The best museums Finnish Lapland

A must-see cultural and architectural site in Rovaniemi, with its glass roof stretching over 170 m along the banks of the Ounasjoki River. Comprising the Arctic Center of the University of Rovaniemi and the Provincial Museum of Lapland, the complex is dedicated to the nature and cultures of the peoples of the Far North. History is not forgotten, with the painful episode of the Second World War: in October 1944, the German army destroyed 90% of Rovaniemi.

It's hard not to be impressed by the quality of the exhibits and the educational aspect of the displays. We learn a whole host of things, from the fact that "Arctic" comes from Arktikos in Sami, meaning "land of the great bear", to the fact that the giant crab was introduced by man into the Barents Sea, throwing the entire ecosystem out of balance. In short, this entertaining tour is highly instructive. Everyday objects are on display, and good films are shown to help you learn more about the Sami people. Allow at least 2 hours for your visit.

The museum regularly offers temporary exhibitions, which are less costly to enter (usually 5 euros), and allow you to rediscover the site over and over again. They also offer a less time-consuming and different approach to the museum, for visitors in a hurry who would still like to enter this incredible building. It's a must-see!

Little bonus: the café-restaurant in the center is delicious! Perfect for a gourmet break after your visit.

The museum is dedicated to the Finnish painter Reidar Särestöniemi (1925-1981) and presents nearly 500 works including pastels, watercolours, oil paintings, drawings and woodcuts. The exhibitions change every six months according to the theme. The artist, who studied in Helsinki, returned to live and paint all his life on his native farm, drawing his inspiration from the Lapland landscapes and nature. Also temporary exhibitions.

Ideal if you want to find out more about the search for and exploitation of gold: the exhibition presents the history of gold prospecting in Lapland, from the rush on the Ivalojoki River in 1868 to the present day. Also on display is an overview of gold prospecting around the world, the working conditions of gold miners, and a collection of precious stones. Bonus: the gold site offers you the chance to pan for gold yourself (outdoors in summer, or inside the panning site in winter).

Completed in 1752, the church is located in the heart of the forest. You can reach it through a 5 km trail. it's a magical place, where some couples get married.

An underground amusement park with Santa Claus as its main theme. Here, you'll meet elves, reindeer and all the logistics that go to make up the Christmas miracle! Fun with children, the atmosphere is cheerful and exotic, and despite the high prices and permanent crowds, it's an extra dimension to the Santa Claus Secret Forest that's worth appreciating. Reservations recommended. Tickets valid for all attractions on two consecutive days. Be warned: the area is very, very, very touristy!

Those who want to know more about the snowmobile and the lumberjack's life in the area will find all the info here. A large collection of snowmobiles and chainsaws is on display. The collection traces the history of this indispensable means of locomotion for the local population. Today, it is widely used by tourists to discover the vastness of Lapland's landscapes, but it has many applications, even on reindeer farms. There's also a sawmill museum... It's both typical and atypical!

Visiting this museum is a good idea to learn more about the habits and customs of the region, especially through a collection of objects and costumes. There are permanent exhibitions, as well as several temporary exhibitions that change every 2 to 4 years. Located in the heart of the city, it is a must-see for visitors to the city who are curious to learn more about the past and the values of the region, on which today's communities are based.

A modern, interactive site where you can learn all about sustainable forestry. The exhibits are well designed for children, who will quickly understand the process of photosynthesis and the principle of eco-responsibility. You can also get lost in a reconstituted birch forest, to feel the life of the forest at night. National park information desk for hiking and fishing sites (maps available). Extended opening hours in high season; see website.

Built in a former postal depot dating from 1933, the space offers a large number of cultural events, mainly musical, but it also has a solid collection of contemporary art. It is also the home of the Lapland Chamber Orchestra. Temporary exhibitions change four times a year. It is an important cultural venue for the city, but it is also a place where you can meet to admire the beauty of the premises, in perfect harmony with the spirit of the place, and enjoy a coffee or a quiet moment in the complex's library.

The Aine Art Museum is located in the centre of Tornio, in the same building that houses the main library of the city. The museum offers a permanent exhibition as well as temporary exhibitions that change every 4 to 6 years. Eila and Veli Aine, art lovers, collected a large number of works which have since been bequeathed to the museum. On the program: Finnish paintings of expressionist inspiration. A must-see if you have some time in the area (or if it's raining!). The plus: numerous events and art education workshops.

This is a historic site in Kittilä, which is also an ancient Saami sacrificial site on the shore of Lake Taatsi, near the village of Pokka. The surrounding area is superb for walking. On Myllyjoentie, you can also visit the very active tourist office, which will be happy to provide you with information on accommodation and activities: reindeer farm visits, ice fishing, snowmobile tours... Website in English (www.levi.fi).