Why Summer Might Be the Best Time to Visit Lapland

When people think about Lapland, winter usually comes first. Snow-covered forests, Northern Lights and Santa Claus have made this part of Finland famous around the world.

But ask someone who actually lives here, and you'll often hear a different answer.

Summer is the season we wait for.

After a long winter, nature wakes up almost overnight. Rivers flow freely again, forests turn deep green, birds return from the south and the Midnight Sun fills the days with endless light. There is a feeling of space and freedom that's difficult to find anywhere else in Europe.

One of the biggest surprises for visitors is how peaceful Rovaniemi is during the summer months. Even though the city is the capital of Finnish Lapland, nature is never far away. Within minutes you can leave the city behind and find yourself surrounded by forests, rivers and quiet walking trails.

Many visitors spend their days exploring the area around Ounasvaara, relaxing by the Kemijoki and Ounasjoki rivers or visiting Santa Claus Village, which is open throughout the year. Summer is also an excellent time to enjoy local cafés, riverside beaches and the long evenings that seem to last forever.

One of our favourite ways to experience Rovaniemi is from the water.

A slow boat trip along the river offers a completely different view of the city. You pass peaceful shorelines, forests and traditional riverside scenery while enjoying the clean Arctic air and the calm atmosphere that makes Lapland so special.

If you're looking for a relaxing way to experience the Arctic summer, take a look at our Boat Tours.

View our Boat Tours: Boat Tours

Summer in Lapland isn't about rushing from one attraction to another.

It's about slowing down.

Listening to the river, breathing the fresh air and discovering that sometimes the best travel memories are created in the quietest moments.

If you're planning a trip to Finland, don't overlook Lapland just because there's no snow.

You may discover a side of the Arctic that very few international visitors have experienced.