Lapland for Families — Best Destinations and Activities for Families with Children

Published 2026-03-28 — Oskari Kurtti
Lapland for Families — Best Destinations and Activities for Families with Children

Lapland is like a fairyland for children — snow, reindeer, huskies and a Christmassy atmosphere. But not all destinations are equally family-friendly. In this guide, we tell you which destinations and activities are best suited for families with children.

Best family destinations

Iso-Syöte — number one for families

Iso-Syöte is a favorite of many families in Lapland. The center is compact, which means that all services are close to each other. The slopes are gentle and safe for beginners, and the children's ski school has received excellent feedback. The children's world offers a safe environment for even the youngest skiers to practice.

The Syöte National Park around Iso-Syöte offers easy snowshoeing trails that are also suitable for children. Walking among the snow-covered trees is an experience for the whole family. Accommodation options include family apartments and cottages with space for the whole group.

Ruka — the most diverse for families

Ruka offers a wide range of family activities. Ruka’s RukaPark children’s area is designed for little skiers, and the ski school accepts children as young as 3. In addition to the slopes, families can enjoy husky safaris, reindeer rides and snowshoeing.

Ruka’s long season is an advantage for families — from October to May, there is time to find a suitable travel time even outside of school holidays. Ruka is also known for its good family restaurants and shopping services.

Rovaniemi — Santa Claus’ hometown

For children under school age, Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village are a magical experience. Meeting Santa Claus, sending a letter from Santa Claus’s post office and crossing the Arctic Circle are moments that children will remember for a long time.

Rovaniemi also has the Arktikum and Pilke science centres, which offer educational activities for the whole family. The city has good hotel services and restaurants that take families with children into account.

Levi — for families and young people

Levi is especially suitable for those traveling with teenagers. Young people will appreciate the lively village, freestyle park and diverse selection of restaurants. At the same time, there is a children's ski school and Kids Land area for younger children.

Best activities for kids

Under 5

  • **Reindeer sledding**: Calm and safe, suitable for all ages - **Kennel visit**: Hug husky puppies without the excitement of speed - **Meet Santa**: In Rovaniemi all year round

    • 5–12 years old

  • **Children's ski school**: Professional instructors at most centers - **Short husky safari**: Children can sit in a sled with an adult - **Snowshoeing**: Easy routes in national parks - **Ice fishing**: Peaceful outdoor activity

    • Over 12

  • **Snowmobile safari**: Teenagers can ride along or bring their own sled (over 15) - **Husky safari**: Longer trips are suitable for young people - **Skiing and snowboarding**: Freestyle parks and off-piste

    • Practical tips for families

  • **Accommodation**: Choose a cabin or family apartment instead of a hotel room — you'll get more space and your own kitchen - **Dressing**: It's important for children to dress in layers. The best combination is a wool base layer, a fleece mid layer and a windproof outer layer. All resorts also sell children's winter gear - **Getting around**: A rental car is the most convenient way to get around, but many resorts also offer a free ski bus service - **Budget**: A family trip to Lapland can be expensive. Save on activities by booking packages that include several activities. Self-guided trails and hiking trails are free - **Food**: The largest resorts have grocery stores where you can make cheaper meals at the cabin instead of in restaurants