Seeing the Northern Lights for the first time is nothing short of magical. For me, this dream came true during a trip to Finland. The journey started in Rovaniemi, where I had envisioned the elusive auroras dancing in the sky. But as luck would have it, our first night turned into a downpour. Despite the rain, I couldn't shake the excitement, and we decided to drive around the outskirts of Rovaniemi, hoping for a break in the clouds. The air was crisp, and we even stopped at a camping spot to light up a bonfire—a moment of calm, warmth, and silent hope for the sky to clear.
The next night, we got a quick glimpse of the lights, a small taste of what was to come. It was a brief, enchanting view, but the real show awaited us in Levi. Arriving at the glass igloos in Levi was like stepping into another world. The clear sky stretched above, and it felt like nature was on cue.
As darkness fell, the Northern Lights appeared—first in soft swirls and then growing into a vibrant green and purple display that filled the entire sky. Unlike the fleeting glimpse from the night before, this time the lights stayed with us, illuminating the glass ceiling as we lay in awe. They danced and glowed all night, a reminder of the magic that still exists in the world when we least expect it.
It’s one of those memories that doesn’t just stay with you; it becomes part of you. This journey, marked by adventure, anticipation, and awe, made my first sighting of the Northern Lights an unforgettable experience.
Suggested Itinerary for a Finnish Adventure and Northern Lights Experience
If you're inspired to chase the Northern Lights and explore the beauty of Finland, here’s a recommended itinerary based on my journey. This schedule balances urban sightseeing in Helsinki, the thrill of a Northern Lights tour, and the unforgettable experience of staying in glass igloos under the arctic sky.
My Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival: Helsinki, Finland
Stay: Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel, Helsinki
Day 2
Stay: Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel, Helsinki
Day 3
Departing Flight: Helsinki to Rovaniemi
Stay: Arctic Light Hotel, Rovaniemi
Activity: Northern Lights Tour
Day 4
Activity: Santa Claus Village Tour
Stay: Arctic Light Hotel, Rovaniemi
Day 5
Stay: Levin Iglut Golden Crown Glass Igloos, Levi
Day 6
Stay: Levin Iglut Golden Crown Glass Igloos, Levi
Departing Flight: Rovaniemi to Helsinki
Stay: Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel, Helsinki
Day 7
Departing Flight: Helsinki, Finland
This itinerary allows you to experience Finland's rich culture in Helsinki, the magic of the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, and the unique thrill of sleeping under the Northern Lights in Levi's glass igloos. Each day is crafted to capture Finland's wintry charm and the beauty of the auroras. Safe travels and clear skies!