Northern Lights in Finland: Best Places, Time & Tours

Finland is one of the most enchanting countries to experience the Northern Lights. In Lapland, the sky often glows with green and violet curtains of light, visible on up to 200 nights per year

From glass igloos to reindeer sleigh rides, Finland combines the magic of the aurora with unforgettable Arctic traditions. Come along and discover what makes Finland such a unique place to chase the Northern Lights.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Finland

Season

Late August to early April

Best months

September, February, March (balance of clear skies and darkness)

Best hours

9:00 PM – 2:00 AM

High frequency

Some areas in Lapland see the aurora 3–4 nights per week

Best Northern Lights Tours from Rovaniemi, Finland

Top Choice with Aurora Guarantee in Rovaniemi, Finland

Join Rovaniemi’s original Aurora hunters, tracing roots back 20 generations to the 1600s. Enjoy guaranteed Northern Lights, expert small-group guidance, brand-new 2025 4×4 vans, unlimited mileage, and professional photos of your experience.

Includes 

  • Unlimited mileage & time (typically 6–10 hours)
  • Professional photography (DSLR photos included)
  • Certified, first-aid trained Northern Lights guide
  • Pickup & drop-off from your accommodation in Rovaniemi
  • Thermal overalls for Arctic conditions
  • Hot drinks & light snacks

Most Magical Aurora Experience with Reindeer Ride

Ride through the snowy Lappish forest on a reindeer-drawn sleigh, with convenient pick-up and drop-off from Rovaniemi city center.

Includes 

  • English-speaking guide
  • Pick-up & drop-off from selected hotels in Rovaniemi city center
  • Reindeer sleigh ride through Lappish forest
  • Visit to a traditional reindeer farm
  • Winter clothes
  • Finnish snacks & hot blueberry juice

Authentic Aurora Experience with Arctic BBQ

Set out from Rovaniemi to hunt the Northern Lights. Relax by a lakeside camp, enjoy a traditional Lappish BBQ, and stay warm with hot tea as you await the aurora.

Includes 

  • Pickup and drop-off to selected hotels accommodations
  • English-speaking guide
  • Winter clothing
  • BBQ: Lappish bread, pork sausages, salmon soup, and blueberry tea

Santa Claus Reindeer in Finland

Reindeer are at the heart of Finnish Lapland’s traditions and storytelling. For centuries, the Indigenous Sámi people depended on them for transport, food, and clothing. Today, they remain both a cultural symbol and a magical highlight for travelers.

What makes them so special in Finland?

  • Ancient roots: Reindeer herding in Lapland goes back thousands of years and is still practiced by Sámi families today.
  • Santa’s companions: Rovaniemi, known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, is where the legend of Santa’s flying reindeer comes alive.
  • Family magic: At the Santa Claus Village, visitors can meet Santa, visit his post office, and see his famous reindeer.
  • Unique experiences: Take a reindeer sleigh ride through snowy forests, often paired with aurora tours under the Arctic sky.
  • Cultural connection: Beyond the fairytale, reindeer are part of daily life in Lapland and remain a proud symbol of Sámi heritage.

Encountering Santa’s reindeer in their homeland blends myth with tradition — and whether you’re traveling with children or chasing the Northern Lights, it’s an experience that captures the true spirit of Lapland.

Make your trip to Rovaniemi unforgettable with a visit to the Santa Claus Village. Meet Santa Claus in person, soak in the festive atmosphere, and savor a traditional buffet lunch.

Includes 

  • Transportation
  • Guide
  • Lunch buffet
  • Crossing Arctic Circle certificate

Spend a full day in Rovaniemi filled with Arctic adventures — ride with huskies and reindeer, meet Santa Claus, and create unforgettable Lapland memories.

Includes 

  • Transportation from the city center of Rovaniemi
  • Tour guide
  • Husky and Reindeer farm visit
  • 500-meter reindeer sleigh ride
  • 500-meter husky sleigh ride
  • Winter clothing
  • Salmon soup lunch
  • Free time in Santa Claus Village
  • 10-minute mini-snowmobiling for children under 150cm

Glass Igloo Finland: A Northern Lights Dream

Few experiences are as magical as watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of a heated glass igloo. These iconic accommodations in Lapland allow you to lie in bed while the sky lights up above you.

  • Saariselkä & Kakslauttanen Igloo Village – The most famous glass igloo resort, offering clear Arctic views.
  • Levi & Rovaniemi – A growing number of luxury igloos near ski resorts and Santa Claus Village.
  • Romantic & Family-Friendly – Perfect for honeymoons or cozy family getaways.

5 Tips for Seeing the Aurora Borealis in Finland

  • Stay several nights in Lapland to maximize your chances.
  • Book igloos well in advance: they sell out quickly in peak season.
  • Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop below –20°C.
  • Join guided tours for husky sledding, reindeer safaris, or snowmobile aurora chases.
  • Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s aurora forecast for daily predictions.

What Makes Finland Special for a Northern Lights Trip?

Finland offers one of the most complete aurora experiences in the Arctic. Unlike other destinations, here you can combine aurora hunting with glass igloo stays, Sámi culture, and unique Arctic activities. Whether you’re searching for a romantic escape or a family holiday, Lapland is a dream destination where the Northern Lights feel like part of everyday life.

FAQ - About Northern Lights in Finland

What month is best to see the Northern Lights in Finland?

From late August to early April, with September, February, and March offering the best balance of darkness and clearer skies.

Which is better for Northern Lights, Finland or Norway?

  • Finland: Romantic stays in igloos, frequent sightings (up to 200 nights/year).
  • Norway: Reliable forecasts, dramatic fjord scenery. Check the Norway guide for details.

Which is better, Tromsø or Lapland?

  • Tromsø (Norway): More tours, social atmosphere, fjords. Check the list of Tromso Tickets!
  • Lapland (Finland): Cozy, romantic, family-friendly with reindeer and husky experiences.

Which city in Finland to see the Northern Lights?

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and one of the best bases, with glass igloos, camps, and reindeer safaris. See our Rovaniemi tours for recommendations.

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