Finland is a Northern European nation bordering Sweden, Norway and Russia. Its capital, Helsinki, occupies a peninsula and surrounding islands in the Baltic Sea. Helsinki is home to the 18th-century sea fortress Suomenlinna, the fashionable Design District and diverse museums. The Northern Lights can be seen from the country’s Arctic Lapland province, a vast wilderness with national parks and ski resorts.
Lapland, Finland, is a magical destination renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique attractions. Located in the northernmost part of Finland, this region offers an unparalleled travel experience, especially for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a touch of holiday magic. In this blog, we’ll delve into the history of Lapland, highlight the must-visit destinations, recommend places to stay, and provide essential information for your trip.
History of Lapland Finland
Lapland has a fascinating history that stretches back thousands of years. The indigenous Sami people have inhabited the region for centuries, with their unique culture and traditions deeply rooted in the area. Historically, Lapland was known for its nomadic reindeer herding, which remains a vital part of Sami culture today. Over time, the region has evolved, blending its ancient traditions with modern influences, making it a vibrant and diverse destination.
Must-Visit Destinations in Lapland Finland
1. Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, in northern Finland. Almost totally destroyed during World War II, today it’s a modern city known for being the “official” home town of Santa Claus, and for viewing the Northern Lights. It’s home to Arktikum, a museum and science center exploring the Arctic region and the history of Finnish Lapland. The Science Centre Pilke features interactive exhibits on northern forests
Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is often referred to as the “official” hometown of Santa Claus. This charming city is a hub of activity year-round but truly comes alive during the Christmas season. Visitors can explore Santa Claus Village, meet Santa himself, and send postcards from Santa’s Post Office.
Why is Rovaniemi famous in Finland?
Rovaniemi is the Official Hometown of Santa Claus and the provincial capital of Lapland, situated on the Arctic Circle at the confluence of rivers Kemijoki and Ounasjoki. Besides being a popular travel destination, the town is the commercial, educational, administrative, cultural and sports centre of Lapland.
Is it worth visiting Rovaniemi in Finland?
When coming to Rovaniemi, there are many good reasons to visit the Santa Claus Village. Open every day of the year, you can meet Lapland’s most famous citizen, Santa Claus, and cross the iconic Arctic Circle in your own style for a memorable photograph. Rovaniemi offers vibrant culture and great Finnish design.
2. Kemi Finland
Kemi is famous for its stunning SnowCastle, a magnificent structure built entirely of snow and ice each year. The SnowCastle features intricate ice sculptures, an ice hotel, and even an ice restaurant. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magical beauty of ice architecture.
Kemi is a town on Bothnian Bay in Lapland, Finland. It’s known for the massive Sampo icebreaker, a giant ship built to ply the Arctic waters. At Kemi’s harbor is the SnowCastle, a seasonal carved-ice complex. Kemi Lutheran Church is a Gothic Revival structure with an ornate, red-brick exterior. To the north, Bothnian Bay National Park has old fishing huts, rare plants and abundant birds, including Arctic terns.
3. Saariselkä Finland
Saariselkä is a resort village in northern Finland. It’s a gateway to the trails and ski areas of mountainous Urho Kekkonen National Park. The village’s Destination Northernmost Europe exhibition has a panorama theater with films on the region’s plant and animal life, including reindeer. To the north, the lakefront Sámi Cultural Center Sajos includes a craft shop and a library devoted to the indigenous Sami people
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Saariselkä is a paradise. This area offers excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter. In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring the pristine wilderness of Urho Kekkonen National Park.
Places to Stay in Finland
Lapland offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, from cozy cabins to luxurious resorts.
10 Glass Igloos in Finland
1. Arctic Snow Hotel and Glass Igloos Finland
Made entirely out of snow and ice, this high concept snow hotel promises to take one’s breath away with its enchanting beauty. Among the most prominent Finland glass igloos, the hotel offers unconventional rooms built on snow, along with sleeping bags and shared bathrooms.
Few rooms also have glass ceilings with wake-up services for when the northern light flares go up. The thrilling atmosphere is further complemented by its snow-and-ice restaurant and bar. The hotel also features a log restaurant with a fireplace and traditional saunas.
Location: Lehtoahontie 27, 97220 Sinettä, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: November-April
2. Wilderness Hotel Inari Finland
Nestled by the serene Inari lake, this secluded luxury hotel offers some of the most beautiful glass igloos in Finland. The hotel offers well-furnished rooms and log cabins that vouch to keep you warm and cozy inside. Some rooms feature glass ceilings with sky views as well, making it easier to witness the Northern Lights from indoors.
The casual restaurant at the resort is known for its traditional delights and delightful views of the lake. A variety of excursions are offered here as well, such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing and ice fishing.
