How to Plan the Perfect Winter Escape to Lapland in 5 Days + Bonus AI Generated Lapland Guide
Dreaming of a magical winter getaway? Look no further than Lapland in 5 days! This Arctic wonderland is a bucket list destination that feels straight out of a snow globe. From chasing the northern lights to gliding through snowy forests on a reindeer sleigh, Lapland is packed with unforgettable experiences.
And let’s not forget the dog sledding, arctic swimming, meeting Santa at Santa Claus Village, and staying in cozy, Instagram-worthy hotels! After spending 5 incredible days here, I’m beyond excited to share all the tips you need to plan your own perfect adventure to Lapland in 5 days. Keep reading for everything you need to know, from where to stay to the must-do activities and beyond!
5 Days in Lapland (VIDEO)
Here’s a quick peek at our 5-day road trip through Lapland. We couldn’t get over the beautiful snowy landscape!! From exploring snowy trails to unique stays and Arctic activities, this video captures a glimpse of what you can expect during your 5 days in Lapland.
What is the best month to visit Lapland?
The best month to visit Lapland really depends on what you’re hoping to experience, but if you ask me, December is pure magic! We planned our trip to Lapland in 5 days during December, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
The festive decorations make the whole region feel like a real-life winter wonderland, and what’s better than visiting Santa Claus himself right before Christmas? December also offers plenty of snow for all those iconic activities like reindeer rides, dog sledding, and chasing the northern lights. If you’re dreaming of a magical and festive escape, December is definitely the time to go!
How much does it cost to go to Lapland?
Lapland is definitely a bucket-list destination, but I was shocked at how expensive everything was—it’s on par with Switzerland-level prices! That said, we knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and there were incredible hotels and experiences we didn’t want to miss and knew we had to include during our trip to Lapland in 5 days.
Winter is peak season in Lapland, and for good reason—it’s the best time to visit and experience this magical winter wonderland. But with that comes higher prices, especially for accommodations, excursions, and dining.
To give you a rough idea, expect to budget at least $4,000–$6,000 for a trip to Lapland in 5 days, depending on your itinerary and level of comfort. Luxury stays, such as glass igloos or snow hotels, can easily push that higher. If you’re planning a trip, just be mentally prepared for the costs—but trust me, the experience is 100% worth it!
How to Get to Lapland Finland
The easiest and most affordable way to get to Lapland is by flying into Rovaniemi (RVN), the “official” gateway to Lapland. There are direct flights from Helsinki year-round, and during peak winter months, you’ll also find seasonal flights from major European cities.
Alternatively, you can take the Santa Claus Express night train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, which is a fun and scenic option if you have extra time. From Rovaniemi, you can rent a car or take a regional flight, bus, or train to other Lapland destinations like Levi, Saariselkä, or Kittilä.
Flying into Rovaniemi is generally the most convenient and cost-effective option, especially in winter when road conditions can be challenging. Plus, it puts you right in the heart of Lapland’s magical landscapes making it the perfect starting point to see Lapland in 5 days.
The Cutest Winter Fits for Lapland
Visiting Lapland in 5 days means experiencing the most magical winter wonderland—northern lights, dog sledding, reindeer rides, and cozying up in a glass igloo. But let’s be real: it’s COLD—like, truly Arctic-level cold. Dressing properly is key to actually enjoying your trip instead of shivering through it! Here’s a quick guide on what to wear in Lapland in the winter:
Base layers really are your best friend in cold weather like this!! Go for thermal, moisture-wicking leggings and tops—merino wool is the gold standard. It keeps you warm and dries fast if you get sweaty from all the snow activities.
A fleece or wool sweater works great here. If you get cold easily, consider doubling up with an extra layer under your coat.
Your jacket should be waterproof, windproof, and insulated. A long parka with down filling is perfect for those -20°C (-4°F) days!
If you’re planning on doing any snowmobiling, husky sledding, or just playing in the snow, you’ll want waterproof and insulated snow pants.
Your extremities get cold the fastest! A fleece-lined beanie, thermal gloves (preferably mittens for extra warmth), and wool socks are a must.
Snowy, icy paths = frozen toes if you don’t have the right boots! Look for insulated winter boots with good traction to keep your feet warm and dry.
If this feels like a lot—don’t worry! I have a full guide on what to wear in Lapland here with even more details on layering, must-have gear, and some budget-friendly options. Just remember: layers are everything and Lapland in 5 days will be a dream if you’re warm and prepared.
Do You Need To Rent a Car?
Short answer: YES! While it’s possible to rely on tours and transfers, having your own rental car gives you so much more flexibility—which is key when planning the perfect Lapland in 5 days itinerary.
Lapland is spread out, and most attractions aren’t conveniently clustered together. While you can book guided tours with transportation included, those costs add up quickly. Renting a car not only gives you freedom to explore at your own pace, but it also lets you chase the Northern Lights whenever the forecast looks promising!
Now, if you’re worried about driving in snowy or icy conditions, I totally get it! But rest assured, Lapland is built for winter. The roads are well-maintained, frequently plowed, and properly gritted. Consider renting a 4WD or AWD for extra peace of mind. Just drive cautiously, take it slow if needed, and you’ll be totally fine!
