If you want a bucket-list winter trip without the big budget, Geneva would be a great base.
We've found budget-friendly, 2 night stays in Geneva city centre (mainly weekends), with return flights from 11 UK Airports + Dublin. Prices start at just £182pp.
From Geneva, it’s just a short hop over the French border to the mountain resort of Chamonix, sitting at the foot of Mont Blanc.
Alternatively, you're just an hour from Montreux where you can a luxury train along the take the GoldenPass line.
✈️ Geneva Airport is only 5 minutes from the city centre, and the train costs just a couple of pounds!
This region is certainly not a cheap destination - Switzerland is the most expensive country in the world, but it certainly helps finding great hotel and flight prices.
Chamonix Tour
The guided tour includes return panoramic bus from Geneva City Centre to Chamonix plus reserved tickets for:
🚠 The famous Aiguille du Midi cable car
🚂 The Montenvers mountain train
❄️ The Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier
and free time to explore the charming alpine town.
Don't forget to book via the Get Your Guide app and use our 5% discount code BUILDABREAK5
We did this exact tour in February 2025 and absolutely loved it — highly recommend! You can read about it on our blog👉 HERE
Auguille Du Midi
Mer de Glace (France's Longest Glacier)
GoldenPass Trains
If you’d prefer to explore more of Switzerland during your stay, Geneva is also the perfect starting point for the GoldenPass scenic trains. You can take a short train ride to Montreux, where the GoldenPass Express begins its stunning journey through the Alps all the way to Interlaken - we’ve done the Prestige Class and it’s an unforgettable experience.
You can also hop on the beautiful Belle-Époque train from Montreux to Zweisimmen, with its vintage carriages and panoramic views. We've also taken this train and included in our GoldenPass Guide.
It’s a brilliant add-on to a Geneva weekend, and you can read our full guide here on both trains, which includes how to purchase tickets.
❗️ Please remember: We’re a travel platform sharing great finds, not a travel agent. We do not take requests for alternative dates/airports or provide personal travel quotes 😀
⚠️ All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier. This post may contain affiliate links.
Escape to Matera, Italy – May City-Break Deals from the UK & Ireland
Looking for a truly unique break? Matera—one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world—is a magical destination built from ancient cave dwellings, dramatic stone pathways, and golden sunsets that sweep across theSassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Staying here feels like stepping into history, yet with all the comforts of modern Italy.
You’ll fly into Bari (the closest airport to Matera), and from there it’s an easy onward journey:
🚆 Public Transport: Direct buses run from Bari Airport to Matera several times a day, taking around 1 hour 15 minutes.
🚖 Private Transfer: Door-to-door transfers operate 24/7—perfect if arriving late.
🚗 Car Hire: Hiring a car gives you maximum freedom to explore Puglia and Basilicata at your own pace.
Expect a stunning cave-style spa, incredible views, and breakfast included. Even better—reserve now, pay later with free cancellation, so the only upfront cost is your flights.
Rooms sleep up to four, making it even better value if travelling as a family. For these deals we have priced them up based on 2 adults sharing.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice. Prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change.
Always double-check all details with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. All bookings are made directly with the travel supplier.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.
May Departures – Only From Four Airports
In May, you can fly direct to Bari from:
Bristol
London Stansted
Dublin
Edinburgh (not included below due to very late arrival times)
Here are the best-value picks this week – from lowest to highest price 👇
Ride the Bernina Express this January with Flights & Hotel from £337pp
If you’re looking for a magical winter escape this January, the Bernina Express is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world - and you can experience it from just £337pp including flights, hotel and the full-day escorted tour from Milan.
✨ A full-day Bernina Express tour: Milan → St Moritz (free time for shopping & sightseeing) → panoramic train to Tirano → return to Milan by coach
Flying into Milan
Milan Malpensa (MXP): About 50 minutes from Milan Centrale by train (Malpensa Express). Trains run every 15 minutes.
Milan Linate (LIN): Only 20 minutes from Milan Centrale by airport bus or taxi — super convenient for city breaks.
(We’ve skipped Bergamo flights this time, as many travellers found it too far from Milan!)
Disclaimer: Build a Break does not sell holidays or provide quotes and is not a travel agent. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel. Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content!
Extreme Day Trips to Disneyland Paris This Christmas - Last Chance!
🎄 Christmas Extreme Day Trips to Disneyland Paris – Last Chance!
If you thought Disneyland Paris was magical before, wait until you see it at Christmas ✨.
Imagine stepping off the plane in the morning, hopping on the TGV straight from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and within minutes you’re walking down Main Street U.S.A. with snow gently falling around you.
From Santa meet‑and‑greets 🎅 to heart-warming Christmas parades, seasonal shows, the tree lighting ceremony, and snow on Main Street - the park really becomes a winter wonderland. It’s one of the most enchanting times to visit, even if you’re only doing a one‑day trip!
We’ve done just that - fly in, hit the highlights, then fly home, and with the right planning, you can squeeze in more than you’d expect.
That’s what makes these Extreme Day Trips so rewarding. For a full guide to making the most of a single day at Disneyland Paris, see our trip: Click here to read.
To get from Charles de Gaulle to the parks fast, you can catch the TGV — it’s quick and efficient. We cover that in step-by-step detail here: Click here to read.
Also - a pro tip: you can save an extra 5% on your park tickets by using the Get Your Guide app.
** We have deleted the expired deals - this is your last chance to grab an Extreme Day Trip before Christmas!
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice.
All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
💸 Flight + 1 Day / 1 Park Ticket — Full Date List
(All prices per person. Each flight or ticket is a clickable link; park tickets include the note “Save 5% with code BUILDABREAK5 via the Get Your Guide app.”)
We have priced up each day using a 1 Day/1 Park Pass- most of the Christmas related things to do are located in the main park. If you want to visit both parks, opt for the 2 park pass which is slightly more.
✈️ No hotel required — fly in early, park hop, and fly out in the evening
🚄 Fast transfer — the TGV from Charles de Gaulle gets you to Disneyland Paris quickly
🎅 Festive magic everywhere — meet Santa, watch the Christmas parades, see snow on Main Street, join in the tree lighting ceremony
💡 Maximise time — with good planning (and our Extreme Day Trip tips), you can pack in dozens of attractions, shows, snacks, and festive moments
Tromsø on a Budget: Our Top Deals for 2025/26
Tromsø, Norway is the perfect destination for a magical winter break, and even more so now with the start of budget flights from Bristol, Manchester, London Gatwick and Luton Luton. Tromsø just became a whole lot more affordable!
Tromsø is a great alternative to winter destinations such as Lapland, which have soared in price recently!
Tromsø, Norway on a Budget!
We’ve searched the internet and put together some incredible DIY flight and hotel deals from the UK, allowing you to book and visit this bucket list destination on a budget.
Where is Tromsø?
Tromsø is located above the Arctic Circle in Norway, making it the perfect winter destination with a high chance of seeing the northern lights.
Flight time from UK to Tromsø is around 3hrs 30 mins and it is 1hr ahead of GMT.
Time of Year to Visit Tromsø
Tromsø is a fantastic place to visit any time of the year if you love beautiful scenery and don’t mind cooler weather. From October to April, Tromsø turns into a winter wonderland.
If you visit between late November and mid-January, you can experience the polar night—a unique time when the sun doesn’t rise at all!
Flight & Hotel Deals for Tromsø
Here at Build a Break our aim is to help you plan a trip on a budget, this usually means booking different elements of your holiday separately rather than a traditional package to get the best price.
To make life easier for you, we’ve trawled though hundreds of flights to put together budget friendly deals from the UK– all at a massive saving to a travel operators package price!!
At the moment direct budget flights to Tromsø are only available from Bristol, Manchester, London Gatwick and London Luton airports.
Our Best Deals from the UK to Tromsø
PLEASE NOTE: You'll get a significant saving on the hotel prices below if you sign up for a free members account with Expedia. Making these deals even cheaper.
❗️ Please remember: We’re a travel platform sharing great finds, not a travel agent. We do not take requests for alternative dates/airports or provide personal travel quotes 😀
⚠️ All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
Ljubljana & Lake Bled Mini Breaks — 3 & 4 Nights from £168pp
✈️ Ljubljana & Lake Bled Mini Breaks — 3 & 4 Nights from £168pp
Escape to Slovenia’s fairytale capital Ljubljana, with a must-do day trip to the iconic Lake Bled 💙🏔️
How to get to Lake Bled:
From Ljubljana city centre, take a direct bus from Ljubljana Bus Station (approx. 1 hour), or take a train to Lesce-Bled then a short bus/taxi to the lake.
Ljubljana Airport ➜ City Centre:
Airport shuttle (approx. 30 mins), public bus, or taxi for the quickest option.
🛑 Disclaimer:
Build a Break is not a travel agent and does not provide quotes or personal travel advice.
All prices are correct at the time of posting and are subject to change.
Please check all details carefully before booking as availability and prices may vary.
Sirmione, Lake Garda 3 Night Mini Breaks from Just £292pp
3-Night Stays in Sirmione, Lake Garda – May 2026
Sirmione is one of Lake Garda’s most beautiful towns, famous for its medieval castle, thermal springs, and charming cobbled streets lined with boutique shops, cafés, and gelaterias.
Enjoy breakfast the hotel courtyard (weather permitting), taking in stunning lake views from a rooftop pool and bar, and wandering the historic streets at your leisure.
We’ve personally stayed here in May, and it’s a truly fantastic location!
By car: Drive from Verona Airport – around 35 minutes 🚗
By train: Take the train from Verona Porta Nuova to Desenzano del Garda, then a 10-minute taxi ride 🚉🚖
Day trip to Venice: Easy train from Desenzano del Garda for a scenic day out 🌊
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice. Prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change.
Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
This post may contain affiliate links – we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Whether you want to soak up the sun by the lake, explore the medieval streets, or take a day trip to Venice, Sirmione is the perfect base for a May getaway. 🌞
Marrakech January Winter Sun Mini Breaks ✨ from £140pp
Swap cold January days for souks, spices, and sunshine 🌞 with an escape to magical Marrakech.
With departures from 10 UK & Ireland airports, you can enjoy 3 night breaks at fantastic prices — all our price finds include return flights, a stay in a highly rated traditional riad, and breakfast.
All departure airports, £200 or less per person for dates in January 2026. Find the dates with links to book this trip for yourself below.
Trip Highlights:
🛏 Double or twin room
🌿 Full-service spa
🏊 Outdoor pool
🍳 Buffet breakfast
🚐 24-hour airport shuttle
🍴 On-site restaurant
📶 Free Wi-Fi
Getting from The Airport
Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is just an 8-minute drive to the city centre. Taxis typically cost around £10-15 one way. Airport shuttles are also available.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice. Prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change.
Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
This post may contain affiliate links – we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Europe’s Largest Indoor Waterpark Break – February Half Term 2026: From £187pp!
🌴 Europe’s Largest Indoor Waterpark Break – February Half Term 2026! 💦
Forget Center Parcs! How about swapping the forest for a tropical paradise just outside Berlin? 🏝️
This incredible half-term break takes you to Tropical Islands Resort, home to Europe’s largest indoor rainforest and waterpark, all set inside a converted aircraft hangar!
Think sandy beaches, lazy rivers, spa zones, and even lodges nestled beneath palm trees, all just a short flight away.
💰 Prices From Just £187pp – Including Flights + Woodland Home! (Based on 4 sharing)
That’s from just £748 total for a family of four, including flights, 3 nights in a Woodland Home, and unlimited entry to the resort’s epic waterparks.
👉 Lodges for families of six are also available and work out only slightly more expensive per person.
🌳 What’s Included
✅ Return flights
✅ 3 nights in a Woodland Home
✅ Unlimited waterpark entry
✅ Access to tropical beach, slides & rainforest
✅ WiFi included
❗️ Please remember: We’re a travel platform sharing great finds, not a travel agent. We do not take requests for alternative dates/airports or provide personal travel quotes 😀
⚠️ All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier. We may receive an affiliate commission if you choose to book.
Getting There
Getting from Berlin Brandenburg (BER) to the resort is easy!
Take a regional train towards Brand Tropical Island (around 50–55 minutes)
Hop on the free Tropical Islands shuttle bus from Brand station directly to the resort reception (coordinated with train times).
Prefer door-to-door? 🚕 Taxis and private transfers from BER take around 30 minutes (not included in price).
❤️ Why Families Love It
💦 Europe’s largest indoor waterpark – complete with beach, slides & lazy river
💆♀️ Huge sauna & spa zones for adults
🕛 Late opening hours = more splash time
🌴 Amazing year-round tropical temperatures
Our Latest Price Finds
📍 London Stansted from £187pp
3 nights – Tues 17th to Fri 20th Feb 2026 ✈️ Flights: £44pp 🌴 Woodland Home (4 people): £572 per lodge 🌴 Woodland Home (6 people): £888 per lodge
Lake Garda August School Holiday 7 Night Breaks from £1598 Per Family
August School Holiday Deals to Lake Garda – 7 Nights
Looking for an affordable family break to Lake Garda in the August school holidays?
These deals include return flights and a 7-night stay at Campeggio Del Garda, a brilliantly located site in Peschiera del Garda right on the beach.
Getting Around
This break is perfect without a car.
Campeggio Del Garda is just a 14-minute walk from Peschiera del Garda train station, giving you direct connections to Verona, Bologna, Milan, Venice and more.
Peschiera Del Garda is one of our favourite places. From here we've visited Milan, Venice, Verona and even included a trip to Turin. You can read about our trips to this region here
✈️ Transfer times are easy:
20 minutes from Verona Airport
7 minutes to Gardaland (free shuttle from Peschiera station)
20 minutes to Sirmione
For our guide on going Car-Free at Eurocamp click here
Gardaland
Peppa Pig Land at Gardaland
Legoland Water Park inside Gardaland
If you're new here, Build a Break does not sell holidays or provide quotes and is not a travel agent. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel.
Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content!
Rome Travel Deals - Camp Stay & City Days from £622 PER FAMILY!
Looking for cheap family holidays to Italy or a budget-friendly Eurocamp-style break near Rome this summer?
☀️Camping Village Fabulous is the perfect family base - and we’ve personally stayed here twice, so we can confirm it’s every bit as fun as it looks! (Don’t forget to check our guide and full review here!)
Set between Rome and the coast, this site has everything families love:
💦 Pools & splash zones 🎤 Nightly entertainment 🍕 Restaurant, takeaway & supermarket ⚽ Sports activities & playgrounds galore
Our Stay at Camping Village Fabulous
Easy to get in to Rome
Camp Life
Getting into Rome city centre couldn’t be easier - the local bus picks up at the end of the road and connects to the metro, where it’s just €1.50 for a combined bus + train ticket straight to the Colosseum (and under 10s travel free!). 🏛️
These cheap Rome family holidays include flights and accommodation for a family of 4 from just £622 this June!👇
If you're new here, Build a Break does not sell holidays or provide quotes and is not a travel agent. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel.
Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content!
Click To Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
🌙 4 Night Stays in Rome
All prices based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing (up to 16 years). There is also accommodation which sleep 6 available for larger families.
Camping Village Fabulous is the ideal family base near Rome — combining poolside fun with easy access to the city. Spend your mornings exploring the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, then unwind by the pool with pizza, Aperol, and evening entertainment. 🍕🍹
✅Cheap Eurocamp-style breaks ✅Rome on a budget ✅Italy travel deals this summer
Lapland on a Budget: Our Ultimate Top 10 Tips!
Dreaming of visiting Lapland but worried about the cost?
You’re not alone! Seeing Santa, chasing the Northern Lights, and exploring snowy forests sounds magical - until you see the price tag!
But here’s the good news: you can visit Lapland on a budget.
We did our own 4-night family trip for £1,996 total (£498 per person). That included flights, accommodation, food, winter gear, and all our activities! You can read about the full trip here.
How to Plan a Trip to Lapland (Step-by-Step on a Budget)
Planning a trip to Lapland doesn’t need to be overwhelming or expensive. Whether you’re putting together a DIY Lapland holiday or trying to keep costs down for a family trip, the key is knowing where to stay, how long to go for, and what to book in advance.
Start by choosing your base: Levi and Rovaniemi are the two most popular resorts. Levi is perfect if you want a cosy village, skiing, and a wider choice of affordable accommodation. Rovaniemi is best for Santa experiences, city convenience, and shorter breaks. Both work brilliantly for families and budget trips.
How Many Nights?
The sweet spot is 3–4 nights. It gives you enough time for the big activities without paying for extra days you don’t need. If you’re looking for the cheapest Lapland holiday possible, mid-week dates can be significantly cheaper than weekends.
Why Book in Advance?
Santa visits, husky rides, and snowmobile safaris can sell out fast in December. Booking early usually saves money compared to buying activities through tour operators. Flights to Kittilä and Rovaniemi also vary hugely in price depending on season , the earlier you book, the better the savings.
