Discover Summer in Northern Finland- 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Rovaniemi

Welcome to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland. Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will be waiting to take you to your accommodation. Located in the far north, Lapland is a region that makes up one-third of Finland's total area and is home to the rich culture and history of its Indigenous Sámi people. The city is surrounded by Arctic landscapes, full of Sámi customs, and a wide range of outdoor activities. There's plenty to do the entire year, from northern lights hunting and dogsled rides in winter to witnessing the midnight sun and hiking in summer.

The afternoon is free so spend your day walking around Rovaniemi, visiting its lovely museums, and doing some souvenir shopping. End your day with a delicious meal in one of the city's restaurants, or head out to one of the surrounding resorts for a traditional Lappish kota dinner. 

Day 2: Rovaniemi Highlights Tour, Midnight Sun Photography Tour

You'll start today with a tour of Rovaniemi. With your guide, visit different points of interest and learn about the history, architecture, and other aspects of local life. Afterward, you have a chance to meet Santa Claus in his village office and visit the official Santa Claus' Main Post Office, where you can send letters to friends and family. After the postal visit, you'll receive your certificate of crossing the Arctic Circle. Take time to explore the rest of the village, such as meeting Santa's reindeer and visiting the resident huskies. Don't miss Santa's other animals at the Elf Farmyard. 

Finland's summer is all about the unique light of the midnight sun, and during June and July, the sun never sets below the horizon. Get a chance to view this glorious display of colors around midnight as you join the Midnight Sun Tour. You'll be driven to the best locations around Rovaniemi to catch the most sensational light. Experience this extraordinary natural phenomenon against a backdrop of Lapland's rivers, forests, and lakes. Finish your journey around an open fire as you enjoy barbecue snacks in the small hours of the morning.

Day 3: Canoeing Tour, Summer Floating 

Rovaniemi is well known for its two large rivers, the Ounasjoki and Kemijoki, which connect near the city center. Meet your guide and take a canoe tour where you'll paddle on both waterways as you take in the sights around some well-known attractions of the city. Glide past Lumberjack Bridge, Rovaniemi Beach, its church, and Arktikum Science Museum. You'll stop near the Local Heritage Museum at the end, so go in and have a look. Discover artifacts related to traditional trades such as fishing, hunting, and reindeer husbandry. Enjoy a hearty lunch before suiting up for your afternoon adventure.

After lunch, go floating in a freshwater lake surrounded by a forest. You will be equipped with a rubber survival suit. Lie back in the water, close your eyes and feel the sensations of complete relaxation. The Arctic waters remain frigid even during the hottest peak of the summer months but don't worry about the cold—once suited up from head to toe, you'll stay warm and dry. Enjoy the silence of the lake, surrounded by wilderness and pure nature. It's also possible to do the tour in the evening and enjoy the sunset in a beautiful forest outside of the city and away from any light pollution. 

Day 4: Short Arctic Wilderness Hike, Finnish Legends & Storytelling Around the Fire

Explore more of the Arctic wilderness on today's 3-mile (5 km) hike through the forest. Leave the city with your outdoor guide to venture along the trails amid breathtaking scenery and see the beauty of Lapland's nature. This hike is educational as you'll learn about Arctic flora and fauna and the local lifestyle concerning the environment. You'll also learn how to use your surroundings to make a fire and other basic survival skills. Afterward, you'll have traditional Finnish snacks around an open fire.

What's better than a relaxing night around a bonfire in the Arctic forest, listening to legends and tales of Finland? Celebrate your final evening in the Lapland wilderness with stargazing in complete comfort. Your guide will greet you at your hotel and lead you into the woods to a large open fire. Learn about Finnish culture, traditions, and local history. Savor yummy fireside food, such as pancakes cooked right in front of you on the fire. This is a perfect opportunity to admire the midnight sun during summertime.

Day 5: Depart Rovaniemi

It's time to say goodbye to the Arctic and end your trip. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport, just 10 minutes away, for your departing flight. Safe travels!

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