Lapland: A Christmas Trip They’ll Always Remember

As a Travel Counsellor, I am often asked if Lapland lives up to the hype. If you are looking for a really special family Christmas trip, it genuinely does.

A Real Winter Landscape.

Lapland feels very different from what we are used to in the UK. Once you are above the Arctic Circle, the air is clearer, the light is softer and everything is covered in snow. You are surrounded by forests, frozen lakes and small, low‑key resorts rather than big cities and shopping centres. It is a great backdrop if you want to step away from the usual December rush and just focus on being together.

Day Trip Or Short Break?

There are two main ways to visit Lapland, and which is best depends on your family and your budget.

Day trips are ideal if you want a big “wow” experience in a short space of time. Typically you can expect:

Warm outer clothing provided locally.

A mix of activities such as husky rides, reindeer sleighs and snow play.

An organised visit to see Father Christmas.

It is a full-on, exciting day and you fly home the same evening. It suits younger families or anyone who prefers a shorter, focused trip.

Short breaks of a few nights are perfect if you would like to slow things down, a 2–4 night stay works really well. With more time you can:

Spread activities over several days instead of cramming everything into one.

Build in quieter time to play in the snow or relax at your accommodation.

Pick and choose experiences that suit your children’s ages and confidence.

Increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, although they are never guaranteed.

This option feels more relaxed and lets you get a better feel for the area.

Meeting Father Christmas.

For a lot of families, the visit to Father Christmas is the main reason for going. Usually you are taken to a cabin or similar setting away from the main crowds. The children have time to talk to him, share their wishes and take photos. It is simple, but very effective, and tends to be the moment everyone remembers.

Not Just For Young Children.

While Lapland is strongly associated with younger children, it also works well if you are travelling with older kids or teens. They often enjoy the more active side of things: snowmobiling, husky safaris and trying out new winter sports. Adults usually appreciate the scenery, the change of pace and the chance to spend time together without the usual distractions. This makes Lapland a good option for extended families travelling together. Instead of buying more things at Christmas, you are putting your money into time and shared experiences.

A Different Kind Of December.

Many of us reach the middle of December feeling like we are juggling too much: shopping, school events, work and everything else. Being in Lapland for a day or a few nights lifts you out of that routine. You are outdoors more, you sleep well after busy days, and conversations are less about presents and more about what you are doing together. It is a refreshing change.

Whether you choose a one‑day visit or a short break, the key is what you do while you are there: playing in the snow, trying new activities, exploring somewhere completely different and spending focused time as a family.

Is It Right For You?

Lapland will not be the right trip for every family, every year. It is a considered spend, and it needs a bit of planning around the cold, the clothing and the children’s ages. That is where I come in. I can help you:

Decide whether a day trip or a longer stay suits you best.

Choose a resort and activities that match your family’s ages and energy levels.

Understand what to pack and what is provided locally.

Fit the trip around school dates and your budget.

If you would like to talk through whether Lapland is a good fit for your family this year or next, just get in touch and I will happily run through the options with you.