Think Santa Lives Only in Santa Claus Village? Think Again.
Discover Lapland’s most magical Christmas destinations – with private Santa moments and fewer crowds.
For many travellers, Rovaniemi and the Santa Claus Village are synonymous with a magical Christmas in Lapland. It’s where Santa is said to live, and the idea of meeting him in his “official hometown” is irresistible. But in reality, visiting during December can be a very different experience from what you might imagine.
Each festive season, Rovaniemi's visitor numbers surge to more than ten times the local population (and this grows each year), leading to crowded streets, long queues, and an experience that feels more commercial than magical. Rovaniemi is also usually fully booked almost a year in advance, particularly for each December.
So while Rovaniemi remains the most famous name, the truth is that Lapland’s festive magic doesn’t begin and end there. In fact, if you’re seeking a truly magical, comfortable, and authentic festive escape, the best advice is simple: Look beyond Rovaniemi. After all, Santa doesn’t live in just one place - his spirit is everywhere in the north.
Why we recommend venturing beyond Rovaniemi for Christmas
Quieter, more personal Santa experiences
In smaller Lapland villages, we can ensure that Santa visits take place in secluded forest cabins, not bustling attractions. These private encounters are calmer, more magical, and tailored to the families - with no need to queue alongside busloads of foreign tourists.
More authentic connection
Beyond the big-name attractions, Lapland’s smaller communities offer a slower pace and deeper sense of tradition. Reindeer sleigh rides and husky safaris take place in untouched wilderness, festive meals are enjoyed fireside, and local guides share stories passed down through generations.
The Northern Lights at your doorstep
The further north you travel, the darker the skies and the higher your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis. Places like Ivalo, Muonio, and Kilpisjärvi are world-renowned for their visibility, offering unforgettable nights, often in glass-roofed cabins or igloos where the Northern Lights can appear right above your bed.
Unique destinations to discover
Each alternative to Rovaniemi has its own festive character. From lively resorts to remote Arctic villages, Lapland offers many different ways to experience Christmas. Each destination has its own character, pace, and festive traditions – all sharing the same snow-covered landscapes, Northern Lights skies, and thoughtfully designed Santa experiences that feel personal and magical.
Festive destinations across Lapland
Äkäslompolo
Storybook Lapland near Ylläs
Nearest airport: Kittilä – approx. 50 minutes by car
A picture-perfect Lapland village where frozen lakes, wooden cabins and snow-covered fells create a Christmas straight from a storybook. Äkäslompolo feels calm, traditional and wonderfully festive, especially in the lead-up to Christmas when the atmosphere is magical without being busy.
This is a lovely choice for families dreaming of a classic Lapland Christmas surrounded by nature.
Why you’ll love it
- Beautiful lake and fell landscapes
- Traditional cabins and cosy local restaurants
- Easy access to winter activities and gentle adventures
Tours
- Lapland Winter Magic Escorted (pre-Christmas)
- Lapland Christmas Magic Escorted
Ivalo
Northern Lights magic from glass igloos and private Santa moments
Nearest airport: Ivalo – approx. 15 minutes by car
Deep in Northern Lapland, Ivalo is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Glass-roofed igloos allow you to watch the Aurora dance across the sky from the warmth of your bed.
Santa visits families in quiet forest settings, creating calm, personal moments that feel truly special and unhurried.
Why you’ll love it
- Glass-roofed cabins and suites
- Private Santa visits in secluded forest locations
- Tailored family activities
- Panorama sauna and festive dining
Tours
Levi
A festive favourite with a wonderful Santa alternative
Nearest airport: Kittilä – approx. 20 minutes by car
Levi offers everything families hope for from a Lapland Christmas – snowy landscapes, winter adventures and a warm festive buzz – without the heavy congestion of Rovaniemi.
Levi is also home to Elves Village, a charming, story-led alternative to Santa Claus Village. Santa encounters here feel intimate and imaginative, with elves, crafts and gentle festive activities creating a truly magical experience for children.
