Lapland is one of the most magical places on Earth to witness the Northern Lights, and what better way to experience this natural wonder than by staying in a spectacular location designed for optimal viewing? From glass igloos to cozy aurora cabins, these dreamy resorts offer an unforgettable Arctic adventure. Here are the top places to stay in Lapland for the ultimate Northern Lights experience.
1. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Finland
Nestled in the heart of Saariselkä, Finland, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is famous for its glass igloos, offering a 360-degree view of the Arctic sky. This iconic resort also features log chalets and kelo-glass igloos, combining rustic charm with stunning panoramic views. With reindeer safaris, husky sledding, and snowmobiling on offer, your Arctic adventure starts here!
Why Stay Here?
- 🌇 Glass igloos with breathtaking sky views
- 🦚 Authentic Lapland experiences like reindeer safaris
- ❄️ Prime location in the Aurora Zone for Northern Lights viewing
2. Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – Finland
For a luxurious yet cozy stay, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Rovaniemi, Finland, offers panoramic glass-wall suites with views of the surrounding forest and Arctic sky. Each unit blends modern Scandinavian design with warm wooden interiors, providing an intimate setting for Northern Lights viewing right from your bed.
Why Stay Here?
- 🌇 Floor-to-ceiling windows for uninterrupted aurora views
- 🎄 Close to Santa Claus Village – great for families
- 🍔 Fine dining with locally sourced ingredients
3. Wilderness Hotel Muotka & Igloos – Finland
If you’re seeking a more secluded escape, Wilderness Hotel Muotka is a hidden gem in Saariselkä, Finland. It offers panorama log cabins and Aurora cabins, designed for private, immersive aurora viewing. Enjoy Finnish saunas, snowshoeing, and guided Northern Lights hunts for a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic experience.
Why Stay Here?
- 🌇 Secluded, light pollution-free location
- ☕ Cozy log cabins and glass-roofed Aurora cabins
- 🌲 Authentic Lapland atmosphere with nature all around
4. Apukka Resort – Finland
Located just outside Rovaniemi, Apukka Resort blends modern comfort with Arctic adventure. Stay in glass-roofed Aurora Cabins and enjoy reindeer safaris, ice floating, and snowmobile tours. The resort also offers aurora alarms so you never miss a moment of the dancing lights!
Why Stay Here?
- 🌇 Glass-roofed cabins for the perfect aurora experience
- 🦚 Close to Rovaniemi and the Arctic Circle
- ❄️ Unique activities like ice floating and reindeer sleigh rides
5. Aurora Village Ivalo – Finland
Located in Ivalo, Finland, Aurora Village offers glass-roofed cabins surrounded by peaceful Arctic wilderness. The resort provides personalized aurora alerts, husky safaris, and snowmobiling adventures. With limited light pollution, this is one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights.
Why Stay Here?
- 🌇 Glass-roofed igloos for all-night sky gazing
- 🔔 Personalized aurora wake-up calls
- 🌲 Located in a pristine forest with plenty of privacy
Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Lapland Resorts
✔️ Book Early: Lapland is a hot spot for Northern Lights chasers, so hotels fill up fast, especially between September and April. Secure your stay months in advance for better rates.
✔️ Look for Package Deals: Many resorts offer Northern Lights packages that include accommodation, meals, and activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling – a great way to save!
✔️ Travel During Shoulder Season: Late September and early March are great times to visit, as you’ll still have high chances of seeing the aurora without peak-season prices.
✔️ Sign Up for Newsletters: Many Lapland resorts offer special discounts to subscribers. Or subscribe to our Newsletter or follow us on socials for exclusive discounts.
✔️ Use Hotellook to compare prices and get the best deals. This website compares prices from 70 different booking services, such as Booking.com or Agoda and will pick the most affordable prices for you.
✔️ Consider Alternative Locations: While Rovaniemi and Saariselkä are popular, you can often find cheaper options in smaller towns like Ivalo or Kilpisjärvi.
Things to Consider When Booking a Trip to Lapland
- Location Matters: Stay away from city lights for the best Northern Lights experience.
- Amenities & Activities: Check if the resort offers aurora wake-up calls, winter gear rental, and guided tours.
- Sustainability: Opt for eco-friendly lodges that support sustainable tourism in the Arctic region.
- Dress for the Weather: Winters in Lapland can be extremely cold (❄️ as low as -30°C), so pack thermal layers, waterproof boots, and insulated jackets.
- Getting There: The main airport is Rovaniemi Airport (RVN), with direct flights from Helsinki and major European cities.
Lapland is truly a bucket list destination, and with these magical accommodations, you’ll have front-row seats to the greatest light show on Earth! ✨❄️
Which of these resorts would you love to stay in? Let us know in the comments!