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“Dream come true mesmerizing holiday at the Arctic Circle, Lapland, Finland.”

There is something so magical in nights spent under the Auroras in Glass Cabins and Igloos or waking up from a unique accommodation to a first snowfall.

Rovaniemi offers plenty of activities all year round, both outdoors and indoors. Find here the experiences we’ve got in store for you on your holiday!

Rovaniemi – The Official Hometown of Santa Claus ®

“Experience a living story that will change you forever. Your magical journey here at Arctic Circle, Lapland, Finland is guided by the values of authenticity, giving, creativity and constant presence. It’s also your moment to meet Santa Claus any day of the year and write a chapter in your life’s story while exploring Rovaniemi area rich in history and curious details.”

Santa Claus

There’s no place like Rovaniemi, the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, for genuine Christmas experiences. See here for some Rovaniemi Christmas magic.

Flights to Rovaniemi

There are plenty of direct flight connections from over 20 European cities flying to Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland during winter season 2023- 2024.

Rovaniemi Webcams

Santa Claus Village webcam, Ounasvaara webcam and Koivusaari webcam all give you a chance to sneak peek the accurate, current view in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland.

Autumn holiday under the Northern Lights at the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi

The Arctic nights of endless sunlight is followed by fresh autumn breeze and dark nights. Nature is preparing for winter at the Arctic Circle, we are enchanted by the changing colours of the season. Northern Lights and the Autumn Foliage are unforgettable phenomenas to be shared with friends and family.

Summer TIPS!

Northern Lights in Rovaniemi Lapland

Northern Lights Tours

Autumn Colours

When bright arctic summer ends and nature is preparing for winter at the Arctic Circle, we are enchanted by the changing colors of the season. In Rovaniemi this amazing nature’s display is at its best in September when trees and ground is covered with spectacular colours. Get your cameras out and head to nature!

A guide for responsible Northern Lights -experience in Rovaniemi

Find your Northern Lights -activity

Book autumn activities at the Arctic Circle!

Quad Bike Safari in the Wilderness (atv)

Come and experience the nature by driving an ATV.

Running with the Pack – Autumn, 3km Husky tour with a Kennel visit

Visit the kennel, meet the pack and experience the running dogs!

Amethyst Mine (find your own stone)

Unearth Your Own Treasure: Amethyst Mine Adventure – A Journey of Discovery and Delight

Luxury Log Sauna and Finnish Dinner, 3 hours (Private Tour)

Experience the gentle heat of a log sauna and its invigorating health effects only with your own family or friends. After the sauna we’ll serve traditional Finnish home made dinner.

Santa’s Pets Visit

Meet domestic animals next to the Santa Claus Office. Tickets are valid all day!

Private Guided Lapland Ranua Zoo tour from Rovaniemi

Visit Ranua Wildlife Park on this 5-hour guided trip. Ranua Zoo and Wildlife Park is Lapland’s leading tourist attraction for…

Private Korouoma Canyon Tour with picnic

Enjoy the nature sceneries of Korouoma canyon! Tour for Your group or family only, flexible timing.

Northern Lights Tour in Atmospheric Cottage

Step inside over the 100y old cottage and behold the dance of the Northern Lights

Discover the types of autumn activities at the Arctic Circle!

Northern Lights -tours

Hiking & Nature Trips

Reindeer Farm Visits

Husky Rides & Farm Visits

Fall in love with the tastes of lapland.

Restaurant Bord

Enjoy a delicious meal in the hotel´s cozy restaurant. The menu offers Nordic classics, local delicacies and casual street food.

Ice restaurant at Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

The Ice Restaurant of Arctic SnowHotel is a spectacle, an attraction on its own. Enjoy an unforgettable 3-course dinner with dessert served on an ice plate!

Restaurant Nili

Restaurant Nili offers Lappish delicacies and warm atmosphere in the heart of Rovaniemi, near the hotels and the safari-companies.

Christmas House Restaurant and Coffee Bar

Christmas House Restaurant & Coffee Bar is a popular luncheon restaurant and a pleasant cafeteria and evening venue for the whole family.

Book winter activities at the Arctic Circle!

Finnish Legends & Tales Night Around The Fire

Enjoy a relaxing night around the fire in the Arctic forests, listening to legends and tales of Finland. This story-telling experience will offer you an opportunity to learn more about Finnish culture, traditions and local history.

Ice Climbing Day in Korouoma Canyon – from Rovaniemi

Unforgettable day trip to the Korouoma Canyon & Nature Reserve in Posio, where the mightiest ice falls in Finland are located.

Vikakongas Hike Nature and Silence

Vikakongas Hike – Where Every Season Unveils a Spectacular Symphony of Colors and Landscapes

Winter Electric Fatbike Rental in Pyhä Lapland – 2, 3 or 4 hours

E-fatbike changes cycling on the forest trails much less strenuous. Often the level of assistance correlates the width of the rider’s smile!

Ice Fishing Trip

Drill ice holes, try ice fishing and enjoy beautiful landscapes on a lake ice!

Snowmobile Safari in the Heart of Nature 15.12.-6.1., Rovaniemi

Enter arctic nature on a snowmobile – try ice fishing and snowshoeing

Snowmobile and Ice Fishing Safari

Your journey begins as you ride the snowmobile, specially designed to tackle the snowy terrain. Led by an experienced guide,…

Husky Park Visit with Jenga (500 m) Husky ride

An experience in a husky sled! After the tour you will visit the kennel with charming, purebred Siberian Huskies.

Explore winter tips

6 ways to experience frozen waters in Rovaniemi

10 Romantic Winter Tips

5 Snow and ice buildings in Rovaniemi

Sustainable travel destination.

At the Arctic Circle, the Northern Lights dance in harmony with responsibility. During your magical journey, we welcome you to experience the arctic nature of Lapland and its unique attractions, while contributing to a greener and more sustainable world.

Sustainable Rovaniemi

The local companies have been joining forces for Sustainable Travel Finland trademark that offers a concrete toolkit for travel destinations to help Finland’s travel destinations to adopt sustainable procedures and to make sustainable choices in their business.

Sustainable Travel Finland companies

The local companies and Visit Rovaniemi are taking part in the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) program

Sustainable summer accommodation

Quick links.

There are many reasons to love Rovaniemi, the Official Hometown of Santa Claus: natural phenomena, traditions and culture, urban life and wild activities. Find out all about them here!

Planning a trip to Rovaniemi, the Official Hometown of Santa Claus? Here you’ll find information on how and when to travel, how things work, and lots more!

Eat and drink

Traditional Lappish food tastes delicious both in restaurants and by a campfire. Rovaniemi has great options for local culinary excursions, see more here.

Things to do in Rovaniemi, Finland: Exploring the Gem of Finnish Lapland

Looking for a little bit of magic? The capital city of Lapland, Rovaniemi, is the place to go. Discover all the enchanting things to do in Rovaniemi with my comprehensive guide. 

When I visited Rovaniemi in early 2022, I fell in love. Combine a love of winter sports with adorable animals like huskies and reindeer and you’re onto a winner – this charming little city has lots of snowy fun to get involved with.

Aside from adorable furry friends, Rovaniemi might be the best place to spot the Aurora Borealis, with many hotels in Finland dedicated to seeing them. However, in Rovaniemi, experiencing the hunt is part of the fun. 

It’s tough to believe that this gorgeous town was destroyed in World War II – though, luckily,  the hometown of Santa Claus is here and thriving and is perfect for a lovely winter holiday.

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to visit Rovaniemi with the help of this guide.

Looking for a place to stay while in Rovaniemi? Apukka Resort offers an ice sauna, Northern Lights tours and husky safaris. I loved my stay there and would highly recommend it.

Top 5 Things to Do in Rovaniemi

Go sledding with huskies.

Huskies are to the arctic what labradors are to water—they are happiest when fully submerged in colder weather. But they are also dogs that love being around people, and Finland has taken advantage of their loveable and energetic personalities. 

With their widespread presence in Scandinavian and Nordic countries, huskies are a great way to move around snowy Rovaniemi. So it’s no surprise that husky sledding is one of the top things to do in Rovaniemi in winter.

You’ll find many husky kennels that are popular for their sled rides. It’s prevalent in the winter months when there’s lots of snow. However, you can still have husky sled rides during spring and summer, they’ll just be pulling a different type of sled with wheels. 

Some popular husky sledding tours include a carriage ride under the Northern Lights and a one-hour self-drive sledding experience .

Book A One-Hour Self-Drive Sledding Experience Here

Sled with Some Reindeer

You can find reindeer all over Rovaniemi. And the kicker is, you can go sledding with them. 

Most reindeer spend their lives wild in the wilderness, so I do not recommend you try to hook a sleigh on one of them—that’s a sure-fire way to get kicked. If you want to go reindeer sledding, you start by going to a reindeer farm. There you will learn lots of reindeer facts and stories before the real ride begins. 

Fun fact about reindeer: their fur is the warmest of all the animals in Finland. They’re also naturally shy, so make sure to be quiet and calm around them.

Book A Reindeer Farm Visit with Sleigh Ride Here

Enjoy a Sauna Like a Local

We all know the stereotype by now—Finns love saunas. Fortunately, this is true, and when you’re in Finland, you sauna like the rest. 

Most places you visit will have a sauna. Even Finnish homes usually have built-in saunas. And this city is no exception. It’s one of the top free things to do in Rovaniemi.

One must follow their example to experience the sauna as the Finns do. Many locals have said they spend around 15 minutes in the sauna getting hot, then going outside in the freezing weather only to go right back into the sauna. Some have even gone as far as jumping in the snow or a lake before returning to the sauna. 

It may sound incredibly crazy, and you’re probably wondering why someone would do this. Well, it is crazy, but you must also try it. The feeling of your body temperature rising from morgue-like cold to sweltering hot is unlike any other. Just make sure you don’t get hypothermia.

Even though you can find a free sauna to use, a popular option is to have a private Snow Sauna Experience with Dinner .

Book A Snow Sauna Experience with Dinner Here

Hunt for the Northern Lights

Ah, the famous Aurora Borealis . Nobody can visit Finland without seeing these majestic natural lights. It’s a cardinal sin. 

Rovaniemi is one of the perfect places to spot them, and you can usually catch the Northern Lights between August and April – it’s one of the more popular things to do in Lapland’s Rovaniemi.

The key to seeing these lights is going far outside the city where there is no light pollution. Also, make sure you go on a clear, starry night. You can even download an app to help you predict the best time to see the Northern Lights . 

