5 Days in Lapland Itinerary 2025/2026: The Ultimate Santa & Glass Igloo Route

Lapland is not just a destination; it is the childhood dream you never outgrew. Unlike the volcanic landscapes in our Iceland Winter Guide, Finnish Lapland is a fairytale world of deep snow, reindeer, and the official hometown of Santa Claus. However, temperatures can drop to -30°C. You need a strategic online trip planner to survive the Arctic cold and secure the incredibly high-demand glass igloos. This updated Lapland route planner 2025 ensures you cross the Arctic Circle safely.

Before You Go: The "Santa Claus Express"

How do you get to the Arctic Circle? You have two choices:

• Fly: Direct flights to Rovaniemi (RVN) are expensive and prone to weather delays.
• The Train: The Santa Claus Express is a double-decker night train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. It takes 12 hours. Booking a private sleeping cabin is highly recommended for the experience.

---

Days 1-2: Rovaniemi (Santa's Hometown)

Arrive in Rovaniemi. This is the capital of Lapland and the gateway to the Arctic.

Day 1: Santa Claus Village

Visit the Santa Claus Village. It is open year-round. You can meet Santa in his office (free, but the photo costs money). Don't Miss: Step across the line marking the Arctic Circle (66°33′45.9″). You even get a certificate proving you did it.

Day 2: Reindeer Sleigh Ride

Visit a local Reindeer Farm. Taking a sleigh ride through the snowy forest is peaceful and magical. You will also get a "Reindeer Driving License" as a fun souvenir.

---

Day 3: The Husky Safari

This is the most adrenaline-pumping activity in Lapland.

Mush Your Own Team

Unlike the reindeer ride (which is slow), a Husky Safari is fast and loud. You usually drive the sled yourself! One person drives, one sits, and you swap halfway. The dogs love to run, and the silence of the wilderness once you stop is deafening.

---

Days 4-5: The Glass Igloo Experience

Move away from the city lights to hunt for the Aurora Borealis.

Day 4: Check-in to a Glass Igloo

This is the bucket-list moment. Stay at a resort like Kakslauttanen or Arctic SnowHotel. The rooms are heated glass domes. You lie in bed, look up at the stars, and wait for the Northern Lights to dance above you. It is expensive ($500+ per night), but unforgettable.

Day 5: Snowmobile & Sauna

Take a snowmobile tour onto a frozen lake for ice fishing. End your trip the Finnish way: in a hot Sauna, followed by a roll in the snow (if you are brave enough!).

---

Lapland Survival Guide: What to Wear?

It can get to -30°C (-22°F). Regular winter coats are not enough.

• Base Layer: Merino wool (top and bottom). Cotton kills.
• Mid Layer: Fleece or wool sweater.
• Outer Layer: Windproof and waterproof ski jacket/pants.
• Extremities: Two pairs of wool socks, heavy mittens (warmer than gloves), and a beanie.

---

Finnish Food Guide: Hearty & Warm

1. Sautéed Reindeer: Served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam. It tastes like rich beef.
2. Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup): Creamy soup with potatoes, carrots, and dill. The ultimate comfort food.
3. Glögi: Hot spiced berry juice (mulled wine) with almonds and raisins.