Top Things to Do in Finland This Winter: From Ice Swimming to Northern Lights

Winter in Finland is unlike anywhere else in the world. The country transforms into a frozen wonderland, where snowy forests, frozen lakes, and beautiful arctic light create a landscape of beauty like nowhere else. From the bustling ski resorts in Ruka and Levi to remote wilderness in Kilpisjärvi, there is something for everyone. I’ve spent countless winters exploring Finland, and over the years I’ve learned which experiences truly capture the magic of Finnish winter. Here’s my personal guide, with exact locations, insider tips, and the kind of details you won’t find in typical travel guides.

1. Walking in the Snowy Forest

Walking through Finnish forests in winter is like entering a world suspended in silence. Every tree is coated in frost and ice, streams are frozen into crystalline shapes, and the air is crisp and clean. When I walk around the snowy trees in Lapland, I always think to myself: This has to be one of the beautiful things in the world. Early morning is the best time, when fresh snow sparkles under the faint light of the Arctic sky. Best time to see the snow covered trees in Lapland is from mid-december to early February.

Best spots:

• Riisitunturi National Park – Known for its snow-covered treetops and gentle fells, Riisitunturi is breathtaking in the soft winter light. Walk slowly and notice the patterns of frost and ice crystals.

• Saariselkä – A quieter area with many trails winding through pristine forest, ideal for spotting wildlife tracks. Check out Kiilopää for nice hikes in the forest.

• Konttainen near Ruka – Deep snow and secluded forests where you can wander along the snowy trees and feel truly immersed in winter’s silence.

Insider tip: Take a thermos of hot tea or glögi, warm clothes and an empty memory card as you will want to take photos every 5 meters.

2. Multi-Day Ski Expedition in Kilpisjärvi

Kilpisjärvi offers one of the most spectacular ski expeditions in the Arctic. I did a multi-day trip with Pihka Outdoors last March, and it’s an experience that stays with you forever. You ski across frozen lakes, wind through snowy forests, and ascend Arctic fells, feeling the silence and remoteness of Lapland.

This isn’t resort skiing — it’s a true wilderness expedition. Each day offers a new landscape, often untouched and absolutely pristine. Nights are spent in heated tents or lodges, and if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights dance overhead while you sleep.

Insider tip: Go with a reliable tour provider like Pihka Outdoors, who have expert local knowledge. Don't do expeditions on your own in the arctic if you don't know what you're doing.

3. Finnish Sauna and Ice Swimming

Few experiences define Finnish winter like a hot sauna followed by a plunge into icy water. The shock of cold water against heated skin is invigorating, and ice water floating in a frozen lake is surprisingly meditative. Surrounded by snow-covered forests or frozen lakes, the experience is unique to Finland.

Top locations:

1. Löyly, Helsinki – Modern architecture with stunning sea views.

2. Arctic Sauna World, Muonio– Multiple saunas with ice pools for different experiences.

3. Kiilopää Kuurakaltio Smoke Sauna, Saariselkä – Traditional smoke sauna with icy plunge into a small crystal clear stream.

4. Lapland Hotels Kilpis, Kilpisjärvi – Sauna and ice swimming in lake Kilpisjärvi.

5. Rukatonttu, Ruka Ski Resort – No frills local sauna and ice swimming after a day in the slopes.

Insider tip: Always check ice thickness when heading on a frozen lake and never swim alone.

4. Skiing and Snowboarding

Finland’s ski resorts are a dream for both beginners and experienced skiers. What makes skiing here special isn’t just the slopes, it’s the combination of quiet forests, fells, and Arctic light that surrounds every run. Cross-country skiing, in particular, is a national pastime and a peaceful way to explore snowy landscapes.

Top spots:

• Levi – Largest ski resort in Finland, with lively village life, night skiing, and great snow reliability.

• Ruka – Varied slopes and excellent snow conditions; great for intermediate skiers.

• Ylläs – Long cross-country trails through serene forests; perfect for solitude.

Insider tip: Try early morning or late afternoon skiing to catch the soft Arctic light and less crowds. Even downhill skiing can feel like a private adventure in Finland’s uncrowded resorts.

5. Husky Safaris

Driving a team of huskies through snow-laden forests is one of the most exhilarating winter experiences. You can drive your own sled or ride as a passenger if you’re a first-timer. The dogs are incredibly energetic and intelligent, and they respond to your commands.

Top locations:

• Rovaniemi Arctic Circle – Short, beginner-friendly safaris.

• Saariselkä – Longer, wilderness-focused expeditions.

• Levi – Evening husky safaris, perfect for combining with Northern Lights viewing.