Day 3: Free day for skiing, Santa visit, or snow adventures
Day 4: Final morning activities and fly home
For more detailed tips, check out our guides to Levi, Rovaniemi, and our full Lapland budget breakdown. These will help you plan the best Lapland trip for 2025/2026 without overspending.
How much does a Lapland trip usually cost?
Package holidays to Lapland are known for being pricey.
We were originally quoted £5,200 for 1 adult and 3 children for just 2 nights! Even a 1-day Lapland trip was over £2,600.
That’s why we decided to plan it ourselves. With some clever research and DIY planning, we cut the cost by more than half.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
1. Plan your own DIY Lapland trip
Book everything yourself - flights, accommodation, and activities. This gives you complete control over your budget and your itinerary.
Start by comparing flights to Kittilä, Rovaniemi, and Ivalo, then find a hotel or apartment close to the activities you want. You could even fly in to Helsinki and take the overnight santa train to Rovaniemi.
Booking direct with local activity providers often works out far cheaper too.
You’ll save hundreds, and you’ll get to build your own perfect Lapland adventure.
2. What activities are worth the money in Lapland?
Lapland has so many incredible experiences - husky rides, reindeer sleighs, snowmobiling, and more.
But to keep things budget-friendly, choose shorter versions of these activities.
A 10-minute husky or reindeer ride still gives you the full experience (and the best photos!) without the high cost or freezing fingers.
3. What are the best free things to do in Lapland?
Not everything in Lapland costs money.
Playing in the snow, exploring your resort, or watching the Northern Lights are all free. We have a guide on how to find the northern lights for free here.
In Rovaniemi especially, you can fill your trip with fun for under £100. My kids honestly loved the snow more than anything else! To see our guide on low cost activities in Rovaniemi click here
4. Take your own hot chocolate and a flask
Hot drinks in Lapland cafés can be expensive and not always available when you’re out in the forest, so take your own.
We packed hot chocolate sachets and a flask, which saved us a fortune (and a few meltdowns when the kids got cold).
For a little extra magic, a splash of Baileys from duty-free goes down nicely under the Northern Lights.
5. Where to stay in Lapland on a budget
Self-catering apartments are ideal for saving money.
You can cook your own meals, store snacks, and shop locally.
We spent around £70 per person on food for a 5-day trip - including two takeaways.
Prices in Lapland supermarkets were slightly higher than the UK, but not by much.
6. When is the cheapest time to visit Lapland?
Prices drop after Christmas.
Travel between January and March for cheaper flights and accommodation, fewer crowds, and deeper snow.
You’ll also get longer daylight hours - perfect for fitting more activities in.
7. What to wear in Lapland on a budget
You don’t need to spend hundreds on new ski gear.
We bought all our layers second-hand from Vinted, spending around £20 per person.
Once you’re home, resell them to make some of your money back.
If there are four or more of you, check prices on the Meneva Taksi app - sometimes a taxi works out even cheaper.
9. How to pack light for Lapland
You don’t need much.
Your outdoor gear will be your main outfit, and indoors it’s all about comfy clothes and pyjamas.
We travelled with just one backpack each and still had things we didn’t wear.
Choose accommodation with a washer and dryer if you can it’ll save space and stress. Accommodation with a drying cupboard is also a mega plus, as you can dry layers quickly in between activities.
10. Check out our Handpicked Travel Deals
If we spot any great trip prices we always share them with our followers. You can find our latest Lapland price finds here.
You can do Lapland for less!
Lapland doesn’t have to break the bank.
With the right planning, a few smart choices, and a bit of flexibility, you can create your own magical winter trip for a fraction of the cost.
Bundle up, plan smart, and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure without the huge price tag.
Sarah x
Levi, Lapland, December Deals From the UK - From Just £178pp!
If you’ve been dreaming of a magical Lapland Break this Christmas, now’s your chance. ✨
We’ve found three incredible Levi deals this December with prices from JUST £178 PER PERSON! - all perfectly timed to enjoy the festive season without the high prices. Whether you’re planning a quick snowy escape or a longer stay, there’s an option for everyone. Our DIY price finds give you the opportunity to plan your own itinerary and save £££'s!
🏔 Why Choose Levi?
Levi is a true winter wonderland - one of Finland’s most magical Lapland resorts. Stay right in the heart of town. The accommodation we’ve selected is just a 1-minute walk to the slopes.
The 2 night stays are at Unna Mannu Suites- an accommodation we've personally stayed at, and highly recommend! The 4 night break from London, is with their sister hotel. Both great places to stay, right in the heart of the action, requiring no car.
You’ll be surrounded by cosy restaurants, cafés, and shops - and for picky eaters, there’s even a Subway, Burger King and pizza takeaways nearby! 🍔
It’s also only 17 minutes from Kittilä Airport, making Levi one of the easiest Lapland destinations to reach.
There’s lots to do in Levi including all the usual activities you'd expect in Lapland, plus swimming, saunas and a bowling alley.
🧣 Planning Your Trip
We’ve covered everything you need to know about Levi in our blog. We saved £4000 by DIY' ing our own break to Lapland. We've packed it with tips, what to do, getting around, plus much more. Get it below.
Because magical memories don’t have to come with a magical price tag! 🎅🏼❄️
Levi Slopes
Levi Christmas Markets at Night
Levi, Lapland Deals
Disclaimer: Build a Break does not sell holidays or provide quotes and is not a travel agent. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel. Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content!
📍from Manchester – 2nd to 4th December from £181pp
🏨 🏨 Accommodation – £332 for up to 2 people, £461 for up to 6 people→ View here
💰Total prices from London Gatwick
Solo trip price with flights £455
Family of 2 price with flights £578 (£289pp)
Family of 3 price with flights £830 (£277pp)
Family of 4 price with flights £949 (£238pp)
Family of 5 price with flights £1071 (£268pp)
Family of 6 price with flights £1193 (£199pp)
Extreme Day Trips to Disneyland Paris – The Perfect Christmas Gift
🎁 Give the Gift of Travel – February Disneyland Paris Extreme Day Trip
Treat your loved ones to something magical this Christmas – a Disneyland Paris adventure in February! Prices start at just £105 for adults and £102 for children (that's flights and Disneyland Paris tickets!)
Imagine stepping off the plane in the morning, hopping on the TGV straight from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and within minutes you’re walking down Main Street U.S.A., enjoying the winter atmosphere and crisp February air.
From character meet‑and‑greets to parades and seasonal shows, the park feels extra special in winter. Even a one-day trip is packed with unforgettable moments.
Fly in, hit the highlights, then fly home – with the right planning, you can see more than you’d expect. That’s what makes these Extreme Day Trips so rewarding.
For a full guide to making the most of a single day at Disneyland Paris, see our trip: Click here to read
To get from Charles de Gaulle to the parks quickly, you can catch the TGV — fast and efficient. Step-by-step details here:Click here to read
💡 Pro Tip: Save an extra 5% on your park tickets by using the Get Your Guide app.
Disneyland Paris Tickets (Adults £60.91 / Children £56.49) – click here
Use BUILDABREAK5 for 5% off
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice.
All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
Lapland for Less! January Rovaniemi DIY Deals from £207pp
Lapland Deals to Rovaniemi from the UK
We have found a selection of low priced Lapland deals from the UK for January 2026- prices starting at just £828 for a family of 4 (£207pp) for flights, hotel in Rovaniemi and breakfast each morning.
Contrary to popular belief, Lapland doesn't need to break the bank! With the introduction of low cost flights to the region, and plentiful accommodation, It's very easy to plan your own budget trip to Lapland.
The cheapest way to visit Lapland is to build your own trip, purchasing flights, booking a hotel and then adding activities separately.
After Christmas, Lapland has deeper snow and longer days, so January to March is the perfect time to visit!
Don't forget to pop over and read our Lapland blogs and guides to get the best out of your trip - find these here
About Rovaniemi
Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is a vibrant city offering a range of attractions, including Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa 365 days a year, cross the Arctic Circle, and visit the Santa Claus Post Office along with lots more activities.
It is literally Christmas EVERY DAY of the year in Lapland!
Activities can be reasonably priced and there's lots of free things to do in Santa Claus Village and the surrounding area too.
Of course December is the most popular time to visit Lapland, but this is also the most expensive. At the moment flights are very expensive and availability for accommodation very low.
As mentioned earlier, it's Christmas every day of the year in Rovaniemi so you'll not be missing anything.
After Christmas is often thought to be the best time to visit Rovaniemi, with more daylight hours and guaranteed snow!
Getting to Lapland
A taxi from Rovaniemi airport to the city centre, or city centre to Santa Claus Village will set you back around €25- often cheaper than the bus when shared between a party of 4. Download the Meneva Taski App- Finland's Uber equivalent. There is no need to book a private transfer, taxi's are reliable and arrive within a few minutes. Transfer time from the airport is under 10 minutes!
Lapland Price Finds
All prices are based on 2 adults and 2 children (age 3-11 years sharing).
Disclaimer: Build a Break does not sell holidays or provide quotes and is not a travel agent. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel. Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content!
Treat yourself to 2 nights in an exceptional 5★ spa hotel in the heart of Budapest. Each package pairs a luxury hotel stay with a day visit to the highly rated Mandala Day Spa — the perfect winter pamper.
About Mandala Day Spa
Mandala Day Spa is a peaceful, candlelit wellness sanctuary offering thermal pools, aromatherapy rooms, Himalayan salt areas, experience showers and relaxation lounges. It’s an ideal extra treat to complement your hotel spa experience.
Please remember: We’re a travel platform sharing great finds, not a travel agent. We do not take requests for alternative dates/airports or provide personal travel quotes 😀
⚠️ All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier. This post may contain affiliate links.
What’s included
Our price finds include:
2 nights in a highly rated 5★ Budapest spa hotel (central, steps from Parliament)
Access to the hotel’s onsite spa and rooftop terrace
Day entrance to Mandala Day Spa (extra spa away from the hotel) — £40pp
Return flights from your chosen departure airport.
Prices shown are per person and based on availability at time of writing. Always check the supplier pages for the latest availability and T&Cs. Build a Break does not provide quotes or book on your behalf — we curate deals for independent travellers.
Luxembourg Chateau Cave Spa Stays from just £190pp
✨ Luxembourg Winter Breaks from £190pp! ✨
Luxembourg is surprisingly tricky (and pricey!) to reach — you can only fly direct from London Stansted or Manchester, and Manchester prices are usually £200+pp. Stansted however, has flights under £50pp, making it the perfect base for a luxury winter escape. Hence, why we have only included London Stansted departures.
We’ve found brilliant-value stays at the stunning Château d’Urspelt, a beautifully restored 18th-century castle complete with a cave spa, steam room and sauna - ideal for a cosy festive break.
❗️ Please remember: We’re a travel platform sharing great finds, not a travel agent. We do not take requests for alternative dates/airports or provide personal travel quotes 😀
⚠️ All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier. This post may contain affiliate links.
🎄 3-Night December Escape
📅 Dates: 8–11 December (3 nights)
✈️ Return flights from London Stansted: £46pp click here
🏨 Château d’Urspelt – Double Room: £483 total (£241.50pp) - click here
Deep-tissue massages and wellness treatments such as body scrubs
Steam room & sauna
🚗 Getting Around
Given its countryside location, car hire is recommendedfor exploring Luxembourg comfortably.
Cheap Breaks to Lake Garda – June Deals at Hu Altomincio Village from £732 Per Family!
Where is Hu Altomincio Village
Looking for a budget-friendly June getaway to Italy’s beautiful Lake Garda? Hu Altomincio Village is a 4-star camping village set in the peaceful countryside just south of the lake, perfectly placed between Peschiera del Garda and Sirmione. It’s a great option for both couples and families - especially if you want to enjoy Lake Garda without kids’ price tags.
This family-friendly resort has pools, slides, restaurants, a mini-market, sports areas, kids’ entertainment, and plenty of space to relax. Our price finds includes flights and a 7 night stay in a modern Superior 2-bed bungalow, ideal for up to 4 people.
✈️ June 2025 Lake Garda Deals – Hu Altomincio Village
Hu Altomincio Village requires a 7-night stay, so we’ve searched for the best-value flights for those dates. Flight prices are per person and accommodation is per family. We've priced up using 2 adults and 2 children as an example but you can adjust your party size - they also have 3 bedroom accommodation available.
Fly into Verona Airport (VRN) – the closest airport to Lake Garda. From here you have a few options to reach the campsite:
By Car Hire: Around a 30-minute drive (27 km) from Verona Airport. Hiring a car gives you the flexibility to explore the lake and surrounding towns at your own pace. 🔗 Click here to find car hire deals
By Private Transfer: Ideal if you prefer a hassle-free start to your trip. Private transfers from Verona Airport to Hu Altomincio Village cost around €70–€90 each way for up to 4 people and take roughly 30 minutes.
By Public Transport: Take a shuttle or taxi to Verona Porta Nuova train station, then catch a train to Peschiera del Garda (15–20 minutes). From there, it’s a short taxi or local bus to the campsite.
Hu Altomincio Village has everything you need for a relaxing family holiday:
🏊 Pools & Slides: Large pool areas with kids’ zones and fun water slides.
🍕 Restaurants & Bars: Pizza, gelato, and Italian wine – all within the village.
🛝 Kids’ Clubs & Entertainment: Activities, mini discos, and family-friendly shows.
🛍️ Shops & Facilities: Mini-market, laundry, and takeaway options.
Nearby attractions include:
🎢 Gardaland Theme Park – just a 14-minute drive away!
🏖️ Peschiera del Garda – a lakeside gem with a pretty harbour and promenade.
🏰 Sirmione – famous for its castle, hot springs, and lakeside views.
You can also take easy day trips by train from Peschiera del Garda to Milan, Venice, Bologna, Verona, and more.
SirmionePeschiera Del Garda
🏕️ Why Stay at Hu Altomincio Village?
If you’re wondering where to stay in Lake Garda that balances comfort, location, and value – Hu Altomincio Village is a top choice. It’s one of the most popular campsites in Lake Garda, offering all the fun of a Eurocamp-style holiday in Italy but often at lower prices.
Thinking about staying closer to Peschiera del Garda? Check out our guide toCamping Butterfly – another great lakeside option.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice.
All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
This post may contain affiliate links – we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in Ruka & Kuusamo: The Ultimate Guide
Ruka and Kuusamo in Lapland are winter wonderlands, full of snowy landscapes, thrilling adventures, and Arctic charm.
Just 25 km apart, they are easy to explore together. Whether you’re looking for husky rides, Santa experiences, skiing, or Northern Lights tours, there’s something for everyone.
If you're creating your own trip to Ruka or Kuusamo, and are looking for things to fill you Lapland itineary, this guide is for you.
Just a friendly heads-up, this may contain affiliate links which doesn't effect the price you pay, but helps us maintain this site and bring you great deals.
Join us as we run through everything there is to do in Ruka and Kuusamo.
Skiing & Snowboarding in Ruka
Ruka Ski Resort
Ruka Ski Resort offers 39 slopes and 22 lifts. The ski season in Ruka lasts from October until May and is the most popular ski resort in Finland
You can find all the details of slope opening times, lift passes and ski lessons on their website.
Snowshoeing in Riisitunturi National Park from Ruka
This hike will take you the the snowshoeing experience in stunning fell landscapes of Riisitunturi National park.
The tour includes all equipment, clothing and snacks. From £13pp. Get more info here
Cross-Country Skiing in Ruka
Learn Finland’s national pastime with skis, poles, and guide instruction.
Suitable for all levels, you will will all equipment and transfers provided with this activity.
Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves! Start with tobogganing and enjoy grilled sausages and hot juice. Kids become Santa’s little helpers with gingerbread baking, sweet bun making, and Christmas card crafts. End the day with a Finnish Christmas carol and a small gift for each child.
Experience the traditional Finnish sauna at Iisakki’s lakeside sauna in the Iisakki Village. Iisakki's sauna is one of the first saunas awarded with the Authentic Finnish Sauna Experience.
Experience the unique practice of reindeer yoga, which combines the benefits of northern nature, the calming presence of reindeer, and yoga techniques to balance your body and mind.
Walk along a circular path of about 5km, seeing the unique frozen waterfalls of Lapland.
This tour includes transport and guide, find more info here
Krakow & Zakopane January Weekend Breaks from £324pp
❄️ Krakow Winter Mini Breaks from 13 UK Airports – January 2026 🇵🇱
Looking for a magical winter escape in early 2026? Krakow is the perfect choice — rich in culture, history, and charm, with cosy cafés, snow-dusted streets, and stunning architecture at every turn.
This January, you can enjoy 3- or 4-night mini breaks to Krakow from 13 UK airports, all staying at the New Port Hotel —
An exceptionally rated floating hotel located just 17 minutes from Krakow Airport.
Prices are based on the cheapest room available for the dates shown, with flights and accommodation booked separately using the links below.
To make these winter breaks even more special, we’ve included an option to add on an incredible full-day tour to Zakopane — Poland’s winter wonderland in the Tatra Mountains! 🏔️
🏔️ Why add the Zakopane & Thermal Baths Tour?
