16 Best Winter Activities In Levi Finland
Picture this: you’re bundled up in your coziest winter gear, boots crunching through fresh snow, breathing some of the cleanest air in the world, and up above, cloud-like wisps begin to swirl in the sky, shifting into dazzling greens and purples as the Northern Lights make their magical appearance. This isn’t a snowy daydream—it’s Levi, Finland, your ultimate playground for an epic winter escape in Finnish Lapland.
So, why should Levi (pronounced LEH-vee like “heavy”, not like the jeans) be at the top of your Lapland adventure list? If you’ve been dreaming of a winter wonderland, Levi is where it all comes true. Tucked into the breathtaking landscapes of Finnish Lapland 105 miles (170km) north of the Arctic Circle, it feels like stepping into a life size snow globe.
For the adrenaline junkies, Levi is a winter paradise. Think racing down the ski slopes, speeding through the Arctic wilderness on a snowmobile, or flying around an ice track in a go kart or a Porsche (yes, that’s actually a thing here!)—there’s no shortage of heart-pounding activities in Levi. But Levi also knows how to slow things down. Imagine gliding through a snow-covered forest in a reindeer sleigh or sinking into a hot tub as snowflakes gently fall around you. It’s pure winter magic.
Levi is easy to reach, only 15 minutes from Kittilä airport (KTT) which has daily nonstop flights to many major European cities. But Levi is also remote enough to feel like a true escape, and packed with endless winter activity options that’ll make you want to stay for longer than you planned (I definitely ended up extending my trip by a few days when I was there).
This post will dive into the best things to do in Levi in the winter, and you’ll see why time in this little slice of Lapland should be your next big winter adventure!
Wait, is it Levi or Sirkka? For clarity’s sake, technically Levi is the fell (hill) where the ski resort is located and the actual town at the base of the ski resort is Sirkka (this is what you’ll see on Google Maps), however these are often conflated when discussing the area, and you’ll see the town referred to as Levi more often than Sirkka, and many things in town are called “Levi [something or other]”. For simplicity’s sake I’ll refer to both the ski resort and town as Levi here too.
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Table of Contents
Skiing and Snowboarding
Levi’s Zero Point is a world-class ski resort and one of the top reason people head to Levi in the winter. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Levi’s ski slopes have something for every level. The ski season is long, running from late October to early May, so there’s plenty of time to hit the slopes.
With 43 slopes, ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level, Zero Point caters to all abilities. For beginners, head to the South Slopes for gentle terrain. Intermediate skiers will love the blue and red runs with stunning views over the snow covered landscape, and adrenaline junkies can tackle Levi Black, a steep, technical challenge.
Skiing in Levi is affordable, with day passes around €55 for adults and €34 for kids, and discounts for multi-day passes. Gear rentals are around €40 per day for skis and €42 for snowboards. The ski schools offers lessons for all levels.
Pro Tip: If it’s a clear day, don’t miss the sunset views! (Which may be early afternoon depending on what time of year you’re there.)
Chase the Northern Lights
If the Northern Lights aren’t on your bucket list yet, they definitely should be! Levi is an amazing place to catch the Aurora Borealis swirling above the Arctic sky. It’s pure magic and an experience you’ll never forget no matter how many times you experience it. Chasing the Northern Lights is without a doubt one of the best winter activities in Levi.
The best time to spot the Northern Lights in Levi is between September and April, with peak viewing from October to March.
Some of the best do-it-yourself viewpoints are Kätkä fell, Immeljärvi and Sirkkajärvi lakes (which will be frozen solid), and the Panorama Hotel (though the hotel will have some light pollution from Levi). Be sure to download the free Aurora app, which is generally regarded as the best app to use for Northern Lights forecasts.
And if you want to exponentially increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Levi, book a Northern Lights chase tour. These tours drive you to remote areas with no light pollution, and the guides usually have hot drinks and snacks to keep you cozy by a fire while you wait. And don’t worry whether your phone camera is up to the task – guides will take professional photos to share with you after the tour.
