Things to Do in Levi in Winter

Levi is a ski resort located in Finnish Lapland, approximately 170 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. Just 16 kilometers from Kittilä Airport, it offers easy access for both domestic and international travelers. The resort is popular among Finnish visitors as well as tourists from across Europe. Direct flights from the UK to Kittilä make Levi an especially convenient destination for winter holidays.

Why Levi should be your next Lapland destination?

Levi is the largest ski resort in Finland, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland. While it may not compare in size to major Alpine resorts, it offers 45 ski slopes and a charming village atmosphere with a good selection of shops, restaurants, and bars.

The resort attracts a mix of visitors: many Finns come for weekend skiing — both alpine and cross-country — as well as for the lively après-ski scene, which includes bars and nightclubs. Levi is also a popular destination for international tourists, thanks to its excellent accessibility. Many tour operators include Levi in their Lapland packages, and direct flights to Kittilä make it an easy option, especially for travelers who prefer not to rent a car.

One of Levi’s main advantages is its well-developed infrastructure. The resort offers a wide range of accommodations — from modern hotels to cosy log cabins — as well as a full selection of winter activities. Visitors can enjoy husky sledding, snowmobile safaris, ice hotels, saunas, spa experiences, and more, all within the resort area. Everything is easily accessible, which makes Levi a convenient choice, particularly for first-time visitors to Lapland.

What to do in Levi?

There are many things to do in Lapland during the winter, and Levi has the advantage of offering everything in one place. You can go alpine or cross-country skiing, walk on winter hiking trails, try ice fishing on a frozen lake, join a husky safari, chase the Northern Lights, and more. It’s up to you to choose what you want to experience.

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Experience a husky sled ride

Husky sledding is one of the most iconic winter experiences in Lapland, and Levi offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy it. Most providers offer short introductory safaris of around 5 kilometers — ideal for first-timers or families with young children.

For a more immersive adventure, longer tours of 15 to 20 kilometers are also available. These allow you to spend more time out in the wilderness and truly enjoy the ride. While longer tours are more expensive, they tend to feel very short once you’re on the sled — the experience goes by fast!

For families with small children, shorter rides (5 to 10 kilometers) are recommended, as sitting in the sled for too long can be cold and uncomfortable for little ones.

Husky Safaris options
>> 1,5 -2h husky safari
>> 15km husky safari

Go on a Snowmobile Safari

In Levi, you can either join a guided snowmobile safari or rent a snowmobile and ride on your own. For beginners, a guided tour is highly recommended. Snowmobiles are not hard to drive, but it’s important to learn the basics — especially how to avoid getting stuck in deep snow, which can happen easily on hills or uneven trails.

For more experienced riders, renting a snowmobile is also possible. There are several rental shops in Levi. A valid driving license is required, and the rental includes all the necessary gear.

In Finland, it’s mandatory to stay on marked snowmobile trails. These are clearly signposted and easy to follow. Note that speed controls are common in Levi, and local police may carry out checks — so make sure to drive safely and respect the rules.

Snowmobile safaris options
>> 4 Hour Snowmobile Safari to the Fells in Levi
>> 3 Hour Snowmobile Safari Around Levi with Coffee Break
>> 2 Hours Snowmobile Safari to the Levi Nature
>> 1 Hour Easy Snowmobile
>> 2-Hour Arctic Exploration Electric Snowmobile Tour – Sustainable activity
>> Lapland Family Snowmobile Safari

Chase the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights is one of the top reasons people travel to Lapland, and Levi is a great place for it. The resort is far enough from major light pollution, making it easier to spot the aurora on clear nights.

There are two main ways to go aurora hunting in Levi:
– You can go out on your own, walking or driving to a darker area outside the village
– Or you can join a guided tour, where local guides monitor the weather and aurora forecasts to bring you to the best possible viewing spots

Northern Lights are never guaranteed — they depend on solar activity and clear skies — but guides increase your chances by knowing where and when to go. Some tours include campfires, snacks, or photo tips, making the experience even more special.

For the best chance, try to stay for several nights and keep an eye on the sky after dark.

Northern lights tours options
>> Northern Lights Tour by Minivan
>> Northern Lights Hunting – Photography Tour
>> Northern Lights Hunting in Sonkamuotka

Visit a reindeer farm and discover Sami culture

Reindeer are one of the most iconic animals of Lapland. While they roam freely across the region, they are all semi-domesticated and owned by herders.

In Levi, several companies offer visits to reindeer farms, often combined with a short sleigh ride. Although reindeer are no longer used for transport in daily Sami life — snowmobiles have taken over — sleigh rides remain a popular tourist experience.

Visiting a farm allows you to get close to these shy animals. You can feed them, take photos, and even pet them in a calm setting — something that’s rarely possible in the wild.