However, I recommend you go on a Northern Lights tour rather than trying to find them alone. The tour guides know all the ins and outs of where to see them and when the best time to go is. They will also ensure you stay warm by providing arctic suits and building campfires. 

For a fun once-in-a-lifetime experience, I recommend the Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ .

Book An Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ Here

Snowmobiling, Skiing, and Snowshoeing

Snowmobiling in winter is a trendy sport in Finland. Loved by tourists and locals alike, it’s a fun way to discover new places. You can go on a snowmobile safari in your quest to find the Northern Lights, go ice fishing, or even cruise around Rovaniemi.

Skiing is also a popular activity. There’s a family ski resort close to the Rovaniemi city centre called Ounasvaara Ski Oy, but it’s not the only resort in that area.

And finally, if you’re not into fussing around with a lot of equipment, skis or snowboards, you should try snowshoeing. You can strap a pair of snowshoes over your snow boots and head off. It’s a fun and low-maintenance way of getting around the Finnish Lapland.

Book Your Snowmobile Safari Here

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Rovaniemi in Winter 

Visit santa claus.

Rovaniemi has the nickname of the hometown of Santa Claus. It’s located in Lapland in the Arctic Circle and is what we imagined the North Pole to look like as children. So, of course, they had to play with that reputation. And thus came Santa Claus Village , one of the most popular things to do in Rovaniemi at Christmas.

Located close to Santa Park, the Village is a campus-type attraction with many activities for people of all ages. 

Mrs. Claus bakes cookies and tells stories about Lapland in her cosy little cottage. Santa will then explain how he and his hardworking elves prepare for Christmas yearly. If you ask him nicely, he may even tell you the secret of how he gets the reindeer to fly. 

There are also husky sled rides and reindeer walking around – it really feels like you’re in the North Pole at Santa’s warehouse. And if you want to send a letter to Santa, the main post office has a direct mail route to him.

Book A Reindeer, Huskies & Santa Claus Ice Village Experience Here

Note: Don’t be put off visiting if you don’t have kids, this really is a spot for all ages.

Go Ice Fishing

You cannot go to Finland and not try ice fishing. An authentic Finnish experience, ice fishing is popular in Rovaniemi, and there are many tours to take people fishing.

During an ice fishing tour, the guides will teach you how to ice fish like a Finn. You will learn how to cut a hole in the thick ice, the best method for fishing (usually a net), and what to do when you make a catch. 

If you want, they will show you how to clean your fish, and then you can have it smoked or prepared to take home where you can proudly chow down on your self-caught dinner.

Try the Ice Fishing Experience Tour for a fun day of catching fish and learning about Finnish culture.

Book An Ice Fishing Experience Tour Here

Hang with Polar Bears at Ranua Zoo

Located about an hour south of Rovaniemi, Ranua Wildlife Park is a must-see. You can spot some of the most beautiful arctic animals here – in fact, the park boasts around fifty wild animal species and over two hundred individual animals. 

Wolves, brown bears, otters, and lynxes can all be found at the zoo, but the most popular animal is the polar bear. And for a good reason, it’s not easy to spot polar bears outside of the arctic since they’re very limited in where they can survive. 

So grab a picnic basket, fill it with goodies and take a trip to Ranua Wildlife Park. Just don’t feed the animals.

If you want a guided tour of Ranua Zoo, I recommend the Ranua Wildlife Park Day Tour .

Book The Ranua Wildlife Park Day Tour Here

Cool Things to See & Do in Rovaniemi in the Summer 

Visit kotisaari island.

Kotisaari Island is a weird one – loggers previously used this small island in the Kemijoki River to transport logs along the river. When trucks became the norm to transport logs, they abandoned the island.

Now, it’s a great place to experience Finnish history. On the island, you’ll find traditional Finnish buildings in good condition – one of these buildings is an old smoke sauna. 

You can visit the island by using either a kayak or a rowboat. However, I recommend joining a tour of the island to hear the stories of these old buildings – and to take the stress out of crossing the water.

Enjoy The Midnight Sun

Every year in Finland, around the 6th – 7th of July, the sun doesn’t set at all. This is the Midnight Sun, a phenomenon that only occurs in the Arctic Circle. In Rovaniemi, Midnight Sun can last from around May to July; thus, you can experience it for longer.

Rovaniemi has many places to experience the Midnight Sun. Of course, the most popular site is Ounasvaara Fell, the tallest mountain near Rovaniemi. It’s one of the more magical things to do at night in Rovaniemi, even though it won’t feel like it’s nighttime.

So pack a picnic basket with snacks and Finnish beers, and experience the polar day known as the Midnight Sun. You can even float on a lake while the Midnight Sun shines on you.

Book A Midnight Sun Forest Lake Float Here

Go Berry Picking

From lingonberries to blueberries, you’ll find berries almost everywhere in Lapland. You can even spot the golden jewels known as cloudberries, an amber-coloured berry with a sweet-sour taste. Berry picking is one of the most fun things to do in Rovaniemi in summer.

Moose, bears and reindeer enjoy the berry season almost as much as the people of Rovaniemi. This means it has to be worth an afternoon of picking—after all, it has the reindeer stamp of approval. 

Go berry picking with a local tour guide and enjoy the incredible sweetness of Lapland berries. Just be sure to go before the moose gobble them all up.

Book Berry Picking Here

Things to Do in Rovaniemi: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long to visit rovaniemi .

It takes around 3-4 days to explore Rovaniemi fully; however, I recommend you take a week to try out all the different snowy experiences.

Best Time to Visit Rovaniemi

Since there are many different activities to do in both summer and winter, it depends on what you want to do. In summer, the best time to go is between June and August. If you go in winter, go between November and February.

Where Should I Stay in Rovaniemi? 

Hostel café koti (budget).

Located about a 12-minute walk from the beach in central Rovaniemi, Hostel Café Koti is the perfect place to stay if you’re visiting on a budget. You will feel entirely at home with Scandinavian-style rooms, dormitories, and a Finnish sauna.

You can choose between a private room with an ensuite bathroom or a shared dormitory with shared bathroom facilities. The kitchen is communal and shared with all guests. The hostel allows pets, so you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind. 

Apukka (Mid-Range)

As I’ve already mentioned, during my last visit to Finland I stayed in Apukka and absolutely loved it. I recommend the Lappish Kammi Suite, a glass-topped dome filled with cosy furnishings and a roaring fire to ensure we were kept nice and toasty.

The beds were uber comfortable (much needed after a day of sledding) and the kitchenette was fully equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay.

Nova Skyland Hotel (Luxury)

Nova Skyland Hotel is a gorgeous five-star hotel located in Santa Claus Village. With a stunning contemporary Scandinavian design in the rooms and excellent amenities, it’s a popular place to stay when you visit Rovaniemi. There’s even a sauna on the grounds, and the rooms have a large window perfect for watching the Northern Lights.

You can ask the staff to arrange many activities for you, including reindeer farm tours, husky sledding, and Northern Lights hunting tours. The hotel is quite close to the airport, Arktikum Science Centre, and, of course, Santa Claus Village. So grab the best luggage on the market and book a stay at Nova Skyland Hotel for the ultimate treat.

Recommended Tours in Rovaniemi

• Reindeer Farm Visit with Sleigh Ride
• Lapland: Husky Carriage Ride Under the Northern Lights
• Rovaniemi: Aurora Borealis Snowmobile Safari & Campfire BBQ
• Rovaniemi: Reindeer, Huskies & Santa Claus Village
• Rovaniemi: Snowmobile Safari Adventure

Things to do in Rovaniemi: Map 

Rovaniemi, Finland: Discover More Nordic Guides

• Why You Need to Visit Finland in Winter

8 Incredible Northern Lights Hotels in Finland

• 15 Incredible Things to Do in Tromso, Norway in Winter
• Iceland Off The Beaten Path: Discovering Iceland’s Hidden Gems

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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5 DAY ROVANIEMI ITINERARY: HOW TO PLAN YOUR ULTIMATE LAPLAND, FINLAND WINTER ADVENTURE!

LOOKING TO PLAN THE ULTIMATE 5 DAY ROVANIEMI ITINERARY FOR A MAGICAL WINTER IN LAPLAND?

Rovaniemi – capital of Finnish Lapland and “official home of Santa Claus” – takes the gold medal for being the ULTIMATE Winter Wonderland destination.

One step off the plane onto the snow-frosted tarmac and BOOM – my mild self-pity for just turning the big 3-0 simply vanished!

Our itinerary here was jam-packed with all the good stuff . Meeting the big man in red himself, dropping jaws at the Northern lights, wearing red lobster suits to float in a -20°c lake, “dashing through the snow” on nippy snowmobiles, witness a hotel made totally of ice and trekking to giant frozen waterfalls.

Heading to Lapland this Winter? Look no further friend, 5 days in Rovaniemi is all you need, and we’ve got you covered:

DAY 1: ARRIVE & SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE

ARRIVE INTO ROVANIEMI AIRPORT The best way to get to Rovaniemi is by flying directly into Rovaniemi Airport (RVN). Find exclusive cheap flights to Rovaniemi with KIWI .

Jump into one of many airport taxi’s to your accommodation.

We stayed in a “Mystique De Luxe Premium room with Sauna” at Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara , just outside of Rovaniemi. Surrounded by frozen forests with a chance to see the northern lights with its reduced light pollution. Highly recommend it!

Here’s a few pics from our stay:

SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE The “official home of Santa Claus” is at this Santa Claus Village . No booked tours or any form of tickets needed. It’s totally free to simply turn up by taxi and wander around as you please. Just check their opening times .

There’s so much to do and see. Cross the border to the Arctic Circle, send letter’s home / stamp your passport at the Post Office, browse souvenir shops and lap up the festivities.

And of course, meet the big man in red at the “Santa Claus Office” building. For kids – and big kids like us hehe – they’ve staged this really well, even the walk up was themed and exciting, building anticipation. Santa himself is very believable – I mean, why wouldn’t he be, he’s the real deal right?

A queue is inevitable, but good news is its completely free to meet Santa. But – there always is a but isn’t there! – you can’t take your own photos. Want the moment immortalised? You’ll have to buy the photos and videos they take. We didn’t, so… here’s a photo of us next to the Arctic Circle border instead! 🤣

Top tip : To buy your photos / videos with Santa, it’s €90 for the full digital pack, €50 for 1 digital photo and the video (€20 extra for every 1 photo added on) and €35 for one physical printed photo copy.

