When winter arrives, Finland transforms into a land of fairy-tale beauty, with snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and skies interwoven with the Northern Lights. The wooden cabins emit warm lights, as if you’ve entered a storybook world. Since 2018, this country has been ranked the happiest in the world for seven consecutive years by the World Happiness Report. Stepping into this land feels like time slows down, revealing a true paradise for the soul.
Finland’s winter lasts from mid-October to late March, during which most areas are blanketed in snow, making it the perfect time for winter sports and to enjoy the winter scenery. For those chasing the Northern Lights, December through February offers the best opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon.
In the Lapland region, winter temperatures can drop to -20°C or even lower, with extreme lows reaching -30°C. Despite the cold, Finland’s excellent insulation gear and indoor facilities allow people to comfortably embrace the winter’s beauty and activities. 
Winter-Exclusive Activities
Due to the long nights near the Arctic Circle, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are the highest, with over 200 days a year to catch a glimpse, especially on clear nights. Places like Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, or remote areas north of the Arctic Circle, away from city light pollution, offer the best views of this natural spectacle.
But Finland’s allure isn’t just the Northern Lights; it also offers a variety of colorful winter activities such as dog sledding, skiing, and exploring ice hotels, which are open during this season. Visiting the world’s only Santa Claus Village, experiencing authentic Finnish saunas, and feeling the ultimate fusion of ice and fire are all heart-stirring experiences!
The Home of Santa Claus
Visit the Santa Claus Village in the Arctic Circle and meet the real Santa Claus face-to-face. Located in Rovaniemi in Lapland, this is the only place officially recognized as Santa’s hometown. This special location attracts visitors from around the globe, especially in winter, with its thick festive atmosphere, rekindling childhood memories.
You can visit Santa’s office, meet Santa in person for a photo, and learn about his workshop and the daily lives of his elves. The village has various shops selling traditional Finnish handicrafts, Christmas decorations, and treats.
Cross the Arctic Circle line, feel the unique geographical charm, and receive an Arctic Circle certificate as a memento of this magical journey.
The Same Ride – Reindeer Sleigh
Ride a reindeer sleigh for a taste of Arctic romance, just like Santa Claus. Reindeer sleighs are not only a unique mode of transportation but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the thick Arctic atmosphere.
Reindeer sleigh rides are usually led by local guides or sleigh drivers, who will take you deep into snow-covered forests, listening to stories about reindeer and Arctic culture.
A Must-Stay – Aurora Glass Igloos
Finland, as the birthplace of Aurora glass igloos, offers a unique and unforgettable accommodation experience. These glass igloos allow people to comfortably lie in a warm room and watch the dazzling Northern Lights through the transparent glass roof.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Saariselkä:
Mentioning glass igloos, one must talk about Kakslauttanen, one of Finland’s most famous resorts, located in Lapland. It has been featured on the cover of National Geographic and was a filming location for “A Bite of China.”
Golden Crown Levin Iglut, Levi:
Also with 360° panoramic glass igloos, this hotel is built on top of Utsuvaara Fell, offering better views and more privacy! It feels like you’re even closer to the Northern Lights!
Some igloos also come with hot tubs, allowing you to soak in warm water while enjoying a 360° view of the Northern Lights. Finns truly know how to enjoy life!
These glass igloos are carefully designed to blend modern amenities with the natural environment, becoming a “must-stay” bucket list experience, usually equipped with warm, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and small kitchens to ensure guests enjoy the natural beauty without sacrificing convenience.
Snowmobile Adventures
Drive a snowmobile to freely roam through snow-covered forests, vast fields, and frozen lakes, experiencing the thrill of speed. This activity not only allows you to explore Finland’s magnificent natural landscapes but also provides a unique pleasure of being close to nature.
Don’t worry if you’ve never driven before; with professional instructors, it’s easy to learn, and both beginners and seasoned drivers can find suitable routes and speeds.
Authentic Finnish Sauna
Almost every Finnish person considers saunas a part of daily life. With a population of about 5.5 million, Finland has over 3 million saunas, averaging one for every two people. This love for saunas dates back hundreds of years, with Finns viewing saunas not just as a way to bathe but as an essential activity for relaxation, socializing, and spiritual purification.
Finnish saunas are typically made of wood, providing a unique warmth and natural ambiance. The temperature inside is usually set between 70 to 100°C, using high heat and steam to relax muscles and improve blood circulation. Finns often chat with friends and family in the sauna or enjoy some quiet time alone. After the sauna, they often plunge into cold lake water or roll in the snow to boost immunity and refresh their vitality.
For travelers visiting Finland, experiencing a genuine Finnish sauna will undoubtedly offer a unique cultural insight and rejuvenation of mind and body.
Icebreaker Sightseeing
An icebreaker sightseeing tour in Kemi, Finland, is an unmissable winter adventure. Onboard, you can admire the endless expanse of ice and snow, occasionally spotting wildlife and Arctic landscapes.
The tour often includes an “ice swimming” experience where visitors can safely jump into the icy sea wearing special buoyancy suits, feeling a direct connection with nature.
This unique ice experience is both thrilling and memorable, offering a sense of adventure like no other.
Other Experiences
There are many other exciting activities to try, such as ice fishing, where you drill a hole in the ice and patiently wait for fish to bite.
Dog sledding, pulled by huskies, lets you dash across vast snowfields and forests, enjoying the rush of speed!
Additionally, skiing is a popular choice for winter tourism in Finland. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, Finland offers a variety of slopes and facilities to cater to all skill levels.