Many reindeer farms also include an introduction to Sami culture, the Indigenous culture of Lapland. Some visits feature storytelling, traditional clothing, or handicrafts. You can also visit the Samiland Exhibition in Levi to learn more about Sami traditions, history, and way of life.

Reindeer farm activities options
>>Traditional Reindeer Farm Visit & Sled Ride
>> Reindeer Sleigh Ride Tour in Snowy Forest
>> Traditional Reindeer Husbandry Experience – Top experience!

Skiing in Levi

Levi is the largest alpine ski resort in Finland. While it doesn’t compare in size to the big ski areas in the Alps, it offers a friendly and well-organized environment — similar to a small family resort.

The slopes are well maintained, and all necessary services are available on site. If you have your own ski equipment, you can bring it with you. Finnair, for example, allows ski gear as checked baggage, but you should inform the airline in advance to ensure there’s space.

Skiing in Levi is not especially cheap. A one-day lift pass costs around 50 €. Equipment rental for alpine or Nordic skiing typically costs 35–40 € per day for the full gear, and there are several rental shops in the resort.

Levi also has excellent facilities for Nordic skiing, which is Finland’s national sport. The area includes 230 kilometers of trails, with 28 kilometers lit for night skiing. In spring (especially March and April), the experience is particularly enjoyable, with daylight lasting longer and small cafés open along some routes. Cross-country trails are available for all levels, from beginner to advanced.

For families or beginners, Levi has dedicated beginner zones, including Leevilandia — a fun and safe snow area for children. It features gentle slopes, snow play areas, and ski lifts adapted for little ones, making it a great spot for learning to ski or simply having fun in the snow.

Ski options
>> Cross-country Skiing for Beginners
>> Backcountry Skiing Adventure

Hiking and Snowshoeing

One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Lapland is to explore the marked winter trails around Levi. You can go on foot, use snowshoes, or even rent a fatbike to ride on snowy paths.

Trails are well marked and suitable for all levels, offering peaceful routes through forests and snowy landscapes.

If you prefer to go with a guide, several companies in Levi offer guided hiking or snowshoe tours — a great option for learning more about the area and staying safe in unfamiliar terrain.

Along the way, don’t miss the chance to stop at a kota (a traditional wooden hut). These shelters are open to everyone and often include a fireplace where you can warm up, grill sausages, and enjoy a quiet break in the middle of nature.

For maps and trail conditions, visit the Levi Tourist Information Office in the resort center.

Rental price
For snowshoes rental, you should expect to pay around 20€ per day.
For fatbike rental, about 40€ per day.

Activities options
>> Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park Snowshoeing Tour
>> Explore the Wilderness
>> Snowshoe Adventure in the Wilderness

Go to the Top of Levi Fell

You can reach the top of Mount Levi by car or snowmobile, depending on the season. On clear days, the view from the top is stunning — offering a wide panorama of snowy forests, frozen lakes, and the surrounding Arctic landscapes.

It’s one of the best places in Levi to enjoy peaceful scenery and take in the true spirit of Lapland. The area is easily accessible and well worth the trip if the weather is good.

Try ice fishing

Ice fishing is a classic winter activity in Lapland and a favorite pastime for many Finns. However, the best time to try it is in March, when the days are longer, the sun is warmer, and the fish are more active.

During the polar night in December and January, ice fishing is still possible, but it’s mainly tourists giving it a try — and catching a fish is less likely. That said, it’s a fun and unique experience worth doing at least once, even if you don’t end up with dinner!

Ice fishing activities
>> Ice Fishing by Snowmobile
>> Finnish Ice Fishing Tour by Car

Visit an ice hotel

Each winter, the Snow Village, located about 30 minutes from Levi, builds an impressive ice hotel with a different theme. For the 2023/2024 season, the theme is Nordic Mythology. The hotel features detailed ice sculptures, frozen rooms, and beautifully lit halls — making it a unique place to explore, or even spend the night.

To visit the Snow Village, you’ll need a car, as there is no direct public transport from Levi. Some local tour companies also offer transfers and guided visits.

Entrance fee is 17€ per person.
If you don’t have a car, you can book a visit to the Snow Village
>> Trip to Lapland Snow Village with Entry Tickets

Discover the sauna ritual

auna is an essential part of Finnish culture. With over 2 to 3 million saunas for just 5 million people, it’s more than a tradition — it’s a way of life. In fact, “sauna” is one of the few Finnish words used globally without translation.

If you’re staying in a cottage in Levi, there’s a good chance it includes a private sauna — perfect for relaxing after a day in the snow. If not, or if you’d like to try a more traditional experience, you can visit the Arctic Sauna World near Levi. There, you can explore different types of saunas and learn how Finns enjoy this important ritual, often combined with ice swimming or cold plunges.