Good news is, you do not have to buy it there and then. They give you a QR code (accessible for up to 400 days after) to pay for your photos online.

Top tip : Staying in Rovaniemi city? Catch the low-cost Santa Bus to Santa Claus village and back .

If not, Santa Claus Village is also very close to Rovaniemi Airport, literally a 5-minute drive away.

Taxis in Finland are so expensive, it might be worth going straight to Santa Claus village from the airport and use their luggage storage.

DAY 2: SNOWMOBILING & NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR

GO SNOWMOBILING (HALF DAY) No Rovaniemi itinerary is complete without the thrill of speeding through Lapland’s frozen landscape! We did this ‘ Snowmobiling Quick Spin – 2 h snowmobile experience in Rovaniemi ‘, tour.

As complete snowmobiling novices, we were a little apprehensive apprehensive at first. Turns out, there was no need. It was, and is , the perfect choice for beginners!

The guides were very attentive and patient, which made us feel safe and “in good hands” with them throughout the whole tour.

After getting suited and booted at the office, head deep into idyllic Finnish forest for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. You stop off half way at a Koti tent to warm up with a warm berry drink and cookies.

We would suggest to guarantee snowmobiling can go ahead, book this tour no earlier than very end of November / early December. In late November, we lucked out on the very first tour of the year. A few days before, there was not enough snow on the ground to do it and the tours before us had to be cancelled.

For our in-depth review, check out our full blog post detailing our Snowmobiling experience .

Top Tip : Ideally book the morning slot to experience the morning skies soft pastel colours.

Top Tip : Safartica will pick up / drop off at any accommodation within 10km of Rovaniemi centre, just be sure to contact them and confirm beforehand.

Top Tip : All required clothing is provided by Safartica, including: full thermal suits, thermal socks and gloves, snow boots, balaclavas and safety helmets.

Book my spot on this ‘Snowmobiling Quick Spin – 2 h snowmobile experience in Rovaniemi’ tour! 🛷

NORTHERN LIGHTS GUIDED TOUR Rovaniemi is one of the best places to see northern lights, which I imagine, is one of the reasons why you came here, right?

Maximise your chances to see them away from Rovaniemi’s city lights on this 5* ‘ Northern Lights Rovaniemi: Guaranteed Viewing & Unlimited Mileage ‘ Badge of Excellence rated tour!

The guides will drive out to many locations, with live solar forecasts and sheer determination to try everything in the hope of seeing the northern lights. Heck, they even go as far as the Swedish border if they need to!!

Top Tip: The best time to see the Northern lights in Rovaniemi is during the Winter months. During our time in Rovaniemi, the local guides said early March is the best time to see the Northern lights.

Top Tip : Another great destination to see the northern lights in Finland is Levi .

Book my spot on this ‘Northern Lights Rovaniemi: Guaranteed Viewing & Unlimited Mileage Tour! 🌌

DAY 3: ARCTIC SNOWHOTEL & AURORA ICE FLOATING

ARCTIC SNOWHOTEL Ever seen a hotel completely made of ice? No? Then you have to see the Arctic Snow Hotel with your own eyes, Rovaniemi’s exclusive ice hotel (and one of the World’s largest) just 30km away from the city centre.

Drop your jaw ‘Tom and Jerry’ style at their masterfully sculpted hotel rooms, ice restaurant, ice bar and ice chapel! Some of the ice creations have to be seen to be believed.

This year, the Arctic Snow Hotel is open from 15th December 2024 – 31st March 2025.

It’s recommended to do the Arctic SnowHotel visiting package option, this includes a guided tour plus round-trip transportation from either Rovaniemi centre or Santa Claus village.

Top tip: You can stay overnight inside the Arctic SnowHotel in a snow suite! Check out our full blog post on the Arctic SnowHotel for lots more info on this.

Top tip : If sleeping in a room of ice isn’t your vibe, there’s glass igloos on-site too, featured on our Top 5 glass igloos in Rovaniemi list.

Book my spot on a Arctic SnowHotel visiting package! 🚌🍙🧊

AURORA ICE FLOATING (NIGHT TOUR) Now, floating in a frozen -20°c lake in darkness of night sounds bonkers, doesn’t it? Well, that’s exactly what we did on this 5* ‘ Aurora Arctic Ice Floating in Rovaniemi ‘ tour with Safartica.

Spotting this tour on Viator, we unknowingly signed ourselves up to the most unique activity we did on our Rovaniemi itinerary. Totally out of our comfort zones, absolutely loved it!

Fear not, it’s just not a random lake to get plonked into. Safartica rent the land, and melt a contained bit of the lake so you can safely float – with no danger of bobbing too far away!

Suit up in what look like large lobster costumes, but are actually thick thermal dry-suits. This definitely “breaks the ice” (pun wasn’t intended but hey it works) with your small group as you all end up looking bloody hilarious.

Lower yourself into the water backwards via the steps, and – after an initial panic – you’ll find yourself relaxing. It actually is strangely a very peaceful experience, bobbing around facing up at thousands of stars – and if you’re lucky – the northern lights!

Warm up after in a traditional Kota tent next to a roaring fire and soothingly hot berry juice and cookies.

Check out our Rovaniemi ice floating night tour review for a fully in-depth commentary on our full experience start to finish.

Top Tip: We recommend wearing layers of socks and gloves underneath the large lobster dry suit, your hands and feet begin to feel the cold after 10/15 about minutes in the water.

Book my spot on this ‘Aurora Arctic Ice Floating In Rovaniemi’ tour! 🧥🧊

DAY 4: FROZEN WATERFALLS OF KOROUOMA & SKY RESTAURANT

FULL DAY:FROZEN WATERFALLS OF KOROUOMA TOUR On the fence at first, we were SO glad we did this ‘ Korouoma Canyon Frozen Waterfalls ‘ tour, and we think you’d love it too!!

The two guides drive you and your small group 160km out of Rovaniemi to the snow-covered Posio forest, beginning the 5km walking trail into the enchanting Korouoma Canyon.

There are around 14 of these colossal waterfalls, literally frozen in time as they once tumbled down the canyons edge. You honestly have to see it IRL to believe it!

Check out our full blog post detailing why the Korouoma frozen waterfalls tour is worth it .

Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Finnish BBQ of roasted sausages and marshmallows on a roaring open fire. Look out for the cheeky Siberian Jay birds, who will absolutely be hovering around for some crumbs. Feeding them from your hand was an unexpected bucket list tick in itself!

Fun Fact : The Korouoma Canyon was formed over 600 million years ago, and is one of the deepest subsidences in Europe! In some places, the steep rocky walls of the canyon rise more than 100 metres!

Book my spot on the ‘Korouoma Canyon Frozen Waterfalls’ tour! 🌬️🌲🥾

IN-ROOM SAUNA & SKY RESTAURANT Spend your last night Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara unwinding in the private sauna of your “Mystique De Luxe Premium room with Sauna” room option.

Afterwards, enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site Sky Restaurant, an atmospheric restaurant with floor to ceiling windows, surrounded by snow-covered pine trees.

The Sky Restaurant is a very popular place to eat in Rovaniemi for both visitors and locals. Pre-book in advance when you arrive as it gets booked up quickly.

DAY 5: EXPLORE ROVANIEMI CITY & OVERNIGHT STAY IN A GLASS IGLOO!

ARKTIKUM MUSEUM After checking out of your hotel, book a taxi straight to Arktikum Museum , a top thing to do in Rovaniemi city!

A massive perk is their free luggage store room. You can drop off all your bags here before entering the museum. Adult tickets to the museum are €15 each.

To be honest, the staff at the Arktikum Museum were so accommodating and friendly, you could probably leave your luggage here without even going into the museum. Just head to the front desk and ask!

Allow an hour or so to freely enjoy all its nature, science, culture and history-based displays of Northern Scandinavia. Check opening times for your dates.

Top Tip : At the museum, there are free toilets, coat hooks and WiFi to use. There are also a few small gift shop areas selling high quality souvenirs.

EXPLORE ROVANIEMI CITY CENTRE Prior to checking into your special affordable igloo accommodation at 3pm ( LakeLodge Kiehinen & Igloos ), take time to wander the Rovaniemi’s quaint city centre.

Browse the Revontuli shopping centre before wandering the high street to find a great lunch spot. We recommend Amarillo (they do the best fajitas!) but other recommended places to eat in Rovaniemi are Restaurant Nili and Gustav Kitchen and Bar .

Your next accommodation is self-catering and not near any shops, so be sure to stop off at the large K-Market supermarket to stock up on bottled water, treats, a small carton of milk for tea or coffee and some bits for breakfast tomorrow. Enjoy the most organised and visually pleasing supermarket aisles! Head back to Arktikum museum to collect your luggage and use their free WiFi if needed to book a taxi to LakeLodge Kiehinen & Igloos .

STAY OVERNIGHT IN A GLASS IGLOO Make your final night on your Rovaniemi itinerary extra special by staying in one of the igloos at LakeLodge Kiehinen & Igloos , an affordable igloo experience at approximately £170 per night.

Set directly against an enchanting frozen lake with little light pollution, snuggle up in your warm Aurora igloo as you witness millions of stars from the comfort of your own bed and – if you’re lucky – the Northern lights!

Top Tip : LakeLodge Kiehinen & Igloos is a 10/15 minute drive away from Rovaniemi airport .

Top Tip : There is no WiFi currently at LakeLodge, though you do get phone data signal (if your provider allows you to use roaming free of charge). If not, we recommend pre-booking your taxi to the airport on the Menevä Taxi app for the next day back at Arktikum Museum with their free WiFi.

DAY 6: CATCH YOUR FLIGHT HOME

You’ve now finished your incredible 5 day Rovaniemi itinerary and experienced a once in a lifetime trip to Lapland in Winter! Now it’s time to head to Rovaniemi airport to catch your flight home. Check Skyscanner for the best deals on your dates .

OTHER ROVANIEMI TOURS & ACTIVITIES

Rovaniemi half day tours & activities.

• 2-hour snowshoeing walking tour from Rovaniemi 🎿

• 2-hour authentic reindeer farm experience tour from Rovaniemi 🦌

• 2-hour forest skiing tour from Rovaniemi 🎿

• 2-hour Ice fishing tour from Rovaniemi 🐟🧊

• 3-hour Finnish Home & Wood Burned Sauna tour from Rovaniemi 🧖‍♀️🌡️

ROVANIEMI FULL DAY TOURS & ACTIVITIES

• Ice Skating on a 500 meter long ice-skating forest trail at Kotatieva Park. Transfer from Rovaniemi included ⛸️

ROVANIEMI EVENING TOURS & ACTIVITIES

• Ski trekking under the Northern lights from Rovaniemi 🌌🎿

• Snowmobile sleigh ride under the Northern lights from Rovaniemi 🌙🛷

WHERE TO STAY IN ROVANIEMI

There are two main options to consider when deciding where to stay in Rovaniemi: Rovaniemi city centre or outside of the city centre .

