Best Lapland Christmas Tours for Families 2025 | Santa, Reindeer & Northern Lights

A Christmas trip to Lapland is unlike any other family vacation. The snow-covered forests, glowing cabins, and reindeer sleighs create a scene that feels straight out of a storybook. But with so many things to see — Santa Claus Village, husky safaris, the Northern Lights — it can be hard to plan everything on your own.

That’s why Lapland Christmas tours are so popular. A well-organized package lets you experience all the magic of the Arctic without worrying about transport, timing, or logistics. Most tours include accommodations, winter gear, meals, and guided activities, ensuring a stress-free holiday filled with authentic moments.

What to Expect from Lapland Christmas Tours

Lapland tour packages range from two-day getaways to full weeklong adventures, typically including:

Airport transfers to and from Rovaniemi

Hotel or cabin accommodation (often with private sauna)

Meet-and-greet with Santa Claus

Reindeer and husky safaris

Northern Lights viewing trips

All meals or half-board dining

Winter clothing rentals (thermal suits, boots, gloves)

These tours are family-friendly, often featuring smaller group sizes and a mix of relaxing and adventurous activities.

1. Santa Claus Village & Reindeer Safari (3 Days)

Base: Rovaniemi
Best For: Families with young children

This short but festive package focuses on the highlights of Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and home of Santa Claus.

Includes:

Private visit with Santa Claus

Reindeer sleigh ride across the Arctic Circle

Husky farm visit with short sled experience

Northern Lights hunt by snowmobile or car

2 nights’ stay in a glass-roofed igloo

Families love this itinerary because it blends excitement with just the right amount of rest — perfect for kids under 10.

Average Cost: €1,200–€1,800 per adult, half price for children.

2. Classic Lapland Christmas Adventure (5 Days)

Base: Levi or Saariselkä
Best For: Families wanting the full Arctic experience

The 5-day Lapland adventure combines traditional activities, festive meals, and aurora viewing with cozy, family-friendly lodging.

Includes:

Return airport transfers

4 nights in a heated cabin or resort

Husky and reindeer safaris

Visit to Santa’s Post Office and gift workshop

Snowmobile ride through the forest

Optional Northern Lights night tour

Daily breakfast and dinners

Some versions of this tour include an overnight stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Average Cost: €2,500–€3,500 per family of four.

3. Lapland Northern Lights & Santa Experience (4 Days)

Base: Apukka Resort or Ylläsjärvi
Best For: Families with teens or adventurous travelers

This package is perfect if your main goal is to chase the Northern Lights while still visiting Santa Claus Village.

Includes:

3 nights in a glass igloo or lakeside lodge

Visit to Santa’s Village and Elf School

Aurora camp experience with campfire dinner

Snowshoeing and ice fishing tours

Thermal gear rental and professional guides

The aurora hunt typically runs late into the evening, making it ideal for families with older children who can stay up and enjoy the Arctic night sky.

Average Cost: €1,500–€2,300 per person.

4. Luxury Lapland Family Holiday (7 Days)

Base: Rovaniemi + Levi
Best For: Families seeking comfort and exclusivity

This high-end experience blends private excursions with luxury accommodations. Everything is pre-arranged for your convenience.

Includes:

Airport pickup in a private vehicle

6 nights in 4–5-star resorts or luxury cabins

Private Santa meeting with photos and gifts

Reindeer and husky safaris

Gourmet Finnish dinners and Christmas Eve celebration

Northern Lights photography session

Access to spa and wellness facilities

This type of tour offers complete flexibility and high comfort — think heated glass domes, private saunas, and dedicated guides.

Average Cost: €5,000–€8,000 for a family of four.

5. Budget Family Lapland Escape (3–4 Days)

Base: Rovaniemi
Best For: Travelers on a budget

For families looking to experience Lapland’s magic without the premium price tag, this compact tour delivers the essentials at an affordable cost.

Includes:

Group transfer from Rovaniemi Airport

Accommodation in a cozy guesthouse or budget hotel

Group visit to Santa Claus Village

Mini husky or reindeer ride

Guided city tour and evening aurora lookout

Though simpler, these tours still capture the warmth and excitement of Christmas in Lapland, and can be customized with add-ons like snowmobiling or longer reindeer rides.

Average Cost: €900–€1,200 per adult, discounted for children.

When to Book Lapland Christmas Tours

Lapland Christmas tours are in very high demand, especially during the school holiday weeks between December 15 and January 5.

To secure the best availability and prices:

Book at least 6 months in advance (by June or July).

Consider early December for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Check if the tour operator includes winter gear — otherwise, you may need to rent or buy separately.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tour

Consider Your Family’s Ages – Younger kids do best with shorter itineraries and plenty of rest time.

Check Activity Levels – Some tours include snowshoeing or long sled rides that may not suit toddlers.

Read Inclusions Carefully – Meals, transport, and clothing rentals can affect total costs significantly.

Ask About Aurora Guarantees – Some tours offer a second attempt if the Northern Lights don’t appear the first night.

Look for Small Groups – Smaller tours often provide a more personal and immersive experience.

What to Pack for Your Lapland Christmas Tour

Even though most tour operators provide outer layers, you’ll still want to bring:

Thermal base layers (top and bottom)

Insulated waterproof jacket and pants

Wool socks and gloves

Neck gaiter and beanie

Snow boots (or warm winter boots)

Hand warmers

Power bank (cold drains batteries quickly)

And don’t forget your camera — Lapland’s light and landscapes are breathtaking, especially at sunrise and dusk.

Why a Lapland Christmas Tour Is Worth It

Lapland is one of those rare destinations that feels exactly like you hope it will. Snow gently falls over cabins, reindeer quietly pull sleighs through the forest, and children’s laughter echoes in the crisp air.

Choosing a guided Christmas tour allows you to focus on those moments instead of planning every detail. From Santa’s warm welcome in Rovaniemi to the flicker of the Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle, everything is designed to deliver an unforgettable family experience.

So yes, Lapland Christmas tours are worth every penny — because they’re not just vacations. They’re memories your family will carry for a lifetime.