Ylläs, Finland Travel Guide

Discover Ylläs, a Finnish Lapland gem offering stunning landscapes, thrilling winter sports, and the magical Northern Lights in a serene and welcoming atmosphere.

Ylläs, nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is a magical destination that offers a blend of serene natural beauty and thrilling outdoor adventures. Known for its stunning landscapes, Ylläs boasts the highest fell in Finland, making it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The area is enveloped by two national parks, Pallas-Yllästunturi and Ylläs-Aakenus, providing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and peaceful walks amidst ancient forests. Winter transforms Ylläs into a snow-covered wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. With one of the longest ski seasons in Europe, Ylläs features over 60 slopes and extensive cross-country trails that cater to all skill levels. The village atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with cozy log cabins and traditional Finnish saunas offering relaxation after an adventurous day. Aside from outdoor activities, Ylläs is an excellent spot to experience the Northern Lights. The dark, unpolluted skies of Lapland create ideal conditions for witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon. Moreover, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture by trying traditional Lappish cuisine and participating in unique activities like reindeer and husky sledding. Ylläs promises an unforgettable holiday experience, combining natural splendor with rich cultural traditions.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ylläs.

Visit between September and March for the best chance to see the Northern Lights.
Rent a cabin with a traditional Finnish sauna for a true local experience.
Try local delicacies like reindeer stew and wild berry desserts.
Book ski passes and equipment in advance during the peak winter season.
Explore the national parks on guided tours to learn about the unique flora and fauna.

Explore Ylläs: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Ylläs

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Hotel Iso-Syöte

Experience the charm of Hotel Iso-Syöte in Finnish Lapland, where adventure meets relaxation in stunning natural surroundings.

4.5

Kasurila

Discover the thrilling slopes and serene landscapes of Kasurila, Finland's premier ski resort and outdoor adventure destination for all seasons.

4.4

Messilä Ski Resort

Experience the thrill of winter sports at Messilä Ski Resort, offering diverse slopes, ski rentals, and expert instruction amidst stunning Finnish landscapes.

4.2

Lapland Safaris Rovaniemi

Discover the enchanting adventures of Lapland Safaris Rovaniemi - from husky sledding to Northern Lights tours, experience the magic of Finnish Lapland.

4.6

Best landmarks in Ylläs

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Santa Claus Village

Experience the magic of Christmas year-round at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland, where holiday cheer meets thrilling adventure.

4.2

The SnowCastle of Kemi

Discover the SnowCastle of Kemi, an extraordinary winter wonderland featuring stunning ice sculptures, a unique ice hotel, and unforgettable winter activities.

4.0

Laajis - Urban Outdoors

Explore Laajis, the ultimate urban outdoor adventure destination in Jyväskylä, offering skiing, disc golf, and family-friendly fun.

4.0

Huskypoint Käpälämäki

Discover the magic of husky sledding at Huskypoint Käpälämäki, a top tourist attraction in Finnish Lapland, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty.

4.8

Best restaurants in Ylläs

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Jari-Pekka Hartola

Experience the best of Finnish hospitality at Jari-Pekka Hartola—your perfect stop for food and fuel on your journey through Finland.

3.8

Scandic Jyväskylä Station

Discover comfort and culinary delights at Scandic Jyväskylä Station - your gateway to exploring Finland's vibrant heart.

4.1

Neste

Discover Neste in Jämsä: Your one-stop destination for dining, shopping, and vehicle care on your travels through Finland.

3.9

ABC

Discover local flavors at ABC Restaurant in Seinäjoki – where comfort meets convenience with every meal.

3.8

Best bars in Ylläs

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Helsinki Airport

Experience seamless travel at Helsinki Airport, Finland's premier international gateway, blending modern design and exceptional services for all travelers.

4.4

Solo Sokos Hotel Lahden Seurahuone

Discover Lahti from the comfort of Solo Sokos Hotel Lahden Seurahuone, where elegance meets local charm in Finland's vibrant city.

4.4

Scandic Jyväskylä Station

Experience the comfort of Scandic Jyväskylä Station, where modern amenities meet Finnish hospitality in the heart of Jyväskylä.

4.1

Neste

Experience the perfect blend of convenience and comfort at Neste, your go-to stop in Jämsä for dining, fueling, and shopping.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Ylläs

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Holiday Club Turun Caribia

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and leisure at Holiday Club Turun Caribia, Turku's ultimate hotel and aquatic getaway.