Zakopane is a beautiful mountain resort town known for its wooden chalets, folklore, and breathtaking scenery. This highly rated tour includes:
🚐 Hotel pickup/drop-off or meeting point option
🗣️ English-speaking local guide
🚠 Gubałówka cable car (up & down)
🧀 Sampling of smoked highlander cheese + local vodkas
🏘️ Visit to the traditional Chocholow wooden village
🚶♀️ 2.5-hour guided walk through Zakopane’s historic main street – Krupówki
💦 2.5-hour skip-the-line entry to Terma Bania Thermal Baths & Hot Springs
📖 Multilingual guidebook
It’s the ultimate day trip — combining mountain adventure, local culture, and pure relaxation in natural hot springs.
✈️ January 2026 Krakow Weekend Deals
Below are sample dates and prices from 13 UK airports. To get the lowest hotel prices, you may need to sign up for a free members account with Expedia.
Krakow in winter is nothing short of magical — wander its medieval streets dusted in snow, explore cosy coffee shops, and warm up with hearty Polish food. Plus, January is one of the best-value months to travel, with fewer crowds and lower hotel and flight prices.
👉 Ready to plan your Krakow getaway?
Click the links above to check live prices and availability for your chosen airport, and don’t forget to add the Zakopane & Thermal Baths Tour for the ultimate winter experience.
❗️ Please remember: We’re a travel platform sharing great finds, not a travel agent. We do not take requests for alternative dates/airports or provide personal travel quotes 😀
⚠️ All prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
Montreux Christmas Markets 4* Stays from £287pp
🎄 Montreux Christmas Market Deals
Fly into Geneva and take the scenic direct train to Montreux from the airport (about 1 hour).
The journey runs along the edge of Lake Geneva with panoramic mountain views — one of the prettiest rail routes in Europe.
The Montreux Christmas Market is one of the most magical in Switzerland. Wander the lakeside stalls, enjoy festive treats, and don’t miss the moment Santa flies across the night sky above the water — a true highlight each evening!
These deals include stays at Mona Montreux, a stylish 4* lakeside hotel just a short stroll from the markets.
💡 Top tip: To unlock the lowest prices on accommodation, make a free Expedia account - member rates reduce these stays. The prices displayed are Expedia Member prices
Switzerland isn’t known for being cheap, but these last-minute prices are genuinely fantastic.
If a hotel stay is out of budget, don't forget to check out our Extreme Day Trips to Montreux Christmas markets here
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice. Prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change.
Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
This post may contain affiliate links – we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
2 Nights 4* Lake Side Hotel Stay: £585 per couple — Click here
10 Bucket List Hotels in Lapland You Won’t Believe Exist
Dreaming of sleeping beneath the Northern Lights, snuggled in a cosy cabin or even an ice-carved hotel? ❄️
Lapland is full of bucket list hotels that turn Arctic adventures into unforgettable memories. From glass igloos to Arctic treehouses and snow hotels, these unique stays belong on every winter traveller’s radar.
Whether it’s your first trip to Finnish Lapland or you’re a seasoned aurora-chaser, these 10 incredible hotels will inspire your next Arctic escape.
Just a friendly heads-up, this may contain affiliate links which doesn't effect the price you pay, but helps us maintain this site and bring you great deals.
1. Arctic SnowHotel- Rovaniemi
The Arctic SnowHotel is one of Lapland’s most iconic stays. Built entirely of snow and ice each winter, every room features stunning ice sculptures and illuminated artwork. Despite temperatures of 0–5°C inside, thermal sleeping bags ensure you stay warm while experiencing a true Arctic adventure.
Guests can enjoy the ice bar, snow sauna, and the Aurora Alarm, which alerts you when the Northern Lights appear. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unique Lapland experience.
✨Bucket list moment: Sleep on ice while watching the stars.
Kakslauttanen is famous worldwide for its glass igloos, offering a 360° view of the aurora from the comfort of your bed. Each igloo is cosy and private, with larger log chalets also available for families or groups.
The resort is perfect for husky safaris, reindeer rides, and snowmobile adventures, making it a classic bucket list hotel in Lapland.
✨Bucket list moment: Watch the Northern Lights dance from your igloo ceiling.
Perched above the forest, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel combines Scandinavian design with breathtaking views.
Each suite is styled like a luxurious nest, featuring panoramic windows for spotting the aurora and cosy fireplaces for relaxing after a day of Arctic adventures.
✨Bucket list moment: Wake up surrounded by snow-covered treetops.
Apukka Resort blends adventure with comfort. Guests can choose glass-roofed cabins, Aurora Wagons, or ice suites and enjoy activities such as snowshoeing, reindeer rides, and ice saunas.
Its location away from light pollution ensures the best Northern Lights viewing in Rovaniemi.
✨Bucket list moment: Chase the aurora from a movable Aurora Wagon.
This secluded retreat near Levi offers Sky View Cabins with outdoor hot tubs, perfect for couples or anyone wanting a private aurora experience. The ranch combines luxury and wilderness, with an on-site restaurant and stunning views of Lapland’s forests and frozen lakes.
✨Bucket list moment: Soak in a hot tub under the Northern Lights.
Located minutes from the Sámi village of Inari, Wilderness Hotel combines authentic culture with comfort. Choose log cabins, glass-roofed Aurora Cabins, or wilderness chalets overlooking Lake Inari. Guests can immerse themselves in Sámi heritage or relax in private saunas after a day of exploring.
✨Bucket list moment: Experience Sámi culture while watching the aurora over Lake Inari.
At Northern Lights Village, Aurora Cabins feature laser-heated glass roofs for uninterrupted views of the night sky. Snow adventures like husky tours and snowmobile rides are right on your doorstep, combining a full Arctic resort experience with once-in-a-lifetime views.
✨Bucket list moment: Watch the aurora from a laser-heated glass cabin.
New for winter 2025, Snowman World Glass Resort offers panoramic views with outdoor hot tubs. Located just a 5 minute walk from Santa Claus Village, you'll be in the heart of the action in no time.
From glass igloos and ice hotels to treetop lodges and lakeside cabins, these are the bucket list hotels in Lapland that make every Arctic trip unforgettable.
Before you go, explore our guides to plan your adventure:
Things to Do in Levi, Lapland: A Complete Guide for 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Levi, Lapland: Activities, Hotels, and Experiences
Levi, Lapland is Finland’s largest ski and recreational resort, and it’s bursting with magical experiences. W whether you’re visiting in the snowy depths of winter or the long, sunlit days of summer.
From family-friendly Christmas adventures to adrenaline-packed snow sports, Levi has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll cover all the top things to do in Levi, Lapland, including winter activities, the best hotels and igloos, how to see the Northern Lights, and insider tips for getting the most out of your trip.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic break, or an adventure-packed break, this Levi travel guide has you covered.
Just a friendly heads-up, this may contain affiliate links which doesn't effect the price you pay, but helps us maintain this site and bring you great deals.
Why Levi, Lapland is the Perfect Destination
Located 170 km north of the Arctic Circle, Levi is easily accessible from Rovaniemi and other parts of Lapland. The nearest airport is Kittila, which is just 15 mins from the resort centre.
It’s well-known as a Christmas destination for families, but it also offers incredible skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, and cultural experiences throughout the year.
Visitors love Levi because it combines:
Stunning winter landscapes and snow-covered forest
Family-friendly attractions like
Luxury and budget accommodation options, including glass igloos and ski lodges
Opportunities to see the Northern Lights
Whether you’re after a snowy adventure, a relaxing hot tub under the aurora, or a family Christmas experience, Levi delivers.
Stay in a Glass Igloo or Luxury Lodge
Levi is famous for its unique glass igloos, offering the ultimate Arctic experience. Imagine lying in bed, sipping hot chocolate, and watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky.
Even if a full stay isn’t in the budget, many of these locations have restaurants where you can enjoy Finnish cuisine and soak in the atmosphere.
Top igloo and lodge options in Levi
Aurora Pyramid Glass Igloos
Levin Iglut – Golden Crown – Family-owned, 53 m² igloos with kitchenette, en-suite, private terrace, and hot tub. Breakfast and welcome champagne included.
Olo Resort Suite – 7 km from Levi, with outdoor baths and incredible igloos.
Aurora Pyramid Glass Igloos Pyramid-style accommodation with garden views, continental breakfast, and on-site restaurant.
Northern Lights Ranch Ideal for aurora lovers, featuring hot tubs, sky views, and reindeer roaming the grounds.
Budget-Friendly Accomodation
If luxury igloos aren’t in your budget, Levi had many managed apartments, and great hotel rooms. These options are more budget-friendly, but still offer a good standard.
Levi Suites Unna MannuThis is one we've personally stayed at and would highly recommend.
Levi Spa Hotel which has an onsite pool and soft play for small children.
Where Can you Meet Santa in Levi?
Arcandia Elf Court
For families, the Elves Hideaway is a magical experience all year round. Kids can explore tiny elf houses, attend a fun “Elfish” lesson, and make gingerbread in the workshop.
This is a great stop for anyone visiting Levi on a budget, as the experience is affordable and fully immersive.
We met Santa at Arcandia Elf Courtwhich was incredible. Arcandia is based in an abandoned movie set, which makes the most amazing backdrop. Included in your visit to the Elf Court, are activities with the elves such as archery, hill sliding and knockerballs. To read about our visit click here.
Searching for Santa at Northern Lights Village is another option. This is very popular and sells out very quickly. Hotel guests also have priority booking, so DIY travellers are not always in luck with securing a spot for this Santa activity.
Alternatively, you hire a car and make the trip toSanta Claus Village in Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa for free.
Skiing in Levi
To the delight of skiing fans, Levi has a total of 230 km maintained ski tracks, including sections with skiing on ice as well as on the pistes of the fells. The 28 km long illuminated trails offer a chance to ski from early morning to late at night - even during polar nights!
Levi is a premier ski resort suitable for all skill levels. There are well-groomed slopes for beginners, challenging runs for advanced skiers, and plenty of space even during busy weeks.
Experience the artic winter wonderland by stepping off the path and blazing your own trail with this snowshoeing tour in Levi
Snowshoeing is a fun way to explore Levi’s snowy trails. Snowshoes attach to your boots and allow you to glide over deep snow instead of sinking in. Excursions range from beginner-friendly flat trails to challenging steep slopes.
Suitable for ages 12+ Snack, hot drinks and equipment included.
A trip to Levi wouldn’t be complete without meeting Finland’s iconic animals.
Self Drive Husky Tour
Discover the Lappish countryside on a 7KM self-driven husky sledding adventure in Levi. Learn how to drive a sled and mush your very own team of huskies.
Be greeted by the friendly and excited barks of the dogs as you arrive and spend some time getting to know the huskies and learning about their lifestyle.
Receive a basic introduction to sledding and learn how to control your sled and your team of huskies. Time to release the musher in you.
Make the most of a break at the halfway mark on your sledding tour and take some photos. At this point you can swop over with another adult in your party.
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, Winter clothing, Warm beverages and cookies
Embark on an exhilarating 2km husky ride tour in the breath taking winter wonderland of Lapland.
Experience the thrill of a husky ride through the snowy wilderness of Lapland.
Learn about the care and training of the dogs at a husky park, and enjoy the beauty of the Arctic landscape while being pulled by a team of energetic and friendly huskies.
After a short instruction, the dogs are ready to take you on a journey of approximately 1.5 km through the forest of Lapland.
After the trip, you will be able to photograph the experience and enjoy a hot drink while listening to interesting stories about huskies in a kota.
Travel from Sirkka to the land of a traditional reindeer herder to learn all about these beautiful creatures and their husbandry. Ride on a sled behind a snowmobile and see the reindeer in the wild.
This tour takes you to a local and authentic reindeer farm where the reindeer herder will tell you all about the reindeer and the basics of reindeer husbandry.
Sit in a sled behind the snowmobile and watch a flock of hundreds of reindeer right next to you in their natural habitat.
After the tour guide will prepare an open fire for you and you will have a chance to have warm drinks. The program suits everyone and does not demand physical activity.
Spend a day up close to the beautiful creatures of the snow on a guided trip to a traditional reindeer farm in Levi from Sirkka. Learn about the caretaking of reindeer and enjoy a sleigh ride.
This activity will grant you the chance to become a reindeer herder yourself, even just for a few hours!
Take photos with the animals and experience a sleigh ride!
The perfect snowmobile tour for families with children, or beginners wanting a relaxed tour with time to enjoy the magical snowy landscapes.
Head out to the beautiful snowy nature, taking time to enjoy the views along the way. The youngest members of the family will be wrapped up warmly in the sleigh, pulled behind the guide’s snowmobile.
The adults will have the chance to admire the breath-taking views from the snowmobile.
There will be the chance to play in the snow with your family or have a snowball fight with your guide, and you will also warm up with a delicious cup of hot berry juice and a tasty cookie.
Adults can also enjoy this tour as a sleigh ride if you do not have a driving licence or would just prefer to relax and enjoy the snowy views.
Ages 4+ only due to length of the tour. Warm snowsuits provided.
Suitable for ages 4-13 years, children can ride their very own snowmobile around a large track at Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park.
The mini-snowmobile track provides children with an exciting snowmobiling experience. Prior to getting started, team members will ensure that children are appropriately outfitted and instructed on how to operate the mini-snowmobiles.
The driving time is 10 minutes around the circuit, and after a successful drive, the new snowmobile drivers will be provided with their very own snowmobile driving licenses!
Our children loved this activity. You can read about it in our Levi Trip Blog
Pre-book online or just turn up on the day and purchase at the office.
There are multiple options for the type of northern lights tours you can take, which we will run through below. However, it is possible to see the northern lights in Levi for free. Check out our guide here and find get our best tips!
Northern Lights hunting by Snowmobile
Travel via snowmobile through the dark arctic night in search of places without light pollution during an exciting Northern Lights hunting trip in Levi.
On this tour you'll take an exhilarating 3-hour snowmobile adventure deep into the heart of the Lappish wilderness as you chase the Northern Lights.
This unforgettable experience is tailored for adults seeking thrills, while children can join in the adventure snugly tucked under warm blankets on a sledge.
Included is thermal clothing, hotel drop off and pick up, warm juice and all accessories needed.
Another option is to take a minivan tour to try and find the aurora borealis. Allowing you to stay warm and dry whilst you wait for them to appear.
Relax in the warmth of a comfortable van as your expert guide transports you to prime viewing spots, allowing you to step out into the crisp night air and be captivated by the northern lights when they appear.
The play area at the spa covers about 300 square meters and boasts a bouncy castle, ball pond, climbing apparatus, toys etc. for children to enjoy. Located in Levi Spa Hotel and costs €6 for non guests.
Water World Levi offers something for everyone – it’s like an indoor water park! Water slides for those who enjoy speed, swimming pools for fitness enthusiasts, water creatures for children and their wild adventures, and jacuzzi's for those who just want to relax.
Levi offers ice karting, a thrilling activity for adults and teens alike. Driving on ice is challenging and fun, and you can enjoy a warm Finnish berry drink afterward. This is perfect for adventure seekers visiting Levi in winter.
This exciting Outdoor Laser Tag experience is located in the Action Park of Arcandia. Roll around in snow bunkers and crawl through tunnels, as you hope to win against your opponents. Afterwards, you can also enjoy the amazing Park Side of Arcandia, with its unique non-stop activities/experiences!
Experience the night in Levi with Arctic ice floating. Step into a frozen lake, and float the calm waters in a buoyancy suit. Feel weightless while searching the sky for the mystical Northern Lights.
Immerse yourself in the long-standing Finnish sport of ice fishing on a guided tour in Lapland. Head out in the comfort of a warm car, and learn your guide's fishing secrets.
Ride on Finnish horses through a snowy forest on a 2-hour guided tour. An adventure for all experience levels, which takes you through stunning landscapes Transport from central Levi available.
Step into a world of fantasy and action for everyone! Explore astonishing sets and wonderland atmosphere and enjoy all the unique activities, experiences, services and shows that Arcandia has to offer. For our full guide on Arcandia click here.
Experience the thrill of crossing the Bridge of Destiny and soak up the charm of the Shaman Village and Mini-Snowmobile Park. Get your adrenaline to the roof with Knockerballs and huge Human Snow Ball at the Arctic Colosseum.
Enjoy the thrill of a snowmobile tour through the Lappish landscape to visit one of the most incredible snow villages in the world in Levi, Finland.
Admire the scenery of the Lappish forest from your snowmobile.
Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and take plenty of photo stops along the exhilarating tour.
Finally, arrive at the magnificent Snow Village, which features a unique, two-hectare combination of icy snow suites, ice sculptures, ice restaurants, and an ice bar.
After a busy day of skiing, safaris, and sightseeing, stop at Scenic Café Laavu near Levi Panorama Hotel. Enjoy a hot drink by a traditional Finnish fire while taking in sweeping views of Levi’s snowy landscape.
Even if customer service isn’t perfect, the scenery makes it one of the best spots to pause and reflect on your adventures.
