5 Magical Areas to Visit in Lapland (and Which Airport to Fly Into)
Lapland isn’t just one destination it’s a whole collection of very different experiences. From remote Arctic wilderness to festive Christmas villages, where you stay (and which airport you fly into) completely shapes your trip.
We’ve been lucky enough to experience Enontekiö, Hetta, and it completely stole our hearts. Since then, I’ve spent far too many evenings planning future Lapland trips (standard behaviour, right?) and comparing the different areas.
If you’re planning a family-friendly Lapland adventure with real Christmas magic, here are five of the best areas, who they suit best, which airport to fly into, and why each one feels so special.
1. Enontekiö & Hetta – Remote, Magical & Truly Arctic
Best airport: Enontekiö Airport (ENF)
(Seasonal direct charter flights from the UK) – Mainly through Transun and Jet2. 3/4 Night trips or Day trips normally late November through to the end of January.
This is the area we fell completely in love with — and honestly, if you’re craving a quiet, authentic Lapland Christmas, it’s hard to beat.
Enontekiö sits far north, well inside the Arctic Circle, and it feels it. Snow arrives early, stays deep, and everything feels calmer, slower, and more real. There’s no big crowds, no over-commercialisation — just snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and that magical Arctic silence.
Why it’s perfect for families:
- Fewer tourists = calmer excursions (huge win with kids)
- Activities feel more personal and unrushed
- Snow reliability in early December is excellent
Local highlights:
- Hetta Ski Slope – small, friendly, perfect for beginners and children
- Ice fishing on frozen lakes – genuinely unforgettable
- Husky & reindeer experiences in peaceful wilderness
- Northern Lights – darker skies mean better chances
- Sámi culture and storytelling that feels authentic, not staged
This is Lapland for families who want real snow, real quiet, and real magic — not flashing lights and queues.
We stayed in the lovely Hotteli Hetan Majatalo hotel and 4 generation family owned and run hotel which is bursting with history. Transun also use various other Hotels and lodges in the area some being on the swedish boarder, Davvi Artic Lodge.
2. Saariselkä – Wilderness Adventure with Comfort
Best airport: Ivalo Airport (IVL)
Saariselkä is a brilliant middle ground. You still feel immersed in nature, but with a bit more infrastructure — cosy hotels, log cabins, and easy access to activities.
It’s right beside Urho Kekkonen National Park, which means endless snowy landscapes and that “stepped into a Christmas film” feeling.
Why families love it:
- Easy transfers from Ivalo Airport
- Lots of winter activities without feeling overwhelming
- Great for slightly older kids who love adventure
Local highlights:
- Toboggan runs (including Finland’s longest!)
- Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails
- Reindeer sleigh rides through national park scenery
- Aurora spotting straight from your accommodation
It’s magical, scenic, and adventurous — without being too wild or too busy.
3. Levi – Festive, Fun & Full of Activities
Best airport: Kittilä Airport (KTT)
Levi is one of Lapland’s most popular resorts — and for good reason. Everything is easy, organised, and designed with visitors (especially families) in mind.
If you want a classic Christmas Lapland experience with lots going on, Levi delivers.
Why families choose Levi:
- Excellent flight connections
- Short transfer times
- Huge choice of family-friendly accommodation
- Loads of activities in one place
Local highlights:
- Santa experiences and Christmas events
- Ski school and gentle slopes for children
- Husky safaris, snowmobiling, reindeer farms
- Christmas markets and festive lights everywhere
It’s more commercial than Enontekiö — but if you want big festive energy and convenience, Levi is fantastic.
4. Rovaniemi – Santa, Sparkle & First-Time Magic
Best airport: Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)
Rovaniemi is often the first place families think of — and it really does feel like stepping into Christmas itself.
It’s right on the Arctic Circle, home to Santa Claus Village, and packed with festive attractions.
Why it’s ideal for first-timers:
- The easiest Lapland destination to reach
- Very child-focused experiences
- Plenty of hotels, tours, and restaurants
Local highlights:
- Santa Claus Village (meeting Santa, posting letters, crossing the Arctic Circle)
- Snowmobile and husky tours
- Christmas decorations everywhere
- Museums like Arktikum for a quieter afternoon
It can be busy in December, but for families wanting that classic, storybook Christmas vibe, it’s unforgettable.
5. Inari & Lake Inari – Culture, Calm & Arctic Beauty
Best airport: Ivalo Airport (IVL)
Inari is quieter, deeper, and incredibly beautiful. It’s a place that feels spiritual almost — especially in winter when Lake Inari freezes and the snow softens everything.
This area offers a wonderful balance of culture, nature, and calm, making it ideal for families who want something meaningful as well as magical.
Why it works for families:
- Calm pace and less rushing
- Strong cultural experiences
- Incredible natural scenery
Local highlights:
- Siida Sámi Museum (brilliant for kids and adults)
- Ice fishing and snowshoeing on Lake Inari
- Northern Lights reflected on frozen lakes
- Sámi storytelling and traditions
It’s peaceful, authentic, and perfect if you want your Lapland trip to feel special and grounding, not hectic.
When Is the Best Time to Book Flights to Lapland?
From experience (and far too much research):
- Best time to travel:
Late November to mid-December- Deep snow
- Fewer crowds than Christmas week
- Better value flights
- When to book flights:
6–9 months in advance for December trips- Charter flights sell fast
- Family-friendly accommodations book up early
- Best snow reliability:
Northern areas like Enontekiö, Inari, and Saariselkä tend to have the deepest snow earliest.
Final Thoughts – Choosing the Right Lapland for Your Family
If you want:
- Quiet, snow-covered wilderness: → Enontekiö
- Adventure with comfort: → Saariselkä
- Festive fun and convenience: → Levi
- Classic Santa magic: → Rovaniemi
- Culture and calm beauty: → Inari
Every area has its own magic — but choosing the right one makes all the difference, especially when travelling with children.
For us, Enontekiö set the bar very high… and I’m not sure anywhere else will ever quite compare for us. Still so much more to see and do in the area!
Lapland (Finland) Is such a beautiful country that is rich in history, Culture and magical scenery. If visiting expescially the rural/remote areas please respect the area and its beauty!
Visit our other Lapland Adventure Blog – Here
