December 3, 2024 · 8 min read
Lapland Private Jet Flights – Meeting Santa

Private jet flights to Lapland are, for most, something made out of the same fabric as dreams. Often referred to as Santa’s Homeland , Lapland is the ultimate and genuine Christmas Wonderland you’ve always dreamed of, and we’ll let you in on how to get there, where to stay, and what to do.
Located in the northern region of Finland, and stretching across Norway, Sweden, and Russia, its snowy plains, snow-covered forests and fells (rounded mountains) will have you grasping for its cold air. There are far many more reasons to excuse an indulgence in hot chocolate afterwards, and we’ll let you in on everything you ever wanted to know about flying to Lapland in style.
This guide invites you to explore the Lapland region this Christmas, while sharing its best spots, how to get there, and what to do during your stay. Read on for everything you always wanted to know about Santa’s Land.
Fun facts about Lapland
Lapland is not only about majestic white and Santa. It’s also a place where you’ll find a very unique culture and plenty of fun adventures. Let us share some of our top fun facts about it:
- Lapland is Santa’s Official Hometown : Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is considered Santa Claus’s official hometown . You can even cross the Arctic Circle there, with a certificate to prove it!
- Reindeer Outnumber People : Lapland is home to around 200,000 reindeer , compared to just 180,000 residents . Reindeer are a symbol of the region and are semi-domesticated.
- Northern Lights Galore : The Aurora Borealis can be seen up to 200 nights a year , depending on weather conditions. That’s more than half the year of natural light shows!
- Land of the Midnight Sun : During summer, Lapland experiences 70 consecutive days of sunlight in some areas, as the sun doesn’t set for weeks. In winter, there’s a polar night, with the sun barely rising above the horizon.
- Ice Hotels and Igloos : You can sleep in ice hotels or glass igloos under the Northern Lights. These accommodations are carved from ice and snow every winter, offering a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic experience.
- “Blue Moment” Phenomenon : In winter, there’s a magical time during twilight called the “blue moment,” when the snow reflects the sky, turning the entire landscape shades of blue.
- Arctic Marathon : Lapland hosts unique events like the Polar Night Marathon , where runners brave extreme conditions and race under the auroras or starlit skies.
- Sámi Traditional Joik : The Sámi people have a unique singing tradition called joik , which sounds mystical and is inspired by people, nature, or feelings. It’s one of Europe’s oldest continuous musical traditions.
Lapland Christmas - What's all the fuss?
Santa Claus Village
Lapland has earned its reputation as the ultimate Christmas wonderland thanks to its stunning Arctic landscapes, rich traditions, and the allure of being “Santa’s home”, as we mentioned in the previous points. The snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and crisp winter air set the stage for a magical holiday experience. We covered it before in our top 10 winter destinations , and it remains in a soft, warm place in our hearts.
Visitors are drawn to the festive cheer in Rovaniemi, where Santa Claus Village offers year-round Christmas spirit – moreso during the actual season – complete with elves, reindeer sleigh rides, and the chance to cross the Arctic Circle . Families flock to Lapland to immerse themselves in these enchanting activities, while the natural beauty of the region, from the “blue moment” twilight to the breathtaking Northern Lights, adds a sense of wonder.
What truly sets Lapland apart is its unique blend of fantasy and authenticity. While the fairy-tale Christmas atmosphere captivates children, adults are equally captivated by the cultural richness of the region. From husky sledding to traditional Sámi music and cuisine , Lapland offers a glimpse into Arctic life beyond the holiday clichés.
Whether staying in an ice hotel or marveling at reindeer herds, visitors find a perfect mix of holiday magic and real-world charm , making Lapland a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a Christmas like no other.
How do I fly to Lapland?
Traveling commercial to Lapland, particularly to Rovaniemi requires flights with at least one stopover, as there are no direct flights available. You may wish to consider flying to Kittilä Airport instead , but connections are less available. We can help, through our private jet charter service , and help you arrive in style and with minimal fuss. Here are some alternatives to plan your journey:
- Airlines and Routes : Several airlines operate flights from Lisbon to Rovaniemi with one or more stopovers. Common layover cities include Helsinki, London, and Paris. For instance, Finnair often offers routes with a layover in Helsinki, while Ryanair and easyJet may have connections through other European cities. Lapland, in particular, is often a destination for chartered flights.
