Kittila

Located beyond the Arctic Circle, Kittila serves as the main gateway to the famous Levi resort and the endless expanses of Finnish Lapland. When planning a trip to this snow-covered region of Finland, travelers can choose the most convenient route, whether it is a quick flight or a scenic overland journey. Getting here is straightforward thanks to the developed transport infrastructure connecting the region with major cities.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the heart of Lapland is to take a flight to Kittila Airport (KTT). This air hub receives scheduled and charter flights, especially during the high winter season, ensuring a direct link to the region.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to neighboring Rovaniemi, located 133 km away, or the Swedish town of Pajala (82 km). Both airports serve as convenient arrival points for those seeking more flexible connection options when planning their journey.

As there is no railway station in Kittila itself, a journey by train usually involves a transfer to a bus or taxi for the final leg of the trip. The nearest railway station is Kolari, located approximately 80 km away, where trains arrive, including overnight express trains from Helsinki.

Another popular option is to travel to the major transport hub in the city of Rovaniemi (133 km). This route is often chosen by tourists wishing to combine their trip with a visit to the Santa Claus Village before heading further north.

Bus services connect the resort with various cities in the region, offering a reliable and scenic way to travel. The most popular route is from the city of Rovaniemi: comfortable buses cover the distance of about 155 km in approximately 2.5 hours.

Trips are often coordinated with train and flight arrival schedules, making transfers as convenient as possible. The journey passes through snow-covered forests and colorful Lappish landscapes, turning the road trip into a sightseeing tour in itself.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the northern nature. A drive from Rovaniemi will take about 1.7 hours, during which you will drive approximately 149 km on a high-quality highway.

It is also convenient to arrive from the Swedish side: the journey from the town of Pajala is about 100 km and takes approximately 1.4 hours. Roads in this region are maintained in excellent condition, but in winter, drivers should consider weather conditions and the possibility of reindeer appearing on the roadway.

A trip to Lapland requires some preparation so that the harsh climate and local features do not catch you off guard. Here are several recommendations that will make your journey to Kittila comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The main principle is layering. Be sure to bring high-quality thermal base layers, wool sweaters, a windproof jacket, and warm footwear with thick soles, as temperatures can drop below -20°C in winter.
2. Transport. If you do not plan to stay in one place, renting a car is the best choice. However, keep winter driving conditions in mind. Within the Levi resort, it is convenient to use the special ski buses.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, even in small cafes and souvenir shops, so carrying large amounts of cash is not necessary.
4. Health and Safety. The region is very safe, but the cold is the main enemy. Use water-free face cream to protect against frost and always have insurance that covers winter sports.
5. Communication. Most locals speak excellent English. Knowing a couple of phrases in Finnish ("Kiitos" — thank you) will be received warmly, but is not a necessity.
6. Local Etiquette. Finns value personal space and quiet. In saunas, it is customary to enter without clothing (usually men and women are separated, unless it is a family sauna); this is an important part of the culture.
7. What to Avoid. Do not walk on frozen bodies of water without being certain of the ice thickness, and do not attempt to feed reindeer on the roads — this can be dangerous.
8. Northern Lights. Download special apps to track the Aurora Borealis to increase your chances of witnessing this natural wonder.

By following these simple rules, you will be able to fully focus on the beauty of the northern nature and get the maximum enjoyment from your holiday.