When to go to Lapland? Our exclusive advice

Lapland extends across northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and a small part of Russia. It covers a vast area, characterized by its vast expanses of tundra, boreal forests, sparkling lakes and majestic mountains. This region is one of Europe's last remaining wilderness areas, providing unspoiled habitat for a variety of wildlife including reindeer, elk, bears, wolves and migratory birds. 

Located just a 3 hour flight from Paris, the Finnish Lapland is a leading destination for the end-of-year celebrations. This authentic region will certainly transport you to the enchantment and magic of snowy landscapes. This place offers a variety of activities in winter and summer: dog sledding, snowmobiling, sleeping in an igloo, reindeer sledding, fishing on an icy lake, snowshoe hiking, ice sculpture... 

When to go to Lapland? At a glance

When to go to Lapland? Discover the 4 seasons

🌨️ Winter (November to March) — The peak season

This is the season for which Lapland is world-renowned. Between November and March, the region is covered with an immaculate blanket of snow, temperatures plummet to between -10°C and -30°C, and the nights extend over almost the entire day, ideal conditions for observing the Northern Lights.

What you can experience in winter: dog sledding safari with professional mushers, snowmobile ride in snowy pine forests, night in an igloo or ice hotel, ice fishing at sunset, meeting the reindeer of the Sámi herders, and of course the observation of the northern lights from a wood-heated chalet.

🌸 Spring (March to May) — The best value for money/experience

March is often the most underestimated month in Lapland, yet one of the most beautiful. The snow is still abundant, temperatures rise slightly (-5°C to +5°C), and the days lengthen, offering both golden light and nights still conducive to the Northern Lights until mid-March.

April marks the transition: the snow gradually melts, the rivers free their ice, and nature awakens in a striking silence. It's the ideal season for Nordic walking enthusiasts and landscape photographers.

☀️ Summer (June to August) — The midnight sun

Summer in Lapland is a revelation. Under the midnight sun, the landscapes take on golden hues at all hours. Temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, making the region accessible in a t-shirt.

Summer activities: kayaking and canoeing on wild rivers, hiking in the fjells (Lappish mountains), salmon and trout fishing in whitewater, observing migratory birds, nights in cabins by the lakes, and the absolute magic of the sun that never sets.

🍂 Autumn (September to November) — The Ruska and tranquility

In Finnish Lapland, autumn is called the "Ruska" This magical time from mid-September to mid-October when forests and tundra blaze with red, orange and yellow. It is the most colorful period and one of the least crowded.

From the end of September, the first northern lights reappear in an increasingly dark sky. November heralds winter: snow settles in, temperatures drop, and winter activities gradually resume.

Temperatures & conditions month by month

Lapland experiences radically different weather conditions depending on the season. Winter, which lasts from November to March, is the most spectacular time: snow covers everything, temperatures regularly drop below -15°C, and the long nights offer ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. Spring arrives timidly in March and April, with golden light and snow still present—this is our favorite time to combine winter activities with bright days. The Lappish summer, from June to August, is always surprising: under the midnight sun, temperatures can reach up to 25°C, and night simply ceases to exist. Finally, autumn (the famous Ruska) sets the forests ablaze with red and gold from mid-September, before the snow returns in November.

The table below gives you a precise overview of temperatures, snow cover and chances of seeing the Northern Lights for each month of the year, in the Rovaniemi and Saariselkä region.

When is there snow in Lapland?

The presence of snow in Lapland varies depending on the precise location in the region and annual weather conditions. But in general, you can expect to find snow for much of the year. 

• Winter : This is the season when Lapland is most often covered in snow. Snowfall is frequent, and the area offers ideal scenery for winter sports like skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding.

• Spring : Although snow may still be present in March, it usually begins to gradually melt as temperatures rise. However, there may be periods of late snow in spring.

• Summer : During the summer, the snow has usually completely melted, except perhaps in very high or shaded areas. This is the season when Lapland is least snowy.

• Autumn : Snow begins to slowly return as temperatures drop, especially towards the end of fall. The first snowfalls can occur in September, and the region gradually becomes white again.

Crowds and tourist seasons in Lapland

Monthly visitor index for Lapland

Knowing when Lapland is popular is just as important as knowing when it's beautiful. Certain periods attract thousands of travelers from all over the world, which can transform a dream vacation into a far less intimate experience. Conversely, the quieter months offer a peaceful, almost secret Lapland, where activities can be enjoyed at your own pace and lodges remain available without needing to book a year in advance. The table below provides an honest overview of visitor numbers month by month, so you can choose your Lapland trip with all the information you need.

When to go to Lapland to see the Northern Lights?

