Reaching the northernmost part of Finnish Lapland is easier than you might expect. Whether you fly directly to Ivalo Airport, arrive by train and bus from the south, or travel across the border from Norway, the journey brings you straight into the heart of Arctic wilderness. Here, wide-open landscapes, calm roads, and seamless connections make travelling comfortable in every season.
Arriving by air
Ivalo Airport is the northernmost airport in Finland and the most convenient arrival point for Saariselkä, Ivalo, Inari, and the surrounding region. The airport offers year-round flights from Helsinki and seasonal direct flights from several European cities during the winter.
The airport is small, modern, and easy to navigate. Services include cafés, car rental desks, airport taxis, and pre-booked transfers. Winter brings additional seasonal services, such as frequent airport buses connecting to Saariselkä, Kiilopää, Kakslauttanen, and other accommodation areas.
Starting your adventure is effortless—step outside the terminal and you are already surrounded by Arctic wilderness.
Operates mainly during winter from every Finnair flight. Runs between Ivalo Airport, Saariselkä, Kiilopää, Kakslauttanen and key accommodation areas. Tickets available online or from the driver (depending on provider). Eskelinen Lapin Linjat operates also during summer season.
Door-to-door service for individuals and groups. Offered usually by your acoommodation operator. Recommended for late-night arrivals or remote destinations.
Taxis are available flexibly according to flight schedules. They are ideal for quick transfers to Ivalo village or nearby accommodation. For car rental, several rental companies operate directly at the terminal. A rent car is a good choice for independent travel and exploring multiple destinations within the region.
E8: Western Lapland and coastal Norway route connections.
Example Driving Distances
Rovaniemi → Saariselkä: 260 km
Rovaniemi → Inari: 320 km
Kirkenes (Norway) → Inari: 120 km
Tromsø (Norway) → Saariselkä: 480 km
Helsinki → Saariselkä: 1,100 km
Seasonal Driving Tips
Winter tyres are mandatory everywhere in Finland during the winter season. Road maintenance is excellent, but weather conditions can change rapidly. Reindeer and wildlife may appear on the roads year-round—drive with caution.
Norway is easily accessible from Northern Lapland by car, bus or plane. Many travelers enjoy taking a day trip from Lapland North to the Kirkenes region, where they can experience the Arctic Ocean and even try catching king crabs. It’s also possible to embark on a Northern Lapland road trip, which takes you through some of the most spectacular highlights of both Northern Norway and Lapland North.
The closest international link between Lapland North and Kirkenes. Border crossing is at Näätämö. Travel time is approx. 40 minutes by car to the Finnish border and 1.5 h to Inari. Seasonal bus connections operate between Kirkenes and Inari/Saariselkä.
By car from Tromsø, Alta, or Nordkapp to Lapland North
Well-maintained Arctic roads. Stunning scenic drives year-round. Suitable for self-drivers and road-trip travelers.
By air with Finnair connection
Lapland North is easily reached from northern Norway, making it an ideal multi-country Arctic route. You can easily reach Ivalo Airport with a five time weekly connection from Kirkenes from March till October.