You will find a fun outdoor playground at Kidsland, a special dedicated area in Leevilanda on the South Slopes.
The staff also lends Stiga racers and toboggans to the area's sledding hill for the children to use.
In case you get cold, have a break in the Lappish “kota” teepee in Kids Land. If you like, you can bring sausages to grill over the fire in the atmospheric hut.
Travel hacks: Book excursions online, use local transport for budget savings, and consider package deals for winter activities
Is Arcandia Adventure Park Lapland Worth It? Full Guide & Review
What is Arcandia Arctic Adventure Park?
Arcandia is a real life movie set based in a remote forest in Levi, Finland (Lapland).
The park was built for a movie that was never filmed. It was then bought just before COVID hit by it's current owner.
However, the way they have re-purposed it as an attraction, let me tell you, it is amazing!
Arcandia offers unique fantasy and action themed experiences, dinners, events and shows plus an 'Elf Court'; a magical opportunity to meet the 'main man' himself- Joulupukki (Santa Claus or Father Christmas to you and me)!
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
In this guide we'll go through the programmes we tried at Arcandia, Levi and give you our honest review.
Where is Arcandia Located?
Arcandia is located 9.2km from the centre of Levi (Sirkka) in Finnish Lapland. The journey takes 9 minute by car. If you haven't hired a car, you can book an UBER or use the Meneva Taksi app to arrange a taxi.
So Let's Start with the Elf Court at Arcandia
Have you ever stumbled upon a magical place, that feels like it couldn’t be real? This is precisely what happened to us after we saw a Tik Tok video of Arcandia that went viral. We knew we had to visit!
After exploring everything they had to offer on their website, we decided the Elf Court was on our list of 'must-sees' whilst on our trip to Levi.
This was a new experience they'd launched for winter 2023, so there wasn't any reviews online when we booked. However, we decided to put our faith in Arcandia purely based on how amazing the rest of the park looked.
Types of Ticket for Arcandia Elf Court
Arcandia offers two types of ticketing options for the Elf Court- The Halfling (1.5 hour experience) or The Giant (3 hour experience). Both include the same experiences, with a maximum of 8 families per session. With the full package you get longer to play outside with the elves and enjoy the activities on offer.
We selected to do the 'Halfling' as we felt 1.5 hours was long enough, plus we planned to re-visit the park later that night for the Darkness (more on that later).
We were also trying to do Lapland on a budget and include as many activities as possible, so cost obviously then played a part in our decision too.
How Much is the Elf Court at Arcandia?
At the time of writing (Nov 2025), the prices for the Elf Court at Arcandia for Christmas 2025 are as follows:
Halfling sessions are not available on this years' programme unfortunately.
How to Get to Arcandia
As we weren't hiring a car, we prearranged transfers to and from the park, when purchasing the tickets. However, this is not an option at this current time through Arcandia. You can however book a taxi as mentioned above.
Before our Visit
Before our visit we received an email from Santa, summoning us to the Elf Court, this was a nice touch that we printed out, and used in our reveal for the trip.
Arriving at the Elf Court
The transfer dropped us off at the gates of Arcandia, and on arrival we were met by a jolly elf who gave us all a mood ring to wear which would determine if we were naughty or nice!
For the first 45 minutes of our visit we spent time playing various games, and taking part in activities under the watchful guidance of the elves.
We tried nearly all of the activities listed below, the 'Hill Sliding' is definitely not for the faint hearted but my kids loved it. Their other favourite was the 'Knockerballs' which were like a giant inflatable bubble, that you can run and knock against other people.
Arcandia knockerballs
Spiderman Swings
Sarah The Reindeer!
Activities at Arcandia Elf Court
- Feeding the Reindeer
- Decorating the Christmas tree
- Decorating and tasting gingerbread
- Making Christmas crafts
- Writing in The Elf Court book (Santa's Book)
- Hill Sliding
- Knockerballs over 7 years/length approx. 120-130cm
- Spider Swings
- Target throwing of snowballs under 7 years.
- Snowball Slingshot shooting over 7 years.
- Ring Toss over 3 years.
Meeting Santa at Arcandia
After the fun outside, it was time to warm up and meet Santa. We were taken inside a beautifully decorated wooden hut where we could take part in various indoor craft activities mentioned above.
There was also the opportunity to write Santa a letter in his beautiful book with a quill type pen. Children are encouraged to save their letters and hand them directly to Santa at the Elf Court.
Santa at the Elf Court does not give presents, but you get to take home the mood ring and a certificate from Santa declaring that you are 'nice'.
We spent about 45 minutes in the lodge with Santa and he joined in, helping my girls to decorate their biscuits, and talking to them at length.
We were very fortunate, in that there was only 1 other family at the Elf Court during our visit, so we got Santa's undivided attention.
At the end of the session we were walked to the park gates by Santa, with a short stop to see his reindeers on the way, which was a lovely touch.
Arcandia Adventure Park: The Darkness Parkside
Included in the cost of an Elf Court ticket is free entry to return to the park when it gets dark- remember in Lapland, it can be dark from early afternoon, so by 6pm when we went back it was in total darkness outside.
For those not visiting the Elf Court, the cost of entrance in the evening to 'Parkside' is as follows:
Price: £17 adults (13+yrs), £13 ages 7-12 yrs, 6yrs and Under Free.
On the door, you need to purchase 'Arcandia currency', wooden coins to take part in the different activities.
10 coins cost €25.
Activity Costs at Arcandia
The activities are priced as follows:
Village Games 1 coin/game
Ice Pucking 2 coins/color/15min.
Ice Balling 3 coins/15min.
Knockerballs 3 coins/10min.
Human Snow Ball 5 coins/person
Mini Snowmobiles 5 coins/8-10min.
Hill Sliding 2 coins/mattress
Reindeer feeding 2 coins/handful
There also lots of free things to do including the spider swings, table games, bean bag toss and lassoing.
Activities we Tried at the Darkness Arcandia
As we had already tried quite a few of the activities in the day, we mainly focused on the ones available that we hadn't done.
We tried ice pucking, archery, mini snowmobiling (well the kids anyway), axe throwing and feeding the reindeers.
My kids favourite was definitely the mini snowmobiles and they had multiple goes on these. The queue is usually quite long as it's one of their most popular attractions, as you can imagine.
Throwing real axes about was a bit wild- the little one's were given rubber versions for safety thankfully!
The ice pucking with another family was fun, imagine table top air hockey but on real ice.
It did get was super cold out there (we were in the Arctic, after all!), so it was really nice that there were fires burning here and there in the park.
We could warm up our hands and catch our breath for a bit. In the wooden lodge where we'd met Santa, there was an open fire where you could purchase sausages and marshmallows to toast, along with warm drinks.
Laser Tag & Other Activities at Arcandia
Aside, from the Elf Court and Parkside, Arcandia also offers Laser Tag and Unique Dining Experiences. You can find details of these here. Again, you can save an extra 5% using the code BUILDABREAK5
So is Arcandia Worth it?
Overall we had the most amazing time. We weren't sure what to expect when we booked in all honesty. I know from the Lapland discussion groups, people often struggle with the concept of the Arcandia park, and how it all works. Hopefully our guide, goes somewhat in to helping you understand it.
In terms of enjoyment, I feel Arcandia is more aimed at older children and teens. Going with very little ones, you may struggle to find things to do in the Darkside sessions. There aren't husky or reindeer rides here, it is more about games and sports, which fit with the attractions concept.
If I was visiting with under 5's, I'd probably stick to just doing the Elf Court. That is a lovely experience that offers the opportunity to do lots of different activities.
We had a fantastic time, and there is nothing else quite like it in Levi. My children were all 8yrs+ at the the time and I felt that was the perfect age for the evening session.
Would we go back? Definitely, and we'd book the Laser Tag instead of the Elf Court, with my children now being older.
To read about what else we got up to on our trip to Levi and how we saved £4000 by booking it ourselves click here
Lapland on a Budget: 11 Things to do in Rovaniemi under €35!
11 Low Cost (and FREE) Activities in Rovaniemi, Lapland
Planning a Trip to Lapland on a Budget
With the recent availability of low-cost flights to Rovaniemi, coupled with affordable hotel stays, many travellers are now considering a DIY trip to Lapland.
After organising our own trips to Lapland and saving a huge amount of money, we’ve created a collection of blogs covering every aspect of visiting - all designed to help you plan your own DIY Lapland adventure without breaking the bank.
While the prospect of designing your own adventure is exciting, especially when you've found some cheap flights and accommodation. Concerns about the cost of activities when you actually get there may be holding you back.
We're here to help you experience the magic of Lapland without breaking the bank with some of our low cost, and even FREE things to do in Rovaniemi!
Continue reading to see our top bargain busting finds- all €35 or under per person!
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
What Does a Trip to Lapland Cost?
The cheapest package to Lapland with a travel agency is a day trip option, which gives you just 6 hours in Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi. The cost of this is upwards of £600, with just 5-10 minute taster experiences included.
A 2-3 night packaged break will set you back in the region of £1200-£1500 per person.
With our list of budget-friendly activities, you can enjoy 2-3 action-packed days much cheaper than that.
Let's make your Lapland dream a reality without the hefty price tag!
Low Cost & Free Activities in Rovaniemi, Lapland
To give you some inspiration we've put together a list of activities which are all €35 or under per person and some are even free! So let's get started.
1. Snow Play & Sledging- FREE
There's something undeniably joyful about playing in the snow and racing down hills on a sledge. I must admit after all the activities we'd paid to do in Levi, my children still say playing in the snow was their favourite of all.
In Rovaniemi, many hotels provide sledges for guests to use, you can also find sledges to purchase at local shops for around €10.
Keep in mind the etiquette of not taking any sledges left outside restaurants or activity providers' premises, these are not free unless labelled so.
2. Visit Santa's Post Office & Send a Postcard- €3.50
Sending a postcard from Santa's Post Office is a must-do activity in Rovaniemi. It's a fully working post office that is located in Santa Claus Village.
For a nominal fee of €1 for a postcard and €2.50 for a stamp, you can share a piece of Lapland's magic with your loved ones.
All post sent from the Post Office bears the official Lapland post mark. You can also see all the letters children have sent from all round the world to Santa which is both magical and fascinating.
The postcard we sent arrived home just five days later.
However, they do have a separate post box where you can mail Christmas cards, letters etc to be held back and posted nearer to Christmas.
You can write your cards early and post them from the most magical place on Earth, and they'll arrive bearing the special Lapland stamp!
3. Take Sleigh Ride with Santa Claus Reindeer- €30
Take a reindeer sleigh ride with the company Santa Claus Reindeer located in Santa Claus Village.
The 400m sleigh ride offers a journey through the snowy landscape, allowing you to experience Lapland's beauty up close.
Priced at €30 for adults and €25 for children, this ride is not only affordable, but also a magical way to connect with nature and the spirit of the season.
For those seeking a longer adventure, additional ride options are available, providing a range of experiences for visitors of all ages and budgets.
This activity is just a walk up option on the day- no need to book.
4. Do a Husky Meet & Great Experience at HuskyPark- €30
The bond between humans and huskies is truly special, and at HuskyPark, you can witness this relationship first hand.
Located in Santa Claus Village, the husky hugging experience at HuskyPark, gives you an up-close meet at €30 for an adult, and €25 for children.
If you just wish to visit the park and look around, the cost is €15 for adults and €10 for children.
Alternatively, a 500m husky ride will set you back €50 for adults and €35 for children.
5. Aurora Hunting- FREE
The Northern Lights are one of the most amazing things you can see in Lapland.
To give yourself the best chance of spotting them for free, download an Aurora app on your phone. It will send you a notification when there’s a good chance of seeing the lights nearby.
For just €10 per person, you can rent a pair of skates and glide across the ice at Naava Cafe.
7. Snowman World- €35
Snowman World tickets are priced at €35 per person, and for that you gain access to a host of activities that cater to visitors of all ages.
From an ice disco and tobogganing to ice skating, an ice maze, and intricate snow sculptures, there's no shortage of entertainment at Snowman World.
Additionally, take advantage of the complimentary luggage storage, saving you the typical €5 per bag fee, and allowing you to explore the attractions without any extra hassle.
To read our full guide on Snowman World click here
8. Angry Birds Play Park- FREE
The Angry Birds Play Park is a free attraction in Rovaniemi that provides lots of free fun for young children, and there is a great sledging hill nearby.
9. Cross the Arctic Circle- FREE
Crossing the Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village is a fun and exciting experience for visitors of all ages. You'll find a sign marking the spot where you enter this special part of the world.
It's a great photo opportunity and a chance to say you've been to the top of the world. Don't forget to grab a certificate from various stores in Santa Claus Village to commemorate your Arctic adventure! The cost is approximately €5 for a certificate.
10. Children's Snow Mobiles with Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park- €25
If you have children between 4-12 years, they can ride the Mini Snow Mobiles at Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park in Santa Claus Village.
Priced at €25, kids can enjoy the thrill of riding snowmobiles on a specially designed track, providing a safe and memorable experience.
11. Meeting Santa- FREE
A visit to Rovaniemi wouldn't be complete without meeting the main man himself - Santa.
The experience is free of charge. However, there is a fee if you want a photo or video to mark the occasion.
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Lapland on a Budget: Our 3 Day Rovaniemi DIY Trip
Join us as we share our itinerary, costings and tips about our amazing trip to Lapland that we took in February 2024!
We found some super cheap flights out of Liverpool at just £48 return then planned out our own DIY itinerary itinerary to Lapland, which saved us lots of money.
We’ll spill all our tips and tricks for a budget-friendly adventure that’s still full of magic.
Come along with us and discover the affordable side of Lapland that’s just as fantastic as the pricey tours.
For context we travelled as a party of two - my friend and I. Don't forget to check out our other Lapland blogs where we have also travelled to Lapland as a family.
I’ll start by explaining our flights, then accommodation we chose, before touching on getting around in Lapland and our 3 day itinerary. Most importantly what it all cost (as that's what most people want to know most!).
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
How to Find the Cheapest Flights to Lapland
We found flights using the Skyscanner website. If you’re looking for the cheapest dates, once you have inputted the party size and destination, you can then select to search for the entire month under the ‘flexible dates’ section to find the cheapest combinations. This feature works best on the Skyscanner app, rather than the desktop.
Currently (Christmas 2025) you can fly to Rovaniemi from Birmingham, Bristol, Dublin, Liverpool, London Stansted, Shannon and Manchester, with Ryanair.
Then easyJet offer flights from Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Luton, London Southend and Manchester.
Finnish airline 'Finnair' operates regular flights year-round with a change in Helsinki.
The flights we found for Rovaniemi were just £48 return from Liverpool. As this was a short trip we travelled using our free hand luggage allowance which was one back pack each and we found this perfectly doable. We also chose not to pre-book seats together, although we did end up swopping with a couple on the way out, so were sat together for the outbound flight at least.
You can see the things we pack for Lapland, including the travel bag we use for all trips here
Where to Stay in Rovaniemi, Lapland
Our trip was just 2 nights (Saturday afternoon flight out and returning Monday evening). For our accommodation, we stayed one night at the Arctic SnowHotel and Glass Igloo’s.
This was an experience in itself, staying in a place where the whole room, including the bed was crafted from ice! You can read all about this particular hotel and our time there in a separate blog posthere.
For transparency this was a gifted stay but for the purposes of costing this itinerary this would have been £460 for one room- so £230 per person.
This apartmentcould sleep up to 6 people across 4 bedrooms, so if you filled it to it’s maximum occupancy this would just been £30 per person per night, which is a fantastic price, especially if you did two nights here instead of the SnowHotel.
We stayed one night at the Arctic SnowHotel
The apartment was very well equipped with washing and drying room, a large dining space with kitchen, two bathrooms and an indoor sauna.
Our apartment in Rovaniemi
Our Apartment in Rovaniemi
Our apartment in Rovaniemi
How to Get Around in Rovaniemi
Our taxi from the airport to the SnowHotel cost us £35 each. If we’d arrived earlier in the day, we could have used the hotels shuttle bus which cost £18pp. If there was four of us travelling to split the cost of the taxi this would have again come in less.
The SnowHotel is located 35km from Rovaniemi centre so the taxi cost seemed reasonable. The next day we took the hotel shuttle back to Rovaniemi for £18pp.
For travel in Rovaniemi we recommend using the Meneva Taksi App, their version of Uber. We used this frequently and found it very reliable, every taxi we booked came within 10 minutes.
The cost of a taxi from Rovaniemi centre to Santa Claus Village was approximately £24, and the same price again to the airport. So around £6pp if travelling as a party of four.
There is also a bus service available in Rovaniemi that operates between the airport, city centre and Santa Claus Village. We did not use this as we felt for the price difference, a taxi was more convenient.
Our 3 Day Itinerary for Rovaniemi, Lapland
Day 1: Departing from the UK for Lapland and Our Night at the SnowHotel
Our journey began with our arrival in to Rovaniemi airport at 8pm, from Liverpool, UK.
