Northern Lapland

Sparsely populated and extraordinarily beautiful, with fells, lakes and forests, Lapland's north is a magical place for hiking, snow sports and learning about Sámi culture. At these latitudes, your chances of seeing the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) are high when skies are clear and dark.

Explore Northern Lapland

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Northern Lapland.

  • Museum

    Siida

    One of Finland's most absorbing museums, state-of-the-art Siida offers a comprehensive overview of the Sámi and their environment. The main exhibition…

  • Cultural Centre

    Sajos

    The spectacular wood-and-glass Sámi cultural centre stands proud in the middle of town. It holds the Sámi parliament as well as a library and music…

  • Nature Reserve

    Kevo Strict Nature Reserve

    Some of Finland's most breathtaking scenery is within the 712-sq-km Kevo Strict Nature Reserve along the splendid 40km gorge of the Kevojoki (off-limits…

  • Natural Feature

    Bears' Nest

    At the edge of Myössäjärvi, 16km south of Inari, look out for the Karhunpesäkivi rest stop. From here, a 300m timber boardwalk (mainly comprising steps)…

  • Museum

    Kultamuseo

    In 1868 the remote area of Tankavaara on the Ivalojoki, 32km south of Saariselkä, experienced a gold rush, with a community of up to 500 panners seeking…

  • Church

    Pielpajärven Kirkko

    This erämaakirkko (wilderness church) is accessible by a marked walking track (7.5km one way) from the parking area at Siida. If you're driving, there’s…

  • Historic Site

    Sallivaara

    Accessed off the Inari–Kittilä road, 70km southwest of Inari, this reindeer round-up site was used by Sámi reindeer herders twice yearly until 1964. Round…

  • Nature Centre

    Tankavaara Nature Centre

    Next door to Tankavaara's gold-panning museum, Kultamuseo, this nature centre has advice on activities and trekking in Urho Kekkonen National Park. Good…

  • Church

    Vanha Kirkko

    One of the few buildings in Lapland to survive the Nazis' scorched-earth retreat in WWII is this, the region’s oldest church, dating from 1689. It stands…

  • Visitor Centre

    Aurora House

    If you miss witnessing the aurora borealis, this 45-minute simulation in a purpose-built riverside tepee is the next best thing. Lean back on a reclining…

  • Gallery

    Alariesto Galleria

    Above the tourist office, this gallery displays paintings by famous local artist Andreas Alariesto (1900–89), who depicted traditional Sámi life in an…

  • Historic Site

    Kaapin Jouni

    This historic farm on the other side of the river from Njurgulahti was once the home of the ‘reindeer king’ Jouni Aikio. You can visit by organising boat…

  • Museum

    Kolttien Perinnetalo

    Kolttien Perinnetalo is a delightful little museum with photos, crafts and memorabilia of the poignant Skolt history. The Skolt traditionally used a…

  • Visitor Centre

    Kylätalo Giisá

    The village hall, Kylätalo Giisá, has a handicraft shop and cafe.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Northern Lapland.

  • Activities