Insider tip: Dress in layers, wear snow boots, and always listen to the musher. The sense of speed and freedom is unforgettable.

6. Reindeer Sleigh Rides

Reindeer sleigh rides are slower-paced and ideal for immersing yourself in Sami culture. The quiet glide of the sled through snowy forests and over frozen lakes is mesmerizing.

Top spots:

• Inari – Authentic Sami wilderness experiences.

• Rovaniemi – Family-friendly rides with hot drinks included.

• Sodankylä – Scenic wilderness sleigh trips.

Insider tip: Evening rides can be combined with aurora spotting.

7. Snowmobile Safaris

Snowmobiles are the fastest way to explore Finland’s vast winter wilderness. You can ride across frozen lakes, snow-covered hills, and dense forests, feeling the Arctic wind on your face.

Top locations:

• Levi – Short and beginner-friendly safari routes.

• Kilpisjärvi – Extreme Arctic landscapes for more experienced riders.

• Saariselkä – Long wilderness expeditions.

Insider tip: Start slow if it’s your first ride. The thrill is unforgettable, but respect the speed and terrain.

8. Ice Hotels and Glass Igloos

Sleeping in a glass igloo or ice hotel is a uniquely Finnish experience. The combination of Arctic wilderness, cozy interiors, and panoramic windows creates a memory that lasts forever.

Top locations:

• Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Iconic glass igloos with aurora views.

• Northern Lights Village, Saariselkä – Cozy igloos in remote areas.

• Magical Pond, Ruka – Glass igloos and snowy trees right outside.

Insider tip: Book early. Many igloos feature private saunas and stunning views of snow-covered forests.

9. Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is as much about quiet and scenery as it is about catching fish. Sitting on a frozen lake, surrounded by snow-covered trees, is meditative.

Top spots:

• Lake Inari – Vast, frozen lake with stunning Arctic light.

• Oulujärvi – Accessible and scenic ice fishing locations.

• Pyhäjärvi near Rovaniemi – Family-friendly guided tours.

Insider tip: This is most fun in the end of winter (march-april) when the sun already starts to warm you up.

10. Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Hiking or snowshoeing allows you to explore deep snow without sinking, giving you access to untouched wilderness. It's a fun and easy way to explore the magical forests and anyone can do it.

Top spots:

• Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park – Lot's of scenic trails for snowshoeing.

• Pyhä-Luosto National Park – Winter hiking with incredible views.

• Riisitunturi National park – A classic and beautiful place, perfect for snowshoeing.

Insider tip: You can rent snowshoes from all the ski resorts.

11. Ice Carting

Ice carting is has been growing in popularity lately. It’s like go-karting on frozen tracks, beginner-friendly, and full of adrenaline. I haven't yet tried it but it looks super fun! There's many places to do this activity around the ski resorts in Lapland.

12. Visit Santa Claus Village

Rovaniemi’s Arctic Circle location makes it the perfect place for Santa-themed activities. Beyond meeting Santa, you can send postcards from the Arctic Circle post office and shop for unique local crafts.

Insider tip: Visit early or late to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.

13. Northern Lights Viewing

Auroras can appear anywhere in Finland, not just Lapland. Apps like My Aurora Forecast notify you about 30 minutes before the lights appear, and I’ve found them remarkably reliable.

Top spots:

• Top of Levi ski resort

• Saariselkä & Kiilopää

• Kilpisjärvi

• Pallastunturi

Insider tip: Dress warmly, have patience, and be ready to step outside at a moment’s notice. If the forecast is strong, you can even see them from hotel balconies or city centers.

More Insider Tips for Winter Travel in Finland

• Temperatures can drop below minus 30 Celsius. Dress in warm layers and carry a thermos if possible for a hot drink. The cold can be dangerous.

• When driving, never stop on main roads as it's extremely dangerous. Always find safe pullouts and also keep and eye out for animals on the roads.

• Check aurora and weather forecasts from like my aurora forecast.

• Give yourself time and flexibility, patience is key for auroras and multi-day expeditions when the weather can change in a short notice.

• Embrace Finnish winter culture: saunas, ice swimming, and quiet moments in nature are part of the experience. And eat many cinnamon buns and hot glögi.

Final Thoughts

Winter in Finland is a combination of adventure, serenity, and magic. From walking in snow-covered forests to multi-day expeditions in Kilpisjärvi, saunas and ice swimming, husky safaris, skiing, and Northern Lights chases, every activity offers something unique. Preparation and planning is key for a nice holiday up in the arctic. Dress well, embrace the cold, and enjoy the experience, it’s going to be unforgettable.