Record winter for Finnish Lapland: tourism reaches new heights

From Rovaniemi to Sea Lapland – the 2024/25 winter season in Finnish Lapland exceeds all expectations

Finnish Lapland experienced an exceptionally successful 2024/2025 winter season. The city of Rovaniemi, in particular, solidified its position as a top travel destination. Between November and March, it recorded 1.1 million overnight stays – an increase of nearly 20 percent compared to the previous season. The economic impact was also significant, with accommodation revenue rising by around 33 percent to approximately 130 million euros.

Sea Lapland: winter success on the coast

Further south, in the Sea Lapland region, demand also surged. The icebreakers Sampo and Arktis, offering cruises through the frozen Baltic Sea, had a record-breaking season, welcoming over 36,000 passengers – a major leap from the previous record of around 20,000. In Tornio, overnight stays rose by 20 percent over the year, and by 29 percent among international visitors, according to tourism coordinator Anni Lamomprom. Hotel occupancy rates exceeded the Finnish average, and international group bookings are secured for years ahead.

Lapland airports experience growth

The region’s airports also saw remarkable growth: Passenger numbers at Rovaniemi, Ivalo, Kittilä, and Kuusamo rose by 19 percent year-on-year. In February 2025, Rovaniemi logged 46 percent more entries from non-Schengen countries than in February 2024. During the Christmas peak, the airport handled up to 80 flights per day. The smaller Enontekiö Airport also reported growth, with over 38,000 passengers during the winter – a 20 percent increase.

Busy ski slopes and record year for Ranua

Kittilä and the Levi ski resort once again attracted high visitor numbers. According to Satu Pesonen from Visit Levi, international demand was especially strong. She also noted a nearly 10 percent increase in the number of unregistered accommodations. Rather than limiting winter tourism, Pesonen sees future growth potential in expanding summer tourism offerings. In the southern part of Lapland, Ranua Resort, including its zoo, reported its best financial year to date: Revenue rose to 6.8 million euros, 1.4 million more than in 2023. Nearly 129,000 people visited the Arctic wildlife park over the course of 2024.

Whether it’s the northern lights, icebreaker cruises, or encounters with Nordic wildlife – the 2024/2025 winter season was a resounding success for Finnish Lapland. The numbers clearly show that the region is well positioned on the international stage and is increasingly establishing itself as a year-round destination with strong winter appeal.

More on Finnish Lapland.

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