The best area to stay in Rovaniemi depends entirely on what you find most important:

BENEFITS OF STAYING IN ROVANIEMI CITY CENTRE:

All of the available Rovaniemi tour companies are based in Rovaniemi city centre, as are all the main restaurants. You also are closer to bus connections to i.e. Santa Claus village. It also easily allows you to walk to each tour operators office before each tour. However, staying in Rovaniemi city centre reduces your chances of seeing the Northern lights independently (not on a tour) due to the light pollution. Check out all available Rovaniemi hotels for your dates here !

BENEFITS OF STAYING JUST OUTSIDE OF ROVANIEMI CITY CENTRE

If you are in search of a quieter and more idyllic Lapland in Winter experience, the best place to stay for you is just outside of Rovaniemi city centre.

We personally stayed just outside of Rovaniemi at two separate accommodations for our 5 day Rovaniemi itinerary, and we can highly recommend:

LAPLAND HOTELS SKY OUNASVAARA 📍

Our Review ✔    Great location just 5-minute drive from Rovaniemi city centre set deep in the forests of Ounasvaara, a location famed for its skiing. ✔    Beautiful walking trails, included one to a watch tower for amazing views of Rovaniemi city. ✔    Incredible breakfast included in the room rate. ✔    Wonderful restaurant on-site, Sky Restaurant, with panoramic views of the forest. Book in advance! ✔    Direct access to Ounasvaara Ski Resort on Ounasvaara Fell. Because of this, Lapland Sky is included in our list of best Finland Ski Resorts !

Tips •    Book the “Mystique De Luxe Premium with Sauna” room.

Click here to reserve your stay at “Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara”! 🌲🌲🌲

LAKELODGE KIEHINEN & IGLOOS 📍

Our Review ✔    Incredible affordable Finland igloo experience set against a frozen lake. ✔    Brilliant spot to watch the Northern lights on clear nights due to limited light pollution. ✔    Igloo structures are modern and very warm. ✔    USB and 230V main plugs in igloo. ✔    Dry toilet located in the igloo, or shared toilet and shower facility block nearby. ✔    Shared communal lounge space (kitchen including kettle, microwave, under-counter fridge, sink and assortment of tea bags and coffees). Comfortable lounge area, board games and open fire place. ✔    Small kitchenette in igloo (tap / sink / 2x gas hobs / teapot / pans, cutlery and cleaning equipment) ✔    Private sauna and open air jacuzzi to book in advance for 1.5 hours for €60.

Tips •    The igloo is fully self-catering and there is not a shop nearby. Be sure to buy all food, drinks and snacks you need at a Rovaniemi supermarket prior to arrival. •    The tap water in the igloo is not recommended for drinking. Though you are provided with complimentary bottled water, bring more just in case.

Click here to reserve your stay at “LakeLodge Kiehinen & Igloos”! 🍙🌌

GLASS IGLOOS IN ROVANIEMI OPTIONS

Check out our full ‘Top 5’ glass igloos in Rovaniemi guide , or:

OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY IGLOO TOP PICK :

LakeLodge Kiehinen & Igloos (20 minutes from Rovaniemi)

OUR PREMIUM & LUXURY GLASS IGLOO TOP PICK:

Apukka Resort (15 minutes from Rovaniemi)

GETTING TO ROVANIEMI

What is the best way to get to rovaniemi.

When deciding how to get to Rovaniemi, the best way is undoubtedly to fly into its main airport, Rovaniemi Airport (RVN). It’s also incredibly convenient, with Rovaniemi airport being located just a short 10 minute drive from the city centre!

If coming from Helsinki, there’s the option to catch a connecting flight or spend the night on an overnight sleeper train !

CAN YOU FLY DIRECT TO ROVANIEMI?

It is possible to fly direct to Rovaniemi from the UK in just over 3 hours. There are multiple direct flights available to Rovaniemi with EasyJet, either from London Gatwick or Bristol airports.

Ryanair also has direct flights to Rovaniemi from London Stansted. The direct flight time from the UK to Rovaniemi is roughly 3 hours 15 minutes.

For anywhere outside of continental Europe, you may have to fly into Helsinki and catch a very short connecting flight to Rovaniemi. Check Skyscanner for the best deals on your dates .

HOW TO GET AROUND ROVANIEMI

Getting around rovaniemi: walking🚶🏻‍♀️.

Once in Rovaniemi city centre, its relatively small size means it is easy to navigate around the main high street, including walking to the Arktikum museum!

GETTING AROUND ROVANIEMI: PUBLIC TRANSPORT 🚍

There are multiple public bus services available, whether it’s to / from the Airport from Rovaniemi or using the super convenient “ Santa Claus Bus ” to get to and from the city to the infamous Rovaniemi Santa Claus village.

GETTING AROUND ROVANIEMI: TAXI SERVICES 🚕

Menevä  is a brilliantly convenient and reliable taxi provider in Rovaniemi (and across Finland).

It is so easy to book for immediate taxi services via their app, you are rarely waiting more than 5 minutes. The app is a very similar interface to Uber, with the exception that you pay either by cash or easily by contactless at the end of your ride.

Note : Taxi fares in Rovaniemi are very expensive (approx. €35 from the airport to the city one way).

GETTING AROUND ROVANIEMI: RENT A CAR 🚗

Or, you can always rent a car to get around Rovaniemi and surrounding areas yourself.

This option would give you total freedom to venture to attractions outside of the city that are usually difficult to get to without a designated tour or without incurring large taxi fees!

Click here for the best deals with KAYAK !

WEATHER IN ROVANIEMI IN WINTER

Weather in rovaniemi in winter: how cold does rovaniemi get.

The weather in Rovaniemi in Winter can be extremely cold, especially during the peak Winter month of January: the coldest month in Rovaniemi with an average high of -8°c / low of -16°c.

However, this is always open to change. When we visited in November for example, we experienced a cold spell of -20°c for a few days, which was actually bearable when correctly suited up in thermals. This was when there was little to no wind.

Any additional wind however makes it feel even colder and bitter at times. Likewise, temperatures drop during the evening, so wrap up even warmer if you head out on a night tour (a Rovaniemi Northern Lights tour for example)!

DOES IT SNOW IN ROVANIEMI IN WINTER?

Yes! The snow in Rovaniemi is what makes visiting Finnish Lapland in Winter so magical. Expect to see lots of fallen snow especially around the later Winter months (January – March) where snow is stockpiled nice and high!

WHAT TO PACK AND WEAR FOR ROVANIEMI IN WINTER?

When visiting Rovaniemi Lapland in Winter, one of our top Lapland tips is to pack LAYERS: vests, thermal tops, wooly jumpers and then finally at least one big thermal puffer coat!

For accessories, a bobble hat and thick ear muffs are a must. Likewise, pack two pairs of gloves (one is likely to get wet in the snow).

For your feet, thick thermal socks must be worn with water-proof, well-gripped walking boots.

Top Lapland tip : For most booked tours, they will take you back to their offices prior to the tour commencing to give you their thermal overalls, snow boots and thermal accessories for you to use during the trip.

ROVANIEMI USEFUL FACTS

Euro £1 (GBP) = €1.16 (EUR) (figures as per 2024)

Time Zone Rovaniemi’s time zone is 2 hours ahead of the United Kingdom.

Plug Adaptors You will require an adaptor to suit Type C & F (Europlug). Their standard voltage is 230V.

Supermarkets Supermarkets found in Rovaniemi are: K-Market (the largest and best selection), S-Market (mid-sized) and Sale (smaller). Click here to see the full list of supermarkets available in Rovaniemi .

Rovaniemi Weather and Seasons Rovaniemi Summer: June-August Rovaniemi Autumn: September-November * Rovaniemi Winter: December-February Rovaniemi Spring: March-May * = The best period to see the Northern Lights!

Best Time To Visit For Northern Lights The optimal time to see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi is the Winter (or Polar Night season) where it’s at its darkest. Locals told us the best time to visit Rovaniemi for the Northern lights is ideally early March , or between January – March.

ABOUT ROVANIEMI: “KNOW BEFORE YOU GO” FAQ’S

Where and what is finnish lapland.

Lapland is not a country, it is the largest and northernmost region of Finland. Incredibly, Lapland makes up almost one third of Finland’s total land mass, beginning from the middle at the Arctic Circle and stretching North up to the borders of both Norway and Sweden. Visiting Lapland in Winter is most famous for idyllic landscapes blanketed in snow, enchanting spruce forests stretching as far as the eye can see, dreamy pastel skies and the phenomena of the Northern Lights. One of the most popular towns to visit in Finnish Lapland in Winter is Rovaniemi :

WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT ROVANIEMI? IS ROVANIEMI WORTH VISITING?

Why should you visit Rovaniemi in Lapland, Finland? What is so special about visiting Rovaniemi in Winter? Rovaniemi, located deep in Arctic Finland, is one of the most special places in the world to visit in Winter! Rovaniemi is mostly famous for being the official hometown of Santa Claus himself, with the chance to meet him at Santa Claus village everyday throughout the year. Whether visiting as a young family, a couple on a romantic getaway or even friends looking for thrilling tours – Rovaniemi is a once-in-a-lifetime Winter destination for everyone to enjoy!

WHAT IS THE BEST MONTH TO VISIT ROVANIEMI LAPLAND?

The best months for visiting Rovaniemi are the Winter months (November – March), as this is where the magic of Finnish Lapland in Winter truly comes alive with its magical Winter activities !

WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT ROVANIEMI LAPLAND FOR SNOW ON THE GROUND?

The best months to visit Rovaniemi and be guaranteed lots of snow on the ground are the later Winter months, December to March. Snow is not guaranteed in November, in fact when we visited late November 2022, there was hardly any snow on the ground. Visiting Rovaniemi from mid-December to early March is the safest bet to guarantee snow on the ground.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT ROVANIEMI LAPLAND FOR THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

Though it is possible for the Northern Lights to be spotted just outside of Rovaniemi city during any of the Winter months (October – March), locals informed us that in fact February – March are the best months to visit Rovaniemi for the Northern Lights, due to the reduced snowfall (and cloud cover). On the flip side, the high probability of snowfall in November reduces the chance to spot the Northern Lights due to constant cloud cover.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT ROVANIEMI LAPLAND FOR WINTER TOURS AND ACTIVITIES?

