What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Lapland, Finland?

For budget-conscious travellers, exploring Lapland's natural beauty is the best option. Hiking in Oulanka National Park's stunning scenery, with its impressive river canyons and ancient forests, is free. Similarly, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on marked trails throughout Lapland is often free or very inexpensive, requiring only the rental of equipment. Many smaller, local museums offer lower admission fees than the larger, more well-known ones. Consider visiting a local church or chapel; many are architecturally interesting and offer a glimpse into Lapland's history and culture at no cost.

What are the best hostels in Lapland?

Among the hostels in Lapland, Wherever Mini Hostel , Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi are the most popular ones.

What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in Lapland, Finland?

While the Northern Lights are a major draw, consider visiting the less-frequented Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, known for its diverse landscapes and excellent hiking trails. The village of Nellim, near the Russian border, offers a tranquil escape and opportunities for wilderness experiences. For a unique cultural experience, explore the Sami village of Inari, learning about Sami culture and traditions away from the typical tourist crowds. The Korouoma Canyon, with its frozen waterfalls in winter, is another hidden gem.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Lapland?

The best hostel with a pool in Lapland is Hostel Sivakka .

What are the best nightlife spots in Lapland, Finland?

Lapland's nightlife is generally more low-key than in larger cities. Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, has a few bars and pubs offering a relaxed atmosphere. Many hotels have bars, and some restaurants offer live music occasionally. Expect a more relaxed and less intense nightlife scene than in other parts of Europe.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Lapland?

The best hostels for families and kids in Lapland are Wherever Mini Hostel , Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi .

What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Lapland, Finland?

A week allows for a good overview of Lapland, balancing city exploration with wilderness experiences. However, two weeks would provide a more in-depth experience, allowing for longer excursions into national parks and more time to explore specific interests, such as Sami culture or winter activities.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Lapland?

The best pet friendly hostels in Lapland are Wherever Mini Hostel , Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi .

Does Lapland, Finland offer any iconic natural events?

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are Lapland's most iconic natural event, best viewed during the winter months. The midnight sun, experienced during the summer, is another unique phenomenon. Witnessing the changing colours of the autumn leaves is also a spectacular natural event.

What are the best hostels with parking in Lapland?

Wherever Mini Hostel , Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi are the best hostels with parking in Lapland.

Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Lapland, Finland?

Yes, many opportunities exist to learn about Sami culture. Workshops on Sami crafts like reindeer herding, handicrafts (e.g., making knives or jewellery), and traditional cooking are frequently available. You can find these offered through various tour operators and local communities, particularly in areas with significant Sami populations like Inari.

How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Lapland, Finland?

Staying in smaller, family-run hotels or guesthouses provides more opportunities for interaction with locals. Participating in local events and markets allows for informal conversations. Taking a guided tour focused on Sami culture, or visiting a Sami village, offers opportunities to learn directly from the Sami people. Learning a few basic Finnish phrases is always appreciated.

Which restaurants and bars in Lapland, Finland offer the best local cuisine?

Many restaurants in Rovaniemi and other towns offer traditional Lappish dishes. Look for restaurants specialising in reindeer meat, salmon, and cloudberries. Smaller restaurants and cafes outside the main tourist areas often offer more authentic and less expensive meals. Ask locals for recommendations; they'll often be able to point you towards hidden culinary gems.

Lapland Hostels at the Best Price

8.1 1476 reviews

Villa Kemi

hostel, Kemi

Villa Kemi is located in Kemi, Lapland, just under 1 kilometre from both the Kemi Snow Castle and Kemi Train Station, making it ideal for exploring the city. The hostel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a variety of room types, including private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and shared dormitories. Guests can enjoy free parking, a sauna, a shared kitchen, a garden, and a terrace, as well as a fitness centre, a billiard table, and free WiFi.