We ordered our taxi on the Menevä Taksi app after we had cleared security. The taxi arrived within 10 minutes of booking and we were taken to the Arctic SnowHotel and Glass Igloos .
During check-in, we were treated to a tour of the SnowHotel. Our guide led us around the premises, giving us a glimpse of where we’d rest for the night and getting us sorted with blankets and sleeping bags.
Each room at the Arctic SnowHotel is a unique masterpiece, crafted with intricate designs and attention to detail and individually theme- no two rooms are alike.
We spent nearly an hour touring round all these whilst they were empty and each one was just amazing in it’s own right.
We’d already eaten on the plane with arriving late so we didn’t eat the hotel.
For the remainder of the night we looked round the grounds of the hotel, checking out the Kota to warm up and visiting the reindeers.
At around 11 pm we went to our room to try and sleep. It did take us quite a while to drift off, then we were woken at 1.30am as their was an aurora alert.
Unfortunately, we didn’t spot any activity and so we were back in bed till morning.
Our Room (Creepy or what!)
Outside the SnowHotel
The Sauna & Spa at the Hotel
Day 2: A Snow Sauna, Snowman World and Snowmobiling over a Frozen Lake in Lapland
The next morning we were up early at 6am and ready for breakfast by 7am. After filling up on about 3 plates of breakfast we explored the grounds of the SnowHotel, this time in the daylight and of course took the opportunity to go tubing down the hill by the Lake.
We were booked in for the hotels ‘Snow Sauna Experience’ at 10:30am. Here we had a traditional sauna, then snow sauna- we literally had to go outside in robes and slippers into the snow and then sit in a sauna made from snow which was pretty cool (pardon the pun).
Lastly, we took used the hot tub which overlooked the hotel. It was the perfect way to warm up after a chilly night in the SnowHotel.
This experience is available for people who aren’t staying at the hotel too. You can find it here
Snowman World
At 1pm we took the hotels shuttle to Santa Claus Village (SCV) where we decided to try out Snowman World. Situated near the entrance of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Snowman World is a recent and exciting addition to SCV.
They offer a range of experiences including an indoor ice slide, ice bar, ice disco, ice restaurant, ice maze, ice skating and a giant outdoor ice slide.
Snowman Worldoffers the option of free left luggage, a huge plus for those who’ve checked out of their accommodation and are looking to kill some time on their last day.
We left Snowman and Santa Claus Village early afternoon as we wanted to get checked in and eat something before our snowmobiling tour we had planned for this evening.
We took a taxi to the apartment we had booked in Rovaniemi city centre and got unpacked for the night.
Northern Lights Snowmobiling Tour over a Frozen Lake
There was a Shell Garage next to the apartment. In Lapland Shell garages aren’t like they are at home. They have restaurants inside and they’re a really good budget option as food in Lapland is pretty expensive.
We both got a pizza and drinks to bring back to the apartment before getting a quick nap in before tonight’s tour.
We were picked up by Pure Lapland at 8pm and driven 18km to Hotel Metsähirvas which was away from any light pollution and gave us direct access to Lake Kemijoki.
Before setting off on our tour we were given a comprehensive safety briefing and equipment for the night- helmets, visors and balaclavas.
At 7.30pm we left the apartment to go to Hostel Cafe Koti ready for our 8pm pick up.
The tour left from the hotel’s car park and led us on to the frozen Lake Kemijoki, which would take us on a thrilling 30km Snowmobile Adventure.
This was one of the best things I have done in Lapland, the lake was pitch black and after travelling for around 20 minutes across it, we reached a forest where we continued on.
BBQ Time
Traditional hot berry juice
Shell Garage Rovaniemi
There was literally zero chance of seeing the Northern Lights though as there was heavy snowfall, but honestly, this didn’t matter one bit as we were too busy enjoying the snowmobiling itself.
On our return journey across the lake we were took by our guide to specially prepared barbecue area. Here we toasted marshmallows, corn, sausages and had hot berry juice and biscuits by a crackling fire. This was just the perfect end to the day.
After parking up our snowmobiles, we were driven back to the pick up point around midnight. This was the most expensive activities we did on our trip, but definitely the best value in terms of quality and length. You can find more details on the tours Pure Lapland offer here
A Top Tip!
As an extra tip, we strongly recommend bringing along disposable hand and foot warmers to combat the sub-zero temperatures as the speeds we reached on the snowmobiles made its extra chilly! You can find what essentials we purchase for Lapalnd here
Day 3: Santa Claus Village and Travelling Home from Lapland
After a late night, we were up surprisingly up early and packed and ready to leave the apartment at the check out time of 10am.
We took a taxi straight to Santa Claus Village and paid for storage of our backpacks so we could enjoy our last day hands free. This cost around £4 each.
Husky Sleigh Ride
Our first booking was with HuskyPark where activities start from just €5 per person! We chose to do the 2KM Husky Ride which lasted approximately 15 minutes and cost £39 each.
When pre-booking the ticket online, the price includes entry to the Park, allowing you to stroll around the Husky Farm and see all the dogs.
Reindeer Sleigh Ride
Next up we decided to take a Reindeer Sleigh ride. These are literally walk up and do- no pre-booking needed.
The options were the ‘Reindeer Path’ package (400m), ‘Forest Path’ package (1km), and the ‘Winter Adventure’ package (3km).
The prices ranged from €20 for children and €25 for adults for the ‘Reindeer Path’ package, to €75 for children and €99 for adults for the ‘Winter Adventure package. All are only available to purchase on the day.
We chose to take the middle option of a 1km Forest Path costing £34 for an adult.
The ride took around 15 minutes and seemed to be the perfect amount of time for this kind of activity, especially for children.
For our up-to-date pricing on all activities at Santa Claus Village click here
Reindeers at SCV
Husky Ride
As we’d skipped breakfast to pack, we were quite peckish after these two activities. We decided to visit one of the cheaper restaurants located within Santa Claus Village for lunch- Santa’s Burgers and Pizza’s. A counter service restaurant where the portions seemed to be quite generous.
Our meals were around £20 each but for that we got a whole pizza, fries and drink each- I know what you’re think, we are living off pizza!
But honestly I could eat it daily, no problem. What we got could have easily been shared between 1 adult and 1 child though.
Santa Claus’ Post Office
After lunch we headed to Santa’s Post Office. A fully operational post office but if you’re thinking this is just a normal post office you’re very wrong.
This is where every letter posted to Santa in the world comes to. They have them on display and they are categorised by country, and it’s so magical to see.
Santa Main Post Office
Letters from around the world
You can also send post back home and this is the only place in the world that stamps the post with the official Lapland postmark.
For a nominal fee of €1 for a postcard and €2.50 for a stamp, you can share a piece of Lapland’s magic with your loved ones.
Alternatively, they have a post box reserved purely for Christmas post. You can post your cards in their Christmas post box and they’ll hold them back to be sent nearer the time.
Santa and Mrs Christmas
As we weren’t travelling with children on this trip, we had a quick peep in Santa’s office and Mrs Christmas but we thought it would be a but weird to go and sit on Santa’s knee at our age.
Before leaving Santa Claus Village, we had to cross the Arctic Circle. You’ll find people doing the most bizarre things here- acrobats, hopping and getting the photo and video proof. You can purchase a certificate in Santa Claus Village if you wish for £4.
The Arctic Circle line in Santa Claus Village is also broadcast worldwideon the internet, so you’llfind lots of people waving to loved ones watching at home.
Before we left Santa Claus Village, we got a few souvenirs then headed over the road to the Shell Garage for a pit stop for something to eat and drink (and no we didn’t get pizza), before getting a taxi to the airport around 5pm.
We loved this trip, it was done on a budget but not as cheap as it could be and you’ll see from my comments on where you could save money i.e. not sleeping in an ice hotel and doing 2 nights in an apartment instead. Choosing shorter distances on sleigh rides and skipping the late night snowmobile trip.
Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos Rovaniemi Review – What It’s Really Like to Sleep on Ice in Lapland
There are few experiences in the world that compare to sleeping in a hotel made entirely of snow and ice above the Arctic Circle.
During our Lapland trip, we were invited to spend a night at the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi, Finland, and it was one of the most unforgettable (and coldest!) nights of our lives.
For context, I’m someone who adores my electric blanket and home comforts, so the idea of sleeping on a bed made from ice sounded daunting to say the least! But, under the reassurance they have a room with bunk beds (and heating) should you not be able to cope, I decided to jump at the chance.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
Where Is the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi, Finland?
The Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos is located about 35km from Rovaniemi Airport, tucked away in the quiet wilderness of Finnish Lapland. Its remote location is what makes it so magical, far from city lights and perfect for spotting the Northern Lights on a clear night.
If you’re planning a trip to Lapland, we’ve shared our full 3 Day Rovaniemi Itinerarywhich includes this stay plus other incredible experiences like husky rides, reindeer farms, and the Santa Claus Village.
How to Get to the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos from Rovaniemi
We arrived in Rovaniemi from Liverpool at around 8pm and, travelling hand luggage only, were through the airport in no time. We used the Menevä Taksi app to get a taxi on arrival, which cost €81 for the 30-minute journey to the SnowHotel.
The hotel also runs a shuttle service for €20 each way, with pick-ups from Rovaniemi city centre, train station, and airport. We arrived too late to get this unfortunately. On our return the following day, we used this service to travel back into town - a much easier (and cheaper) option.
A private transfer through the hotel costs around €110, so the taxi or shuttle are definitely the best value options.
Checking In at the Arctic SnowHotel
Check-in was smooth and friendly. All guests are given a guided tour of the SnowHotel before settling in for the night. Up until 10pm, visitors can join short tours. You can also look at every room in the hotel before the doors close to overnight guests and people retreat to their rooms.
After the tour, we collected our sleeping bags and blankets from the heated locker area. This is also home to the bunk beds in case you decide the ice room isn’t for you!
Facilities at the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos
The Ice Restaurant
The Arctic SnowHotel is much more than just an ice room. You’ll find incredible ice sculptures, two restaurants (an ice one and a 'warm' one), Ice Chapel and even an Ice Bar serving drinks in frozen glasses.
We loved warming up in the Kota, which has a roaring fire in the centre.
There’s also the Sky Bar, a cosy glass-roofed lounge with 360° views which is perfect for aurora watching with a hot chocolate or cocktail.
If you’re visiting Lapland as a couple, you’ll even find a tiny ice chapel on-site that hosts real weddings, one of the most unique ceremony venues in Finland!
The Wedding Ice Chapel
Sky Bar Restaurant
Room Types at the Arctic SnowHotel: Snow Rooms vs Glass Igloos
Every year, the SnowHotel is rebuilt from scratch, with around 30 rooms carved entirely from snow and ice. Each one has a different theme, making every stay unique. Some rooms are designed for two guests, while others are large enough for families or small groups.
We spent an hour exploring the other rooms before ours was ready. Every one was absolutely incredible and so unique. My favourite was definitely the rock and roll room!
Our room, Room 104, featured a sculpture of a face behind clasped hands glowing red. Incredible craftsmanship but slightly eerie in the dark!
If sleeping on ice isn’t for you, you can choose a Glass Igloo instead. These heated domes feature full bathrooms, underfloor heating, and a panoramic roof for Northern Lights viewing, ideal for those wanting a little more comfort while still experiencing Lapland’s magic.
What It’s Like to Sleep in the Arctic SnowHotel
Our Room
Inside the rooms, the temperature stays at around –5°C, but with thermal layers, a sleeping bag, and a fur blanket, it’s surprisingly manageable. We were advised to sleep in base layers, woolly socks, gloves, and to keep our snow boots in the bottom of the sleeping bag to stay dry.
I’ll admit, I wore all my clothes and still felt the chill, but it was absolutely worth it for the experience. Around 1:30am, we were woken by the Aurora Alarm - staff gently alert guests if the Northern Lights appear so you don’t miss them.
Unfortunately, the sky was too cloudy that night, but knowing we could have seen them from right outside our room made it feel extra special.
The next morning, we joined the Snow and Sauna Ice Experience, and it was one of the highlights of our stay.
After breakfast (which was amazing - one of the best hotel breakfasts I’ve had), we were given robes and slippers and headed to the private snow sauna. This is a bookable extra, it doesn’t come as standard with your stay, but is definitely worth doing.
This was unlike anything we’d ever seen! It starts with a traditional finnish sauna. Then you head outside to a snow sauna. Like a cave made of ice, but with a sauna inside. You can image the steam it produces; we couldn’t see a thing! The experience ended in an outdoor Jacuzzi overlooking the hotel and grounds, which felt like the perfect reward for surviving the night.
If you’re visiting as part of a winter itinerary, definitely add this on- it’s the ultimate Finnish wellness experience.
Is the Arctic SnowHotel Worth It? Our Honest Review
A night at the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi is something truly special. It’s not a luxury hotel stay, it’s an adventure.
It’s cold, it’s surreal, and it’s something you’ll talk about forever. We’d recommend one night in the SnowHotel (two maximum), followed by a few nights in Rovaniemi centre or a glass igloo for warmth and comfort.
We left feeling proud to have done it , and even received a certificate for completing our icy stay!
If you want to see the Ice Hotel and do the restaurant, bar or Sauna you can book to do this without staying the night. You can find escorted trips with transport from Rovaniemi provided here.
If you're feeling brave you can check out a stay at the hotel here
More Lapland Travel Guides You Might Like
If you’re planning a trip to Finnish Lapland, don’t miss these related guides on our blog:
Is the Arctic SnowHotel in Finland worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s one of the most unique hotels in Lapland. You can stay in a snow room or heated glass igloo, enjoy saunas, and watch for the Northern Lights. There’s even a frozen lake where sledges are provided and tubes for sledging down the hill.
How cold is it inside the Arctic SnowHotel?
The SnowHotel stays around –5°C, but you’ll be given thermal sleeping bags and access to warm communal areas.
How far is the Arctic SnowHotel from Rovaniemi?
It’s 35km (about a 30-minute drive) from Rovaniemi Airport, with regular shuttle transfers and taxis available.
Can you see the Northern Lights from the Arctic SnowHotel?
Yes! The remote location has no light pollution, and an aurora alarm service will wake you if the lights appear.
When is the Arctic SnowHotel open?
The Arctic SnowHotel is rebuilt every winter, usually opening from mid-December until the end of March, depending on weather conditions. The Glass Igloos remain open year-round, so you can still experience the Northern Lights in winter or the Midnight Sun in summer.
Snowman World vs Arctic SnowHotel – what’s the difference?
Owned by the same company, both offer incredible ice experiences. Snowman World is located right inside Santa Claus Village, making it perfect for families who want a fun day out with ice slides, snow activities, and restaurants made of snow and ice.
The Arctic SnowHotel, on the other hand, is a standalone hotel and experience. Quieter, more atmospheric, and designed for overnight stays or romantic breaks.
If you’re travelling with children, Snowman World is ideal for a day visit.
In terms of the number of ice scupltures, a once-in-a-lifetime sleep in an ice room or Northern Lights view from a glass igloo, the Arctic SnowHotel wins hands down.
How to See the Northern Lights for Free in Lapland
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the Northern Lights in Finnish, Lapland, without spending a fortune, this guide is for you.
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, can be one of the most incredible natural experiences of your life, and best of all, you can see them in Lapland without needing to pay for a tour.
Of course there are organised tours and activities in Lapland for those who want expert guidance, with prices ranging from £30-£200 per person. We've done one personally, and it was the highlight of our trip. So if you can afford one, I'd highly recommend taking a guided tour.
However, here’s how to see the Northern Lights in Lapland, complete with essential tips and tricks, including how to make the most of an Aurora app.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
1. Find the Best Place for Northern Lights in Lapland
Lapland, especially in Finland, is famous for its breath-taking displays of the Northern Lights. If you’re searching for the best place for Northern Lights in Lapland, there are a few top locations that you should consider, and the great news is that all of these places are freely accessible:
Rovaniemi: As the capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is one of the most popular places for aurora hunters. The advantage of Rovaniemi is its accessibility, as it’s well-connected by roads, and you can easily find dark spots away from the city lights to enjoy the natural show.
Luosto: Luosto offers excellent views with minimal light pollution. This small village is surrounded by wilderness, which makes it one of the ideal places for catching the aurora in Lapland without spending on tours.
Utsjoki: Located in the far north, Utsjoki has one of the highest chances of clear skies and aurora sightings in Finland. It’s remote, quiet, and perfect for a free, authentic experience.
Inari: This location is a northern gem. Inari Lake and its surroundings offer excellent viewing opportunities for the Northern Lights, with minimal human interference.
2. Best Time to See Northern Lights in Lapland
Timing is everything when it comes to spotting the aurora borealis. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Lapland is between late September and early April. During this period, the nights are long, dark, and cold which make perfect conditions for the aurora to make its appearance.
If you want to maximise your chances, aim for the darkest months, typically December to February, when clear skies are more frequent. During this time, the aurora can often be seen between 10 pm and 2 am, though there is always a chance for an earlier or later display.