It is crucial to know that not all Winter tours from Rovaniemi are open and available at the start of Winter. Things such as snowmobiling, visiting an Ice Hotel and ice skating for example are completely reliant on long spells of cold weather and a decent amount of snowfall to function. If you want the full selection of all Rovaniemi Winter tours, the earliest you should visit is mid-December!

WHO ARE THE BEST TOUR OPERATORS IN ROVANIEMI?

During our time in Rovaniemi, we experienced many tours with multiple different tour operators in Rovaniemi. From our unbiased and honest experience, we can wholeheartedly recommend the quality service of two tour operators in Rovaniemi: Safartica and Nordic Odyssey (for Northern Lights tours) . Throughout this blog, we have highlighted when we directly link to their specific tours to ensure you have the best experiences on your Rovaniemi itinerary!

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN ROVANIEMI IN WINTER?

As there are so many incredible tours and things to do in Rovaniemi in Winter, we suggest your Rovaniemi itinerary should be at least full 5 days to really make the most of your time here.

CONCLUSION: ROVANIEMI ITINERARY

To conclude – Rovaniemi in Lapland, Finland is one of the most special destinations to visit during Winter and must be firmly on anyone’s bucket list! From meeting the real Santa Claus, watching the dazzling Northern lights, exhilarating snowmobiling rides through white landscapes, ice floating, frozen waterfalls and even hotels completely made of ice, Rovaniemi offers a bit of magic to suit everyone visiting. We hope you have the best time following our Rovaniemi itinerary, and make memories that will last a lifetime!

This blog post was written by… Jordie Flain! Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com, Travel Itinerary Creator & Wildlife Enthusiast

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Jordie Flain is the owner and author of The Flains Travel, a travel blog with emphasis on ethical wildlife experiences, "seen to be believed" natural beauty and "real magic" phenomena, such as the northern lights. Jordie crafts every itinerary and post to perfection for travellers to follow and get the very most out of their time in a destination.

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Right by the Arctic Circle, the ‘official’ terrestrial residence of Santa Claus is the capital of Finnish Lapland and a tourism boom town. Its wonderful Arktikum museum is the perfect introduction to these latitudes, and Rovaniemi is a fine base from which to organise activities, visit Santa and generally get a taste for the Arctic.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

With its beautifully designed glass tunnel stretching out to the Ounasjoki, this is one of Finland’s finest museums. One half deals with Lapland, with…

Pilke Tiedekeskus

Downstairs in the Metsähallitus (Finnish Forest and Park Service) building next to the Arktikum, this is a highly entertaining exhibition on Finnish…

Konttaniemen Porotila

Meet reindeer (including adorable calves in season) and find out about their life cycle at this reindeer farm 7km northwest of Rovaniemi. Tours complete…

Rovaniemen Kirkko

Completed in 1950, this church replaced the one destroyed during WWII. The impressively large fresco behind the altar depicts a Christ figure emerging…

Rovaniemen Taidemuseo

A wide collection of contemporary Finnish art rotates in the clean white exhibition space of this gallery in an old brick truck depot. Performances by the…

Santa Claus Village

The ‘official’ Santa Claus Village is built atop the Arctic Circle marker, denoted by a line painted on the pavement (Arctic Circle certificates cost €4…

Built inside a cavern in the mountain, this Christmas-themed amusement park features an army of elves baking gingerbread, a magic sleigh ride, a carousel,…

Santa Claus Post Office

Situated within the Santa Claus Village, this post office receives over half a million letters each year from children worldwide. You can browse a…

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Meeting Santa Claus in his Lapland home is a winter treat for many families, but thanks to unseasonably high temperatures that have struck Finland's far…

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The Ultimate Guide to Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is found in the far northern realms of Finland right on the edge of the Arctic Circle and is best known to the world for being the purported home of Santa Claus.

This is the capital of Lapland and most visitors will find themselves travelling to this isolated and sparsely populated corner of Europe to experience the vast natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes and the unique, if remote culture of the locals.

In winter it’s a true wonderland, with blankets of snow, husky sledges roaming across the ice, northern lights in the sky and the local infatuation with Santa Claus and Christmas, everywhere,

In summer, it’s a wonderful outdoor destination too, with incredible hiking and the chance to experience the unique midnight sun, when it’s never truly dark.

Whatever the season, there’s a lot of great things to do in the heart of Lapland and to help you to plan your trip to this arctic city, here’s our ultimate guide to Rovaniemi Finland.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is found in the far north of Finland, with the city centre itself located just four miles to the south of the Arctic Circle.

Lapland is the most northernmost province in Finland, and being remote has quite limited transport options, although, with the ever-increasing popularity of Rovaniemi as a tourist destination, it’s getting easier and easier to travel here.

Rovaniemi’s airport is one of the busiest in Finland, but even so, it mostly only caters to domestic flights, and due to recent demand, to London Gatwick. Most travellers will arrive via Helsinki.

From where you can connect to almost anywhere else in Europe and increasingly further afield to Asia and North America with the extensive Finnair or Norwegian Air networks.

It’s also possible to travel overland from Helsinki and other Finnish cities to the south, although being in the far north, you can expect a long journey.

There are regular buses and trains running the Helsinki to Rovaniemi route, with the journey time taking a minimum of 9 hours.

How to get around Rovaniemi

Once you have made it to Rovaniemi it’s simple to get around the city and to the wider attractions. Rovaniemi Finland is by no means a huge place and you can easily stroll through the centre’s main attractions at leisure.

A bus connects the city to the airport, which is just a few kilometres away on the outskirts, while other buses can take you to sights such as the Santa Claus Village.

For more remote and adventurous locations you can arrange tours with local companies, which may include hiking in summer or dog sledging or snowmobiling in winter.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Rovaniemi  

There are some great things to do in Rovaniemi in winter or in summer, however, the season you choose to travel here in will influence the type of activities available to you and the type of trip you will experience.

Being so close to the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi experiences challenging weather conditions, with snow present for large parts of the year.

Winters are bitterly cold and icy, but this is also when you have the opportunity to experience the Christmas culture and the northern lights. Days are short and dark and travel can be unpredictable.

In summer, the days are endless and you have the chance to see Rovaniemi under the midnight sun. Summers are short, but the wildlife comes out, the hiking is excellent and there are many great festivals to enjoy.

What to Expect in Rovaniemi  

Rovaniemi is an incredibly modern European city and being very much set up for, and to an extent reliant on tourism, you will find that it’s an easy destination to get to grips with.

The main language spoken by locals is Finnish, with several other dialects including indigenous Sami languages.

You will find that a lot of people, especially those in tourism, speak excellent English and perhaps even a few other European languages too.

Finland uses the Euro, and you will find lots of ATMs in the centre of Rovaniemi which accept foreign cards.

Things to do in Rovaniemi

Santa claus village.

It’s open all year round, but perhaps the best time to visit the Santa Claus Museum is in the depths of winter. Rovaniemi is the home of Father Christmas, and Lapland has long been associated with the Christmas legend.

The locals have taken this to the extreme and have constructed a sprawling Santa Claus themed village that whilst incredibly touristy and busy, is one of the must-visit Rovaniemi attractions .

You can visit Santa’s Post Office, you can visit Santa’s home and meet with Santa himself, you can try local Finnish food and buy endless souvenirs and Christmas themed gifts. It’s quite the show and quite the festive experience.

View the Northern Lights

In winter, when the skies are dark and the days are short then Rovaniemi becomes one of the best places in the world to view the spectacular northern lights .

While you could even enjoy a Santa Claus Northern Lights experience from the village or simply from the city centre, you can also head out into the wilderness on organised tours to search out the most spectacular viewing locations.

Enjoy the Midnight Sun

In the short summer months, then the most unusual experience to have in Lapland Rovaniemi is to witness the midnight sun.

For a few weeks of the year, the sun almost never sets and you can enjoy almost perpetual sunlight. Go hiking at midnight, sit out under the sun in the early hours of the morning and make the most of the long daylight hours.

Ounasvaara is a favourite outdoor spot amongst the people of Rovaniemi. Overlooking the city, this huge hill is perfect for hiking in summer and even better for skiing or other winter sports once the snow has settled.

Visit the Arctic Circle

Being so close to the Arctic Circle, it would be a shame to not even set foot within this iconic northern boundary during your stay in the city.

When deciding what to do in Rovaniemi, don’t leave a trip here off the itinerary. In summer, go hiking, in winter, take on a sledging or snowmobiling tour.

Places to visit in Rovaniemi

Pilke science centre.

The Pilke Science Centre is a marvellous example of Finnish ingenuity and sustainable construction. The building is made predominantly from local logs and inside you can learn more about the sustainable industries of Lapland and efforts made to preserve the environment.

Korundi House of Culture

Korundi House is a cultural museum that’s found in one of the oldest buildings in Rovaniemi, as most of the city was burnt to the ground during World Warr II. Inside this notable building can be found both the Chamber Orchestra of Lapland and the Rovaniemi Art Museum.

Arktikum Science Museum  

The Arktikum Science Museum is perhaps the most intriguing of Rovaniemi’s museums and cultural centres. Arktikum focuses on the history and lifestyles of the people who call the Arctic Circle home.

It goes into great depth detailing the forces of nature they battle against and the unique culture that has evolved from it. The museum itself is housed in a truly unique, glass building that is a sight in itself.

Lordi’s Square

Lordi’s Square is Rovaniemi’s main, central square and it’s always an interesting spot to visit for a stroll, to people watch and to enjoy the shopping found around it.

In the summertime, it’s a popular event space and always packed with locals and visitors. The square was named for the Finnish rock band Lordi and their 2006 Eurovision victory.

What to eat in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi has its fair share of restaurants but deciding where’s a good place to eat can be difficult given the large number of overpriced tourist eateries.

Many visitors complain of expensive costs eating in the Santa Claus Village, despite the local delicacies on offer, so you may want to avoid the dishes here and try to find a more authentic restaurant in town if you’d like to enjoy the local Lapland cuisine.

A local favourite for Finnish food is Nili, where the rustic setting and traditional decor combines with local dishes to create a wonderful atmosphere.

Here, like other local restaurants, you will frequently find reindeer on the menu, as well as mushroom heavy dishes that are complemented with plenty of salmon.