Lapland Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Levi
Day 2: Levi
Day 3: Rovaniemi
Day 4: Rovaniemi
Day 5: Sweden
Day One: Arrival + Northern Lights Ranch
We kicked off Day One of our Lapland in 5 days adventure by hopping on a quick flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. It’s only about an hour and a half, which flies by (pun intended).
Now, if you’re anything like me, you might be wondering what to wear to the airport in winter. I kept it simple with my base layers, fleece-lined leggings, snow boots, and a cozy sweater, with my snow jacketin hand (pro tip: it doubles as a great pillow on the plane!). I didn’t actually throw my jacket on until we landed in Rovaniemi, and it was super convenient to have it easily accessible.
Rovaniemi’s airport is small, so keep this in mind when planning your arrival. While I waited for our luggage, my husband ran off to pick up our rental car—which was a lifesaver because as soon as everyone got their bags, the line for rentals got long. I definitely recommend sending one person ahead to grab it while the other waits for luggage!
With our car ready to go, we bee-lined it straight to Northern Lights Ranch—a stay that I had been dreaming about forever! You’ve probably seen it all over Instagram, and let me tell you, it’s 100% worth the hype. This ended up being our favorite stay in Lapland and honestly, one of the most magical places we’ve ever stayed.
The drive from Rovaniemi to Northern Lights Ranch takes about two hours, but if you want a shorter drive, you could fly into Kittilä International Airport, which is just 30 minutes away. That said, flights to Kittilä are usually pricier, so we opted for Rovaniemi instead.
Northern Lights Ranch Review
So, what makes Northern Lights Ranch so special? Picture this: heated glass-roofed cabins, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a remote location far from city lights, making it one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Lapland. Plus, there’s an ice skating rink, sauna, reindeer encounters, and more—basically, the ultimate Arctic dream.
We were beyond excited to check in and soak up every second of this winter wonderland, and I promise, you will be too!
Day Two: Reindeer Ride and Glass Igloo
For Day Two of our Lapland in 5 days adventure, we kicked things off by soaking up every last second at Northern Lights Ranch—because honestly, leaving was SO hard. But before we hit the road, we made sure to enjoy the complimentary breakfast (so good!) and feed the reindeer one more time—because how often do you get to do that?!
Then, it was time for something I had been DREAMING about—our reindeer sleigh ride tour!!! This was at the very top of my Lapland in 5 days itinerary, and let me tell you… it was pure magic. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any more magical—it started snowing. Cue the main character energy!
This Dreamy Glass Igloo Stay
A trip to Lapland in 5 days wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a glass igloo stay, and let me tell you—Levin Iglut absolutely blew me away!!!
From the moment I stepped inside, my jaw was on the floor. These dreamy, luxury glass igloos are hands down one of the most viral hotels in Finland, and trust me, they live up to every bit of the hype.
Yes, they’re on the pricier side, but SO worth it. Imagine lying in a cozy, warm bed, looking up through your glass ceiling as the Northern Lights dance above you—it honestly feels like being inside your own private snow globe. Staying at Levin Iglut is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll be talking about forever!!!
Levin Iglut books up FAST! I highly recommend booking as early as possible because these igloos are in high demand. And It gets busy! Unlike the more secluded feel of Northern Lights Ranch, Levin Iglut has a bit more of a touristy vibe, but honestly? It’s still 100% worth it. If you’re planning Lapland in 5 days, this spot deserves a place on your bucket list!
BONUS SPOTS: Cute Spots in Lapland Worth Visiting!
I wish we had more time to visit these spots during our Lapland in 5 days adventure! But the good news? They’re just minutes from Levin Iglut, so if you have extra time, these are 100% worth adding to your itinerary!
Arcandia – Arctic Adventure Park is straight-up magical!!! This hidden gem is like stepping straight into a fantasy world! Arcandia was originally designed as a movie set deep in the Finnish wilderness, but the film was never made. Instead of letting it go to waste, the site was transformed into a one-of-a-kind adventure park—and it’s absolutely magical!
Levi Foxfires is such a cozy boutique hotel, and the Arctic Spa is definitely the star of the show! You can relax in a wood-fired sauna, soak in an outdoor hot tub, and even have your own Laplander’s hut to enjoy in peace. For an extra special treat, the Lux Spa Experience offers time in a wooden barrel hot tub and a traditional wood-burning sauna. It’s the perfect way to unwind!
Day Three: Rovaniemi and Dog Sledding
Day three of our Lapland in 5 days adventure had us hitting the road back to Rovaniemi. The two-hour drive flew by because we were so excited for what was next—dog sledding! I mean, is it really a trip to Lapland if you don’t go dog sledding?!
Pro tip: Book the longer tour (ideally 10 km) so you can soak up every second of this magical experience. Trust me, you won’t want it to end! Plus, you get to meet the cutest, most energetic pups, and honestly, who doesn’t love an excuse to hang out with dogs?