3. Avoid Light Pollution
One of the keys to successfully seeing the Northern Lights is avoiding light pollution. Even in popular spots like Rovaniemi, stepping away from the city or any artificial lights can make all the difference.
Find a quiet, dark location like a hilltop, an open field, or a lakeshore where the sky is unobstructed.
This way, the vibrant colours of the Northern Lights Finland are much more striking, with no interference from artificial light.
4. Use an Aurora App for Alerts
There’s no need to spend money on a tour guide or tracker. Downloading an aurora app is a brilliant, free way to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Here are some of the best aurora apps you can use:
My Aurora Forecast: This app provides accurate aurora forecasts, including real-time data on solar activity and cloud cover. It’s incredibly user-friendly and even sends notifications when there is high aurora activity.
Aurora Alerts Northern Lights: With live KP index tracking, this app lets you know if the Northern Lights will be visible in your location. You can also set custom alerts so that you’ll never miss a moment when the aurora is visible.
Aurora Notifier: This app is especially useful in Lapland. It offers detailed, location-specific aurora forecasts, helping you plan exactly when and where to head out.
By using these apps, you can stay updated on aurora activity without the cost of professional services, allowing you to make a spontaneous run to the best vantage points.
5. Dress Appropriately and Prepare for the Cold
The Northern Lights aren’t just something you walk out of your hotel to see. Sometimes it requires patience. Temperatures in Lapland can drop well below freezing, so dressing warmly is crucial.
Bring thermal layers, a warm hat, gloves, and proper winter boots. A thermos with hot tea or coffee can help make those long, cold nights more bearable.
Remember, being comfortable in the cold allows you to stay longer, and therefore increases your chance of seeing the aurora.
6. Plan Around the Weather
Clear skies are essential to witness the Northern Lights. If the weather is cloudy, you won’t see anything no matter how strong the aurora activity is. Check the weather forecasts frequently to make sure that conditions are favourable. Many aurora apps, like My Aurora Forecast, also provide weather updates alongside aurora activity, making it easier to find the perfect time to head out.
If you want a true, immersive experience, consider heading to less popular spots rather than tourist-heavy places. There are plenty of locations in Finnish Lapland that are remote and free to access, such as Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Not only does avoiding crowds make for a more peaceful night, but it also gives you the chance to take in the spectacular show with zero distractions.
8. Take Advantage of Free Public Access Areas
Many of Lapland’s prime Northern Lights viewing locations are in national parks or public lands, which are free to access. These areas provide wide-open views of the sky, ideal for catching a full, panoramic display of the Northern Lights. Some parks even have lookout towers or shelters that you can use, free of charge, to stay out of the cold wind.
Enjoy the Magic of the Northern Lights for Free
The Northern Lights in Finland are accessible to everyone, you don’t need expensive tours or fancy equipment. With the right planning, a bit of patience, and the use of a good aurora app, you can witness this magical phenomenon without spending anything other than your time.
Ultimate Guide to Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi Lapland 2025
Santa Claus Village is located just 8 kilometres from Rovaniemi city centre, the capital of Finnish Lapland, right on the Arctic Circle.
It’s where the real Santa Claus is said to live and meet visitors, offering a year-round festive atmosphere.
Santa Claus Village is an area in Rovaniemi, host to a vast array of activities, all within a short walkable distance of each other.
Whether you're interested in meeting Santa, sending postcards from Santa's Post Office, or enjoying snowy bucket list adventures, this magical destination has something for everyone.
Is Santa Claus Village open all year?
Yes! Santa Claus Village is open every day, all year long. It's perfect for those who want a little Christmas magic even in the middle of summer!
In Santa Claus Village you can literally meet Santa 365 days a year! You'll find snow in Lapland from the end of November to April. Some activities may not run till the snow is deep enough, typically the start of December.
Santa Claus Village Opening Hours
Generally, the Village is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm but hours may vary depending on the season and individual activity providers.
Where is the real Santa Claus Village?
The real Santa Claus Village is in Rovaniemi, Finland, just inside the Arctic Circle- the one we will be covering in this guide.
Is Santa Claus free to visit?
Yes, entering Santa Claus Village is free. You can also meet Santa for free, which most people are surprised about. However, if you'd like a photo or video of your visit, there is an additional charge.
In this guide we'll cover the cost of activities in Santa Claus Village. We also have an in-depth guide on 12 Things to do in Rovaniemi, Lapland for under £25 which found here
Can you see the Northern Lights from Santa Claus Village?
Yes, Santa Claus Village is located far enough north that you can often see the Northern Lights during the winter months, especially between September and March.
However, to get the best view we recommend travelling outside of Santa Claus Village, away from any light pollution.
We have a guide on 'How to spot the Northern Lights for Free in Lapland' which can be found here
How much time do you need at Santa Claus Village?
To fully enjoy all the activities, we recommend spending at least a full day at Santa Claus Village, but if you're short on time, a half-day visit can still cover the highlights.
Santa Claus Village Map
Santa Claus Village Activities
There's so many things to do at Santa Claus Village that you could easily spend an entire day or even longer enjoying the various experiences. Here's a breakdown of the activities based on the providers.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
Santa Claus Office
Meet Santa Claus: The main attraction! Meeting Santa Claus is free, but you can purchase photos or videos as souvenirs of the experience. You cannot take your own photographs of the meet.
There is also the option to purchase a gift before the meet, which Santa will hand to your child. At present, they don't allow you to bring your own gifts to be handed over.
Santa Claus at Santa Claus Village is not pre-bookable and is just a turn- up-on-the-day activity, which is open 365 days a year.
As you can expect, queues at peak times can be lengthy
Santa's Main Post Office
Send a postcard from the Arctic Circle: Visit the official post office where all letters are stamped with a special Arctic Circle postmark. You can even schedule letters to be delivered for Christmas Day, no matter the time of year.
You can also see some of the many letters that are sent to Santa from all over the world.
Santa Claus Village prices: Sending a postcard costs between €1 to €5 depending on the destination and type of card.
Husky Park
Experience an exciting husky sleigh ride through the snow. You can choose from short introductory rides to longer safaris through the wilderness.
For winter 2025/26 Husky Park prices start at around €50 per adult for a short 500m ride, which is not pre-bookable (just walk up on the day). Children are priced at €35 (child age at Husky Park is 4-12yrs).
There is also the option of a 2km ride- €65 per adult/€45 Children, and a 5km ride which is €110 per adult/€85 for children- it's advisable to book these two beforehand as they do sell out.
There is the option to do a Husky Meet and Greet Experience which is priced at €30 for an adult and €25 for children. Alternatively, you can just visit the park to see the dogs and take photos. This is €15 for adults and €10 for children. You can get more details here
Our 2km Husky Ride at HuskyPark Santa Claus Village
Santa Claus Reindeer
Meet Santa's reindeer and glide through the snow on a traditional sleigh.
At Santa Claus Reindeer you can chose from three ride lengths (prices updated for 2025/26)
Get your adrenaline pumping with snowmobile rides across the Arctic landscape.
Within Santa Claus Village itself, Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park offer children's snowmobile rides around a large track, costing just €25 per child. Suitable for ages 4-12yrs, you get 10 minutes on the snowmobiles and a 'snowmobile driving licence' at the end- there is no need to pre-book this activity.
The company also offer longer length rides and family snowmobiling safaris, leaving from Santa Claus Village in to the surrounding forests.
Santa’s Pets (Finnish: Tallitontun piha) is home to reindeer, alpacas, pony, donkeys, sheep, goats, rabbits and different birds. You can watch domestic animals in their daily activities under arctic conditions and, best of all you can feed reindeer!
Similar to the Santa Claus Office, you can meet Mrs Claus in Christmas Cottage.
This activity use to be 5 euros per person, and just pay for a photo on the day if you wanted one.
This may have changed for 2025/26 as the website indicates there is only the option to book group packages with a photo. These are priced as follows:
Family of 1–5 persons: €50
Family of 6–10 persons: €70
High Winter Season (1.11.2025 – 11.1.2026): €120 / meeting (max 10 persons)
I will update the guide after my next visit if the cheaper option is still available.
Cross the Arctic Circle
Rovaniemi is the Arctic Capital, situated on the Arctic Circle.
Within Santa Claus Village, you'll find the Arctic Circle line marked by signposts- it's also marked on the floor but this obviously can't be seen in the snow.
Hop, skip or jump over the line and wave at the webcam broadcasting Santa Claus Village to those at home.
Commemorative certificates are available to buy in numerous places in the Village for €5.
Getting to Rovaniemi
Santa Claus Village flights: Several airlines offer direct flights to Rovaniemi during the winter months from cities across Europe.
Over the last few years, budget airlines have significantly increased the amount of airports they fly to Rovaniemi from.
At the time of writing you can fly from Birmingham, Bristol, Dublin, Liverpool, London Stansted, Shannon and Manchester, with Ryanair. Then easyJet offer flights from Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Luton, London Southend and Manchester.
Finnish airline 'Finnair' operates regular flights year-round with a change in Helsinki.
Getting from Rovaniemi City Centre to Santa Claus Village
Santa Claus Village is about 8 km from Rovaniemi city centre, and there are several ways to get there:
By Car: If you’ve rented a car, the drive is about 10 minutes north along Route E75. The roads are well-maintained, and parking is free at Santa Claus Village.
By Bus: The local bus route Santa’s Express Bus (number 8) runs regularly between Rovaniemi city centre and Santa Claus Village. The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately €4 one-way.
By Taxi: Taxis are easily available in Rovaniemi, and a ride to Santa Claus Village will cost about €20-25. Download the Meneva Taksi App (Finland's version of Uber).
Getting from Rovaniemi Airport to Santa Claus Village
Rovaniemi Airport is just 3 km from Santa Claus Village, making it incredibly convenient for travellers. Here's how to get from the airport to the Village:
By Taxi: A taxi ride from the airport to Santa Claus Village takes about 5 minutes and costs around €15-20.
By Shuttle: During peak holiday seasons, some shuttle buses run between Rovaniemi Airport and the Village. Check with your hotel or activity provider for more details.
Where to Eat in Santa Claus Village
After a day of exploring Santa Claus Village, you’ll likely be hungry for some hearty, local Finnish fare. Luckily, the Village offers several great dining options for you to refuel.
Whether you’re after a quick snack or a full-course meal, there’s something for everyone. Here’s some of the best Santa Claus Village restaurants.
Santa’s Salmon Place
What to expect: A rustic, cosy dining spot offering freshly cooked salmon, prepared in a traditional Lappish style over an open fire. The atmosphere is warm, and the smell of the wood-burning fire makes it even more inviting.
Specialties: The house specialty is their flame-grilled salmon served with potatoes, bread, and Lappish berry sauce.
Santa Claus Village prices: A meal costs around €20-25 per person.
Christmas House Restaurant & Coffee Bar
What to expect: A relaxed and festive spot, great for grabbing a quick bite or a warm drink. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon coffee and cake in a cheerful, Christmassy setting.
Specialties: The coffee bar is known for its Finnish pastries, including cinnamon rolls and pies. The lunch menu includes traditional Lappish soups and local delicacies like reindeer stew.
Santa Claus Village prices: Prices start at €10-15 per person.
Santa’s Pizza & Burger
What to expect: If you’re looking for a family-friendly option with more familiar flavours, Santa’s Pizza & Burger offers quick and tasty meals with a touch of local flair. The restaurant has a casual, warm vibe—perfect for kids and adults alike.
Specialties: In addition to classic burgers, they serve reindeer burgers and salmon pizza for a Lappish twist.
Santa Claus Village prices: Meals range from €10-15.
Places to Stay Near Santa Claus Village
For those wanting to stay close to the action, there are plenty of accommodation options nearby, ranging from luxury glass igloos to cosy cabins. Here's a look at some of the best hotels near to Santa Claus Village:
Santa Claus Holiday Village
Located within the Village itself, this resort offers private cottages, many with their own saunas. It's perfect for those who want to be right at the heart of the activities.
Just a 5-minute drive from Santa Claus Village, this design-forward hotel offers a luxury stay with stunning views of the surrounding forest and a great chance to catch the Northern Lights.
A visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a must-do for anyone looking to embrace the Christmas spirit and explore the beauty of Lapland. Whether you're meeting Santa, enjoying a husky ride, or searching for the Northern Lights, this destination offers a magical experience you won't forget.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Santa Claus Village continues to enchant visitors from all around the world. So pack your warm clothes, grab your camera, and get ready for a holiday adventure in one of the most festive places on earth!
Lapland on a Budget: How We Saved £4000 on Our DIY Trip!
Going on a Lapland holiday is a dream for many, but the price tag associated with such a holiday can be daunting.
In this blog post, we're excited to share how our family of four (1 adult, 1 teen, and 2 children) managed to build our own trip to Lapland and save over £4000!
How much we spent on our Lapland Trip
We paid just £481 per person for a 4-night stay in Levi. This included return direct flights from Manchester, accommodation, all transport in resort, all the activities we did, winter sports insurance, clothing that we can keep to resell or reuse, souvenirs, food and drink!
This is was literally everything we spent on this trip.
This, compared to the jaw-dropping £1200 per person quote we received from a travel agent for just 2 nights!
Our saving of £4000 is against a similar 4 night package.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
Our Guide to Levi, Lapland
First and foremost, I spent days researching the areas of Lapland, what types of activities to do and the most suitable accommodation for us.
Hopefully, our Lapland Blogs will save you hours of having to do the same. For reference, the dates we stayed were Sunday 26th November to Thursday 30th November. Please bear in mind that booking this early in the season can mean a lack of snow.
I only booked our trip 4 weeks beforehand when locals said that the snow was here to stay and businesses confirmed activities would be running early.
As a rule of thumb if you're booking a months in advance, we would recommend looking for dates from 5th December onwards.
Generally, after Christmas is the best time to visit Lapland in terms of the amount of snow- January, February, March and even April have the deepest snow but there's usually plenty in December.
Flights to Levi
In early November, we managed to get EasyJet flights from Manchester direct to Kittilä for £52 each, prices had being dropping significantly over previous few weeks.
I had set an alert up on to let me know when the prices fluctuated. We booked at the start of November to depart just 3 weeks later.
For luggage we chose to travel light with just a small backpack each. We wore ski boots and ski jackets on the plane, as did most of the other passengers.
We squished everything in travel vacuum bags which we use on every trip. Believe it or not we didn’t even wear everything we took either!
To save space we reserved our toiletries with Boots to collect after security.
We chose not to pre-book seats together after seeing there was plenty of seat availability on the plane.
EasyJet allow free check in 30 days before, so straight after booking the tickets, I checked us in.
On this occasion, as with every EasyJet flight we've ever taken, and we fly a lot, we were all seated together for both legs of the trip.
With it being a budget flight to Lapland, we weren't expecting anything extra like they do on the package holiday flights to Lapland, but it was so magical.
The staff all wore reindeer antlers and announced that Rudolf was ready to pull the plane to Lapland before setting off.
They did a colouring competition on board with prizes and the pilot gave out regular announcements to keep the kids excited. It was such a lovely start to our trip.
Where to stay in Levi, Lapland
For our accommodation we stayed at Levi Suites Unna Mannuin a 2-bedroom apartment, which was £488 for four nights (£122 per person).
The apartment was right in the centre of Levi, just a few minutes’ walk to Zero Point, with a wide of variety of eateries on the same street and a well stocked local supermarket close by.
It was spacious, modern, well equipped, and very clean. The apartment was more than we required.
The apartment kitchen
The View from our Apartment in Levi
Where to stay in Levi
The Sauna in our apartment
We had two bedrooms, a large living room area with a TV which had Netflix/Disney+ loaded on. 2 toilets, large walk in shower, a sauna, washer, drying cupboard and fully equipped kitchen.
Taxi Tranfers in Levi, Lapland
We used a private shuttle company from Kittilä airport to Levi which took around 15 minutes.
In all honesty, we could have saved money here and booked a taxi on the Menevä Taski app, but the apartment manager offered to organise this for us and for ease we accepted, paying €70 each way (£29pp return).
Car hire is another option and could be a cheaper option if you would like to discover areas outside of Levi. We chose activities which had the option of adding a shuttle transfer from Levi centre as I don't drive.
Winter Sports Travel Insurance
We have an annual travel policy but did not expect to be visiting Lapland this year so unfortunately, hadn’t added winter sports cover.
To avoid a phone call and any admin fees amending the existing policy, I purchased new cover for this trip at just £4.50 per person from the Post Office.
What to Wear in Lapland
From Vinted we managed to buy used ski wear (trousers, a jacket, and boots for each of us). Then from M&M direct we bought fleece snoods and base layers relatively cheap. We luckily had ski gloves and hats from a previous trip to Switzerland.
The total cost for the four of us to be kitted out was around £80 in total, so £20pp.
For under our ski layers I took a few pairs of fleece pyjamas for the kids which we already had. For myself base fleece tops and fur lined leggings.
There's no need for additional clothing in Lapland, people literally just remove their outer layers to eat in a restaurant.
We recommend taking normal PJ's for inside- we found the rooms very warm and could have easily managed with summer pyjamas.