The aurora season extends from late August to mid-April, as soon as the nights become sufficiently dark. The months with the best ratio of long nights to clear skies are:

• February — Our favorite month. Long nights, polar temperatures but frequently clear skies, fresh snow. Lapland is at its peak. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
• Mars — Slightly milder, longer days, and auroras still very present at the beginning of the month. Ideal for those less sensitive to the cold. ★ ★ ★ ★★
• January — Intense cold and almost constant nights. Maximum conditions but requires good clothing preparation. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
• December — Romantic and festive. Best avoided between Christmas and New Year's; December 1–20 is preferable. ★ ★ ★ ★★

When to go to Lapland according to your budget?

Best time for low prices in Lapland 

Lapland is a popular tourist destination, and prices for accommodation, flights and activities can vary significantly depending on the season. If you are looking to get lower prices, autumn et spring are good solutions.

Indeed, after the summer season, prices tend to drop as winter approaches. Autumn is a transitional period where you can find great deals. Likewise at the end of winter, between March and April, prices for accommodation and activities may be more affordable, as demand gradually decreases.

Additionally, if you have some flexibility in your travel dates, consider going in middle of the week rather than the weekend. Flight and accommodation prices may be more affordable. If you know you want to visit Lapland on a particular date, book in advance to take advantage of lower prices on flights.

Finally, avoid traveling during peak tourist periods like Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays, when prices are highest.

If you want to visit Lapland for its snowy landscapes, winter sports and the Northern Lights, prefer the beginning of December and the period from the end of February to April. The main event causing an increase in prices and crowds is the period between Christmas and New Year's Eve. Thus, by starting at a distance from this moment, prices will be lower and attendance more peaceful. You will then be able to enjoy winter activities in the best conditions. 

If you want to take advantage of colorful landscapes and vegetation for hiking or walking, late summer is preferable. From September to November, this transition period between summer and winter offers tranquility and more affordable prices for accommodation and flights. You will therefore be able to observe nature changing color and also enjoy picking berries and mushrooms. 

Choose your time period according to your preferences.

Going to Lapland for the holidays

La Lapland, as a region in northern Europe, celebrates many festivals throughout the year. Here is a list of some of the traditional celebrations in Lapland:

• Christmas (Joulupukki) : Christmas is one of the most important holidays in Lapland. The region is often associated with Santa Claus and the town of Rovaniemi is considered his official residence. You can meet Santa Claus, visit his village, and take part in traditional Christmas celebrations.

• New Year : Like everywhere in the world, New Year is celebrated with fireworks, New Year's Eve and festivities.

• Easter (Pääsiäinen) : Easter is a Christian holiday celebrated in Lapland, marked by religious services and traditions linked to the spring season.

• Feast of St. John (Juhannus) : Celebrated at the end of June, it is a traditional festival in Finland and Lapland. It is associated with rituals to ward off evil spirits as well as bonfires.

• Finnish National Day (Itsenäisyyspäivä) : The Finnish National Day, which celebrates Finland's independence from Russia, is celebrated on December 6. Official ceremonies take place, notably in Helsinki, but the festival is observed throughout Lapland.

• Norwegian Independence Day (Nasjonaldagen) : In the Norwegian part of Lapland, Norwegian Independence Day is celebrated on May 17 with parades and festivities.

Holiday periods are very popular in Lapland. So plan your departure dates well in advance.

Traveling to Lapland: what to pack in your suitcase

A trip in Lapland, especially during the winter season, requires careful preparation regarding clothing and equipment. Here is a list of what you should consider packing in your suitcase:

1. Warm clothes 

   • Insulated jackets and coats, preferably waterproof and windproof.
   • Warm pants, preferably waterproof.
   • Thermal underwear to keep the body warm.
   • Warm sweaters.
   • Thick, warm socks.
   • Warm hat, scarf and gloves.

2. Shoes 

   • Waterproof and warm winter boots with a non-slip sole for walking in the snow.
   • Comfortable shoes for indoor use.

3. Snow equipment 

   • Snowsuit (overalls) for winter activities.
   • Waterproof snow gloves.
   • Sunglasses with UV protection to reduce snow glare.

4. Luggage 

   • A water-resistant suitcase or sturdy travel bag.

5. Electronic equipment 

   • Camera to capture the magnificent landscapes.
   • Electrical chargers and adapters.

6. Other Essentials 

   • Passport, visas and travel documents.
   • Identity card or driving license.
   • Credit cards or cash for local spending.
   • Travel diary, tourist guides, and reservation documents.

7. Medicines and prescriptions 

   • Essential medications and medical prescriptions if necessary.
   • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are a European citizen

Remember to check the local weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly, as weather conditions can vary significantly in Lapland. It is preferable to opt for layered clothing to be able to adjust your outfit according to the outside temperature. 

Feel free to contact us to prepare your tailor-made trip to Lapland!