Tips
Best Time to See Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland
There are few natural wonders as magical and unforgettable as the nor...
Lapland is shaped by seasons, light and a naturally slower pace. Each time of year brings its own atmosphere, colours and ways to experience the surroundings. That is why the best time to visit Lapland is closely tied to what kind of moments you hope to create during your stay.
Some travellers arrive for snow covered forests and active winter days, others for long summer evenings by the lake. Many discover that their favourite season lies somewhere in between. At Aavalevi, we see how families, couples and groups of friends experience Lapland in different ways, yet value the same things: space, comfort and time to slow down together.
Below, we explore Lapland season by season and what each time of year makes possible.
Winter in Lapland (December to March)
Winter is what many people imagine when they think of Lapland. Snow settles into the landscape, forests grow quiet and evenings stretch long and dark.
This season suits travellers who want:
- Snow covered scenery and true winter atmosphere
- Northern Lights evenings woven naturally into the stay
- Husky safaris, reindeer rides and snowmobile tours
- Cosy time indoors after days spent outside
Winter brings a clear rhythm to daily life. Days are shaped by outdoor activities and short excursions, while evenings slow down naturally. The contrast between cold air and sauna heat, darkness outside and warm interiors, is a big part of the experience.
With Aavalevi, Lapland holidays focus on comfort and location. Spacious homes, private saunas and carefully chosen surroundings make it easy to enjoy both activities and quiet evenings, often with dark skies just outside the door.her.
Spring in Lapland (April to May)
Spring is a quieter, brighter side of Lapland. Snow still covers the ground, but daylight returns quickly and the atmosphere feels more open and relaxed.
Spring is a good time to visit Lapland if you value:
- Winter activities with more daylight
- Fewer visitors and a calmer atmosphere
- Brighter days without the coldest winter temperatures
This season is especially appreciated by families, as days are easier to spend outdoors. Skiing, snowmobiling and simple moments like sitting outside in the sun become surprisingly enjoyable.
Spring offers a natural balance between being active and slowing down. There is room to enjoy winter landscapes while already sensing the shift towards lighter days.
Summer in Lapland (June to August)
Summer transforms Lapland completely. Snow disappears, lakes open up and the Midnight Sun stretches days far beyond the usual sense of time.
Summer suits travellers who want:
- Nature without schedules or darkness
- Hiking, cycling and canoeing
- Swimming, sauna and slow evenings outdoors
Life feels unhurried in summer. Days can be shaped as they come, with time spent outside, shared meals and simple routines. Aavalevi’s accommodation works well as summer bases, especially for longer stays, with lakes and forests close at hand.
Autumn in Lapland (September to November)
Autumn brings colour, clarity and calm. Forests turn red and gold during ruska, the air becomes crisp and darkness slowly returns.
Autumn may be the best time to visit Lapland if you are drawn to:
- Ruska colours and photography
- Calm trails and peaceful villages
- The return of Northern Lights
- Cooler days and cosy evenings indoors
This season often feels intimate and atmospheric. Ruska colours add a naturally romantic tone to the landscape, and evenings invite slower routines, cooking together and time spent indoors after long walks.
At Aavalevi, autumn stays focus on warmth and atmosphere. After a day outside, returning to a comfortable home and sauna feels like a natural continuation of the day rather than a planned activity.
Choosing the Right Place to Stay in Lapland
The season matters, but so does location. Staying close to nature while having services within reach makes everyday life easier and more relaxed.
Areas like Levi and Ylläs offer this balance well. Nature begins just beyond the village, while activities, shops and restaurants remain accessible. Aavalevi’s accommodation is chosen with this in mind, offering places where Lapland feels present without effort.
So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Lapland?
The best time to visit Lapland is the season that fits your way of travelling.
- Winter brings snow and Northern Lights
- Spring offers light and space
- Summer opens nature fully
- Autumn fills the landscape with ruska colours
With Aavalevi, each season is approached with the same idea: comfort, realistic expectations and room to enjoy Lapland at your own pace. Whatever time you choose, the experience has space to unfold naturally, day by day.
Experience Lapland With Aavalevi, Season by Season
In Lapland, the seasons shape how the days feel. Light, colours and silence change throughout the year, and each season brings its own atmosphere.
Aavalevi’s homes are chosen to fit this rhythm. Close to nature, easy to settle into and comfortable in every season, they offer a calm base for experiencing Lapland at your own pace.
Whether you arrive for winter snow, spring light, summer lakes or autumn colours, the experience unfolds naturally, one day at a time.
Explore Aavalevi’s accommodation and find the season that feels right for you >>
