We’ve been incredibly fortunate to visit Lapland three times in the past three years, spending a total of 18 nights and experiencing 7 different types of accommodations along with a variety of activities. Now, we're excited to share all our firsthand insights to show you just how easy it is to book a magical Lapland getaway.
​
If you're still unsure, take a look at the glowing reviews from other club members on Trustpilot and Instagram who have already taken advantage of our affordable Lapland deals.

We offer affordable Lapland Flight and Accommodation deals exclusively to Family Travel Club members, which have been extremely popular with both our UK and Irish members!

Welcome to Lapland, a magical winter wonderland and the official home of Santa Claus! With its breathtaking landscapes, exciting activities, and warm-hearted locals, Lapland offers the perfect setting for a Family adventure like no other. From meeting Santa in person to exploring Finland’s pristine lakes and forests, there’s no shortage of fun to be had—whether by snowmobile or reindeer sleigh. It is also important to note that Lapland is also suitable for an Adult Only Holiday!!

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate holiday destination, Lapland may just be it. Known for its vast wilderness and stunning natural beauty, it’s a region unlike any other. The untouched Arctic landscape, glistening snowfields, and awe-inspiring Northern Lights provide a sense of wonder that captivates every visitor. Every corner of Lapland offers something new to discover, making it an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

It's important to decide which part of Lapland to visit, as the region is quite large. For our trip, we chose the Rovaniemi area, home to the famous Santa Claus Holiday Village. This spot is particularly popular with visitors from Ireland and the UK. However, while Rovaniemi is a major attraction, the true magic of Lapland lies in its experiences. Whether you’re immersing yourself in Sami culture or racing across snowy plains on a husky safari, Lapland offers endless opportunities for adventure.

From ice carving in igloo villages to marveling at the mystical Northern Lights, there’s something here for everyone. So bundle up, pack your warmest clothes, and get ready for the family adventure of a lifetime—Santa is waiting!

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the magical Northern Lights, meeting Santa Claus, or exploring snowy landscapes with huskies? Then Lapland is the perfect destination! However, before packing your bags, be sure to research flights early to score the best deals. Lapland may be a winter wonderland, but peak season can be pricey. By booking in advance, you’ll save more to enjoy all the amazing experiences this Finnish paradise offers. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories—start planning your Lapland adventure today!

When searching for the perfect accommodation, balancing comfort and cost is key. Whether you’re considering Airbnb, resorts, or hotels, each option comes with its own unique advantages. Airbnb offers a cozy, home-like atmosphere, often at a more affordable rate compared to hotels or resorts, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. If you’re looking for a luxurious escape, resorts provide top-tier amenities and services, delivering an all-inclusive experience that caters to relaxation and indulgence. Hotels, with their wide range of pricing and services, offer a more traditional stay, accommodating various budgets and preferences.

Ultimately, your decision will depend on what you value most—whether it’s the personal touch of an Airbnb, the luxury of a resort, or the familiarity of a hotel. Carefully considering the pros and cons of each will help ensure you find the ideal balance of comfort, convenience, and cost for your trip.

Rovaniemi Airport is conveniently located, just a 10-minute drive from Santa Claus Village and about 15-20 minutes from Apukka Resort. Both locations are easily accessible by taxi or bus. As of this writing, the bus to Santa Claus Village costs €8 / £6.70 per person, while a taxi for five passengers costs around €25 / £21 in total.
For those heading to Apukka Resort, a taxi ride for five people is approximately €50 / £42. Apukka also offers a shuttle service that connects to Santa Claus Village and Rovaniemi town centre, with Family tickets priced at €25 / £21 each way.

Planning a trip to Santa Claus Village in Lapland, Finland, promises a magical adventure, from meeting Santa to thrilling activities like husky sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. But before you set off, it's important to pack wisely for the cold Arctic conditions. The secret? Dress in layers! Start with a warm base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof outer layer to stay warm and dry in the snow.
​
Make sure to pack essentials like thick ski socks, waterproof gloves, hats, and scarves to protect your extremities from the cold. And, of course, bring your camera to capture the magic of this unforgettable trip!
While you don’t need a snowsuit the moment you step off the plane, wearing your base layers with waterproof clothing should keep you comfortable. We only rented snowsuits for specific activities, like the Aurora Night Hunt at Apukka Resort.