No reviews

Lt Villa

hostel, Rovaniemi

Lt Villa offers a nature-focused and environmentally friendly escape in Rovaniemi, situated 13 kilometres from the city centre.
This villa provides a kitchen with a fridge, a garden, a picnic area, barbecue facilities, and transfer services, with concierge and parking also available.

8.2 199 reviews

Stadium Apartments

hostel, Tornio

Stadium Apartments is located in Tornio, just a short distance from the city centre and the Tornio Stadium, offering easy access to both urban attractions and recreational activities. The hostel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
The accommodation features one bedroom and one bathroom, with a floor area of 16 square meters and a capacity of three guests. Amenities include a shared kitchen, a garden, a sauna, parking, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

9.5 96 reviews

Lapland Fellas - ÄKäslompolo

hostel, Äkäslompolo

Lapland Fellas - Äkäslompolo, a 3-star hotel in Kolari, is conveniently located 39 kilometres from Kolari Train Station and 48 kilometres from Kittilä Airport, near the popular Äkäslompolo winter sports destination.
This family-friendly lodging offers free Wi-Fi, a sauna, terrace, garden, shared kitchen, lounge, free bikes, and free private parking; guests can enjoy skiing and cycling nearby.

9.0 6115 reviews

Hostel Café Koti

hostel, Rovaniemi

Hostel Café Koti is located in central Rovaniemi, just a short walk from the Sampokeskus Shopping Centre and within a mile of the Artikum Museum & Science Centre. The hostel enjoys excellent ratings for cleanliness, location and user experience.
The accommodation offers both private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and dormitory rooms with shared facilities. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped shared kitchen, a common lounge area, a Finnish sauna, a restaurant, a bar, and a terrace.

9.1 431 reviews

Hostel Tikka

hostel, Rovaniemi

Hostel Tikka is located in Rovaniemi, a short distance from Santa Claus Village and other popular attractions. The hostel enjoys a very good location and user rating, as well as an excellent cleanliness rating.
The hostel offers family rooms, a shared lounge, and a garden with a terrace. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a kitchen, parking, and a range of activities in the surrounding area, including hiking, skiing, and cycling.

9.3 11 reviews

Hostel Toivola

hostel, Kemi

Hostel with an excellent rating of 93% based on 11 reviews. Your accommodation will be located in Kemi.
Facilities and services include a coffee place, a fridge and fast check-in and check-out. This accommodation also has air conditioning!

No reviews

Lapland Hotels Kilpis

hostel, Enontekio

Lapland Hotels Kilpis, a hostel in Enontekio, offers complimentary Wi-Fi, free on-site parking, and direct access to ski slopes with ski equipment rental, alongside a sauna and doctor access.
This pet-friendly accommodation also features a children's playroom, a library, a picnic area, and a tourist information service to assist with local excursions.

No reviews

Forenom Hostel Ylläs

hostel, Kolari

Forenom Hostel Ylläs in Kolari offers convenient on-site parking and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
This accommodation provides laundry services and air conditioning for guest comfort.

No reviews

Kuerkievari Kuerhostel

hostel, Kolari

Kuerkievari Kuerhostel in Kolari offers a convenient base in a district providing easy access to local amenities and dining, with a transfer service available for local journeys. This hostel provides free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a barbecue area, kitchen facilities, and a newspaper service, with LGBTQIA+ friendly accommodation.

8.0 2 reviews

Forenom Hostel Ylläs

hostel

Forenom Hostel Ylläs, a budget-friendly accommodation, is situated in Kolari, Finland, less than 1.2 kilometres from Äkäslompolo Dog Park and within 5 kilometres of Kellokas Visitor Centre, Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, Kesänkijärvi, and Perhe Ski Lift.
This lodging offers complimentary WiFi in public areas, on-site laundry facilities, and a common area microwave, with parking available for guests.

