Lapland changes completely from season to season. The same fell can be under deep snow and blue twilight in December, bright with snow and sunshine in March, lit by the midnight sun in June, and red and gold in September. There is no single "best" time. It depends on what you want to experience. This guide goes through the year so you can choose.
Lapland at a glance
December: Christmas, the shortest days, northern lights, snow. Busiest and most expensive.
January–February: coldest months, deep snow, northern lights, quieter than December.
March–April: bright days on deep snow, spring skiing, still a good chance of the aurora in March.
May: snow melts. The quietest month, and many services close.
June–July: midnight sun, hiking, paddling, festivals. Mosquitoes in July.
August–September: berry season, ruska autumn colours, dark nights and northern lights return.
October–November: first snow, short days. A quieter shoulder season.
Winter: December to February
This is the classic Lapland picture: snow-covered forests, reindeer, husky safaris and the northern lights. December is all about Christmas, and Rovaniemi is at its busiest (see our Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village guide). In the far north the sun doesn't rise at all for weeks around midwinter. This polar night, kaamos, is not pitch black. Midday brings a few hours of deep blue and pink twilight.
January and February are the coldest months. -20 °C is common and -30 °C happens. In return the skies are often clearer than in December, and prices fall after the holidays. It is a great time for activities and aurora hunting, as long as you dress properly.
Best for: Christmas trips, families, northern lights, husky and reindeer safaris.
Spring winter: March and April
Finns call this kevättalvi, "spring winter", and many say it is the best time of the year in Lapland. The snow is at its deepest, the days are long and bright, and temperatures are gentler. The ski resorts are at their best for downhill and cross-country skiing. In March the nights are still dark enough for the northern lights. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen, because the sun on snow is strong.
Best for: skiing, outdoor activities in daylight, combining activities with aurora hunting.
Summer: June to August and the midnight sun
North of the Arctic Circle the sun doesn't set for weeks around midsummer. In Rovaniemi the midnight sun lasts roughly from early June to early July, and in the far north for about two months. Hiking in the national parks, paddling, fishing and simply sitting by a lake at midnight in full daylight are unforgettable.
Midsummer (Juhannus, in late June) is a major holiday, with bonfires and many Finns heading to their cottages. In July mosquitoes and other biting insects can be intense in forests and near water, so bring repellent and a head net for hikes. August brings berry-picking season, including blueberries and the prized cloudberries.
Best for: hikers, photographers, travellers who want light, nature and quiet.
Autumn: ruska in September
Ruska is the short period when the fells turn red, orange and gold. In northern Lapland it usually peaks in early to mid September, and a little later further south. It is a favourite time for Finnish hikers. The air is crisp, the mosquitoes are gone, and the nights are dark again, so you can see the first northern lights over unfrozen lakes. Book accommodation in popular fell areas early, because ruska weekends fill up.
Best for: hiking, photography, northern lights with reflections on the water.
The quiet months: May, October and November
In May the snow melts and many tourist services close for a break. October and November are dark and often grey, with the first snow arriving. These are the cheapest and quietest times. They are fine for a peaceful cabin stay, but not ideal for a first visit with a list of activities.
So when should you go?
First visit with children: December for Christmas, or January and February for fewer crowds.
Northern lights: late February to March, or September.
Skiing: March and April.
Hiking and the midnight sun: late June to early July, or September for the autumn colours.
On a budget: January (after the holidays) or early September.
Frequently asked questions
When does it snow in Lapland?
The permanent snow cover usually arrives in November and lasts until late April or May. Further north it arrives earlier and stays longer.
Can I see the northern lights in summer?
No. From roughly May to mid-August the nights are too bright.
Plan your trip
Ready to plan? Our Lapland trip planner covers getting there from Turku, where to stay and a five-day itinerary. Aura Rides is launching transfers in Lapland soon. Until then, book your ride to the airport from Turku.