Snowmobiling
If you’re itching for an adrenaline rush, snowmobiling through Levi’s Arctic wilderness is a no-brainer. Imagine flying across frozen lakes and weaving through snow-covered forests, the icy Arctic wind on your face. With over 886 kilometers of trails, there’s plenty to explore whether you’re a snowmobiling newbie or a seasoned rider.
Levi offers guided snowmobile tours for every level. Just starting out? A 2-hour beginner-friendly tour costs around €120. For the more experienced thrill-seekers, advanced tours run up to 5 hours (€200-€250) and take you deeper into the wild for some seriously breathtaking views.
New to snowmobiling? No problem. Tours include safety briefings, all the gear (helmets, thermal suits), and clear instructions.
Consider booking an evening snowmobile safari for a ride under the stars—and if you’re lucky, under the Northern Lights!
Reindeer Safaris
Looking for a cultural, one-of-a-kind experience? A reindeer safari is where it’s at. Reindeer have been central to life in Lapland for centuries, and these tours are more than just a sleigh ride—it’s a deep dive into the region’s heritage.
Picture yourself snuggled in a cozy sleigh, wrapped in blankets as reindeer pull you through a serene, snow-draped forest. The only sounds? Crunching snow and the jingle of harness bells. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and pure winter magic.
Reindeer safaris are perfect for all ages and run between 1-2 hours, costing around €90-€130. Bonus: you might even get to meet and feed the reindeer after your ride!
Insider Tip: To dive deeper into local culture, visit a nearby Sámi village. Many offer tours where you’ll learn all about Sámi traditions and their special connection with reindeer. It’s a fascinating, hands-on history lesson you won’t want to miss.
Husky Sledding
Dog lovers, this one’s for you! Husky sledding in Levi is the kind of experience that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear. The second those energetic huskies are harnessed up, they’re ready to run. And once they take off, you’re in for a fast, exhilarating ride through the snowy wilderness.
Before you set off, the mushers will introduce you to the dogs (they know each pup’s personality!) and give you a quick lesson on steering and braking. Tours typically last 2-4 hours and cost around €150-€200. You’ll switch between driving the sled and riding as a passenger, so you’ll get a taste of both the action and the stunning scenery.
Many tours also include a visit to a husky farm, where you can meet more of these adorable, hardworking pups and learn about their life in Lapland.
Relax in a Sauna
Nothing says Finland like a sauna, and after a day of winter activities, it’s a must. Fun fact: Finland, with 5.5 million people, has around 3.3 million saunas!
In Levi, many saunas are traditional Finnish wood-burning dry saunas, so you’ll enjoy the crackle of firewood and the earthy scent of smoke. The real magic though? Dashing from the sauna to roll in the snow or, if you’re brave, taking a cold plunge through a hole in the ice.
I did the sauna-then-ice-plunge cycle a few times (through a hole in lake Immeljärvi!) and truly never though I’d say this, but I highly recommend it! While the actual dunking yourself in ice water experience is pretty shocking – literally – you feel so incredibly relaxed afterwards. If nothing else, it’s worth doing for the bragging rights!
For an authentic experience try a lakeside sauna with an dip into the lake through a hole in the ice. The lakeside sauna I went to was at Immelkartano Hotel (pic below; and really it’s worth doing at least once despite the expression on my face!) and they also had a few outdoor hot tubs, indoor changing areas, and it was a short walk from the Sirkka town center around lake Immeljärvi. If you’re staying in a cabin, chances are you have a private sauna right at your doorstep. For a less rustic option head to Levi Spa Water World for a sauna and a soak under the stars (you do not have to stay at the attached hotel to access the water park).
Ice Fishing
For something a bit more peaceful (and quintessentially Finnish), try ice fishing on one of Levi’s frozen lakes. On a guided tour, your guide will handle all the setup—drilling the hole, setting up the gear—so you can just drop your line and relax.
