Inari is the centre of Sami culture in Finland. It is home to a number of important Sami institutions, including the college and Parliament, and is the location of the main Sami museum in Finland, Siida. Inari is located on Lapland’s largest lake, Lake Inari.
Latitude: 68.5 degrees north
Population: 600
Ivalo coat-of-arms
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Inari
Siida is one of the best museums in Finland. It provides a comprehensive overview of the Sami people, the seasons, and life in the Arctic.
Sajos is the Sami Parliament of Finland, a representative body that focuses on preserving Sami culture and fighting for Sami rights in the Finnish Parliament. The building is also a modern hub for art, events, and cultural performances.
One of the oldest wooden churches in Lapland (1760). A scenic hike leads through peaceful forest and wetlands to this simple, historic chapel. The route starts along “Sarviniementie” running north-east from Siida; it’s 2.5km along roads to a parking area (you can drive here if you have a vehicle) and then 5km one-way to the church. The church is always open, just close everything up when leaving.
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are our recommendations!
The third-largest lake in Finland and an Arctic wilderness of islands, coves, and cold, clear water. Perfect for boat trips, canoeing, fishing, and photography. Visit Inari offers boat trips in the summer months.
Easy-to-moderate walks along rapids, suspension bridges, and pine forest, starting right from the village.
One of Europe’s largest wilderness areas, gold prospector history, riverboat trips, long hiking trails, waterfalls, and true off-the-grid solitude.
About an hour away in Saariselkä; perfect for fell hiking, multi-day treks, and winter skiing routes.
Follow our road-trip guides for scenic trips around Inari
Watch our YouTube videos featuring Inari
This drive includes a drive through Ivalo on the way to Norway.
Here are some things that you must do and try in Inari
Inari has been home to the Sámi people for thousands of years, and remains one of the most important cultural centres for Finland’s Indigenous population. The region’s identity is deeply tied to reindeer herding, fishing, and its ancient connection to the lake and surrounding fells. During the 20th century, Inari developed as an administrative and cultural hub for the Sámi language and governance, eventually becoming home to the Sámi Parliament and the Siida Museum.
A small village with around 600 residents, Inari is peaceful, authentic, and surrounded by pristine nature. It mixes Sámi cultural life, eco-tourism, and quiet Arctic charm. Unlike bigger Lapland towns, Inari is far less commercial—making it ideal for travellers seeking genuine culture, wilderness, and slow travel.
Fly: The closest airport is at Ivalo, 45 minutes south of Inari.
Drive: Inari is on the E75 running through Finland into Norway. Regular buses connect Ivalo Airport, Saariselkä, and Inari.
Train: No train access
Ferry: No ferry access.
On foot – Inari village is small and walkable.
Bike – rental bikes available in summer for exploring lakeside roads.
Car – highly recommended for exploring Lemmenjoki, Saariselkä, and the Inari lakes region.
Boat – summer ferries operate to Ukonkivi Island (a sacred Sámi site) and other parts of Inarijärvi.
Winter tours – snowmobiles, husky sleds, and guided transport are common ways to move around in deep winter.
You can find excellent Sami souvenirs at Sajos or Siida. Across the street from Siida is Inarin Hopea – a local jewellery maker.
Cafes & Bakeries
Cafe Caiju (Sajos) – The cafe inside Sajos is a lovely cafe if you’re looking for good quality coffee!
Casual Eateries
Café Sarrit (Siida Museum) – excellent coffee, pastries, and local flavours with lake views. They also have excellent daily lunch buffets!
PaPaNa – Local pizza place and village pub.
High End & Unique Eats
Restaurant Aanaar (Hotel Kultahovi) – one of Lapland’s best fine-dining restaurants, focused on local produce such as reindeer, lake fish, spruce shoots, and wild herbs.
Restaurant Aurora (Hotel Inari) – Locally sourced menu in a casual setting.
Hostels & Camping
Uruniemi Camping is a nice camping area 2km south of Inari.
Inari Camping – lakeside campground with cabins, tent areas, saunas, and boat rental.
B&Bs & Guesthouses
Chains & Mid-Range
High End & Unique Properties
Wilderness Hotel Inari is the best place to stay in town.
Holiday Village Inari – cosy cabins and apartments ideal for longer stays.
Aurora Collection Luosto (further afield but premium) – boutique Arctic luxury if you’re combining destinations.