- Booking Platforms : Google Flights, Skyscanner and eDreams allow you to compare prices and routes across different airlines. Our recent searches show that commercial round-trip flight prices start from approximately €181/$191, depending on the season and how far in advance you book.
- Private Jet Charter Services : JetFinder has expertise in booking private jets for individuals and large groups that wish to travel to Lapland. We suggest booking in advance, as the area is quite on demand in the Holiday Season. Our team is available 24/7 and offers a free quote – no raindeer included!
Hotels in Lapland where you must stay at least once

If you’re planning to go all-in on your Christmas experience, then, Santa Claus Village is the place to be. Here, you’ll not only find accommodation to please the imagination, from Ice Igloos, to wooden cottages, and modern rooms, but you’ll also be staying the closest to Santa you’ve ever been in your life. Cabins are only a 1-2 minute walk to Santa’s Main Office, and all the activities mentioned previously are also available here. That includes Husky dog sledge rides, snowmobiles, and much more. The general 5-star reviews speak for itself, and for those who dream of this once-in-a-lifetime scenario, this one’s hard to beat.
There’s more to Lapland, though, and Wilderness Hotels might just be it for those who are after the authentic Winter experience . There’s plenty to pick from, with units spread all over the area, catering to every taste. Alternatively, consider The Glass Resort , one of the finest hotels in the region.
Aside from top service and incredible meals, you’ll still benefit from everything Northern Finland has to offer – even an Aurora Borealis to light up the magic at dinner , while Santa awaits right down the road!
For those after extra privacy , there are numerous luxury cottages and cabins available, from where you can access all of the exciting experiences we mention in this piece.
What's Sámi Christmas like?
Sámi Christmas celebrations are a blend of ancient traditions, Arctic nature, and modern festivities. Sámi people , the indigenous population of Lapland , have a rich cultural heritage that deeply influences how they mark the holiday season. Their connection to nature, family, and community is at the heart of their Christmas celebrations, making it a deep, meaningful experience.
The Sámi have a profound respect for the natural world, which plays a significant role in their Christmas traditions. Many Sámi celebrate the holiday in harmony with the Arctic landscape, incorporating reindeer herding and outdoor feasts into their festivities. Reindeer are truly symbolic, not just as a practical part of their livelihood but as a cultural emblem tied to Sámi mythology and storytelling.
Sámi Christmas meals often feature local ingredients like reindeer meat, fish, cloudberries, and lingonberries . Dishes such as suovas (smoked reindeer meat), dried fish, and kåldolmar (stuffed cabbage rolls) are popular, complemented by hearty bread and rich desserts.
Music is a vital part of Sámi culture, and joik, their traditional form of singing , often becomes a centerpiece during Christmas gatherings. Each joik is personal and can represent a person, place, or memory. Storytelling, particularly tales about the Northern Lights or Sámi legends, creates a magical atmosphere for families and communities during the holiday. Before Christian influences, the Sámi celebrated the Winter Solstice , marking the return of light in the Arctic darkness. Elements of this pagan tradition remain, with bonfires and rituals honoring the sun’s power and its renewal.
Sámi Christmas gifts often include beautifully handcrafted items like duodji (traditional Sámi handicrafts). These include intricate jewelry, knives, or woven textiles, showcasing their craftsmanship and deep cultural pride. Their Christmas traditions emphasizes family and community. Gathering around a fire, sharing meals, and singing together are central to the celebrations, reflecting their value of togetherness.
While reindeer are a practical part of Sámi life, they have also contributed to the global Christmas legend. Santa’s association with reindeer likely draws from Sámi culture, where reindeer sledding has been a way of life for centuries. Sámi Christmas is a celebration that honors both the sacred traditions of their ancestors and the joys of modern festivities, offering a meaningful way to experience the season in one of the most enchanting parts of the world.
Time to pack up and meet Santa
As most of our readers understand, life allows for limited time to craft unforgettable adventures. For families, in particular, the window allowing children to experience the full magic of Christmas is a particularly narrow one. And, as far as magical Christmas experiences go, Lapland remains on top of any chart.
Our suggestion is simple: contact our team for a free quote on private jet flights to Lapland, prepare your warm layers, and embark on a journey that will take you to one of the most incredible places on Earth, reviving the Spirit of Christmas at first sight.