1. Do research the best places to visit with kids in Lapland
   Lapland is full of family-friendly attractions, but not all are tailored to younger visitors. Before you go, take time to research the best spots for children, such as Santa Claus Village or Rovaniemi’s cozy ice parks. Make sure to plan activities your kids will enjoy, like visiting Santa, husky farms, or indoor play areas, to keep them engaged and excited.
2. Do dress your kids appropriately for the cold weather and bring extra layers
   Lapland can get extremely cold, so dressing in layers is essential. Start with thermal base layers, add a fleece or wool mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget hats, gloves, scarves, and warm boots. Always pack extra layers, including socks, in case your kids get wet or cold while playing outside.
3. Do take advantage of outdoor activities like dog-sledding and reindeer sleigh rides
   Lapland is an outdoor paradise with a wide range of activities perfect for families. Embrace the snowy adventure by trying dog-sledding, reindeer sleigh rides, and snowmobiling. These unique experiences will give your kids unforgettable memories and a true taste of Arctic life.
4. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture special moments
   The landscapes of Lapland, from its snow-covered forests to the dazzling Northern Lights, are picture-perfect. A camera is essential for capturing these magical moments, whether it’s your family meeting Santa or your kids playing in the snow. Be sure to have plenty of battery power, as the cold weather can drain them quickly!
5. Do plan ahead of time to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip
   Lapland is a popular destination, especially during the holiday season, so planning is key. Book activities, accommodations, and transportation well in advance to avoid disappointment. Having an itinerary in place will help you manage your time effectively and reduce stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience with your family.
6. Don't forget to pack snacks to keep energy levels high
   Kids tend to burn a lot of energy while playing in the snow, so it’s a good idea to have snacks on hand throughout the day. Bring easy-to-pack options like granola bars, nuts, and fruit to keep everyone fueled during outdoor activities, particularly when food options may be limited.
7. Do pack a thermal bottle for warm drinks
   A thermal bottle is a lifesaver when it comes to staying warm. Pack one with hot chocolate, tea, or coffee to enjoy during breaks in outdoor activities. This not only keeps you warm but also adds an extra layer of comfort and coziness to your Arctic adventure.
8. Don't forget suncream, sunglasses, and moisturizer—UV rays reflect off the snow
   Even in the winter, UV rays are strong, especially with sunlight reflecting off the snow. Protect your family’s skin with sunscreen and use sunglasses to shield your eyes from the bright glare. Moisturizer is also important to prevent your skin from drying out in the cold, dry air.
9. Do take advantage of free playgrounds, sleds, and snow hills
   You don’t always need expensive activities to have fun. Many areas in Lapland offer free playgrounds, sledding hills, and other snowy spots where kids can simply enjoy playing in the snow. These low-cost options are a great way to let your kids burn off energy while having a blast.
10. Don't forget to bring hand warmers and extra socks
    If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, it’s crucial to stay warm. Hand warmers are great for keeping fingers toasty, especially during long activities like sleigh rides or snowmobiling. Extra socks are equally important to prevent frostbite or discomfort if anyone’s feet get wet from snow.

By following these do’s and don’ts, your family will be well-prepared for an unforgettable trip to Lapland!

January, February & March are an ideal time to plan a Lapland holiday with children; the temperatures are more forgiving, the days are longer and more activities are available. With fewer crowds and fun activities like husky sledding, ice fishing, reindeer riding, ice-karting and snowmobiling, your family will create magical memories that will last a lifetime. Plus with all that extra daylight in March, you can add nighttime adventures such as a Northern Lights viewing!  When it comes to visiting Lapland with children, properly prepare for cold weather and dress in layers, bring gloves and hats for everyone and don't forget sunglasses for the reflective UV rays.​Find out what activities and services come included in your accommodation that you book & look at other nice-to-have ideas from reindeer walking to guided tours. A trip to Lapland creates wonderful memories that last a lifetime; take advantage of these magical moments by booking that dream Lapland holiday on a budget in our Family Travel Club Lapland Deals

Is Lapland suitable for people with additional needs?​

When most people think of Lapland, they might imagine images of icy landscapes and reindeer herds. However, this breathtaking region also harbors a crucial understanding of accessibility. For many years, the Lapland tourism industry has worked hard to make sure that everyone can enjoy all that the area has to offer. From wheelchair accessibility at popular hotels to accessible dog sled adventures, there's something for everyone in this magical part of the world. What's more, visitors can also take comfort in knowing that their visit supports ongoing efforts to make Lapland more welcoming and accessible for all. Typically February & March will also be more quiet with lower crowds and wait times. So come and discover the natural beauty and essential accessibility of Lapland - you won't regret it.