8.7 142 reviews

Manna Bb

hostel, Karigasniemi

Manna BB is situated in the Karigasniemi district, just a short distance from the Karigasniemi River and close to the Finnish-Norwegian border. This 3-star hotel receives very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The accommodation offers 1 bedroom with a floor area of 5 square metres. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, lounge and terrace, as well as access to a sauna for an additional fee. A continental breakfast is provided each morning, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

Best Lapland hostels with breakfast

Among the 116 hostels in Lapland, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

No reviews

Santasport Resort

hostel, Rovaniemi

Santasport Resort is located just 2 kilometres from the city centre of Rovaniemi, offering easy access to the city's attractions, shops, and restaurants. The resort is situated in a peaceful location, perfect for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The resort provides a range of accommodation options, including comfortable rooms and suites, all equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities and facilities, including a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, and a range of winter sports options.

8.1 9 reviews

Hostel Aurora

hostel, Kuusamo

Hostel Aurora is centrally located in Kuusamo, a 3-minute drive from Kuusamo Park and 5 minutes from the Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Centre.
This accommodation offers free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, a sauna, a video game room, and 100 square meters of event space, situated 23.5 kilometres from Ruka Ski Resort.

8.9 451 reviews

Hostel Toivola

hostel, Kemi

Hostel Toivola is situated in Kemi, just 12 kilometres from Kemi Tornio Airport, making it a convenient base for exploring the nearby towns of Haparanda (30 km) and Tornio (27 km). The hostel has received consistently high ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel has a single bedroom and bathroom, catering to individual travellers or small groups. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, a bar, a sauna, and free parking. The hostel also offers a continental breakfast, car rental, and is ideally located for exploring the surrounding area's hiking trails.

No reviews

Arctic Shaman Adventures -Jurtta

hostel, Kongas

Arctic Shaman Adventures - Jurtta, a unique accommodation near Kongas, offers exclusive beach access and proximity to snow-covered hills perfect for winter sports, providing an ideal base for exploring the region. This jurta features on-site spa facilities, a restaurant, bar, a garden with a terrace, and complimentary Wi-Fi, with a ticket service available for booking local activities.

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Best Lapland hostels with a locker

9.5 1189 reviews

Wherever Mini Hostel

hostel, Rovaniemi

Wherever Mini Hostel is located in the city centre of Rovaniemi, just 650 metres from the bus station and 1.6 kilometres from the railway station, making it easy to explore the city's attractions. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel offers shared bathroom facilities with free toiletries and a hairdryer. Guests can prepare their own meals in the shared kitchen, which includes a fridge, freezer, microwave oven, and dishwasher, and enjoy free snacks, tea, and coffee.

No reviews

Lapland Hotels Akashotelli

hostel, Kolari

Lapland Hotels Akashotelli in Kolari offers direct access to ski slopes, a ski school, and ski pass services, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
This hostel provides a range of amenities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a massage salon, sauna, fitness centre, table tennis, complimentary Wi-Fi, free parking, and is pet-friendly.

8.1 138 reviews

Kuerkievari Kuerhostel

hostel, Äkäslompolo

Kuerkievari Kuerhostel is located in Äkäslompolo, just 3 kilometres from the town centre and a stone's throw from cross-country ski trails. The hostel enjoys a very good rating for location, cleanliness, and user experience.
The hostel offers a shared lounge, a café and restaurant, outdoor BBQ facilities, and a fully equipped kitchen. Guests can also enjoy two saunas, ski storage, and the chance to arrange guided snowmobile riding, husky and reindeer safaris, and snowshoeing.

