Season
Dec - Mar
Vehicle
By car
By train
Duration
3 days
3-day itinerary: Winter wonders of Finnish Lakeland
This itinerary covers approximately 160 km and takes travellers through Jyväskylä, Hankasalmi and Jämsä in the heart of Finnish Lakeland. The route combines urban culture, snowy landscapes and authentic Finnish winter experiences, making it suitable for both first-time visitors to Finland and returning travellers seeking a different side of the country.
The itinerary is best enjoyed between December and March, when snow conditions are typically at their best. Average winter temperatures range from approximately -5°C to -20°C, although colder and milder periods are both possible. Warm winter clothing, waterproof footwear and layered clothing are recommended. Check our winter travel tips here.
Winter weather can change quickly, and daylight hours are shorter than in summer. However, the snowy landscapes, frozen lakes and dark star-filled skies create a unique atmosphere that can only be experienced during a Finnish winter. Travellers visiting between autumn and spring may also have the opportunity to witness the northern lights, particularly in areas with little light pollution.
Moving around
The first day can be completed entirely by public transport. Days two and three are mostly accessible by public transport, although a car offers greater flexibility for exploring the surrounding countryside and attractions. Rental cars are available in Jyväskylä, and all roads on this itinerary are maintained throughout the winter season.
Day 1: This day can be completed entirely by public transport.
Day 2: A car is recommended. Revontuli can be reached by train or bus to Hankasalmi, followed by a short taxi ride to the resort. Travellers wishing to continue with the itinerary from Day 2 onwards will find a car the most convenient option. It is also possible to spend several days at Revontuli, where a wide range of winter activities, restaurants and accommodation options are available.
Day 3: Jämsä can be reached by train from Hankasalmi. From the railway station, continue to Himos or Hirvikartano by taxi. Some bus connections also stop directly at Himos.
Useful links & tips for a winter trip in the Jyväskylä Region
Driving in the Jyväskylä Region
Tips for spotting northern lights & star gazing
If you want more freedom, rent an eCar
– Avis
– Omago
– Electric car charging locations on a map
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Route description
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Day 1
Begin your winter adventure in Jyväskylä with a visit to Toivola Old Courtyard. This charming historic courtyard is home to artisan boutiques, cafés and cultural attractions, offering a glimpse into the city’s past and providing the perfect setting for a relaxed winter morning.
Continue to the nearby Aalto2 Museum Centre, where architecture, design and local history offer a fascinating introduction to the region. The museum combines the Alvar Aalto Museum and the Museum of Central Finland, making it an ideal place to learn more about both Finland’s most famous architect and the history of the Jyväskylä Region.
After a morning of culture, enjoy lunch in the city centre. Popular options include Cielo, Harmooni and Bistro 11, but there are plenty of other restaurants to choose from.
In the afternoon, take local Linkki bus 16 or 21 to Säynätsalo Town Hall, one of Alvar Aalto’s most celebrated works. Completed in 1952, the building is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture and remains one of the most significant Aalto sites in Finland. The Town Hall is open on Saturdays from 12.00 to 16.00. Visits outside opening hours should be booked in advance.
Complete your day with a traditional Finnish sauna experience at Juurikkasaari, located just a short walk from Säynätsalo Town Hall. Relax in the warmth of the sauna before taking a refreshing dip in the icy lake, a favourite winter pastime among Finns. Travellers who prefer to stay in the city can alternatively visit the popular harbour sauna Sataman Viilu.
Accommodation options include Solo Sokos Hotel Paviljonki, Sokos Hotel Alexandra, Boutique Hotel Yöpuu and lakeside Hotel Alba.