Why you’ll love it
- Well-developed resort with excellent facilities
- Glass igloos for Northern Lights viewing
- Private Santa visit in a forest cottage
- Reindeer experiences, fireworks and winter fun
Tours & Packages
- Santa in Lapland Escorted
- Christmas in Levi Glass Igloos (independent)
Ranua
A gentle Arctic Christmas for younger families
Nearest airport: Rovaniemi – approx. 1 hour by car
Ranua is especially well suited to families with younger children, offering a relaxed and joyful Christmas experience in a peaceful Arctic setting. Santa visits take place in a forest cabin, paired with wildlife encounters and soft adventure.
Why you’ll love it
- Private Santa visit in a forest cabin
- Visit to Ranua Wildlife Park
- Aurora Borealis snowmobile safari
Tours
Luosto and Pyhätunturi
A peaceful Christmas wrapped in nature
Nearest airport: Rovaniemi – approx. 1.5 – 2 hours by car
Set beside Pyhä–Luosto National Park, this region offers a slower, more nature-led Christmas. Snow-covered forests, eco-friendly activities and cosy accommodation create a warm, meaningful festive escape.
Why you’ll love it
- Eco-friendly snowmobiling and winter activities
- Glass-roofed Aurora cabins and spacious villas
- Quiet festive celebrations surrounded by nature
Tours
- Christmas at Sunday Morning (independent)
- Christmas in Kurulas (independent)
Muonio
Adults-only Arctic tranquillity in pristine wilderness
Nearest airport: Kittilä – approx. 1 hour by car
Near the Swedish border, Muonio offers a serene festive escape for couples seeking silence, star-filled skies and Northern Lights experiences. These journeys do not include Santa visits, focusing instead on nature and Lappish traditions.
Why you’ll love it
- Adults-only Premium Glass Kota accommodation
- Traditional Lappish ceremonies
- Northern Lights snowmobile tours
Tours
- Festive Adventure at Nivunki Village (independent)
Kajaani
A relaxed Finnish Christmas full of tradition! Great value and ideal for younger families
Nearest airport: Kajaani – approx. 15 minutes by car
Located south of the Arctic Circle, Kajaani offers a quieter and more cultural Christmas experience. Festive traditions, gentle winter activities and a warm atmosphere make this a wonderful value option for families.
Why you’ll love it
- Family-friendly Christmas programme
- Finnish traditions and winter activities
- Excellent value for money
Tour
- Christmas in Finland (independent)
Kilpisjärvi
Wild Arctic landscapes and boutique comfort at the edge of Europe
Nearest airport: Tromsø, Norway – approx. 2.5 hours by car
One of Finland’s northernmost villages, Kilpisjärvi feels wonderfully remote and dramatic. Wide skies, towering fells and exceptional Northern Lights viewing create a truly unforgettable Arctic Christmas.
Why you’ll love it
- Christmas programme including Santa
- Northern Lights cruise
- Snowmobiling in far northern Finland
- Optional cultural extension to Tromsø
Tours
- Christmas in The Arctic (independent, premium)
Inari
Sámi culture, Northern Lights and Arctic calm
Nearest airport: Ivalo – approx. 45 minutes by car
Set beside vast Lake Inari, this region is the cultural heart of Sámi Lapland. These festive journeys do not include Santa visits, making them ideal for couples and adults seeking a deeper, more tranquil Christmas experience.
Why you’ll love it
- Sámi culture and heritage experiences
- Northern Lights hunts and winter safaris
- Peaceful lakeside setting
Package examples
- Lapland Festive Adventure (independent)
- Lapland Festive Stay at Juutua (independent)
A different way to experience Christmas in Lapland
Santa doesn’t live in just one village – and Christmas magic isn’t limited to one place.
By choosing quieter destinations across Lapland, families enjoy personal Santa encounters, better Northern Lights opportunities, and a calmer, more authentic festive experience.
If you’re dreaming of meeting Santa, sharing special moments together, and enjoying the beauty of the Arctic winter, looking beyond Santa Claus Village may be the most magical choice of all.
See All Pre-Christmas Packages
Also see our Which Christmas in Lapland Tour Suits You? as well as other travel articles on Nordic Christmas.
Image credits:
Santa Claus Foundation, Cahkal Hotel, Hotel Kalevala, Aurora Village, Levi Igloos, Kurula's Resort, Sieriporo Safaris, Wilderness Hotel Inari, Wilderness Hotel Juutua