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi has a wonderful and at times eclectic selection of hotels to stay in Rovaniemi , but most of the options available will be in the higher price end with budget accommodation being few and far between.

Most of the hotels are located in the city centre, but you can also found some more adventurous and unique properties, particularly just north in the Arctic Circle. Here are a few of our favourite hotels in Finnish Lapland.

Santasport Hostel – One of the few hostels in the city, Santasport is well located, although just outside the centre. The rooms are basic, but you can make use of the extensive leisure facilities such as the swimming pool while staying here.

Arctic Lights Hotel – This five-star hotel comes at more of a mid-range price for Rovaniemi, making it excellent value. It gets rave reviews for its boutique, yet elegantly modern designs, perfect city centre location and excellent sauna facilities.

Arctic Tree House Hotel – This incredible, luxury hotel is found surrounded by forest on the outskirts of the city, and the unusually designed rooms offer huge open viewing windows out into the night sky to optimise your chance to see the Aurora Borealis, and perhaps even from the comfort of your own bed.

Tours to do in Rovaniemi

Ice Fishing and Husky Tour

Take on an adventurous tour into the countryside as you enjoy a spot of ice fishing before heading to a Husky farm to learn how to dog sledge across the snow. End it all with a barbecue in the snow – if you catch anything when fishing of course!

Snowmobile Safari

When it snows in Rovaniemi, the quickest way to get around is on a snowmobile. Take a snowmobile safari from the city out into the nearby countryside to visit the local reindeer farm and to call in at the iconic Santa Claus Village.

Northern Lights Photography Tour  

Budding photographers will love the chance to learn how to truly capture the fiery northern lights in the night sky above Rovaniemi.

Join these dedicated photography tours with expert instructors, hunt down the lights in the outdoors and learn from some of the best how to take the best pictures in difficult conditions.

Reindeer Sami Experience  

The Sami are the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland, a people who have lived in these remote parts for thousands of years, with their own unique language and culture.

On a Reindeer Sami Experience you can learn more about these local traditions and their reliance on reindeer, and if you are lucky you may also see the northern lights out in the wilderness too.

Day Trips From Rovaniemi

Ranua Wildlife Park  

Ranua Wildlife Park is found an hour to the south of Rovaniemi, but it can claim to be one of the most northerly zoos in the world. This wildlife park is a great place to see the many diverse local species – including polar bears – without heading out into the wilderness.

Rovaniemi’s Reindeer Farm

Rovaniemi’s many Reindeer Farm make for great day trips outside of Rovaniemi . There are several found in the surrounding countryside, and here you can try firsthand reindeer delicacies or go for sledge rides when it’s snowing. Raitola is one of the best to visit or the charming Christmas House.

Korouoma National Park

Korouoma National Park is a spectacular outdoor wilderness that’s just a day trip away from Rovaniemi. Here you can find a long canyon that stretches for almost 30 kilometres and reaches depths of over a hundred metres.

There’s some great hiking through the canyon and some excellent waterfalls, which during winter will be completely iced over.

Recommend budget tours in Rovaniemi

• Rovaniemi Northern Lights Photography Small-Group Tour
• Rovaniemi Snowmobile Tour: Visit a Reindeer Farm and Meet Santa
• Lapland Aurora Borealis Picnic from Rovaniemi
• Snowmobile Safari in the Arctic Circle with Hotel Transport from Rovaniemi
• Ranua Zoo Trip from Rovaniemi
• Animal Fun Day with Zoo, Husky Farm & Reindeer Farm Visits
• Northern Lights Photography Tour from Rovaniemi
• Rovaniemi Snowmobile Safari to Reindeer Farm and Santa Claus Village

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Visit Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, Finland is a beautiful winter wonderland located in the northernmost part of the country. It is the capital of Lapland and the home of Santa Claus. The city is known for its stunning views of the Arctic Circle, its abundance of winter activities, and its unique cultural heritage.

Rovaniemi's location makes it an ideal destination for winter travelers. It is situated on the Arctic Circle and the city is surrounded by a vast landscape of forests, rivers, and hills. The city also boasts a variety of winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. For visitors who want to experience the Arctic in a different way, there are reindeer and husky safaris, snowshoeing, and even snowshoe yoga.

Those looking to experience the culture of Rovaniemi can visit the Arktikum, a museum and science center dedicated to the Arctic region. Here, visitors can learn about the history, culture, and environment of the Arctic. The museum also features interactive exhibits and activities, as well as a wide range of cultural events.

Of course, no trip to Rovaniemi would be complete without a visit to Santa Claus Village. Santa Claus Village is a unique and magical place located in the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, Finland. It is the official home of Santa Claus and the perfect destination for a truly unforgettable holiday experience.

Santa Claus Village is filled with festive activities and attractions, making it a must-see for all visitors. The village is home to Santa Claus's Post Office, where visitors can send and receive letters from Santa himself. There is also a Christmas House, where visitors can learn about the history of Christmas and the traditional customs of Finland. Santa Claus Village also has a number of shops where visitors can purchase Christmas gifts, decorations, and souvenirs.

At Santa Claus Village, visitors can meet Santa Claus himself and take pictures with him. There is also an Elf School, where visitors can learn about how Santa's elves work and how they help Santa in his mission to spread joy and happiness around the world. Visitors can also go on a reindeer sleigh ride, visit Santa's Workshop, and explore the snow-covered forests of Lapland.

Santa Claus Village is a great place for children and adults alike. There is something for everyone and the festive atmosphere makes it a wonderful place to visit during the holiday season. Whether you're looking for a unique holiday experience or just a fun day out, Santa Claus Village is sure to make your trip an unforgettable one.

Food is also an integral part of life in Rovaniemi, Finland. The city is known for its unique blend of Finnish and Sami cuisine, which has become an important part of the city’s identity.

Traditional Finnish and Sami dishes are well-represented in Rovaniemi. Popular dishes include reindeer meat, salmon, and potatoes. These are often served with a variety of sauces, such as lingonberry, mustard, and sour cream. It is also common to find dishes featuring reindeer blood, which is considered a delicacy in the area.

Rovaniemi is a winter wonderland full of activities, attractions, culture and food. It is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the Arctic in a unique and exciting way.

Place To Stay

Things to do.

46 Fun Things to Do in Rovaniemi, Finland

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Nestled between the Ounasvaara and Korkalovaara hills, and only 6 kilometers away from the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is the capital city of Finland’s northernmost province called Lapland.

Due to its closeness and easy accessibility to the Arctic Circle, visitors will have an incredible time enjoying all the activities and cultural experiences not to miss while visiting Rovaniemi.

From learning about the origin of the Lumberjack on Kotisaari Island, making gingerbread cookies with Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Village, to hopping on an Icebreaker Cruise and catching the spectacular Northern Lights inside your cozy and warm glass igloo, here is the list of 46 fun things to do in Rovaniemi , that you must add to your itinerary.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Rovaniemi tours

1 – Visit Lordi’s Square, named after a Finnish rock band

A visit to Rovaniemi isn’t complete without a stroll through Lordi’s Square, located in the heart of Rovaniemi, and known for being named after the Eurovision Rock bank winners from Finland, Lordi.

Also known as Lordin Aukio, before the triumphant win of the Finnish heavy metal/rock bank in the 2006 Eurovision competition, the square was called Sampo Square.

Today, visitors stroll through the plaza and stop by the commemorative Lordi Square wall where the handprints of the musicians are on display, as well as the plaques sharing a bit more about the plaza’s story.

Near Lordi’s Square is a small but prominent shopping district called Sampokeskus. Here, you must check out different local shops selling souvenirs as well as significant brand stores, fast dining restaurants, and a movie theater.

If you visit during the summer, make sure to stop by and check out the different events, especially relating to music that happens at the famed plaza.

To make sure that you don’t miss it, consider booking a city tour of Rovaniemi, and get all the scoop on the plaza, and other fun things not to miss while visiting the square.

• city tours in Rovaniemi

2 – See how Artic culture influences Finland at the Artikum

Located just a 7-minute walk from the city center of Rovaniemi is Artikum , a wonderful and complete museum and science center that specializes in offering a close encounter and experience of learning about the fascinating arctic.

Known as the Provincial Museum of Lapland, the museum is divided into various sections from nature, culture, history, science, and more.

You can walk through the various permanent exhibits sharing the influence of the arctic on Finland, and vice versa, how the arctic has changed according to science and data, as well as learning about the cultural impacts and influences of the arctic on “northern life”.

Don’t miss Tiedekeskus Pilke , Metsähallitus (The Pilke Hous) where you’ll be able to learn about the northernmost forests within Lapland and even shop some of the products locally produced from the forest.

Arktikum Arboretum (Arktikum Beach) is considered one of Rovaniemi’s most scenic parks along the Ounasjoki River, showcasing trees and other plants that uniquely thrive in such harsh, cold climates.

Make sure to visit it, only an 11-minute walk from the Artikum, and make sure to do a walking tour of the whole complex.

• walking tours in Rovaniemi

3 – Have the ride of your life at the Reindeer Farm and Husky Park

Have a truly northern experience at the Reindeer Farm and Husky Park , where you’ll be able to arrange a reindeer and husky sledge ride, enjoy the magic of the snow-covered forest, and feel at one with the magic of Lapland.

Book your experience to visit a reindeer farm and husky park, where you’ll get to interact with and be one with the beautiful winter animals, learning more about the interesting and survival skill of husky and reindeer mushing, as well as the importance of these animals in the Lapland.

If you wish to book a memorable reindeer and husky sledging experience, make sure to plan your visit around the months of August-May, when the temperature is cold enough for this experience. Book a nocturnal sledging experience, and you may get a good chance of capturing the stunning Northern Lights.

If you’re visiting during the warm summer months, make sure to book a leisure and calm canoe ride through the quaint lakes of Lapland, also known as the 1,000 Lakes, with the guidance of a professional.

4 – Visit Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the reindeer at Santa Claus Village

Go visit the magical, and very real town dubbed Santa Clause Village, located a 6-minute drive from the city center of Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle.

Tap into your inner child-like wonder, and rediscover the magic of winter and Christmas, strolling through the wintery streets of Santa Claus Village, and stopping by the official Santa Post Office , a real, functioning post office that works 365 days a year.

Write a letter to send to your friends from Santa Claus’s post office, marked with the official postal stamp and greetings from Santa himself.

You can even request for the card to be sent out before Christmas, no matter what time of year you visit.

