Sodankylä

Europe

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Finland

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Sodankylä

Sodankylä, Finland, offers travelers a gateway to the heart of Lapland which is rich in natural beauty and culture. Located north of the Arctic Circle, this beautiful town is known for its pristine wilderness, with endless forests, rivers, and lakes that are perfect for nature lovers.

During the summer, Sodankylä will have endless daylight from the Midnight Sun. This period is perfect for hiking, fishing, and exploring the stunning Pyhä-Luosto National Park nearby. In this park, you can find ancient hills, scenic trails, and amethyst mines where visitors can dig for their own gems.

When winter comes, Sodankylä transforms into a snowy wonderland, with northern lights frequently dancing across the winter sky, attracting visitors from all around the world. For an authentic Arctic experience, try a reindeer or husky sled ride through the snow-covered landscape. You can also try winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

Sodankylä is also home to the annual Midnight Sun Film Festival, attracting cinephiles with its unique screening schedule and international film selections. The town’s historic wooden church, dating back to 1689, is one of the oldest in Lapland and provides a glimpse into the region’s past.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Sodankylä offers a memorable and enriching experience in the heart of Finnish Lapland.

Travel Tips for Sodankyla

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Sodankylä

A guide to Sodankylä's local transportation

Walking

Bus

Taxi

Car Rental

Bike Rental

Sodankyla is a small town, so getting around on foot is manageable in general. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you might need to use other public transport.

Practical Tips for Sodankylä

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How do I get to Sodankyla?

To get to Sodankyla, you can fly to Rovaniemi Airport. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car for a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive north.

Alternatively, you can board a train to Rovaniemi from major cities in Finland, like Helsinki. Once you arrive at Rovaniemi, you can take the bus to Sodankyla.

How to see the Northern Lights in Sodankyla?

To see the Northern Lights in Sodankyla, you should visit during the dark winter months, typically from September to April. Stay in areas far from city lights for optimal viewing.

The Aurora Borealis is often visible on clear nights. If you want, you can join guided Northern Lights tours to enhance your experience, as they provide transport to prime viewing spots and offer local insights on the phenomenon.

What are the top things to do in Sodankyla?

There are several things you must do when you’re visiting Sodankyla. First, explore the beautiful Pyhä-Luosto National Park, which is known for its scenic hiking trails and amethyst mines.

During the summer, experience the fascinating Midnight Sun phenomenon, or, if you’re visiting in winter, witness the enchanting Northern Lights. You should also enjoy winter activities like skiing or husky sledding.

Next, visit Sodankyla’s historic wooden church, one of the oldest in Lapland, and attend the Midnight Sun Film Festival for unique cinematic experiences.

Other things to do include visiting Tankavaara Gold Village, which offers gold panning and insights into Lapland’s gold rush history.

When is the best time to visit Sodankyla?

The best time to visit Sodankyla depends on your interest. If you want to experience the Midnight Sun and other activities like hiking, you should visit Sodankyla between June and August.

However, if you prefer to see the Northern Lights and enjoy winter sports, the ideal time to visit would be from September to April.

What is the food like in Sodankyla?

Sodankyla’s cuisine reflects traditional Lapland cuisine, with hearty, locally sourced ingredients. Reindeer meat is popular, often served as steaks, sausages, or in stews. Another popular ingredient is fresh fish like salmon and Arctic char, which are often served smoked or grilled.

You should also try dishes that feature locally foraged berries, like cloudberries and lingonberries, which are often used in desserts, jams, and sauces.

Other things to try rieska, a traditional Lapland flatbread that is often served with butter or cheese, and leipäjuusto, a Finnish squeaky cheese typically enjoyed with cloudberry jam.