurora-viewing destination.
Recommended Destinations
Lapland is ideal for aurora hunting. Top locations include Saariselkä, Levi, Inari, and Muonio – all known for dark skies and peaceful landscapes far from city lights.
The Stay
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – Rovaniemi
Modern Nordic design meets cozy warmth. Each suite has large windows facing north, perfect for viewing the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. The hotel is near Santa Claus Village and Rovaniemi Airport, making it both beautiful and convenient.
Levin Iglut – Levi
Tucked into a peaceful hillside near Levi, these luxurious glass igloos offer unobstructed views of the Arctic sky. Each accommodation features refined in-room services, a private sauna-equipped bathroom, and a sense of seclusion perfect for quiet winter escapes. Just a short distance from the Levi ski resort, it’s an ideal base for both relaxation and adventure.
Northern Lights Ranch
Hidden in the snowy forest, this peaceful hideaway offers wooden cabins with glass ceilings. The design reflects Finnish minimalism with raw wood, candlelight, and sophisticated rustic details. On-site, a contemporary Nordic restaurant awaits, and it’s not uncommon to spot reindeer wandering past your doorstep.
How to Maximize Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights
To improve your odds of witnessing the Northern Lights, head as far north as possible – ideally above 66.6° N, within the Arctic Circle. Staying for at least a week will give you more opportunities across multiple nights. Ideal conditions include:
– Clear, cloudless skies
– Cold temperatures and stable, dry air
– Strong and steady solar wind activity
Tip: Download a Northern Lights forecast app to receive real-time alerts when aurora activity is likely in your area.
Best Time to Visit
While the aurora season spans from late September to early April, the period between mid-February and early March is considered the most favorable, when skies are clear and nights still young.
Daytime Adventures
While waiting for nightfall to reveal the Northern Lights, Northern Finland offers a wealth of enchanting winter experiences:
Visit Santa Claus Village
If you’re in Rovaniemi, don’t miss the chance to visit Santa Claus Village. Visit Santa, take memorable photos with his cheerful elves, and send postcards from the official Santa Claus Post Office.
Also, enjoy exciting seasonal activities such as ice karting, snow tubing, and ice skating at Snowman World. Walk through a sparkling ice maze, admire beautiful ice sculptures, or relax with a drink at the ice bar – all part of a truly magical winter day.
Icebreaker Boat
Take a full-day trip from Rovaniemi, Levi, or nearby regions to try one of Lapland’s most exciting adventures – a real icebreaker ship that sails through the frozen Gulf of Bothnia.
After crossing the Finnish-Swedish border, board the ship and watch it plow through thick sea ice – an amazing sight. Step onto the frozen sea and for a truly unique moment, wear a floating survival suit and float among the icy floes – an unforgettable Arctic memory.
Onboard, explore all seven decks, enjoy an audio-guided tour, watch a short documentary film, or warm up with snacks and drinks at the ship’s cozy café. On the way back, stop at a small Medieval Village, hidden gem nestled in the raw, untouched nature of the Nordic wilderness.
Snowmobile Safari Through Arctic Wilderness
Dress warmly and get ready for a fun snowmobile ride through the heart of Lapland’s frozen landscapes. You can drive alone or share with a partner and take turns. After a short safety lesson, follow your guide across snowy paths – a thrilling ride where you may even see signs of Arctic wildlife.
Husky Sledding & Traditional Reindeer Sleigh Rides
At the husky farm, you’ll be greeted by happy, energetic sled dogs. After a quick briefing, enjoy a fast-paced ride through snowy woods – either driving the sled or sitting back as a passenger. Midway, you’ll stop to rest, switch places, and enjoy the peaceful winter scenery. Back at the farm, cuddle the dogs, meet playful husky puppies, and warm up with a hot drink and sweet treat while learning more about life with these Arctic companions.
Or opt for a gentler journey: Try a reindeer sleigh ride, gliding gently through quiet snow-covered forests. After the ride, you’ll meet these gentle animals up close and discover the traditions of Sámi reindeer herding culture.
Ice Karting Adventure
Feel the adrenaline as you take the wheel of a specially designed go-kart on a frozen track! Outfitted with studded tires, wearing full safety gear, and race through icy turns surrounded by snow-covered forest. A great winter activity for teens, adults, and anyone who loves speed and adventure.
Snowshoeing Through the Arctic Stillness
Put on a pair of snowshoes and walk through the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter world. Whether on guided trails or on your own, you’ll explore snowy forests, gentle hills, and peaceful white landscapes – perfect for slow moments of reflection and connection with nature.
From sparkling snowfields to moments of deep calm, northern Finland is a place for renewal, wonder, and unforgettable memories. And if you plan to stay longer, you can enjoy even more Arctic adventures – alpine skiing and snowshoeing through hushed woodlands to ice-driving sports cars or gliding downhill on snow-covered slopes, each adventure draws you deeper into the wild beauty of Lapland.
Each day is a new chapter waiting to be written. Let Demen Travel craft it with you.