Stop by to visit Santa’s reindeer at Santa Clause Reindeer , no matter the season, where you’ll get to pet the lovely animals, and interact a bit with them.

Pay a visit to Mrs. Clause at her Christmas Cottage inside the village, and have a chat with her, take a photo, or ask her anything you’ve ever wanted to know about Santa, herself, the reindeer, and more.

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to bring them to Snowman World , where memories will be created in the various winter activities, from ice skating with the snowmen, or playing in the winter playground. Parents can also enjoy the fabulous Ice Bar and Snow Restaurant onsite as well.

Learn about the invention of the snowmobile, and the impact it has had on transportation within the Artic Circle, as you browse through the permanent exhibits showcasing different snowmobile models. Also learn about the special clothing and equipment utilized to use the snowmobile, inside Santa’s House of Snowmobiles.

Lastly, get to feed the reindeer and alpacas at Elf’s Farmyard , and as a bonus, you’ll even get to take a walk or ride with them! This activity is available in both the winter and summer months!

• Santa Claus Village tickets

5 – Enjoy the abundant activities on a day trip through Lapland

Enjoy a day trip through the region of Lapland, where you’ll become immersed in the wild and wonderful winter wonderland, and where you can even catch the Midnight Sun and the famous Northern Lights.

Considered to be the northernmost region in Finland, Lapland has a unique charm that can only be experienced in person, from its natural phenomena to learning about the indigenous Sámi group of the land, to dining and enjoying the local cuisine and so much more.

At only a 2.5-hour drive north of Rovaniemi, consider booking a day tour from Rovaniemi that will help guide your experience, and provide you with transportation to and from your hotel with ease.

Enjoy booking various experiences at Lapland, from hiking and snowshoeing, to braving the cold and doing some ice swimming, or indulging in a relaxing sauna before dinner, and then catching the Northern Lights.

Make sure to add a snowmobile experience or a trek through the mystical frozen waterfalls to your growing list of things to do in Rovaniemi, sure to make your day trip to Lapland much more enriching.

• Lapland day trips from Rovaniemi

Read more: Best Places to Visit in Scandinavia

6 – Immerse yourself in the art culture of Rovaniemi at Culture House Korundi

The Culture House Korundi is a must-stop place to view examples of Lapland culture through modern art and music, as it also houses the Lapland Chamber Orchestra.

Enjoy the permanent exhibits at the Culture House Korundi, ranging from physical pieces like a mail truck that survived WWll, artfully converted into a socially-conscious art piece, to modern art displays and arrangements provoking contemplation and curiosity amongst museum visitors.

Consider booking tickets to grace your entertainment plans with a night listening to the Lapland Chamber Orchestra. Check out their seasonal concert schedule, offering orchestra concerts, movie concerts, jazz, ballet performances, and much more.

Situated next door to the Culture House Korundi is the Rovaniemi Art Museum , displaying various art pieces and paintings specifically from local Finnish artists, tying together Finnish culture and art in a visually appealing way that needs no language translation.

Enjoy a hot latte or tea to warm up inside the chic Corundi Kitchen & Café, and a few small bites to replenish with, and stop by to browse the curious souvenirs at the Corundum Shop.

7 – Finally see the Northern Lights on a tour

Have you ever seen a picture of the Northern Lights and wondered how to see it yourself?

It’s an experience not to miss while visiting Rovaniemi, and one of the best ways to make your Northern Light dreams a reality is to book a Northern Lights experience.

Spend the night in an Aurora Cabin, a completely transparent, glass igloo that will literally have you sleeping under the stars, and the Northern Lights from all angles.

When it comes to choosing the best Aurora Cabin, consider the Arctic Snow Hotel , which offers remote-controlled beds, easily giving you access and visibility to different viewing angles of the Northern Lights.

To make sure that you don’t miss the Northern Lights while you’re sleeping, the igloos come with an Aurora Alarm, which you can set up to wake you up whenever the Northern Lights become visible.

The Kakslauttanen Artic Resort is another great glass igloo option, offering optimal views of the sky as you’re laying cozy in your bed, but also access to the world’s largest smoke sauna, and a chance to book your reindeer and husky experiences, or ice-fishing excursions.

Offering a budget-friendly glass igloo stay is the Wilderness Hotel Inari & Igloos , offering glass ceilings inside their igloos to catch the Northern Lights, as well as a great opportunity to learn more about the Sámi culture and people via their culture tours, and ice-fishing excursions.

Don’t forget to book your sleigh ride , offering an unforgettable moment gliding through the snow routes, while on a snowmobile driven by an expert, as you sit back and take in the light show above you.

Ice floating is another must activity, where you’ll bundle up in special insulated suits, and float in the icy waters of a private lagoon, as you look up and see the magical Northern Lights.

• Northern Lights tours

Hot tip: The Finnish Lapland, particularly around the area of Rovaniemi, stands out as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights around the globe , offering a mesmerizing display over snowy landscapes.

8 – Jet off on the snowy routes of Rovaniemi on a snowmobile

Book one of the most popular adventurous activities in Rovaniemi, riding a snowmobile.

Many snowmobile adventures in Rovaniemi include a myriad of other activities including the snowmobile experience, as well as ice-fishing, visiting a husky and reindeer farm, Santa’s village, and much more.

Choose your own snowmobile adventure, which usually also involves a warm and hearty meal, in order to regain strength and warmth to return back to your starting point, after driving some 2-3 hours into the wintery wilderness.

Learn about Finnish culture, survival tips that only the Finnish know from living in arctic climates, and so much more.

Drive with a professional, as you get the chance to look up and around you, at the snow-dusted pine trees, and endless winter magic, or drive yourself depending on the experience you opt for.

If you do decide to go with an experience where you’ll be the one driving, make sure to verify that your license is valid in Finland, and if it’s not, arrange that short process before your booking.

• snowmobile in Rovaniemi

9 – Admire the beloved “Source of Life” fresco at Rovaniemi Church

A quick 16-minute walk from the city center of Rovaniemi is Rovaniemi Church, a 72-year-old church that was built to replace the original church that was built in 1817 after it was burned to the ground during the Lapland War by the Nazis.

Let your eyes make out the beautiful and impressive fresco located behind the altar, called The Source of Life created in 1951, and check out the massive 45-key organ inside, which you can hear for yourself if you attend church or walk by from the outside Sundays at 10 am.

If you’d just like to visit the church, it is open between June-August, Monday-Friday from 10 am – 1 pm. The church is also open in December every day.

Check out their official website to see upcoming activities and events, such as the Rovaniemi Parish Concerts, from a full choir performance to Finnish music concerts, and much more.

10 – Appreciate the history of the city at the Rovaniemi Local History Museum

Situated inside a series of buildings located 4.3 kilometers south of the city center is the Rovaniemi Local History Museum , which houses various examples and displays of what life was like between the 19th and 20th centuries, especially consisting of farmer and villager life.

Also known as Pöykkölä, walk around and take a look at the different pieces of farming machinery and equipment as well as learn about the most popular work roles of the times, from cattle farming to reindeer farming, and fishing and hunting.

Stop by the storage shed, which has been converted into a photograph gallery, sharing the history of Rovaniemi in a visual way. Other than the museum’s exhibits available all year round, make sure to visit during special events taking place at the museum.

Some of the events include the celebration of Midsummer’s Eve, which involves the hoisting of the flag event, and other cultural and local events not to miss if they coincide with your trip dates.

11 – Break the ice as you meet new friends on an Icebreaker cruise

A little ice formation on the lakes near Rovaniemi won’t stop the locals from having fun, and enjoying what nature and seasons bring every year, and in this case, the fun is hopping on an Icebreaker Cruise.

Book an unforgettable boat tour sailing through the icy Bothnian Sea on an Icebreaker Cruise, on a specialized boat that will travel the crisp and cold waters, as you take in the soft glows of the sun bouncing off the white ice, creating a truly magical landscape to see for yourself.

Take a guided tour of the boat itself, learn about the special water vessel used for these types of excursions, and enjoy a lovely, hot lunch on board as you mingle with your new friends on the experience.

The experience usually lasts around 3 hours, and in many cases may include the opportunity to do some ice floating, where you take a dip in the icy water wearing a special insulated suit to keep you warm and afloat.

Icebreaker cruises start at $400 USD and include ground transportation, bonus activities, and safety equipment and guides.

• boat tours in Rovaniemi

12 – Cross a bridge or two while in Rovaniemi

Cross the emblematic Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge (Jätkänkynttilä), a perfect backdrop to a picture to commemorate your trip to Rovaniemi. Walk across the pedestrian-friendly bridge, take in the stunning sights below with the icy water during the winter months, and above and around during golden hour. The bridge is a popular resting place for a large variety of migrating birds, so if you’re an avid bird-watcher, don’t forget to add visiting this bridge to your Rovaniemi itinerary.

Ounaskoski Railway bridge is another brilliant bridge recently reconstructed in 1951 after it was completely destroyed during WWll, spanning around 404 meters long. The bridge is a local masterpiece for its double-decker build, offering transportation for cars and trains, as well as pedestrians and cyclists. Make sure to take a stroll through the car deck, offering a sidewalk to take in the splendor of the river below, and nature all around.

13 – Do a bit of Ice fishing

Learn all about the art of Finnish ice fishing, from finding the perfect spot to fish, learning how to carve out the hold in the ice, and other fascinating, survival, and cultural components of this thousands-year-old practice.

If you book a tour to do this experience, you will take a snowmobile ride out with a professional driver and fisherman, to the perfect frozen lake to do your fishing. You’ll learn how to carve out the fishing hole and try your luck at catching your own fish.

While you’re trying to catch dinner, don’t forget to look up and around, taking in the scenic and quaint location, breathing in the brisk and fresh air with a bit of smokiness from the bonfire being prepared by professional guides.

Huddle up with your new friends, have a delicious dinner and share fishing stories and legends with the group.

Ice fishing experience starts at $100 USD, and usually includes other activities, a meal, and ground transportation.

• ice fishing in Rovaniemi

14 – Learn about Lumberjack history on Kotisaari Island

Known as a lumberjack capital during the 1800s was the island of Kotisaari, located 2.4 kilometers south of Rovaniemi, on the Kemi River.

The history and main use of the island were to produce lumber and take it to the mainland, via boats and with the work of lumberjacks. Since the 1980s, this process stopped due to the modernization of trucks to fulfill the job.

Today, you can visit the island, which is only accessible with a tour guide, and take in the history and local culture still alive on the island, as well as grab a drink at the local watering hole, which used to be the main boathouse-turned tavern.