Surprisingly, we managed to keep our food and drink expenses to just £122 for all 4 of us (£30.50pp).
We took some essentials in our bag from home including a flask with hot chocolate sachets, noodles, biscuits, sweets, microwavable popcorn, and mini concentrated squash on the advice on others and I'm so pleased we did.
The day we arrived we had just missed the supermarket and restaurants so it put us on until the next day.
The idea of layering up just to go out for dinner put us off eating out most evenings. The apartment was so cosy with loads of space for cooking and eating.
After busy days we preferred to have something home-cooked and chill out in front of Netflix with our duvets than go back out.
The supermarket offered well-stocked kid-friendly options like fish fingers, fries, nuggets, and Swedish meatballs.
We did get two pizza takeaways from Pizza Factory, highly recommended!
I'll admit though, I've never spent so little on food during a holiday. The total we spent in Levi, we can easily splurge on one meal out when on holiday usually.
Levi Christmas Huts
Levi Supermarket
The Famous Coffee Man!
The Activities we Booked in Levi, Lapland
Lappin Saaga: Santa’s Reindeer Sleigh Ride
We booked a 1km reindeer sleigh ride with Lappin Saaga (a 15 minute ride) through the forest, however the whole experience at Lappin Saaga lasted 1 hour.
We met the reindeers and looked round the farm, guided by an elf who also took us to see the ponies.
Lappin Saaga offer pony treks through the snow too which sounded magical, these are on our list if we do a future visit.
Following the sleigh ride, we were welcomed into a cosy wooden hut to enjoy hot berry juice and cookies with the elf guide who talked to us at length.
We booked transfers both ways through Lappin Saaga and the total for experience and transport was £38.50pp, which we though was great value for money. Lappin Saaga is approximately a 15 minute drive from Levi.
You can find information on what programmes Lappin Saaga offer HERE
Lappin Saaga
Lappin Saaga
Reindeer rides at Lappin Saaga
Reindeer rides
Arcandia Elf Court (Halfling Session)
Following a transfer from Levi organised by Arcandia, an elf welcomed us at the gates and guided us through 45 minutes of snow-based activities.
With the Elf we did hill sliding, rolling in a giant inflatable ball, tried archery and met the two reindeers.
Later, we entered the 'Elf Court' to meet Santa. In the lodge we did tree and cookie decorating, crafted paper snowflakes of course met Joulupukki- Santa to you an me.
The intimate experience centered around spending quality time with Santa for about 45 minutes.
Archery at Arcandia
Arcandia knockerballs
Arcandia Elf Court
Arcandia Elf Court - Santa
Santa escorted us to the gates at the end to show us his reindeer, and our return transfer took us back to Levi Centre.
The entire experience, including transfers, cost £101 per person which we found to worth the price tag.
Arcandia 'The Darkness' Parkside
By purchasing tickets for the Elf Court in the morning this granted us free entry to 'The Darkness' at Arcandia in the evening.
At night the park transforms with lights and dramatic music - a unique experience in Lapland.
Additional activities, including mini snowmobiling, ice pucking, human snowballing and knockerballs, along with those from the afternoon were available to try.
These activities are coin-based and coins can be purchased upon entry.
Again we chose to book transfers through Arcandia for the evening. In total we paid £15 per person, inclusive of the coins for the activities.
Entrance for the evening can be purchased separately if you haven't attended the Elf Court.
Mini Snowmobiling at Arctic Circle SnowMobile Park
This activity is suitable for children aged 4-12 years, so only two of us participated in this.
The track was wide and allowed room for errors. Both girls handled the snowmobiles independently and confidently to my surprise.
For this activity they got 10 laps on a sizable forest track. To break it up they did 5 laps each at a time, so the other wasn't getting bored.
Only one snowmobile was operating at once which I thought was good, as it meant less chance of a crash!
All the helmets and balaclavas were supplied by the company too. We didn't pre-book this activity, we just went on a whim one of the afternoons and no-one else was there.
At the end, the girls received their snowmobile driving licence.
This activity was budget friendly at a price of €20 per child. When divided among the four of us, this activity amounted to just £8.50 per person.
Snowmobiling at Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park
Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park
Northern Lights Polarman’s Camp
The highlight of our trip was the Polarman’s Camp. You're picked up from Levi Centre around 8pm and driven 20 minutes away to a secluded area, far away from any light pollution.
I booked this activity as it was based around an igloo that was heated, so could provide us the opportunity to warm up if needed and we did as it was -28 degrees.
During the night we had a traditional Lappish BBQ (food was provided) along with hot berry juice and whisky for the adults.
The guides were great and told us Finnish folk tales about the aurora all evening and included a video presentation on the science side.
Polarmans Igloo
Enjoying a BBQ Lappish style
Aurora Camp
There was also a real life igloo which the kids loved getting inside and listening to the guides explain how they make them.
There was only a 20% chance of seeing the aurora on the night. However, not long before we were due to leave it appeared in the sky and lasted a good 20 minutes.
We arrived back in Levi Centre around 11.30pm. The activity worked out at £63.50pp which was great value for experience we had and I would highly recommend the Polarman's Camp.
At K5 hotel you can feed the reindeers that are located round the back, in the hotels grounds.
A bag of food can be bought at the hotel's reception for €7 making it a cheap activity.
Sledging at Zero Point
We purchased a sledge at one of the sports shops in the town for €10. This provided endless fun.
There's an area at Zero Point where you sledge all day long. The sledge was great for getting our shopping back from the supermarket too.
Remember to take your sledge inside wherever possible as people will take them if left unattended!
A Gondola Trip up Levi fell
Lastly, we took a trip up Levi Fell via a Gondola.
The two-way trip cost €50, so around £11 per person.
Tickets are available from the machines inside the large building at Zero Point.
The Secret Café is located at the top of the fell but it was unfortunately closed when we went, so the girls just played in the snow.
Levi slopes
Sledging
Top of Levi Fell
The Gondola
DIY Lapland vs Package Holiday Lapland
Overall, we had an amazing trip. 4 nights seemed more than enough and we got to see and do so many amazing things. Hand on heart, I think we had a better trip than people in the same resort who'd booked organised packages.
I spoke to numerous families over the course of the trip, and a few were disappointed by short husky, reindeer and snow mobile rides. The food that was included their kids wouldn't eat so they were buying extras. They also had to cover their evening meal as it was only half board. Plus there was free time allocated, which they were then spending money doing other activities. They still had a great time, but it just wasn't as 'magical' as they had envisaged in their head.
Of course, there are benefits to booking a package trip, in that everything is sorted for you including clothing, and you are taken to and from, every activity and have a rep in resort. I'd like to say that it also offers you additional protection but after seeing the way some families were treated last year when there was no snow in Lapland, I can't get behind this. 'No snow, no go' guarantees weren't adhered to, and people were left fighting in court to get their money back after disastrous trips. Again, not all tour operators are created equally.
If you research and design your own itinerary you can literally do what suits your family and focus putting your money on to great experiences (and meals) whether than be £500pp or £1500pp.
Carry on Reading!
If you've enjoyed this blog and would like to continue reading, we have a series of Blog Posts on Lapland, including a trip account of a visit to Rovaniemi and lots more hacks and tips. You can find these here
What to Wear in Lapland: The Ultimate Packing Guide for Winter 2025
Lapland in winter is pure magic. Think snow-covered trees, reindeer rides, Northern Lights, and cosy log cabins.
But before you go, one big question comes up: what should you wear in Lapland?
The right clothing makes all the difference. Here’s an easy guide to help you stay warm, dry, and comfortable on your Lapland holiday.
Just a quick note before we begin- some posts on this blog contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love or believe will be helpful in your trip planning journey. Thanks for supporting our work and happy planning!
How Cold Does It Get in Lapland?
Lapland can be extremely cold.
In December and January, temperatures often drop to -10°C to -30°C.
Even in March, it’s still freezing, especially early morning and late at night.
The secret to staying warm? Layering. It keeps you comfortable whether you’re husky sledding, skiing, or meeting Santa.
What Layers to Wear in Lapland
You’ll need three main layers – a base layer, a mid layer, and an outer layer.
Each one plays a role in keeping you warm.
1. Base Layer – Thermal Underwear
Your base layer is your first defence against the cold.
It should be tight-fitting and moisture-wicking to move sweat away from your skin.
Avoid cotton – it holds moisture and makes you cold.
Look for thermal tops and leggings made from merino wool or synthetic fabrics.
You can find great affordable sets in sports shops or supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl during ski season.
2. Mid Layer – Fleece or Wool for Extra Warmth
Your middle layer traps heat.
Fleece jumpers, wool sweaters, or fur-lined leggings are ideal.
For children, fleece pyjamas work brilliantly – cheap, warm, and quick to dry if they get wet.
Add another layer if the temperature drops below -20°C.
3. Outer Layer – Waterproof and Windproof Jacket and Trousers
The outer layer keeps the snow and wind out.
Choose a high-quality insulated jacket that’s both waterproof and windproof.
Down or synthetic-filled coats with adjustable hoods work best.
Snow trousers should also be waterproof and insulated.
If you’ll be snowmobiling or sledding, look for reinforced knees and seat areas for durability.
What Footwear to Wear in Lapland
Cold feet can ruin your trip.
Pack waterproof snow boots with thick soles and good grip for icy ground.
They should be roomy enough for thick socks without feeling tight.
Avoid fashion boots or anything with thin soles – your toes will freeze within minutes.
Best Socks for Lapland
Wool socks are essential.
Merino wool or thermal socks keep your feet warm and wick away moisture.
Layer up, wear two or even three pairs if it’s very cold.
Make sure your boots still fit comfortably over your socks.
What Accessories Do You Need for Lapland?
Don’t forget the small things – they make a big difference.
Hat: Choose one that covers your ears.
Gloves or mittens: Waterproof and insulated. Mittens are warmer than gloves.
Neck warmer or snood: Better than scarves as they stay in place.
Face covering: A balaclava helps in extreme cold or on snowmobiles.
Heat packs: Pop them in your gloves or boots – they can last up to 12 hours.
The sunlight reflects off the snow and can cause glare.
Bring polarised sunglasses or ski goggles.
Also pack lip balm and sunscreen, especially for children, as the air is dry and the sun strong.
How to Stay Warm All Day in Lapland
Even with the right clothes, take breaks to warm up.
Plan outdoor activities in short blocks of 1–2 hours and return to your accommodation in between.
Most cabins and apartments have drying racks – perfect for getting wet clothes ready for the next day.
Always carry a spare hat, gloves, and snood in case yours get wet.
A great tip: pack a flask of hot chocolate before heading out each morning. It’s a lifesaver on husky or reindeer rides. Our's was invaluable and literally the best thing we packed.
Husky or reindeer rides: Thick gloves, heat packs, face covering.
Snowmobiling: Balaclava, ski goggles, and insulated overalls (often provided).
Northern Lights chasing: Thermal base layers, multiple mid-layers, and waterproof boots.
Santa visits: Warm but flexible clothing for kids – they’ll be in and out of cabins.
What to Wear in Lapland in December, January or March
December: Coldest and darkest – wear maximum layers.
January: Still extremely cold, often below -20°C.
February–March: Brighter, slightly warmer, but snow still deep – waterproof layers still essential.
Even if you visit in March or April, it’s not like winter in the UK – it’s still freezing!
Final Tip: Dress for Warmth, Not Style
You’ll be in lots of photos, but trust us – warmth beats fashion every time.
We visited Lapland in -28°C and stayed warm by following these exact steps.
Layer well, take breaks, and keep your clothes dry.
If you’re well prepared, you’ll love every snowy moment.
Continue Reading
Marrakech Pre-Christmas Winter Sun Mini Breaks from £147pp
Marrakech Pre-Christmas Winter Sun Mini Breaks ✨ from £147pp
Swap dark December days for souks, spices, and sunshine 🌞 with a pre-Christmas escape to magical Marrakech.
With departures from 11 UK & Ireland airports, you can enjoy 2, 3, or 4-night breaks at fantastic prices — all our price finds include return flights, a stay in a highly rated traditional riad, and breakfast.
🛏 Double or twin room
🌿 Full-service spa
🏊 Outdoor pool
🍳 Buffet breakfast
🚐 24-hour airport shuttle
🍴 On-site restaurant
📶 Free Wi-Fi
✈️ Getting There
Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is just an 8-minute drive to the city centre. Taxis typically cost around £10-15 one way. Airport shuttles are also available.
📍 Perfect Location
Bahia Palace – 5 min walk
Jemaa el-Fnaa – 7 min walk
Koutoubia Mosque – 10 min walk
Marrakech (RAK-Menara) Airport – 8 min drive
🌟 Things to Do in Marrakech
Lose yourself in vibrant souks, admire palaces, or take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. Full guide here: Top Must-Do Activities in Marrakech
🍴 Where to Eat
From rooftop tagines to modern Moroccan fusion, Marrakech is a foodie’s dream. Recommendations here: Where to Eat in Marrakech
Build a Break is a travel platform sharing the best finds we come across. We are not a travel agent and cannot provide quotes, alternative dates, or personal travel advice. Prices and availability are correct at the time of posting but may change.
Always check all details carefully with the travel provider before booking, as we are not responsible for any changes, omissions, or errors. Any booking or contract is made directly between you and the travel supplier.
This post may contain affiliate links – we may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
Ride the Bernina Express this December with Flights & Hotel from £379pp
Ride the Bernina Express This December 🚆❄️
If you’re looking for a magical winter escape this December, the Bernina Express is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world - and you can experience it from just £379pp including flights, hotel and the full-day escorted tour from Milan.
Each DIY Travel Idea includes:
✨ Return flights from the UK or Dublin
✨ 3 nights in a 4★ central Milan hotel, just steps from Milano Centrale station
✨ A full-day Bernina Express tour: Milan → St Moritz (free time for shopping & sightseeing) → panoramic train to Tirano → return to Milan by coach
Flying into Milan
Milan Malpensa (MXP): About 50 minutes from Milan Centrale by train (Malpensa Express). Trains run every 15 minutes.
Milan Linate (LIN): Only 20 minutes from Milan Centrale by airport bus or taxi — super convenient for city breaks.
(We’ve skipped Bergamo flights this time, as many travellers found it too far from Milan!)
Disclaimer: Build a Break does not sell holidays or provide quotes and is not a travel agent. We share deals we find online to help you save money on travel. Prices were correct at the time of posting but are subject to change and availability. Always check luggage policies, transfers, and final total price before booking. Build a Break is not responsible for any errors, omissions or the fulfillment of any travel arrangements.
This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my content!
Disneyland Paris from Manchester: Halloween & Christmas Travel Deals
We have chosen a selection of low priced Disneyland Paris deals for Halloween and Christmas, all departing from Manchester. Prices start at just £104 per person per night which includes flights, hotel, breakfast and Disneyland Paris Tickets!!
Keep reading to get all the details!
How to go to Disneyland Paris for Cheap
The cheapest way to visit Disneyland Paris is to build your own trip, purchasing flights, booking a hotel and then adding Disneyland Paris tickets separately.
We've handpicked some deals for the upcoming months to give you some inspiration. On our Disneyland Paris page you can search and build a trip to suit your own dates.
We also have a selection of guideswhere we give you our top tips for doing Disneyland Paris on a Budget
Don't forget to check out our blog listing everything new that's coming to Disneyland Paris in 2025/26- there's some really exciting new attractions and developments happening!
Best Time of Year to Visit Disneyland Paris
The answer is anytime!
All year there is something different going on at Disneyland Paris, so there really is no 'best time' to go.
From 1st October to 2nd November 2025 the Halloween season in full swing.
This is followed shortly by Christmas, which is 8th November 2025 to 6th January 2026.
Of Course from June to September, you have the benefit of the warmer days and the Parks staying open later too.
Throughout the year Disneyland Paris also offer various other spectacular's that are for a limited periods such as themed parades, drone shows and musical theatre productions.
For more info on the best times to visit check our our blog here
Cheapest time to go to Disneyland Paris
In terms of price, the cheapest times to go to Disneyland Paris are usually January-March (excluding February Half Term), early October, November and early December.
We've put together a selection of deals below to include a range of seasons and prices.
Getting From the Airport
In this particular post, the deals are all departing from Manchester Airport.
There are two main airports that serve Disneyland Paris- Charles De Gaulle and Orly.
Both airports are roughly the same distance to Disneyland Paris by road (50 mins) and both offer Magic Shuttle Transfers.
From CDG you can also get the TGV high speed train from Terminal 2 which takes 10 mins and arrives directly at the park gates (Marne-la-Vallee-Chessy). The train must be booked in advance and costs approximately £15-£20 per person each way.
Build a Break is a self serve platform that provides readers with the ability to search for various elements such as flights, accommodations, activities, and services that they can book at their convenience.
We occasionally find and publish deals that we think may interest you, like the ones below.
When using Build a Break, no elements are booked through our site. Your relationship for booking these elements is solely with the respective suppliers. We may receive a small commission in exchange for their promotion, which helps to support our site. Please note prices are correct at time of publish, however, they are subject to change at any point.