Low cost / FREE Activities to enjoy with the kids in Santa Claus Village

Looking for an adventure in Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi without breaking the bank? You're in luck because there are plenty of low-cost or even FREE activities to enjoy in this magical destination. Take a stroll through the vast network of paths in the snow covered Finnish forests and admire the stunning Northern Lights, we recommend downloading an Aurora Forecast app on your phone. Bundle up and go for a hike across the Frozen landscape, or try your hand at Ice Fishing (one of the lower cost activities to book).

​You can even visit the Santa Claus Office for FREE and mail a postcard from the official Santa Claus Post Office , stamp and postcard less than €5pp total. Take advantage of the many snow-hills with one of the FREE sleds laying around Santa Claus Village. Cross the Arctic Circle for FREE and purchase an official certificate from the Arctic Circle information desk in Santa Claus Village - €4.50 / £3 for certificate. Send a FREE live stream message to loved ones back at home with the live webcam feed in Santa Claus Village. Enjoy the fun playgrounds that are located around Santa Claus Village, or simply spend your time with the kids building a snowman or having a snowball fight, again this is FREE. Whether you're traveling solo or with your family, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Santa Claus Village without spending a fortune. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!

Looking to create an unforgettable family experience? Consider a trip to Lapland and stay at Apukka Resort! Lapland boasts breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped bridges, and exotic wildlife, making it one of the world's most magical destinations. Apukka Resort in Rovaniemi offers a wide range of family-friendly activities. Whether it's husky sledding and snowmobiling for adventure lovers, ice fishing and reindeer safaris for a taste of culture, or Northern Lights safaris for a truly special experience, there’s something for everyone.
Located lakeside in the serene Lappish wilderness, yet only a 15-minute drive from Rovaniemi Airport, the resort is perfectly situated. We stayed in the brand-new Lakeview Suite, which features floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the frozen lake and Northern sky. The suite sleeps up to six, making it ideal for families!

Top Tip: Apukka offer a resort shuttle bus to Santa Claus Village and Rovaniemi ( €25 / £21 Family Tickets each way, considerably cheaper than a taxi )

There is no shortage of unforgettable activities to enjoy during a stay at Apukka Resort Lapland. For those with a sense of adventure, snowmobile safaris take you deep into the breathtaking Arctic landscapes. If you prefer something a little more relaxed, the ice karting tracks offer plenty of fun, thrills, and laughs.

For a truly unique cultural experience, you can visit a local reindeer farm or meet the indigenous Sámi people, whose rich history and traditions are both fascinating and enlightening. And of course, no trip to Lapland would be complete without witnessing the magical Northern Lights — best enjoyed from the comfort of Apukka’s stunning Aurora Glass Cabins. Whatever your interests, Apukka Resort Lapland offers something truly special for everyone.

We highly recommend experiences such as the Aurora Hunt on the Snowmobile Train, Apukka Snow & Fun, and the Lakeside Sauna & Arctic Bath. However, one of the most incredible experiences you can book is meeting Santa Claus in the magical forest.

We absolutely loved this. Our journey began with a reindeer ride through the forest to Santa’s magical village, where we were greeted by elves who brought us into a cosy cottage to bake gingerbread cookies. After that, it was time to meet Santa Claus in his own little cabin. This wasn’t a rushed experience at all — Santa truly took his time with the children, making it feel personal and magical.

After our visit with Santa, the elves guided us to another cottage where we made Christmas tree ornaments and wrote postcards to send home from Lapland. We even had a snowball fight with the elves before taking a reindeer sleigh ride back to Apukka Resort.

