Finland: A winter wonderland

When you hear 'Finland', the first thing that comes to mind is a 'Winter Wonderland'. What’s not to love about traveling to Finland in winter? Imagine breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, mesmerizing Northern Lights, thrilling winter adventures, festive Christmas markets, and the irresistible warmth of a sauna after a day outdoors. Remember that winter kicks off in October or November in Lapland, and a little later in southern Finland. Snow covers the ground until April (sometimes until May) and Northern Lights dance in the sky brightly in spring when the skies are clear!

Sleep under the Northern Lights

If you've ever dreamed of watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky from the comfort of a cozy bed, Finland makes that dream a reality. In Finnish Lapland, you can experience nature’s most spectacular light show from glass-roofed cabins, Arctic treehouses, or Lappish-themed huts with transparent walls.

Fun fact: Did you know that the Northern Lights are visible on roughly 200 nights a year in Finnish Lapland? For the best chance to catch them, head north between late August and April, when long, dark nights that twinkle with starry skies are your friends.

Tip: Apart from sleeping in a snow hotel in Lapland, you can also get married in a snow chapel, or even build your own snow hut under expert guidance (and then sleep in it). You can also enjoy a meal in a snow restaurant, grab a drink at an ice bar, or explore a snow castle that looks like it’s straight out of a winter fairytale.

Meet Father Christmas in Lapland

What could be more magical than meeting Santa Claus on the Arctic Circle? A visit to Lapland is not complete without dropping by to see Father Christmas himself. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just embracing the holiday spirit with your colleagues, it’s a heartwarming experience that brings joy to everyone.

Tip: Send Christmas postcards to your friends and family or request a unique letter from Santa Claus that will be mailed from Santa Claus' Main Post Office and get the official Santa’s special stamp and Santa Claus’ Main Post Office postmark, which you can’t get from anywhere else in the world.

Snowmobiling on frozen lakes

If you’re after adventure, snowmobiling across frozen lakes and forests is a must! It’s a thrilling way to experience Finland’s winter landscapes. Many of Lapland’s top ski resorts also offer snowmobile safaris.

Reindeer and husky safari: Travel the traditional way

For something more laid-back but equally special, why not hop on a reindeer or husky safari? You'll settle into a comfy sleigh while reindeer pull you through the picturesque wilderness. Many reindeer herders will even offer cinnamon buns and coffee by the campfire as they share stories of reindeer herding, adding a cozy, cultural twist to the adventure.

Break the ice – literally!

For a truly unique experience, board the Arctic Icebreaker Sampo, a majestic ship that once worked Finland’s icy seas for trade. Now, it takes visitors on one-of-a-kind cruises, where you can hear the ship’s steel hull breaking through thick layers of ice. As if that’s not thrilling enough, you can even take a dip in the freezing sea in a survival suit!

Christmas markets and pikkujoulut

As the Christmas holiday season approaches, Finns love to gather for 'pikkujoulut' ('little Christmas' or 'Pre-Christmas' parties) or strolls around the Christmas markets. Christmas markets light up the streets of all major cities, filled with seasonal cheer. Sip on hot glögi (Finnish mulled wine) while you wander through the festive stalls. You’ll find gingerbread cookies, salmon soup, and all sorts of local delicacies, perfect for embracing the spirit of the season. It’s an experience that warms you inside and out!

Contact us at info@nexttravel.fi and get an offer for your group! Welcome to Finland!