3.9

Shell Parkano

Experience the convenience of Shell Parkano - a gas station, restaurant, and car wash all in one, perfect for travelers in Finland.

3.7

Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel

Discover the lively nightlife and luxurious comfort of Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel, the ultimate destination for relaxation and entertainment in Joensuu.

4.0

Scandic Jyväskylä Station

Discover modern comfort and local charm at Scandic Jyväskylä Station, your perfect base for exploring Jyväskylä's cultural treasures.

4.1

Best shops in Ylläs

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Best Shops

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Santa Claus Village

Experience the wonder of Christmas all year round at Santa Claus Village, the official home of Santa Claus, in Rovaniemi, Finland.

4.2

Forum

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Forum Shopping Mall in Helsinki, where modern retail meets Finnish culture and culinary delights.

4.1

Shopping Centre Revontuli

Explore Shopping Centre Revontuli in Rovaniemi for a unique blend of Finnish shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.

4.0

Neste

Discover convenience at Neste: fueling your journey with food, car wash services, and friendly service in Jämsä, Finland.

3.9

Explore Ylläs on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Ylläs, mapped for you.

Ylläs Essentials

Ylläs is located in the Finnish Lapland, approximately 150 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. The nearest airport is Kittilä Airport, which is about 40 kilometers from Ylläs. From Kittilä Airport, you can take a taxi, or a pre-arranged shuttle service to Ylläs. Another option is to fly into Rovaniemi Airport, which is around 170 kilometers away, and then take a bus or rental car to Ylläs. If you prefer traveling by train, the nearest train station is in Kolari, about 35 kilometers from Ylläs. From Kolari, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.
Ylläs offers various modes of transportation to suit your needs. During winter, ski buses operate regularly between Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi villages, as well as to the ski resorts. Taxis are available and can be booked in advance. Car rentals are also popular, especially for those who wish to explore the broader Lapland region. For a more authentic experience, consider renting a snowmobile or participating in husky or reindeer sledding tours.
The official currency in Finland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Ylläs, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available in both Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi villages. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case you visit more remote areas.
Ylläs is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and it is rare for tourists to be targeted. Nevertheless, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. Winter sports enthusiasts should also be cautious and follow safety instructions when skiing or snowboarding.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services. Medical facilities are available in Ylläs, including a health center in Äkäslompolo. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress warmly in layers; temperatures can drop drastically, especially in winter. Avoid wearing overly flashy clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Finland is predominantly Lutheran, but religious practices are generally private. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respect public transport schedules. Don't make loud noises or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Don’t be surprised if people are reserved at first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as reindeer meat and salmon. Don't leave food on your plate; it is considered wasteful.
To experience Ylläs like a local, visit the local markets and try traditional Finnish foods. Engage in popular local activities such as ice fishing, sauna bathing followed by a dip in an ice hole, and berry picking during the summer. Take advantage of the extensive cross-country skiing trails and enjoy the midnight sun in summer or the Northern Lights in winter. Don’t miss Ylläs' unique events like the Polar Night Jazz Festival and the Ylläs-Levi ski marathon.

When is the best time to visit Ylläs?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Ylläs