Location: Inarintie 2, 99870 Inari, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: October- April
3. Aurora Dome and Glamping Finland
If you have a penchant for camping outdoors, Aurora Domes is just the place for you. The campsite in Torrasipeintie offers dome-shaped tents that are equipped with all necessary facilities to ensure that its guests remain as snug and comfortable as possible.
The domes are designed to be seen through, to make sure one can enjoy the beauty of the Northern Lights from within the tents. Each dome has a double bed and a wooden stove, with shower and sauna facilities being a short walk away.
Location: Torassiepintie 212, 99300 Särkijärvi, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: March-April
4. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort East Village Finland
Sprawling along the Kakslauttanen river, this arctic resort offers some of the most fantastic glass igloos in Finland. The fantastic snow igloos are equipped with glass ceilings and log cabins. Those looking for a more luxurious accommodation can also opt for one of the river chalets or the Lapland House offered here. One of the only pet friendly glass igloo, Kakslauttanen also makes sure that your little friends don’t miss out on the experience.
Location: Kiilopääntie 9, 99830 Saariselkä, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: August- October, February-April
5. Northern Lights Ranch Finland
Nestled in the bosom of Kongas, Finland, the cabins at Northern Lights Ranch are designed to offer some of the best front-seat views to the aurora. Guests at the resort can choose from a variety of four traditional Scandinavian cabins, each equipped with glass ceilings to offer full views of the night sky. The homely restaurant, fitted with a traditional Lappish fireplace, is known for its warm atmosphere and delicious Northern delights.
Location: Ounasjoentie 1619, 99140 Köngäs, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: September-April
6. Levin Iglut Finland
A chic snow hotel, Levin Iglut prides in its array of snow-and-ice accommodations. Offering some of the most lavish Finland glass igloos, the glass-roofed units here promise a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to its guests. Although the snug and well-equipped igloos here are Levin Iglut’s primary attraction, the hotel also offers a specially crafted Northern Lights House, designed just for aurora viewing.
The hotel restaurant is known for its clean, Scandinavian flavours, although private dining experiences can be arranged on request as well.
Location: Harjatie 4, 99130 Kittilä, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: September to March
7. Santa’s Hotel Aurora Finland
Surrounded by lush pine forests, Santa’s Hotel offers a fantastic luxury refuge in the very heart of nature. Along with a fantastic array of Finland glass igloos, the hotel offers a series of log villas and boutique rooms for stay. The glass igloos feature see-through ceilings for uninterrupted views of the Northern Lights, along with an automated alarm system to inform guests when the lights flare.
Restaurant Aurora, the in-house diner at the hotel, is known for its freshly made Scandinavian treats.
Location: Luppokeino 1, 99555 Luosto, Finland
Best time to visit Northern Lights: August-April
8. Apukka Resort Finland
Placed in the very heart of the Finnish Laplands, Apukka Resort is among the most sought after glass igloos in Finland. Although the resort offers a variety of different accommodations, the superior Aurora Cabins here are its primary attraction.
Designed to bring the resident closer to nature, the cabins feature glass roofs and ceilings that offer panoramic views of the snowy surroundings. Each cabin is decorated with an eye to comfort, and equipped with all basic amenities. The restaurant at the resort is known for its impeccable Nordic cooking. A variety of tours and excursions are organized here as well.
Location: Tutkijantie 28, 96900 Rovaniemi, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: August-April
9. Arctic Fox Igloos Finland
Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Ranuan, the Arctic Fox igloos are among the most popular Finland snow igloos to watch Northern Lights. Carefully designed to offer the best views of the north sky and the adjacent lake, these igloos are highly regarded both for their comfort value and their location. Arctic Fox Igloos also offer a range of related activities and excursions, including Northern Lights tours, arctic safaris and much more.
Location: Leirintäalueentie 5, 97700 Ranua, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights:Â August-April
10. Hotel & Spa Resort Jarvisydan Finland
One of Finland’s most opulent resorts, Hotel Jarvisydan promises a luxury refuge in the heart of the snowy Laplands. Stone-walled cabins and upscale rooms at the resort promise a heart and wholesome stay, with each unit furnished with world-class amenities.
Upgraded rooms offer personal saunas and lake views as well. Dining options at the resort include a pair of traditional Finnish restaurants. A swimming pool and 4 saunas serve as added attractions here.
Location: Porosalmentie 313, 58900 Rantasalmi, Finland
Best time to visit for Northern Lights: September-April
Which is the best glass igloo to stay in Finland to see northern lights?
1. Apukka Resort:Â Located right next to an enchanting lake, the beauty of Apukka Resort is quite paralleled. Among the several forms of accommodations offered here are its glass igloos, which are regarded as some of the most luxurious of Finland glass igloos. Each igloo here is equipped with ceiling-to-floor windows, offering uninterrupted views of the lake and the sky.
2. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort:Â Surrounded by pine forests on all sides, Kakslauttanen is a natural haven in the heart of the Laplands. The snug and well-furnished glass igloos at the resort are known both for their comfort value and the fantastic views they offer.
