Things to Do in Lapland – Top Tips for All Seasons
Looking for things to do in Lapland?
Lapland is renowned for its breathtaking winters and enchanting midnight sunlit nights. For many, Lapland is a winter wonderland where Christmas is celebrated all year round. However, Lapland offers activities throughout the year, and its stunning nature leaves no one indifferent.
Explore the best tips for your Lapland journey and plan your next trip today!
This article is about the following topics:
- Things to Do in Lapland
- Top Attractions Top Winter Activities in Lapland
- Top Summer Activities in Lapland
- Mountain Biking in Lapland
- Bike Rental in Lapland
- The Best Travel Companion in Lapland – Roll Outdoors
Things to Do in Lapland
Selecting the top attractions in Lapland can be challenging due to the wide and diverse range of offerings. Throughout the year, various events are available, from music festivals to sports events and folk dances to the biggest motorbike event in Northern Finland.
In Inari, you’ll find the Sámi Museum and Nature Centre Siida, where you can learn about the culture and history of Lapland and the Sámi people. To experience the traditional Koltta Sámi way of life visit the Koltta Heritage House in Sevettijärvi.
Sámi culture and Lapland’s nature are also combined Tunturi-Lapland Nature Centre in Enontekiö, where you can conveniently enjoy other great attractions.
Attractions in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi’s relatively small city center boasts a multitude of attractions. Worthwhile places to visit include the Arktikum, the Science Center Pilke, Lordi Square named after the Eurovision winner, the impressive bridge called Jätkänkynttilä, Korundi House of Culture and the Rovaniemi Art Museum.
Rovaniemi offers a comprehensive selection of delightful restaurants and excellent hotels. It’s easy to take day trips to attractions outside the city, such as the “Könkäiden polku”, Kuninkaanlaavu (“King’s Throne”), Pyhä-Luosto National Park, or the enormous giant’s kettles at Sukulanrakka.
Things to Do in Lapland – Top Winter Activities
As mentioned, Lapland’s winter is a magnificent experience, and the busiest season in Lapland appropriately aligns with the winter months. Northern lights, crystal-clear snow, wildlife in their natural habitat, and a fairy-tale atmosphere create an unforgettable Lapland adventure.
For Finns, skiing is one of the most popular activities in winter, and Lapland offers internationally recognized skiing and snowboarding centers such as Levi, Ruka, Ylläs, Iso-Syöte, and Saariselkä, which happens to be the northenmost ski center in the whole Europe.
In addition to skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing and unforgettable reindeer and husky safaris are excellent ways to enjoy Lapland’s snowy winter. Rental equipment for winter camping is available in Rovaniemi, for example Beyond Arctic. You can spend the night in an igloo or an ice hotel or enjoy the Northern Lights-filled night sky in a warm sleeping bag.
Learn how to see the Northern Lights in Lapland >>
Of course, on your Lapland journey, you must visit Santa Park and Santa Claus Village, where you will find Christmas magic, various activities, and shopping opportunities.
Things to Do in Lapland – Top Summer Activities
During the summer, Lapland’s nature comes alive, and the beautiful landscapes will leave you breathless. You can hike to Pallastunturi, explore the best hiking destinations and enjoy camping in Lapland’s wilderness under the light of the midnight sun. In Lapland, you can’t escape encounters with the reindeer roaming freely, enchanting hikers in groups.
Adventurous spirits can embrace nature through activities like white-water rafting, especially in Oulanka National Park. Experiencing speed and excitement amidst stunning scenery can also be enjoyed on Ounasvaara Summer Sled Track and the panoramic elevator.
In Saariselkä, you’ll find a remarkable range of activities. You can admire the sunset from the peak of Laanila Fell or embark on an unforgettable hike in Urho Kekkonen National Park. If walking or hiking doesn’t appeal, biking is also a great way to get around. Lapland is an ideal destination for mountain biking, with numerous routes of varying difficulty levels in the national park.
Find out what Saariselkä is like in summer >>
If you’re seeking something truly unique, head to Kilpisjärvi. This remote village is situated at the base of the stunning Saana Fell. It offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and nature adventures.
Mountain Biking in Lapland
Lapland’s unique landscapes are a mountain biker’s paradise. Lapland has numerous mountain bike trails suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike. In Rovaniemi you can experience the fantastic trails of Ounasvaara, while Saariselkä offers exceptional routes in the Kiilopää area.
Lapland’s mountain biking trails offer diverse scenery, from mountains to forests and lakes.
You can rent a mountain bike or a fat bike and set off on a self-guided cycling adventure — or join a guided tour where professionals provide tips and show you the best route destinations.
Mountain biking isn’t restricted to a specific season; you can easily conquer snowy trails with a quality fat bike.
Bike Rental in Lapland
Renting a mountain bike or a fat bike in Lapland is an excellent way to explore the area or travel between attractions.
Cycling allows you to move at your own pace and enjoy nature differently from admiring it through a car window. You can ride to a beautiful lakeside spot on a rental bike and stop by a campfire site for a refreshing break in the fresh air.
Furthermore, renting a bike allows you to travel lightly without the hassle of transporting your own bike. You can arrive by train in Rovaniemi and pick up your bike there — or travel to Saariselkä-Kiilopää’s bike rental to collect your bike.
At Roll Outdoors, you can easily rent high-quality bikes online in advance and enjoy a hassle-free journey. You can rent a bike in advance, seamlessly online, and enjoy a worry-free journey.
The Best Travel Companion in Lapland – Roll Outdoors
Renting a bike from us is effortless, easy, and quick. We’re happy to help you choose a bike that suits your needs from our extensive selection. If Lapland’s mountain biking trails are unfamiliar to you, we’ll provide you with the best tips for your self-guided bike adventures, along with the rental bike.
Whether planning mountain biking in Helsinki, Rovaniemi or Saariselkä, Roll Outdoors is the best choice for your journey.
With us, you can easily rent a top-quality, well-maintained mountain bike according to your schedule in all the cities above. You can also bring us along by booking a guided bike tour or purchasing a high-quality, used bike from us for your future trips.
Ensure a smooth, seamless, and secure cycling adventure with Roll Outdoors!