Whether you catch something or not, ice fishing is all about soaking in the quiet beauty of a Lapland winter. And if you do reel in a fish, some tours will cook it for you right there on the ice,
Ice Floating
If you’re looking for a seriously unique and oddly relaxing winter experience, let me introduce you to ice floating. Yep, you heard that right—floating in the icy waters of the Arctic! But before you imagine freezing your toes off, don’t worry, this isn’t a polar plunge. You’ll be wrapped up in a thermal survival suit that keeps you warm and dry as you drift peacefully through the frozen waters. It’s like the ultimate Arctic spa treatment—minus the heat, of course!
Levi’s ice floating tours are designed for all levels, so no experience needed—just a willingness to embrace the surreal calm of the Arctic waters. The suits are fully insulated, so you’ll stay toasty warm while you float. The sensation of being completely weightless in a frozen lake, with nothing but the sound of your own breathing, is the ultimate way to disconnect from everything.
Most tours last about an hour. You’ll be guided through the whole process, from getting suited up to slipping into the water. And the best part? The peaceful, zen-like feeling that comes with it. It’s Arctic magic in its purest form.
Stay in a Glass Igloo
Ready for a sleepover that’ll blow all your other sleepovers out of the water? In Levi, you can cozy up in a glass igloo and experience the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Picture this: you’re lying in bed under a glass roof, watching the stars twinkle above or, if the night’s on your side, the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. It’s Arctic magic, and trust me, it’s a night you’ll never forget.
Levi’s glass igloos are like luxury winter cabins but with next-level views. Think panoramic scenes right from your bed, heated floors (because, yes, we’re still in the Arctic!), and private bathrooms. So you can soak in all the beauty of Lapland without sacrificing any of those creature comforts. I stayed at both Levin Iglut and Northern Lights Ranch, and let me tell you, they were equally magical. (Check out my full reviews by clicking through!)
When it comes to Arctic accommodations, glass igloos nail it. You get warmth, privacy, and out-of-this-world stargazing—all without freezing your toes off. If cozy luxury is your vibe, a night in a glass igloo is the way to experience winter in Lapland.
Book Northern Lights Ranch Here
Snowshoeing
If peace and quiet are calling your name, snowshoeing through Levi’s winter landscapes is the way to answer. There’s something magical about wandering through snow-blanketed forests with only the crunch of snow beneath your feet to break the silence. It’s the perfect way to slow down and explore Levi at your own pace.
And here’s the best part: no special skills are required. If you can walk, you can snowshoe! Levi’s got plenty of trails for all levels, from beginner to expert. For a laid-back stroll, check out the Levitunturi Fell trails with stunning panoramic views. Or, if you’re in the mood for a scenic loop, the Immeljärvi Trail circles a frozen lake for a peaceful trek.
Oh, and don’t forget your camera—Levi’s snow-covered scenery is like a postcard come to life. For jaw-dropping photos, the summit of Levitunturi Fell offers sweeping views that’ll make your Instagram followers swoon.
Pro Tip: Snowshoeing gives you access to hidden spots you can’t reach when the snow’s deep. Head out at sunrise or sunset to catch that magical golden light over the snow—it’s photographer’s gold.
Cross-Country Skiing
Want to try something super Nordic? Cross-country skiing is the way to go. It’s a killer workout, sure, but it’s also a peaceful way to explore Levi’s snow-covered wilderness at your own speed. With 230 kilometers of well-maintained trails, Levi is a cross-country skier’s dream.
If you’re just starting out, hit the Rakkavaara Trail for a scenic, easy ride—no scary inclines here. Feeling ambitious? The Levi Summit Trail is a tougher workout, but those panoramic views from the top are so worth the burn.
What makes cross-country skiing in Levi special is the sheer serenity. As you glide through the snow, the silence of the Arctic wilderness surrounds you, broken only by the soft swish of your skis. It’s like a moving meditation through a winter wonderland.
Ice Karting
Got a need for speed? Try ice karting in Levi. Imagine whipping around a track completely made of ice, the Arctic wind in your face as you drift through corners like a pro. It’s go-karting with a thrilling winter twist that’ll leave your adrenaline pumping and your cheeks hurting from all the grinning.