Staying in Levi: hotels, cottages, and apartments

Levi offers a wide range of accommodation options, but it’s important to book in advance — especially during the high season. While it’s possible to find a place last-minute, the more affordable options are often fully booked well ahead of time.

There’s something for every travel style in Levi:
– Hotels for comfort and convenience
– Private cottages for a more authentic and cosy experience
– Apartments for more flexibility and space

Most bookings can be made online through platforms like Booking.com, which offers a variety of filters, good deals, and often free cancellation options.

Below are a few recommended places to stay in Levi — some well-located and highly rated, others more affordable and slightly outside the village. Prices in Levi tend to be high, especially in winter, so it’s good to plan your budget accordingly. Lapland remains an expensive destination, but the experience is truly worth it.

Unique Places to Stay in Levi

If you’re looking for a more unusual place to stay, Levi and the surrounding area offer several unique accommodation options. From glass igloos to snow hotels and luxury cabins with panoramic views, these stays offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Of course, the price is higher than standard lodging, but the memories are unforgettable. Sleeping under the stars — or even under the Northern Lights — is something you’ll never forget.

Where to eat in Levi?

Levi has a good selection of restaurants, and it’s a great opportunity to discover local Finnish and Lappish cuisine. One of the most traditional dishes you’ll find is reindeer stew (poronkäristys) — a must-try in Lapland.

Reindeer meat is more expensive than beef, so prices may seem high. Expect to pay around 25 € for a reindeer dish, but portions are generous and filling.

Here are a few recommended places to eat in Levi:

Here are some places to try:

Nili-Poro

Address: Torikuja 4, 99130 Levi — Open 2:00 PM to 9:30 PM
A small and cozy restaurant (only 24 seats) offering authentic Lappish food. The menu includes several reindeer options: stew, burgers, and even reindeer liver. For dessert, you’ll find cloudberry-based sweets — a rare Arctic berry worth tasting.

Myllyn Äijä

Address: Myllyjoentie 2, 99130 Sirkka — Open 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
This restaurant serves local dishes along with pizzas, making it a good option for groups or families with different tastes.

King Crab House

A more upscale option known for its king crab, a delicacy from the Arctic coast of Norway. While crab dishes are on the expensive side, the menu also includes more affordable options like burgers, pasta, and reindeer dishes. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed.

Should You Rent a Car in Levi?

Renting a car is a great option if you want the freedom to explore the area around Levi at your own pace. Having a car also makes it easier to go aurora hunting at night, visit nearby attractions, or simply enjoy more remote spots outside the resort.

Driving in Lapland during winter requires caution, especially when weather conditions are poor. Roads can be icy or snowy, but all rental cars are equipped with winter tires, often with studs. Local drivers are used to the conditions, and with a bit of care, driving is generally safe and manageable.

Cars can be rented directly from Kittilä Airport, which is very close to Levi. To get the best price, it’s worth comparing offers on Booking.com — a platform that often lists better rates than booking directly with the rental companies.

How Much Does a Trip to Levi Cost?

Many travelers wonder how much a one-week trip to Lapland might cost — especially when it comes to flights, accommodation, and winter activities. Prices can vary a lot depending on your travel style and how early you book. The estimates below give you a general idea of a typical one-week holiday in Levi for two people.

Of course, you can adjust the budget based on your preferences. For example, you might choose a shorter husky safari or skip the car rental if you plan to stay in the village.

Estimated Budget for One Week in Levi (for 2 people)

• Roundtrip flights (London – Kittilä via Helsinki)
  ~ £362 per person (Finnair, Saturday flight)
• Accommodation (7 nights in private lodging in Levi)
  ~ £470 total for 2 people
• Car rental (compact car for 1 week)
  ~ £300 total (prices vary by season and car type)
• Husky safari (15 km with farm visit and snack)
  ~ £226 per person (shared sled)
• Snowmobile safari (2 hours, shared)
  ~ £102 per person
• Reindeer visit with sleigh ride
  ~ £106 per person
• Ice fishing excursion
  ~ £80 per person

Total Estimated Cost

➡️ Around £1,260 per person, based on shared expenses for two people and a Saturday-to-Saturday trip.

Note: These prices are estimates. Always check directly with local providers and airlines for the most up-to-date rates.

>> If you want to rent Winter Clothes, just follow this link. It is a good option if you don’t want to buy everything.

If there’s anything missing or if you have questions about planning your trip, feel free to reach out — I’ll be happy to update this page and add more helpful information!

Levi Webcam

To get a little taste of Levi before your trip — or just to enjoy the views from afar — feel free to bookmark this page and check the live webcam of the ski slopes anytime. It’s a great way to see the current weather, snow conditions, and feel a bit closer to Lapland from home.