3. Nellim Wilderness Lodge:Â One of the most secluded resorts in Finland, Nellim Wilderness is an ideal choice for those looking for a quiet getaway amidst nature. The glass igloos at the resort are perfect for Northern Lights viewing. The Lodge also arranges a number of tours and excursions on request.
4. Levin Iglut: One of Lapland’s most luxurious offerings, Levin Iglut offers some of the most lavish and spacious glass igloos in Finland. The gorgeous igloos at the resort are equipped with all world-class amenities, along with floor to ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the sky.
What is the average cost of staying in glass igloos in Finland?
The cost of staying in glass igloos in Finland depends heavily on the duration of your stay and the season of visit. The cost generally varies between 100 euros to 700 euros per night, with the tariff rates rising during the Northern Lights season.
What is the best time to visit Finland for northern lights?
Although the aurora can be witnessed throughout the year, it is best visible during the spring and autumn months between August and April. During this time, the skies remain clear with no signs of cloud, offering uninterrupted views to the sky.
What facilities will I get in glass igloos in Finland?
Glass ceiling
Sleeping bags or double beds
Shared bathrooms
Saunas
Wardrobes
Tea and coffee making facilities
Is Finland a good place to see the northern lights?
Yes, Finland is one of the best places in the whole world to see the Northern Lights from. The country sees the Aurora about 200 days in a year, which is the longest stretch of time in all of the Lapland region.
Glass Igloos
Arctic Snow Hotel and Glass Igloos, Wilderness Hotel Inari, Aurora Dome & Glamping, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Levin Iglut, Santa’s Hotel & many more
If looking for front seat views to the gorgeous Lapish northern lights then look no further, and head over to these fantastic glass igloos in Finland. Offering uninterrupted views to the northern skies, these gorgeous igloos promise a magical experience, leaving you with some of the best memories of your life. The luxurious Finland glass igloos make sure you stay snug and worm in their cozy interiors as you enjoy the show in the sky. Each igloo-resort comes with its own unique charm- whether it is the dazzling views of the lake from Apukka Resort, or the fantastic ceiling to floor windows at the mighty Kakslauttanen, each resort reserves its own magic.
These glass igloos are also designed to cater to every traveller’s tastes and budget interests. While those looking for a luxury vacation can easily find a home in Levin Iglut or the Arctic SnowHotel, travellers seeking a quiet, more down-to- earth experience can head for the Aurora Dome camps instead.
For a truly unique experience, consider staying in a glass igloo. These igloos offer unobstructed views of the night sky, perfect for watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort and Levi Northern Lights Village are popular choices.
Ice Hotels
For the adventurous, spending a night in an ice hotel is a must. The SnowCastle in Kemi and the Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi provide an unforgettable experience, complete with ice rooms, ice bars, and ice chapels.
Traditional Cabins
If you prefer a more traditional stay, Lapland has plenty of cozy cabins and cottages. These accommodations offer a warm and authentic atmosphere, often equipped with saunas and fireplaces. Inari and Luosto are excellent areas to find such lodgings.
Why Lapland is Known For
Lapland is known for several unique attractions and experiences:
1. Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a major draw for visitors. Lapland’s location within the Arctic Circle provides some of the best opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon. The best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and March.
2. Christmas Magic
Lapland is synonymous with Christmas, thanks to its association with Santa Claus. The region’s festive spirit, charming Christmas markets, and holiday activities make it a perfect destination for families and holiday enthusiasts.
3. Reindeer and Husky Safaris
Experience the traditional Sami way of life by taking a reindeer or husky safari. These guided tours offer a unique way to explore the snowy landscapes and learn about the region’s cultural heritage.
Tourism in Lapland
Tourism is a vital part of Lapland’s economy, attracting visitors from around the world. The region’s pristine nature, unique attractions, and cultural experiences make it a year-round destination. Whether you’re interested in winter sports, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing in a serene environment, Lapland has something for everyone.
Weather in Lapland
Lapland experiences a subarctic climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -30°C (-22°F), so it’s essential to pack warm clothing. Summers are short but pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The midnight sun is a unique summer phenomenon, providing 24 hours of daylight from late May to mid-July.
Essential Travel Information
1. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lapland depends on your interests. For winter activities and the Northern Lights, visit between December and March. For outdoor summer activities, visit between June and August.
2. Getting There
The main entry points to Lapland are Rovaniemi and Kittilä airports, with regular flights from Helsinki and other major European cities. Trains and buses also connect Lapland to the rest of Finland.
3. Travel Tips
- Dress in layers to stay warm in winter.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Respect local customs and traditions, particularly those of the Sami people.
Conclusion
Lapland, Finland, is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, embracing the Christmas spirit, or exploring the great outdoors, Lapland promises an unforgettable adventure. Plan your trip today and discover the enchanting allure of this Arctic wonderland.