These karts are custom-built for ice, giving you just enough grip to stay in control while sliding across the track. Whether you’re a karting newbie or an ice-racing champ, the whole point is to have fun. The icy twists and turns are tricky, but that’s what makes it so much fun—you’ll be racing to beat your friends to the finish line while navigating some wild drifts.
Races typically last about 10-15 minutes, with prices between €45-€60 per person. Helmets and gear are included, and you’ll get a quick safety briefing (and a few handling tips) before you hit the ice. Racing around a frozen track is one winter thrill you won’t want to miss!
Fat Biking
If you’re looking for a cool twist on winter activities, fat biking in Levi is where it’s at. These bikes come with oversized tires that float over the snow, letting you cruise through winter trails like a boss. Whether you’re pedaling through quiet forests or open Arctic plains, fat biking is a fun and active way to soak in Levi’s beauty—without breaking too much of a sweat. (And if you want an even easier ride, go for an electric fat bike!)
Don’t worry if you’re not a cycling pro—fat bikes are super stable on snow and ice, so anyone can enjoy the ride. One of the most popular trails is the Aurora Trail, where you can pedal through serene landscapes and, if you’re lucky, catch the Northern Lights overhead in the evening.
And if you’re a shutterbug, fat biking is perfect for reaching those scenic, off-the-beaten-path spots. It’s the ideal mix of adventure and the peaceful beauty of the Arctic.
Ice Driving In A Porsche
For something truly unforgettable, there’s the Porsche Ice Experience. Yes, you read that right—you get to drive a Porsche 911 (or another top model) on a specially designed ice track. Expert instructors will guide you through drifting, braking, and handling these luxury cars on ice, making you feel like a pro rally driver in no time. Whether you’re new to ice driving or want to refine your skills, this is the kind of experience you’ll be talking about for years.
Tobogganing
Looking for some light-hearted winter fun? Tobogganing in Levi is the perfect way to tap into that childhood joy of racing down a snowy hill. No matter your age, the thrill of hopping on a sled and zooming to the bottom never gets old. It’s the kind of simple, carefree fun that makes winter so awesome.
Levi has a dedicated toboggan run right in the village, making it super easy to rent a sled, hike up the hill, and let gravity do the rest. The slope is beginner-friendly, so it’s ideal for families, friends, or even solo adventurers looking for a quick adrenaline fix.
Even better, the toboggan run is lit up at night, so you can enjoy some evening sledding under the glow of the Arctic sky. Tobogganing is free to access, and sled rentals are around €10-€15 for the day, making it a fun and affordable addition to your winter itinerary. Plus, the laughs you’ll share on the way down? Priceless.e.
Finnish Horse Rides
For a peaceful and magical way to explore Levi’s snowy landscapes, hop on a Finnish horse and trot through the winter wilderness. These sturdy horses are built for the cold, and riding through snow-covered forests and across open fells is pure serenity. The sound of hooves crunching in the snow and the wide-open Arctic views make this a dreamy, one-of-a-kind winter experience.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or a total beginner, these horses are calm and easy to handle. Guided tours will lead you along scenic trails. Some tours even include a break at a cozy Lappish hut for a warm drink by the fire.
Tours last 1-2 hours, and all the necessary winter gear (including helmets) is provided. For an extra touch of magic, book a twilight ride. As the sun sets, the snowy landscape becomes even more enchanting during magic hour. And who knows? You might even catch the Northern Lights flickering overhead as you ride through the snow.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, hitting the slopes, or flying across the Arctic wilderness on a husky sled, Levi is the ultimate winter escape. It’s got everything you need for an unforgettable adventure—thrills, serenity, and a whole lot of life-size snow globe magic. Levi wraps up the best of winter into one epic package. Hopefully this list of the best winter activities in Levi will help you plan an epic Arctic adventure! And once you’re planned, check out my handy winter trip packing guide.