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Ylläs. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMoi
  [Moy]
- GoodbyeNäkemiin
  [Nak-eh-meen]
- YesKyllä
  [Koo-lah]
- NoEi
  [Ay]
- Please/You're welcomeOle hyvä
  [Oh-leh hew-vah]
- Thank youKiitos
  [Key-tos]
- Excuse me/SorryAnteeksi
  [Ahn-tehk-see]
- How are you?Kuinka voit?
  [Kween-kah voyt]
- Fine. And you?Hyvin. Entä sinä?
  [Hoo-vin. En-tah see-nah]
- Do you speak English?Puhutko englantia?
  [Poo-hoot-koh eng-lahn-tee-ah]
- I don't understandEn ymmärrä
  [En ym-mahr-rah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVoisin nähdä ruokalistan, kiitos
  [Voy-sin neh-dah roo-kah-lis-tahn, kee-tohs]
- I don't eat meatEn syö lihaa
  [En suh loo-ah]
- Cheers!Kippis!
  [Kip-pis]
- I would like to pay, pleaseHaluaisin maksaa, kiitos
  [Hah-lu-ai-sin mahk-sah, kee-tohs]
- Help!Apua!
  [Ah-poo-ah]
- Go away!Mene pois!
  [Meh-neh poh-is]
- Call the Police!Soita poliisille!
  [Soy-tah poh-lee-see-leh]
- Call a doctor!Soita lääkärille!
  [Soy-tah lah-kah-rih-leh]
- I'm lostOlen eksyksissä
  [Oh-lehn eks-uhk-sis-sah]
- I'm illOlen sairas
  [Oh-lehn sah-ee-rahs]
- I'd like to buy...Haluan ostaa...
  [Hah-lu-ahn os-tah]
- I'm just lookingKatson vain
  [Kaht-son vain]
- How much is it?Paljonko se maksaa?
  [Pahl-yon-koh seh mahk-sah]
- That's too expensiveSe on liian kallis
  [Seh ohn lee-ahn kahl-lis]
- Can you lower the price?Voisitko laskea hintaa?
  [Voy-see-t-koh lahs-kah hin-tah]
- What time is it?Paljonko kello on?
  [Pahl-yon-koh kell-oh ohn]
- It's one o'clockKello on yksi
  [Kell-oh ohn uhk-see]
- Half past (10)Puoli (kymmenen)
  [Pwoh-lee (kuhm-meh-nehn)]
- MorningAamu
  [Ah-moo]
- AfternoonIltapäivä
  [Eel-tah-pah-ee-vah]
- EveningIlta
  [Eel-tah]
- YesterdayEilen
  [Ay-lehn]
- TodayTänään
  [Tah-nahn]
- TomorrowHuomenna
  [Hwoh-men-nah]
- 1Yksi
  [Uhk-see]
- 2Kaksi
  [Kahk-see]
- 3Kolme
  [Kohl-meh]
- 4Neljä
  [Nel-yah]
- 5Viisi
  [Vee-see]
- 6Kuusi
  [Koo-see]
- 7Seitsemän
  [Sayt-seh-mahn]
- 8Kahdeksan
  [Kah-dehk-sahn]
- 9Yhdeksän
  [Ooh-dehk-sahn]
- 10Kymmenen
  [Kuhm-meh-nehn]
- Where's a/the...?Missä on...
  [Mees-sah ohn]
- What's the address?Mikä on osoite?
  [Mee-kah ohn oh-soy-teh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Voitko näyttää minulle (kartalla)?
  [Voyt-koh nays-tah min-ool-leh (kart-tah-lah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Milloin on seuraava (bussi)?
  [Meel-loin ohn seh-oo-raah-vah (boos-see)]
- A ticket (to ....)Lippu (jonnekin)
  [Leep-poo (yon-ne-keen)]

History of Ylläs

Ylläs, located in the Finnish Lapland, has a history that dates back thousands of years. The area has been inhabited since the Stone Age, with archaeological findings such as stone tools and ancient fire pits providing evidence of early human activity. The indigenous Sámi people have long called this region home, living in harmony with the harsh yet beautiful landscape.
The culture of the Sámi people is deeply intertwined with the history of Ylläs. Traditionally, the Sámi were semi-nomadic, relying on reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting. Even today, the Sámi culture remains vibrant, with traditional joik singing, handicrafts, and language being important aspects of their heritage. Visitors to Ylläs can explore Sámi culture through various cultural centers and events held in the region.
The village of Äkäslompolo, located at the northern base of Yllästunturi, was formally established in the early 20th century. Initially a small settlement focused on reindeer herding and fishing, the village began to grow as tourism to the region increased. Äkäslompolo remains a vital hub for visitors to Ylläs, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the region's inhabitants.
During World War II, Lapland, including the Ylläs area, was a battleground in the conflict between Finland and the Soviet Union. Following the Continuation War, the Lapland War erupted as Finnish forces fought to expel German troops from the region. Many areas, including Ylläs, saw significant destruction and hardship. However, post-war reconstruction efforts helped to rebuild the community and infrastructure.
The post-war period saw Ylläs transform into a premier destination for winter sports. The construction of the first ski lift in the 1950s marked the beginning of this new era. Over the decades, Ylläs developed into one of Finland's largest ski resorts, boasting a wide range of slopes, cross-country skiing trails, and winter activities. The area's stunning natural beauty and reliable snow conditions have made it a favorite among both Finnish and international tourists.
Today, Ylläs is a vibrant tourist destination that attracts visitors year-round. In addition to its winter sports facilities, the area offers a wealth of activities during the summer months, such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The region has also embraced sustainable tourism practices, aiming to preserve its pristine natural environment for future generations. Ylläs continues to celebrate its rich cultural heritage while providing modern amenities and experiences for travelers.