We highly recommend this premium Santa Claus experience — it’s one of the most magical and memorable things you can do in Lapland. ✨🎄

Are you looking for a magical family holiday destination that promises heaps of fun and unforgettable memories? Then look no further than Santa Claus Holiday Village! Located in the Arctic Circle, this enchanting holiday village is an experience like no other, offering a unique combination of winter wonderland activities perfect for the whole family. Whether you want to take a magical sleigh ride in search of the Northern Lights, meet Santa and his reindeer, or hug a Husky , Santa Claus Holiday Village has it all. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for an unforgettable family holiday in the land of Santa Claus! We stayed in 2 interconnecting cabins, each cabin slept 4, this was perfect for a large Family or two Families travelling together. Each Cabin was tastefully decorated with traditional Lapland decor, candle labras in the windows and of course a pre-lit Christmas tree on the porch. Each cabin also has a private sauna in the bathroom and a small kitchenette. Perfect for self catering option. If you wish to avail of Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Santa Claus Village offers a selection of three restaurants in total along with a unique dining experience in a glass igloo at an additional fee​. We highly recommend the dining experience in the glass igloo. Did you know you can also book a private visit from Santa to visit your cabin, full details are HERE

Top Tip: If you are staying in accommodation at Santa Claus Village, a petrol station is located directly across the road. This is a great option for snacks, milk, meats, crisps, yoghurts etc. The petrol station also has a small pharmacy section and is 24/7

The holiday suites are nestled in peaceful forest surroundings, offering complete privacy and tranquility. Despite the secluded atmosphere, they are only a 5-minute walk from the main building, where you'll find restaurants and other services. These spacious, elegantly designed suites are filled with natural light, combining modern style with traditional touches. Each suite features a separate living room and bedroom, a terrace with serene forest views, and a bathroom complete with a sauna. A mini kitchen is also available in every suite. The family suites, equipped with luxurious Finnish-made double beds, can comfortably accommodate up to 2 adults and 3 children. In addition to the double bed in the bedroom, the living room includes a sofa bed and an armchair bed for extra sleeping space.

We had a fantastic stay at the Postmaster Hotel, and it was the perfect base for our family of five, thanks to the spacious, modern rooms that gave everyone plenty of comfort after busy days exploring. One of the biggest highlights was the convenience of booking our Lapland activities through StayLapland, which made everything seamless and stress-free. We also loved the generous breakfast buffet each morning, offering a great selection for both adults and kids, and the hotel’s central location in Rovaniemi city was ideal, With shops and restaurants nearby and just a short taxi ride to Santa Claus Village, making it incredibly easy to enjoy all the magic of Lapland. ❄️🎅

Santa's Igloos Arctic Circle is the perfect accommodation for a family of five, offering a cozy and magical stay in the heart of Lapland. The igloos feature a heated glass roof, providing breathtaking panoramic views right from your bed, ideal for watching the Northern Lights without stepping outside. The resort also offers delicious dining options, with a wide variety of breakfast choices and local Finnish cuisine for dinner. Located just steps away from Santa Claus Village, this superb location allows easy access to unforgettable family experiences while being immersed in the Arctic wilderness.

​SantaSport Resort is an ideal choice for large families, offering spacious accommodations and a variety of fantastic amenities. The resort includes an indoor kids' play area, an indoor swimming pool, and even a bowling alley, ensuring there's something for every family member to enjoy. Located just a 15-minute drive from Santa Claus Village, it provides easy access to this magical destination. A taxi ride for a family of five costs approximately €20 or £17 each way, making it both convenient and affordable for those eager to explore the wonders of Lapland. P.S local supermarket is within walking distance. Handy to pick up some groceries to keep costs down

In the heart of Santa Claus Village, right next to the Santa Claus Office, but in a quiet location, ultra modern design and luxurious comfort.
If you want a spacious apartment or whole Villa with luxurious furnishings, comfort, and memorable details in the heart of Santa Claus Village, you've come to the right place.

This exquisite log villa is made up of two separate apartments, and if you book both apartments at the same time, you will have access to the entire log villa from the best location in Santa Claus Village for your wonderful holiday.

The luxurious furnishing adds to the comfort and provides the finishing touches on the dignified surroundings at this  beautiful Villa, where modern design mingles with only the best natural materials, and the atmospheric modern Finnish log house invites you to enjoy yourself in extreme cosyness. This is a very unique type of accommodation in Santa Claus Village, it can sleep upto 15 guests if the whole Villa is booked ( perfect for large groups of Friends or Families traveling to Lapland together )This unique destination offers a truly magical experience, with luxurious accommodations and an enchanting winter wonderland surrounding the villa. Spend your days exploring the glistening snow-covered landscape on a reindeer sleigh ride or a thrilling snowmobile excursion. Or, indulge in some retail therapy at the nearby Rovaniemi City before returning to the villa to relax by the cozy fireplace. Whether you're building snowmen with the kids or enjoying a romantic getaway with your partner, this is the perfect destination for families seeking a touch of luxury and holiday charm. Book now for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

