2-Day Itinerary for Lapland & Northern Lights, Finland
Lapland is a magical Arctic destination, famous for its Northern Lights, snow-covered landscapes, reindeer safaris, and Santa Claus Village. This 2-day itinerary will ensure you experience the best of Lapland, from adventure activities to witnessing the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis.
Day 1: Arrival & Arctic Adventures in Rovaniemi
Morning: Arrival & Breakfast in Rovaniemi
- Arrive at Rovaniemi Airport (RVN), the gateway to Lapland.
- Have breakfast at Café & Bar 21, known for delicious waffles and Arctic berry smoothies.
10:00 AM – Visit Santa Claus Village
- Meet Santa Claus at his official office and get a stamp on your passport from the Arctic Circle Post Office.
- Explore souvenir shops for Finnish handicrafts and Lapland-themed gifts.
- Enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride and cross the Arctic Circle line!
12:30 PM – Lunch at Santa’s Salmon Place
- Try traditional loimulohi (flame-grilled salmon) prepared over an open fire.
2:00 PM – Husky Safari & Snowmobiling Adventure
- Head to a husky farm and experience an exhilarating husky sled ride across the snowy landscape.
- Afterward, enjoy a snowmobile tour through the Arctic wilderness.
5:30 PM – Check-in at an Arctic Igloo Hotel or Glass Cabin
- Stay at an Aurora Glass Igloo, such as Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos or Apukka Resort, for the best views of the Northern Lights from your bed.
7:00 PM – Dinner at Nili Restaurant
- Enjoy Lappish delicacies, such as reindeer stew, Arctic char, and cloudberry desserts.
9:00 PM – Northern Lights Tour
- Join a Northern Lights hunting tour to chase the Aurora Borealis away from city lights.
- Best places: Ounasvaara Hill, Apukka Resort, or frozen lakes near Rovaniemi.
Day 2: Arctic Wilderness & Sami Culture
8:00 AM – Breakfast at Your Hotel
- Start your day with warm berry juice, fresh bread, and Lappish cheeses.
9:30 AM – Reindeer Safari & Sami Cultural Experience
- Visit a Sami reindeer farm, learn about Sami traditions, and take a reindeer sled ride.
- Try feeding reindeer and listen to traditional joik (Sami folk songs).
12:00 PM – Lunch at a Lappish Kota (Traditional Wooden Hut)
- Enjoy hot berry juice, traditional Finnish meatballs, and smoked fish by the fire.
1:30 PM – Explore Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls (Optional)
- If you love hiking, visit Korouoma Canyon, home to stunning frozen waterfalls and winter trails.
- Perfect for winter photography and Arctic wilderness exploration.
4:00 PM – Visit Arktikum Museum
- Learn about Lapland’s Arctic history, wildlife, and indigenous Sami culture.
6:00 PM – Dinner at Sky Kitchen & View
- Enjoy panoramic Arctic views and gourmet Finnish cuisine before your departure.
8:00 PM – Departure from Rovaniemi Airport
- Fly back home with unforgettable memories of Lapland and the Northern Lights!
Bonus Tips for Your Trip
Best time for the Northern Lights: September to March (best viewed between 9 PM – 2 AM).
Best clothing: Wear thermal layers, waterproof boots, gloves, and a thick jacket (temperatures drop to -20°C or lower).
Book activities in advance, especially during peak winter season.
Camera tip: Use a tripod and long exposure to capture the Aurora Borealis.
This 2-day Lapland itinerary is packed with Arctic adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking Northern Lights sightings. Enjoy your trip!
