Guide to Currency and Prices in Lapland

If you’re planning a trip to Lapland – the northernmost area of Finland – you’re in for a treat.

From a visit to Santa Claus’ Village, exploring the capital Rovaniemi, or adventuring on a snowmobile safari, your Lapland holiday has plenty in store for you so it’s handy to come prepared and organise your spending money. Let’s dive deeper into what some typicaly costs are in Lapland, including how much spending money you should take.

What is the currency in Lapland?

The currency you will need in Lapland is Euros (EUR).

Prices for dining out in Lapland

Some of Finland’s finest cuisine can be discovered in Lapland. Forming a delicious combination of traditional country fare and more contemporary style cooking, you’ll find fish and meat dishes in abundance and local fare like reindeer stew, hearty soups, fresh Arctic char and berry desserts in a range of cosy cafes and rustic restaurants.

Average meal costs:

• At a mid-range restaurant, a two course meal for two people is typically between £50-£75 (€60-€85)
• For a light lunch, like a soup and coffee, expect to pay around £13-£21 (€15-€25)
• A dessert or cake and coffee at a local café can cost around £5-£8 (€6-€10)

The price of drinks in Lapland

After a day of exploring in the snow or meeting Santa, there’s plenty of bars and cafes to help you unwind from the day. Whether you’re looking for a loaded hot chocolate with all the toppings, or a good pint of beer that will warm you from the inside – you’ll find it here.

Alcohol in Lapland tends to be noticeably pricier than in many other European destinations, mainly due to Finland’s strict alcohol taxation and government controls – so while you can absolutely enjoy your favourite tipple, expect to pay higher prices.

Prices of soft drinks:

• A can of a soft drink like Coke, Sprite or Fanta, can range from £3.50-£4 (€4-€5) in restaurants and cafes.
• A 1.5 litre bottle of water from the local supermarket will cost you around £1.20 (€1.3)

Prices of hot drinks:

• A latte, mocha or hot chocolate at a local café typically costs £3.50-£5 (€4-€6) – perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.

Prices of alcoholic drinks:

• A glass of house wine can typically cost between £6-£8 (€7-€9) in a mid-range restaurant
• A pint of the local beer can average around £7-£8 (€7-€8)
• Finland makes great vodka, too – spirit lovers should give Laplandia vodka a try. A 70cl botlle is around £28 (€32)

Popular excursions and prices

Lapland is full of magic and enchanting sights, but also plenty of fun, adventure and festive wonder!

A trip to Lapland would not be complete without a visit to see Santa – head to Santa Claus’s Village in Rovaniemi to meet him in all his glory – and his fellow elf and reindeer friends! It’s free of charge for entry and then there is excursions that can be paid for inside.

For families with young children:

• Explore this snowy winter wonderland on a sleigh pulled by reindeers (yes, real reindeer!) – typically costing around £160 per adult and £120 per child.

For families with older children:

• Zoom through the snow-capped forests on a snowmobile ride – costing you around £115 per adult and £90 per child.

For couples:

• Head on a snowmobile adventure at night and fingers crossed you’ll get to see the Northern Lights too – typically costing around £170 per adult and £130 per child.

How much spending money should I take to Lapland?

If you’re visiting Lapland, budget for around £70 per person per day, or £490 per week, to include all food and excursions.

Your budget for Lapland will depend heavily on the time of year – the peak winter season across the Christmas & New Year period is typically much more expensive – and how many activities you’re looking to get up to.

Budget travellers ~ £100 per day

• For those sticking to cafés, casual lunches and one excursion.

Mid-range travellers ~ £130-£200 per day

• Includes mid-range restaurants for every meal and a few excursions across the trip.

Luxury travellers ~ £250+ per day

• Three course meals and several excursions.

*Prices correct at the time blog was published.

You should have all the information you need to plan your Lapland holiday budget but if you haven’t yet booked your flights and hotel, we’ve got tons of magical Lapland deals waiting for you!