9.8 71 reviews

Lapitar Guesthouse: Tammi Suite

hostel

This family-friendly guesthouse in a residential area near Rovaniemi is situated approximately 40km from both Rovaniemi Airport and the Santa Claus Village, with a supermarket 5 minutes away and the city centre 15-20 minutes' drive.
The renovated forest school building offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and sleeps four guests, boasting a shared kitchen, fitness centre, free parking, and daily cleaning of shared facilities.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Lapland

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Lapland, Finland?
For budget-conscious travellers, exploring Lapland's natural beauty is the best option. Hiking in Oulanka National Park's stunning scenery, with its impressive river canyons and ancient forests, is free. Similarly, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on marked trails throughout Lapland is often free or very inexpensive, requiring only the rental of equipment. Many smaller, local museums offer lower admission fees than the larger, more well-known ones. Consider visiting a local church or chapel; many are architecturally interesting and offer a glimpse into Lapland's history and culture at no cost.
What are the best hostels in Lapland?
Among the hostels in Lapland, Wherever Mini Hostel, Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi are the most popular ones.
What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in Lapland, Finland?
While the Northern Lights are a major draw, consider visiting the less-frequented Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, known for its diverse landscapes and excellent hiking trails. The village of Nellim, near the Russian border, offers a tranquil escape and opportunities for wilderness experiences. For a unique cultural experience, explore the Sami village of Inari, learning about Sami culture and traditions away from the typical tourist crowds. The Korouoma Canyon, with its frozen waterfalls in winter, is another hidden gem.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Lapland?
The best hostel with a pool in Lapland is Hostel Sivakka.
What are the best nightlife spots in Lapland, Finland?
Lapland's nightlife is generally more low-key than in larger cities. Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, has a few bars and pubs offering a relaxed atmosphere. Many hotels have bars, and some restaurants offer live music occasionally. Expect a more relaxed and less intense nightlife scene than in other parts of Europe.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Lapland?
The best hostels for families and kids in Lapland are Wherever Mini Hostel, Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi.
What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Lapland, Finland?
A week allows for a good overview of Lapland, balancing city exploration with wilderness experiences. However, two weeks would provide a more in-depth experience, allowing for longer excursions into national parks and more time to explore specific interests, such as Sami culture or winter activities.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Lapland?
The best pet friendly hostels in Lapland are Wherever Mini Hostel, Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi.
Does Lapland, Finland offer any iconic natural events?
The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are Lapland's most iconic natural event, best viewed during the winter months. The midnight sun, experienced during the summer, is another unique phenomenon. Witnessing the changing colours of the autumn leaves is also a spectacular natural event.
What are the best hostels with parking in Lapland?
Wherever Mini Hostel, Hostel Café Koti and Villa Kemi are the best hostels with parking in Lapland.
Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Lapland, Finland?
Yes, many opportunities exist to learn about Sami culture. Workshops on Sami crafts like reindeer herding, handicrafts (e.g., making knives or jewellery), and traditional cooking are frequently available. You can find these offered through various tour operators and local communities, particularly in areas with significant Sami populations like Inari.
How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Lapland, Finland?
Staying in smaller, family-run hotels or guesthouses provides more opportunities for interaction with locals. Participating in local events and markets allows for informal conversations. Taking a guided tour focused on Sami culture, or visiting a Sami village, offers opportunities to learn directly from the Sami people. Learning a few basic Finnish phrases is always appreciated.
Which restaurants and bars in Lapland, Finland offer the best local cuisine?
Many restaurants in Rovaniemi and other towns offer traditional Lappish dishes. Look for restaurants specialising in reindeer meat, salmon, and cloudberries. Smaller restaurants and cafes outside the main tourist areas often offer more authentic and less expensive meals. Ask locals for recommendations; they'll often be able to point you towards hidden culinary gems.

Best Lapland hostels with air conditioning

8.3 1676 reviews

Guesthouse Arctic Heart

hostel, Rovaniemi

GuestHouse Arctic Heart is conveniently located in Rovaniemi, just a 7-minute walk from Arktikum Science Centre, making it easy to explore the city's attractions. The guesthouse has received very good user ratings for its cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The guesthouse offers a range of amenities for a comfortable stay, including a shared lounge, a garden, and a sauna. Guests can also enjoy activities such as skiing in winter, bike rentals, and access to a tennis court.