Make sure to plan your timing right, as it takes about two hours to drive from Levi to Rovaniemi. And most importantly—layer up! You’ll be outside for around three hours, and while the tour provides warm winter gear (overalls, boots, and gloves), extra layers are always a good idea. Bonus: The tour also includes Finnish snacks and drinks, which is the perfect cozy touch after your sledding adventure!
Lapland’s Newest Hotel: Aito Resort
After our dog sledding adventure, it was time to check into Finland’s next viral hotel—Aito Hotel & Spa Resort! I was beyond excited to experience this brand-new property, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. If you’re planning Lapland in 5 days, this cozy escape in Rovaniemi is a must!
Aito Hotel & Spa Resort offers some seriously cool accommodations, from dreamy Aurora Treehouses to adorable Aurora Nests and cozy lodge rooms. But the best part? Every stay includes complimentary access to their luxury spa, and honestly, the spa alone is worth booking a night here!
And if you’re lucky, you can watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky—all from the comfort of your bed! It’s the perfect blend of nature, luxury, and that magical Lapland charm, making it an absolute dream for your winter wonderland getaway.
Northern Lights Tour
One of the biggest reasons people plan a trip to Lapland in 5 days is to chase the Northern Lights—and booking a tour is the best way to increase your chances of seeing them! Sure, you can try hunting for them on your own, but going with a local guide means you’ll be taken to the best viewing spots, giving you the highest chance of catching the magic.
We booked a 3.5-hour Northern Lights tour that even included a photo session—because let’s be real, who wouldn’t want a keepsake photo with the auroras dancing in the background?!
To top it all off, the tour came with delicious snacks and warm drinks, making the whole experience even cozier. 100% recommend adding this to your itinerary!
Day Four: Ice Floating and Santa Claus Village
Lapland in 5 days wouldn’t be complete without trying one of the most unique experiences—winter ice floating! We suited up in these hilarious (but super effective) rescue suits that made us look like giant lobsters—see for yourself below!
Floating in an icy lake, completely warm and dry, while surrounded by a snowy wonderland was both peaceful and surreal. It’s one of those bucket-list activities that sounds wild but is 100% worth it. If you’re looking for something fun and unforgettable, don’t skip this tour!
Enjoy the Spa at Aito Resort
After floating around in Arctic waters (don’t worry, we stayed warm and cozy in our suits!), we were more than ready for some well-deserved pampering at Aito Hotel’s luxury spa—because yes, it’s included in your stay! And let me just say… this spa is next-level amazing!
You can soak in hot tubs overlooking a frozen lake, unwind in a traditional sauna, or try out a dreamy Himalayan salt ritual. Whether you’re warming up in the steam bath or taking a dip in the thermal pools, it’s the perfect way to relax. If you’re planning Lapland in 5 days, don’t skip this spa experience!
A Visit to Santa Claus Village
A stop at Santa Claus Village is practically a must—it is the official hometown of Santa, after all! We couldn’t pass up the chance to meet the big guy himself, especially while visiting Lapland in 5 days!
Beyond meeting Santa, you can visit Santa’s Post Office, where letters from around the world arrive daily, and even send a postcard home. It’s the official Santa Claus Post Office, operated by the Finnish postal service. And of course, the famous Arctic Circle Line, where you can literally step into the Arctic!
Now, I have to be honest—it’s very touristy and definitely gives off Disneyland vibes (read: crowded and a little pricey). But if you love Christmas magic, it’s still a fun place to wander around, snap some festive photos, and soak up the holiday cheer. Just don’t skip the post office—it was my absolute favorite part!
INSIDER INFORMATION: we had the best luck spotting northern lights at Aito Resort!!! The location of this hotel property is secluded and sits along side a beautiful lake!! So don’t get to bed too early, so you can spot some northern lights like these:
Day Five: Escape to Sweden to Stay at an Ice Hotel!
You might be wondering why we drove 4 hours north to Sweden to stay at an ice hotel, but trust me—it’s totally worth the trek! As the world’s oldest ice hotel, Sweden’s Icehotel is as iconic as it gets. From wandering through an ice museum that feels like stepping into a frozen art gallery to sleeping in a room made entirely of snow and ice, the experience was magical, though definitely… unconventional.
Let’s just say, those Arctic sleeping bags were a challenge I didn’t expect! But if you’re planning Lapland in 5 days, this is an experience you can’t miss!
You don’t need to book an overnight stay at Sweden’s IceHotel to experience it! It’s open to visitors during the day, so you can explore the incredible ice rooms and sculptures at your leisure. Plus, there’s an ice bar where you can enjoy a drink before wandering through the frosty rooms.
Staying warm in an ice hotel requires some serious prep! They provide Arctic-grade sleeping bags that keep you cozy even in freezing temps, but before heading to the room, we were advised to layer up with thermals, wool socks, and a beanie—basically, anything to keep the cold at bay.
Once inside, we climbed into the sleeping bags, but I’ll admit, I felt surprisingly claustrophobic—something I didn’t expect! While my body stayed warm, my face froze since they recommend leaving your face exposed to avoid losing heat. So, even though I stayed warm, it made sleeping a bit tough. It wasn’t the most comfortable night, but hey, it’s all part of the ice hotel experience!