*All prices were last checked and updated 12:00pm BST 5th July 2025- prices are subject to change and will fluctuate.
All prices quoted do not include luggage or seats together. EasyJet usually sit families together at no extra as long as you check in 30 days before hand, however this is not guaranteed.
For short breaks, especially in summer, with some clever packing tricks a backpack can be enough and save you £££'s. Luggage can be added at an extra cost.
Prices are correct are the time of Publish. Build a Break is a platform that provides clients with the ability to search for various elements such as flights, accommodations, activities, and services that they can book for their convenience. It is important to note that when using Build a Break, no elements are directly booked through our site. Your relationship for booking these elements is solely with the respective supplier. Build a Break acts as a facilitator in connecting you with the desired services, ensuring a seamless booking experience.
Please note that Build a Break is not responsible for any cancellations, alterations, or failures to supply by the third-party suppliers that you choose to book through our platform. While we strive to connect you with reputable and reliable service providers, any issues regarding the services provided, including but not limited to cancellations, modifications, or quality of service, should be addressed directly with the supplier in question. Build a Break serves as a means to facilitate bookings and does not assume any liability or responsibility for the actions or omissions of the suppliers.
Hacks on How To Explore Italy for Less! Our £100 Trip
At Easter this year, we spent 4 days in Italy as a family of 6 and paid just £100 per person!
What did this include?
Return flights from Manchester
3 Nights Accommodation in Italy (1 night in Turin and 2 nights in Pescheria Del Garda)
All train fares and taxi's within Italy (and there were quite a few!)
Local City Taxes
Where did we visit?
Turin
Milan
Lake Garda
Verona
This is our 5th budget trip to Italy over the last few years as a family. Our longest being a 16 night trip around Italy by train which I still need to write up. This was just a mini break to get our Italy fix, but at this price we couldn't pass it up!
In this trip report, I'll tell you everything about our short break and give you tips on how to create your own holiday to Italy on a budget.
About Us
Bit of Background as It's Relevant to the Pricing
Age's of Children
So as a family we are actually now classed as 3 adults and 3 children as my eldest child turned 18 recently. The children's ages at the time of this trip were 14, 12 and 8. The pricing is therefore based on this.
Choices of Accommodation
As a large family, staying in hotels often means needing to pay for 2 rooms which gets costly. We've therefore learnt over the years to find different types of accommodation which are not only more budget friendly, but also give us far more space to spread out too.
Economies of Scale
But its not all bad, as a family of 6 we can also benefit from 'economies of scale', so when we do rent an apartment or take a taxi transfer for instance, that cost is split between 6, often makes our trips cheaper per person than a smaller family.
How to Plan a Budget Trip to Italy
Find Cheap Flights to Italy
Scanning for Low Flight Prices
Before we even decide we are going anywhere, I regularly scan for cheap flights to see if there are any bargain deals to be had using the flight search tool on our own website that is powered by Skyscanner.
I usually input 'Italy' in to the 'To' box rather than a specific city so I can see the cheapest destinations.
Once the results are produced, I then refine the search to check by the whole month by selecting 'Flexible Dates' and searching again.
From there it will show the cheapest cities to visit that month
You can then select a city and have a play around selecting outbound and return combinations
Getting Flights When They're at Their Cheapest
I must admit most the time we have no plans to go anywhere and purely decide to take a break due to finding a deal that we don't want to pass up. So in the most part, our holidays away are never booked more than 6-8 weeks beforehand.
Typically flights are at their cheapest when they are first released, which is usually around 9 months before departure. Budget airlines (which are our 'go to') release their Summer and Winter schedules in one big drop which are often too far in advance for us.
However, these lower prices may only be cheap for a matter of an hour or so before the prices rise substantially and stay high for the next few months. Prices then start to drop again around 2 months before departure when the airline realises that the plane will be flying with a lot of empty seats!
The Optimum Time to Book
This is different from booking totally last minute, say a few days or even a week before, when airlines know that their will be people desperate to book for a particular date and they hike the prices to their highest yet to capitalise.
We have found that the optimum time to book a last minute break is roughly 4-6 weeks before departure to get the best price.
Get our Italy Budget & Travel Itinerary Planner now!
What we Booked
So for the flights, we booked on 8th March and the departure date was 7th April. At the time EasyJet had some amazing prices for Italy with seats priced at just £1.99 per person, I literally couldn't believe my eyes when I saw them pop up on the site as they weren't running any specific promotions on their website.
Of course for adults, the flights still attracted the £13 Air Passenger Duty per person, making them £14.99 each. So in total 3 adult flights and 3 children's flights from Manchester to Turin, we paid just £50.94 in total- £8.49 per person!!
The price to return flight from Turin was substantially more, which is usually the case when you find a cheap outbound flight (eye roll!). However, as we like to travel to a few places when in Italy, its rare that we will return from the same airport we fly in to anyway.
Once we had found our cheap outbound flight, I then did a full search of all the airports in Italy for the day we wanted to return home. I found that flights from Verona, this time with Ryanair, were the cheapest, coming out at £168.24 for 3 adults and 3 children- just £28.04 per person.
The Total Cost and Route
The total price therefore for the return flights was £36.53 per person- not bad for a school holiday break!
So this was our route set, we were flying in to Turin on 7th April and going home from Verona on 11th April. I then just needed to figure out the bits in between.
Our Route Turin to Verona
Pre-Booking Seats on the Plane
Now our children are older, all are capable of sitting on their own, we never reserve seats for European flights and take our chances. This keeps the costs down substantially.
EasyJet allow you to check in 30 days beforehand and by making sure we do so, we've never been split up despite not paying for seats and I think we've taken at least 20-30 EasyJet flights over the years with the kids.
Ryanair are slightly different, in that children age 12 and under are allocated a free pre-booked seat along with 1 parent. We have one child that is still under 12, so on our return flight our youngest child was allocated a seat with myself as soon as we purchased our tickets. Check in opens 24 hours beforehand for everyone else. The rest of the party were all split up over 4 rows that were next to each other, which was completely fine as it's only a short flight from Manchester.
Taking Hold Luggage to Italy
In terms of taking luggage, we just don't, it's that simple. Hold luggage would have been more than the actual flights and really for a 4 day trip do you really need any more than a backpack? Years ago I would have taken 2-3 cases and packed everything but the kitchen sink but as I've travelled more frequently I've learned to be ruthless and just pack what we need.
Plus when you're travelling from place-to-place by train, its far more practical (and safety conscious) to each have everything just a backpack so that everyone can manage their own and you can keep your stuff with you at all time.
Obviously, my children are older now and with little ones, this probably isn't as practical, but my youngest manages her back pack fine and if it does get too heavy, its not much more for another adult to carry.
When we did our 16 day trip round Italy, we inevitably needed to take hold luggage, but we stuck to the one backpack each and just took one large suitcase between the six of us so I'm not saying we never travel with suitcases but if we can avoid it, we do.
Packing Tips for Italy
Buy toiletries at the airport
Or pre-order them to collect at boots after security. 100ml bottles and miniatures are no good for a family of 6 anyway, so its far more practical (and cheaper) for us to buy full sized versions online and collect them before departing.
Purchase a bag at the airport
we have a few cloth re-usable Boots bags that we have picked up at the airport on previous visits. You are allowed one bag of items purchased at the airport per person as part of your allowance (yes even with the budget airline carriers). Quite often we'll use this bag to put in a few other bits if we're struggling to get everything in our backpacks and put the toiletries or meal deal purchased at the airport on top. We have done this for years and no one has ever checked what's in the bags. On the way home if we don't have space in backpacks, we'll grab a drink and ask to buy a bag at the airport abroad (don't try using the Boots back home as most airports abroad don't have a Boots!)
Use Vaccuum Bags
We use travel vacuum bags for all our clothes. These come with a hand held pump, so when you're re-packing abroad, you can still get the air out without a hoover. We have used these on nearly every trip over the last 3 years and they are the best purchase I've ever made. The difference in what you can get in a backpack, when using one of these is incredible. For more info on these click here
Use the Appropriate Sized Bag
We make sure we have the correct sized bags- the dimensions for EasyJet and Ryanair are slightly different, in that EasyJet offers a slightly larger allowance. I make sure our bags fit the Ryanair criteria, so that I'm confident I can use them on every flight. I made the investment a few years back and we have had our moneys worth on our various travellers. Get the bag here
Make a list and Stick to it!
Write what you're going to wear each day, obviously take one or two spare items in case of spillages. Take items that can be mixed and matched and just take your most comfortable shoes that you can wear with any outfit- wear these to go in to give you maximum space in your bag.
Take Magic Leaves!
These have been used on every trip we've ever done in Italy. I usually just take 3-4 sheets out of the packet and pop them in a food bag in my luggage to save space. They are great for hand washing (use half of one) or you can you can use them in a washing machine. By takin these, we can minimise what we take and wash essentials mid way through our break. Find these here
Choose your Accommodation Wisely
Following on from the point above, we try to choose accommodation which provides bedding, towels and a washing machine. Before I went to holiday parks in Europe, I didn't even know it was a thing to not supply bedding! By having a washing machine, we take the minimum underwear, pjs and basics and wash/dry them every few days to use again.
Our Itinerary for Italy
Day One: Turin
From Turin Airport to the City Centre
After touching down in Turin (Caselle Airport) we breezed through security, making it from the plane doors to arrivals in just 15 minutes. Getting to the city centre from the airport was a piece of cake. Since it's a relatively small airport, finding our way was simple. We followed the signs in the arrivals for the train, and voila! The station (Torino Aeroporto di Caselle) was right across from the airport exit, with trains departing every 30 minutes.
We purchased our tickets online from trainline.com whilst stood on the platform for just £3.12 each—no need to queue at ticket machines, change the language on the machine or validate tickets. The 25-minute journey took us into the heart of Turin (Turino Porta Nuova), where a quick check of Google Maps led us to our apartment, just a 10-minute walk from the station. Easy-peasy!
Our Apartment in Turin
The apartment we found on our website and it cost just £71.84 (£11.97pp) for the night. Our stay for the night- Casa Carlina was located behind a tall door which opened up in to a whole series of apartments round a courtyard, it was very deceptive from the street and would never have know what was there.
The host kept in contact with us before our trip and gave us easy video instructions via WhatsApp on how to obtain the key and gain access.
The apartment slept 6 people comprising of 2 double rooms and a double sofa bed in the living room. We found it to be really well equipped with everything you could possibly need for a stay of any length.
Find the accommodation here(at the time of writing the accommodation is currently not accepting new bookings but click here for other accommodation in Turin
Food for the Night
Once settled in we looked round the local area for a takeaway whilst the teens had a shower. We found a little gem round the corner called Pizzeria Assaje that whipped us up a feast of authentic Italian Pizzas, Arancini balls (my favourite- basically a ball of risotto rice with other fillings mixed in such as cheese and meat, then bread crumbed and deep fried ), Bucatini balls (basically the same as the Arancini Balls but with tube like spaghetti instead of rice) and 2 types of chips.
We sat and had a wine outside with the other diners whilst the staff cooked our pizzas, total bliss after a long travel day.
The total coming in at £44 for the food which was amazing for the quality and amount we got. I can't even tell you how happy I was with the cloth bag they gave us it all in- a special size bag to fit pizza boxes, that obviously came home with me!
After our feast we got an early night, tired from today's travels.
Day 2: Turin to Lake Garda Via Milan
Breakfast
We rose early, packed our belongings, and headed towards the City Centre, just 500 meters away. There, we indulged in a breakfast of traditional Italian pastries and coffee, while the kids savoured homemade milkshakes with cake and fruit salads.
With the temperature already reaching 20 degrees it was beautiful to sit out and enjoy the sun, something we hadn't seen in the UK this Easter. The breakfast was approximately £34 for us all (£5.66 each)
The morning was spent exploring Turin before making our way to the train station around noon to continue our journey. Opting not to book trains in advance, we preferred to take a more relaxed approach.
Our next destination, Pescheria Del Garda, required a train change in Milan. Although purchasing two separate tickets made no difference in price, we decided to split the journey and spend a few hours exploring Milan before catching another train to Lake Garda.
Types of Trains in Italy
In Italy, there are premium high speed train services offering a high standard of cleanliness, and guaranteed seating, but they come at a higher price. For example, the premium train from Turin to Milan would have cost us £189 for all six of us and taken just 59 minutes. Instead, we chose the regional train, which took 1 hour and 56 minutes but cost only £64.79 for our group (£10.80 each).
In the past we have booked in advance and managed to get the premium trains for a similar price, but as this was a last minute budget trip we sacrificed price over comfort. To be honest the regional trains were ok, we got seats and power sockets and it was clean plus the kids welcomed the slightly longer journey to chill on their gadgets out of the heat.
Lunch in Milan
Upon arrival in Milan around 2pm, we opted to grab lunch. We had plans to indulge in pizza and pasta at our favourite restaurant in Pescheria del Garda later that evening, so we decided to give in and treat the kids to McDonald's to keep them satisfied and save on costs (plus, they'd already spotted Hello Kitty Happy Meals!). The cost was pretty comparable to the UK, paying £37 for 4 adult meals and 2 happy meals (£6.17pp)
Milan to Pescheria Del Garda
Once refreshed, we walked around the area surrounding Milano Centrale Station. I must admit on our last visit we didn't really rate Milan as a city. We have visited the Duomo and Emanuelle Galleria only 12 months previous and the kids were desperate to get to Lake Garda where there is much more there for them to do. We cut Milan short and took the 4pm train to Pescheria Del Garda. Again, we opted for the regional train service to save money, which took 1hr 30 and cost £54.47 (£9.07pp)
All trains we used to the Trainline app to book once within the station. We arrived in Pescheria Del Garda around 5.30pm and walked for 15 minutes to reach our home for the next two nights.
Pescheria Del Garda
Back in August 2022, we spent a week at Butterfly Camping in Pescheria del Garda, using it as a base for exploring the area. It's an ideal spot, with the train station just a 15-minute walk away, offering connections to Verona, Venice, and Milan, allowing for easy exploration of multiple destinations in one trip.
Camp Facilities
The campground is also conveniently located just a 10-minute stroll from Pescheria del Garda Town. It boasts two outdoor pools, slides, entertainment for younger children, sports courts, an onsite shop, bar and restaurant, bike and scooter hire, and direct access to the lake. While the facilities are basic, if you enjoy holiday camps in the UK, you'll find plenty to love about what they offer in Italy.
Unfortunately, the pool wasn't open until May when the weather is at a more steady temperature, the kids still loved the site all the same.
A photo from a previous trip!
Our Accommodation
We booked the caravan with the camp site direct, opting for the 3 bed deluxe van, paying just £108 for the two nights (£18pp) which included towels and bedding. Again the van was basic but very clean and we spend most the time out on the deck or exploring the area.
In the area there is also Gardaland, a fantastic theme park which also features attractions such as a Legoland Splash Park, Peppa Pig Land and a Sea Life Centre. Tickets are available to purchase here.
Once settled in we had drinks in the bar before heading off to our favourite restaurant in the town- a floating restaurant with the most incredible ambient backdrop. The meals are very reasonably priced and the total cost for 6 meals plus 2 drinks each was £82 £13.66pp)
Day 3: Pescheria Del Garda
Day 3 was a laid-back affair with nothing too eventful to mention. We spent the entire day at Lake Garda, beginning with breakfast on our deck before strolling along the shore, exploring the local shops and church and feeding the ducks.
After lunch in town, we treated ourselves to the best gelato from a nearby shop before returning to the campsite to freshen up and unwind.
For dinner, we dined at the onsite restaurant while the kids enjoyed playing in the park and around the campground.
Day 4: Pescheria Del Garda to Verona
A Complete Wash Out!
Day 4 turned out to be a bit of a washout, quite literally. Originally, we planned to check out of Butterfly Camping at 10 am and spend the day exploring Verona before catching our 9 pm flight. However, we had seen the storm forecast the day before and had a chat with the campground staff in reception to see if they would let us stay longer. They were incredibly accommodating and allowed us to keep the van until 5 pm at no extra cost. Unfortunately, the rain poured relentlessly for a solid 12 hours, accompanied by thunder that seemed to go on forever. We were relieved not to have to venture out in such dismal weather.
Train to Verona
Once the rain finally subsided, we made our way to the train station and caught a train to Verona mid-afternoon, the journey just taking 16 minutes which set us back £20.35 (£3.40 per person). After a stroll around Verona, we opted for a taxi to the airport, which cost us £25.76 (£4.29 per person) as it turned out to be cheaper than the airport shuttle bus.
Of course, the turn of events was disappointing, considering our plans to visit the arena and Romeo & Juliet's Balcony. However, we had explored these attractions before, and given the dreadful weather conditions, we preferred the comfort and security of staying in Pescheria del Garda, where we could seek shelter if necessary.
We hope you've enjoyed reading our blog! Stay tuned for more tales from our Italian adventures in the future. Grazie for following along, check out some of our others!