Photo: Maris Grunskis Attractions
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Museums
Aalto2
Museum centre for the new generation. Aalto2 is a unique meeting place for architecture, design and cultural heritage in Jyväskylä.... Read more from destination Aalto2Read more → -
Alvar Aalto
Säynätsalo Town Hall (1949–52)
Constructed between 1949 and 1952, Säynätsalo Town Hall is among Alvar Aalto’s most significant works. It holds a special status... Read more from destination Säynätsalo Town Hall (1949–52)Read more →
Accommodation
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Hotels
Solo Sokos Hotel Paviljonki
The memorable and unique Solo Sokos Hotel Paviljonki is a classic among hotels. Our guests from around the world have... Read more from destination Solo Sokos Hotel PaviljonkiRead more → -
Hotels
Hotel Alba
Welcome to Hotel Alba on the shores of Lake Jyväsjärvi! This privately owned hotel offers accommodation, delicious food and friendly... Read more from destination Hotel AlbaRead more →
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Day 2
Leave the city behind and head to Revontuli Lakeland Village in Hankasalmi. Travellers can arrive by car or take the direct Onnibus OB9 connection from Jyväskylä, which stops conveniently right outside the resort.
Surrounded by forests and lakes, Revontuli offers a wide range of winter activities. Spend the day exploring snowy trails on snowshoes, cross-country skis or simply enjoying the peaceful winter scenery. For those looking to experience the Finnish winter at a slower pace, the resort’s restaurants, saunas and lakeside setting provide plenty of opportunities to relax.
Those travelling by car may wish to make a stop at Grill Room Hankasalmi, located along Route 9 and twice voted Finland’s best burger restaurant. Another charming local stop is Aseman Kirppis, a cosy second-hand shop set in a historic wooden railway station building. Browse vintage finds, interior décor and local treasures, or take a break in the welcoming café.
As evening falls, return to Revontuli and enjoy the lakeside saunas before settling in for the night. Accommodation options range from hotel rooms to the resort’s popular glass igloos. Located in one of the darkest areas of the Jyväskylä Region, Revontuli offers excellent conditions for stargazing. On clear nights, and with a little luck, the northern lights may appear overhead. While aurora sightings can never be guaranteed, the dark winter skies of Finnish Lakeland make this one of the region’s best places to look for them.
Photo: @vialaluna_ & @benjamindalby Attractions
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Glass igloosHostels & campsitesHoliday cottages and villas
Revontuli Lakeland Village
Revontuli Lakeland Village is a round-the-year holiday hub in Hankasalmi, Jyväskylä Region. At Revontuli, you can relax at lakeside or... Read more from destination Revontuli Lakeland VillageRead more → -
Sauna
Revontuli Lakeland Village saunas
Revontuli Lakeland Village in the heart of the Jyväskylä Region, Lakeland Finland, will give you unforgettable sauna experiences. The Sauna... Read more from destination Revontuli Lakeland Village saunasRead more → -
B & BFlea markets & second-hand shopsCafés
Accommodation
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Glass igloosHostels & campsitesHoliday cottages and villas
Revontuli Lakeland Village
Revontuli Lakeland Village is a round-the-year holiday hub in Hankasalmi, Jyväskylä Region. At Revontuli, you can relax at lakeside or... Read more from destination Revontuli Lakeland VillageRead more →
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Day 3
On your final day, continue to Jämsä and the popular Himos resort area. Himos can be reached by car, train or bus, making it one of the most accessible winter destinations in the Jyväskylä Region. One of Finland’s best-known ski resorts, Himos offers a wide range of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to winter trails and other outdoor pursuits. Spend the day enjoying the snowy scenery and making the most of the resort’s winter experiences.
For a different kind of winter adventure, head to Hirvikartano (Moose Manor) for a unique Finnish wildlife experience. Located in the forests outside Jämsä, Hirvikartano is best reached by car or taxi. Guided tours offer the opportunity to see moose, reindeer and fallow deer up close while learning more about Finland’s wildlife. The animals are accustomed to human presence, allowing visitors to feed and interact with some of them. After the tour, enjoy dinner at the Moose Manor Restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients and traditional Finnish flavours take centre stage.
As the day comes to an end, return to Himos and settle in for a relaxing evening. With its wide range of activities, restaurants and winter experiences, the resort is well worth an overnight stay before continuing your journey. Stay overnight at Break Sokos Hotel Himos or Himos Cottages.
Photo: @vialaluna_ & @benjamindalby Attractions
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Accommodation
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Hotels
Break Sokos Hotel Himos
Relaxing holidays in the Jyväskylä Region. The Break Sokos Hotel Himos is set to open in late 2025 in Jämsä,... Read more from destination Break Sokos Hotel HimosRead more →
