Book Flights to Ivalo (IVL)

Located in the very heart of Northern Lapland, Ivalo is an area of unique natural beauty that attracts tourists all year round. There are numerous outdoor activities among the scenic settings and the area is home to one of Finland’s top ski resorts. Ivalo is also a great spot from which to view the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights.

Sights in Ivalo

Most visitors come to Ivalo for the abundance of outdoor pursuits, with something for every season. Go canoeing along the Ivalojoki River in the summer or sit on the banks and try your luck with fishing. You may catch your supper! In the winter, the area around the frozen river is popular with fans of cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. One of Finland’s most famous rivers, Ivalojoki was the site of a gold rush in the late 1800s. Some hopefuls still search the waters for gold today. You could also try your hand at gold panning. A short way outside of town, the large estuary where the river meets Lake Inari is a top spot for bird watching. The lake itself is a scenic destination, dotted with small islands that can only be accessed by boat. Ivalojoki Beach, in the heart of Ivalo, is the best of its kind along the river. It attracts locals and visitors alike during the warmer months, when you can bask in the sunshine and admire the scenery. Another local attraction is Wild Spirit Park, where you can take an exciting husky ride in the winter. The centre also cares for a number of rescued animals; take a tour and meet the Arctic foxes, wild boar, rabbits, stoats, and many others that now call the sanctuary home. When you’re in town, be sure to visit the nearby Siida, the national Finnish Sami museum. It’s a great place to learn more about the local culture and traditions. Aslak Cinema is perfect for a night of relaxation and rest, or you could book a massage to really soothe any aches and pains. In general, winter is an especially good time to visit Ivalo, when the fells are covered in soft white snow and the spectacular Northern Lights illuminate the inky black heavens. During summer, Ivalo is the perfect place to experience the midnight sun, while in September the vibrant autumn colours are picturesque. 

Things to See and Do Near Ivalo

• Saariselkä - Widely recognised as one of the best ski resorts in Finland, this village offers fun, snow and adventure well into springtime. Younger visitors are sure to be impressed with the Angry Birds Activity Park.
• Inari – A small village on the shores of Lake Inarijärvi, this is a good base for taking island-hopping adventures and visiting some of the 3000 plus islands that are scattered across the water. Take a winter husky-pulled sleigh ride or explore the landscapes on horseback in summer.

Shopping in Ivalo

As a small town, shopping in Ivalo is largely restricted to essential day-to-day items and local crafts. Some shops also have workshops where you can see artisans skilfully creating products. You’ll also find several outdoor clothing boutiques with garments designed for extreme temperatures and conditions.

• Shopping Center Kuukkeli – Located in Saariselkä, this shopping centre has a grocery store, bakery, pharmacy and large gift shop, and it’s a one-stop-shop for food supplies, household goods, clothes and souvenirs.
• Saariselkä Design Center – One of the best places in the area to purchase Finnish fashion designs.
• Design House Idoli – A place to showcase and sell Finnish designs, there are home furnishings, ornaments, handicrafts and more here.

Food and Drink

• Fish – Freshly caught from Inarijärvi Lake, the whitefish is typically served with a sauce made from sour cream.
• Reindeer – Filleted meat is served with roasted wild mushrooms gathered from the surrounding forests for a dish with lots of local flavour.
• Salmon – Very popular in Lapland, Finnish salmon is succulent and delicious. Smoked or grilled salmon is often accompanied by vegetables and a creamy sauce; and salmon soup, known locally as lohikeitto, is a good way to warm up on a cold winter’s day.

Transport in Ivalo

The town is small enough to walk around and public transport in Ivalo links with surrounding places of interest.

• By foot – Almost everywhere in the town can be reached in just a few minutes by foot.
• By bicycle – A cycle path runs alongside the main road.
• Buses – In the winter, shuttle buses run between Ivalo and the ski resorts of Saariselkä.
• Taxis – Taxis can be booked by telephone. They charge standard rates, which are based on the number of passengers, the distance travelled and the time of day. Do note that there may be a surcharge for carrying large bags and bulky equipment.