Lapland might be chilly in temperature, but where holiday warmth is concerned, you’ll be warmer than ever. Lapland is found in Finland’s northernmost territory, edging just into the Arctic Circle. The temperatures up here have been known to dip into the double minus figures, but it’s nothing some good winter clothing can’t cure.

The warmest month is July when temperatures reach around 17°C, with the coldest February coming in at a teeth-chattering -10°C. November to March tend to be best for snow as these months remain below zero.

Trips to Lapland certainly call for a Santa hat and booming holiday spirit, as Santa’s official home can be found here at the Santa Claus Village. It’s not only Christmas festivities though, there are ski resorts to thunder down, Lappish restaurants to dine in and the Northern Lights to marvel at, too.

Santa Claus' Village

Chilled cheeks are made rosy in Rovaniemi’s very own Christmas wonderland. Here the holiday spirit isn’t just reserved for Christmas day – it’s a year-round celebration.

Peek into Santa’s office and you’ll come face-to-face with the man himself. Kids will get the chance to sit with the big guy in red and tell him their Christmas wish. They can also feed Rudolph a carrot or go underground in the Santa Park and meet a few of Santa’s trusted elves. Trips to Lapland are the kind of fun that entire families can get on board with.

The Santa Claus Village is also a top spot to pick up Christmas gifts, as there’s no better place than the source itself – you might even meet the elf that made them! On offer here are local handicrafts, Finnish baubles and textiles, souvenirs and Christmas toys to help commemorate your visit.

What’s more, you can also build a snowman at Snowman World here, have a drink in an ice bar or enjoy snow-mobiling and skiing. There’s tons of incredible excursions in Lapland – the list really does go on!

The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights – also known as Aurora Borealis – are known for lighting up the night sky in Lapland, and many people take trips to Lapland just to see them (as well as Santa!). They’re a natural phenomenon that manifests itself as glittering ribbons of greens and pinks when electrically-charged particles collide.

The Northern Lights are best viewed between September and April, especially around the equinoxes – when the sun crosses the Earth’s equator. The winter might be the chilliest time of year in Lapland, but you’ll have a much better chance of the Northern Lights as there’s very limited daylight during this time.

Though weather conditions and other factors can affect how visible the Northern Lights are, there are a number of tour groups that’ll up your chances by taking you to top viewing spots. Indeed, if you’re trying to keep the cost down everywhere possible, Saariselka and Rovaniemi are the two best places, so just look up! Experiencing everything that’s on offer here doesn’t have to break the bank, cheap Lapland holidays are easily doable – you just need to plan ahead.

Lappish treats and chilly nights out

Because of the long history of ice-fishing and the nature surrounding the snowy terrain of Lapland, the cuisine here often involves fresh, raw seafood. Reindeer is another popular item on the menu and is commonly served in steaks or in stew.

The kids will be happy that Lapland comes with its fair share of international restaurants and pizzerias too, but dining on smoked salmon in a traditional snow-covered hut at Santa’s Salmon Place is definitely postcard-worthy.

The fun doesn’t stop there as Lapland’s nightlife scene is alive and kicking, brought to you in the form of dance clubs, ice bars and pubs. There are even adult-only spots to ensure everyone has a holiday to remember.

Cheap days out in Lapland

In Levi head just outside the village to visit it’s lake – frozen all winter long and surrounded by intriguing wilderness it’s another great spot to search for those elusive Northern Lights at night. Plus, those wanting to enjoy nature should head to Pyha-Luosto National Park, just under a two-hour drive from Levi, to enjoy enchanted walks or hikes through the majestic 200-year old pine forests. Levi is also a fantastic resort for those wanting to try out some skiing or snowboarding!

Saariselka is another resort offering incredible scenery and winter sports. This small village is located within the Urho Kekkonen National Park so opportunities for walking and hiking are plentiful – and the sights are beautiful. It’s where Santa’s Creek is located in a secluded wooded spot, to see reindeers, elves and Father Christmas himself – he certainly gets around!