The Arctic Snow Hotel in Lapland is truly a winter wonderland. The hotel is sculpted entirely from snow and ice, creating a magical and breathtaking atmosphere with a different design EVERY year. Visitors can experience a memorable stay by sleeping in a cozy sleeping bag on top of a reindeer hide in one of the hotel's unique ice rooms. In addition to the stunning accommodations, there is plenty to do in the surrounding area. Guests can go on a snowmobile safari or even visit Santa Claus at his village. Visiting the Arctic Snow Hotel Lapland is a one-of-a-kind experience that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Please Note: Activities in Santa Claus Village, are all within walking distance of each other. All activities can be pre-booked via the links below.​Nestled in the heart of Lapland, the Santa Claus Holiday Village offers a wide range of activities for those seeking adventure or simply looking to relax. From husky rides and reindeer sleighs to snowmobiling and Ice Karting, there is something for everyone. For the adrenaline junkies, a visit to Lapland also offers a chance to go snowshoeing or speed down the slopes on a pair of skis or a snowboard. No matter what activity you choose, a visit to this magical village is sure to create memories that last a lifetime.

Pre-Book Activities: Did you know that you can pre-book activities even before you go to Lapland? Please see the link below for activities to book that are ALL within walking distance of Santa Claus Holiday Village

• Husky Park Arctic Circle, Ride Husky Sled & Hug The Huskies - BOOK HERE
• Elf Farm Yard & Walk The Reindeer - BOOK HERE 
• Santa's Reindeer Sleigh Ride - BOOK HERE
• Santa's Ice Karting - BOOK HERE                     
• ​Snowman World - BOOK HERE

​( Please note opening and closing date for Snowman World )

• ​Snowmobile Safari - BOOK HERE
• ​Porovaara Hill Reindeer Farm- BOOK HERE

​You can meet Santa in your Santa Claus Holiday Village cabin by booking a private visit, alternatively you can meet him in Christmas House, right beside Santa Claus Holiday Village Hotel Reception or you can meet him in the Santa Claus Office in the middle of Santa Claus Village.
In our opinion the Santa Claus Office was the best Santa experience.  It is FREE entrance, you take a pathway (que) through the workshop, looking through keyholes at the Elves preparing gifts and taking care of the Reindeer, before you come to Santas meet and greet room. 

Upon entering the Elves will keep the whole Family smiling as Santa has a conversation with the Family, the Elves will record a video with audio and take photos. Both Video and Photos are available to purchase as a bundle for €50 / £42 on exit of Santa Claus Office, we found this to be excellent. This Santa experience is located in the middle of Santa Claus Village, you wont miss it!!

Unfortunately no pre-booking is required so it is first come first serve, however when we visited in March it was about a 5 minute wait, compared to 2-3 hours waits in December etc.

Did you know that you can meet Mrs Claus in her cottage? You can meet Mrs Claus in her lovely wooden cottage right behind Santa's Reindeer rides in Santa Claus Village.  It is €50 for a Family of 5 with a FREE printed photo included (at the time of posting),you take a pathway (que) through the Christmas decorated wooden log cabin,  before you come to Mrs Claus meet and greet room. 

Upon entering the Elves will keep the whole Family smiling before taking a seat next to Mrs Claus. Mrs Claus will have a conversation with the Family about how busy Santa has been and what she likes to make him for breakfast etc  She really was lovely to visit and we highly recommend it

Lapland is a winter wonderland full of adventures perfect for families of all sizes, budgets, and ages. With the right planning, you can ensure the best Lapland experience. Start by researching the essential do's and don'ts to make your trip as smooth as possible. One key tip is to book outside of the peak months of November and December for better value,though keep in mind that snow in November is not guaranteed.With proper preparation, a budget-friendly family holiday to Lapland is not only possible but an unforgettable, magical experience for everyone. Start your research and planning now, and save this post as a helpful guide to ensure your Lapland adventure is perfect!


If you found this blog helpful, we’d love for you to share it with family and friends.
You can also join The Family Travel Club HERE to see our latest Lapland travel deals from the UK and Ireland.
Thank you for your support!
Sally & Rob