Access to the island is only granted between the months of May to October.

15 – Gain the health benefits of a sauna experience

A sauna experience is something not to be missed while in Rovaniemi, as it is a deeply ingrained Finnish tradition and practice that goes back many years, and is believed to help the heat penetrate into your muscles, especially during the cold winter months. It’s also a social practice amongst the Finnish people.

A great and unique experience that involves saunas is to book a sauna boat cruise , which consists of a wood-fired sauna, situated on a boat, that you can hop into and cruise along while taking in the incredibly stunning sights of the Arctic Circle.

No matter the season you are visiting, this practice is year-round, so be sure to add this experience to your list of things to do in Rovaniemi.

For those with an adventurous spirit, take the dare and plunge into a chilly lake for some ice swimming , believed to also have immunity-boosting properties, especially when done before a steamy sauna. This practice increases other health benefits.

Sauna experiences like these start around $100 USD.

• sauna experiences in Rovaniemi

16 – Visit the top Christmas destination in the world, SantaPark

Located only a 5-minute drive from the city center of Rovaniemi is SantaPark , a beloved, and locally-favorite Santa Clause-themed amusement park, enchanting visitors and locals since November 1998.

Take your children to the “heart of Christmas” otherwise known as the Home Cavern of Santa Clause, inside an indoor amusement park, jam-packed with dozens of attractions, games, and activities for children, and the child in every adult.

Feel the Christmas magic any time of the year, as you enroll in Elf School to learn how to become one of Santa’s helpers, and even graduate with your diploma, take an overall joy ride through the park on the Magic Train, or do some gingerbread cookie decorating inside Mrs. Gingerbread’s house, or take a look through the Ice Princess’s Ice Gallery, oohing and ahhing at every icy sculpture.

The possibilities and experiences are endless and sure to cater to everyone’s enjoyment.

Tickets for this magical Christmas experience start at 39 euros per adult and 33 euros for children 3-12 years old.

17 – Visit the 2nd northernmost zoo in the world, Ranua Wildlife Park (day trip)

Take the journey of 80 kilometers north of Rovaniemi to the country’s northernmost zoo, Ranua Wildlife Park, where you’ll find a variety of 200 arctic animals, coming from 50 different species, all housed within their native habitat and climate for your eyes to see.

Explore a whole day of trekking through snow-covered paths within a mystical white forest, taking in the sights and sounds of native animals of this part of the world, from polar bears to arctic foxes, huskies, caribou, and more.

Book an exciting full-day tour to Ranua Wildlife Park, and enjoy the included transportation to the zoo, hiking through the Ounasvaara Winter Trail , a 6-kilometer-long nature trail taking you through forested paths of dust-covered trees, lined with safety trail markers.

Afterward, enjoy time at the zoo with a guide, and then relish a cozy lunch meal served at the zoo.

Day trips to Ranua Wildlife Park start at $155 USD and include all the services to make your trip enjoyable and easy, especially if you’re traveling with young children.

• Ranua Wildlife Park day trips

18 – Be in awe of the bright architecture of the Rovaniemi City Library

Visit the architecturally stunning Rovaniemi City Library, which was completed in 1968, after the original library dating back to 1860 was destroyed during the Lapland War.

Step inside, and take in the design details, from the long hallways to the bright, and airy spaces with large windows, created with the intention of allowing the most amount of sun to enter the space, and highlight the books inside.

Walk through the fan-shaped curvature of select hallways, and while you’re visiting the library, check out some books to add to your list of personal reading materials.

The library is free to enter, and it is located just an 8-minute drive south of the city center of Rovaniemi.

19 – Make your trip memorable with a Dog Sledding experience

Feel the rush of excitement and adrenaline, mushing through the wintery paths where huskies have trod before on a dog sledding experience.

Pet and connect with the cute husky dogs, and hop onto a traditional dog sled, while getting briefed on safety rules and protocol to follow once you take off with the dogs.

The journey sledding and admiring the pristine and snowy scene of wintry pine trees and frozen lakes takes around 20-30 minutes.

Make sure to bring your fully-charged camera to capture the moments when you stop for the occasional photo ops along the way. Also, consider packing extra warm clothes for this trip such as a warm jacket, pants, hats, and gloves.

Book an unforgettable dog sledding experience in Rovaniemi, which oftentimes also includes either lunch or a warm drink and snack at the end of the experience.

Dog sledding experiences start around $100 USD, and children are able to participate with an adult.

• dog sledding in Rovaniemi

20 – Enjoy all the fun at the Angry Birds Playground

Make plans to stop by the live action at Angry Birds Playground, situated a 4-minute drive from the city center of Rovaniemi or a 10-minute walk.

Whether you have children, or you love the game Angry Birds, this park is not one to miss while you’re visiting Rovaniemi. Take advantage of the multiple games and activities from slides and swings taking you up and away, to walking across a short distance on a rope, and so much more.

If you have children, they’ll also enjoy the wide open space available for them to play and run and make new friends.

Entrance into this fun park is free, and the park is open all year round.

21 – Hike your way to the Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls on a day trip

Be sure to book your day trip adventures, hiking through the largest natural parks and attractions in the Lapland area, Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls.

See the scenes of frozen lakes, deep and icy canyons, and the preserved crystal-like frozen waterfalls of Korouoma while you hike with a small group and guide, breathing in the fresh air with each step you take.

While on your excursion, take a look at the local animals peeping their heads like the arctic fox, golden eagles, deer, and more. When you arrive at the frozen waterfalls, you may even spot a few climbers, braving the ice and rising to the challenge of climbing frozen water.

If you book a Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls day trip experience, your ticket will also include a cozy BBQ lunch on site, as well as special warm overalls and equipment to help make the hike easier, smoother, and warm for you.

Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls day trips start at $123 USD, and usually last 5-10 hours. No previous climbing experience is required.

• Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls day trips

22 – Climb up the Ounasvaara Observation Tower

Make your way to some of the most beautiful bird’s eye views of the city center and river by climbing up the Ounasvaara Observation Tower, situated 3 kilometers east of the city center of Rovaniemi, on the rocky hillside of Ounasvaara.

Climb up the steps and catch an expansive view, perfect to see especially during sunset hours, or early in the morning around sunrise, to witness the soft glow of orange and yellows highlight even more as the lights get cast on the white snow everywhere.

Catch the views taken straight out of a winter movie of frozen lakes, snow-covered pine trees and forests, and even the Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge. The Ounasvaara observation tower is 3 flights of stairs, making it an easy trek for anyone to climb, and get some of the nicest views of nature around.

The observation tower is open 24 hours a day and is free of charge to climb up and bask in the views.

23 – Snowshoe through the Arctic Circle

Hike through the picture-perfect winter scenes of snow-covered trees, and frozen lakes, in what feels like a private, secluded winter wonderland with an exciting snowshoeing activity.

Get the best views and experience hiking through Lapland, usually taking around 2-3 hours. Strap on your special snowshoes put on your specialty warm overalls and jacket (provided by the tour organizers), and get ready to walk through the frozen Arctic Circle.

Learn about the history of snowshoeing from your guide, from the purpose of the practice to other fascinating and important historical facts. Many tours will include a hearty lunch afterward, usually a BBQ or other options catering to any special diets, with hot tea.

Make some memories of snowshoeing, while making new friends, and enjoying the cozy fire after the exciting journey through the Arctic Circle.

• snowshoeing in Rovaniemi

24 – Thrift some treasures at Varastotien Kirppis

With more than a few second-hand shops in Rovaniemi, don’t hesitate in checking out a few thrift shops like the Rovaniemi Second-Hand Market, Varastotien Kirppis.

Rovaniemi Second-Hand Market offers a unique selection of gently loved items and unique treasures you have to check out for yourself. Everything from second-hand clothing, accessories, jewelry, and even home decor and more are available inside Rovaniemi Second-Hand Market, located in the heart of the city center.

If you forgot to pack in a warm coat and don’t want to pay much for a new one, consider stepping inside a Varastotien Kirppis to find your warm coat for half or less of a new coat or any warmth accessory you may need.

Some second-hand shops also have a café inside, mimicking a bit of a mall experience, making it a perfect cherry on top of your day of thrifting and finding your unique pieces and souvenirs to take back home.

The thrift shops are located scattered around the heart of Rovaniemi, including the shopping center close to Lordi’s Square, making them pretty easy to find.

25 – Dig up your own lucky crystal at the Amethyst Mines on a day trip

Crystal lovers, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to enter a real mining cave where you’ll be able to see and extract your own Amethyst crystal while learning about the mining practices in Lapland, and how the mine was discovered.

Open all year round, spend the day uncovering beautiful purple stones yourself, enjoying the jaw-dropping gorgeous views near the mines.

Take a scenic snow train to see a little bit beyond what’s immediately close to the mines, and gather at the end of working the mines around a warm fire, sipping tea, and exchanging experiences with your new friends.

The Amethyst mines in Rovaniemi are the only ones accessible in Europe, so this is your chance to extract your own stones yourself.

Stop by the Amethyst shop to find beautiful works of art and jewelry created with the Amethyst stones dug in the same caves you were just in, and consider taking some for your friends and family back home.

Amethyst Mines day trips start at $160 USD and include roundtrip ground transportation.

• Amethyst Mines day trips from Rovaniemi

26 – Hang on tight on a quad tour through icy wilderness

Trek the snow-covered rocky paths of Rovaniemi’s wilderness on a fun and thrilling quad tour experience, allowing you to see more, faster, with the safety guidelines of a professional along for the ride with you.

Usually taking around 2-5 hours, and also including a warm snack afterward, a quad tour also includes ground transportation that will safely take you to the point of departure on your quad tour.

An experience not to miss, feel the rush of excitement as you pass through dense forests covered in snow, stop by the magical and crystal-like frozen lakes, and drive next to the jagged rocks and cliffs, while taking in the sights of wilderness through the journey.

Safety equipment like helmets, outer clothing, and snow shoes are included in the price you pay to attend the tour. The bikes come with 2 seats, meaning that each person will take a turn driving the bike, stopping around midway to make the switch.

If you visit during the summer, you’ll be able to splash through some of the shallow rivers and take in a slightly greener forest, also full of charm and natural beauty.

• quad tours in Rovaniemi

27 – Plan a day trip to the fairy-tale like Kemi Snow Castle

Enjoy the icy yet majestic Kemi Snow Castle on a day trip from Rovaniemi, around 1.5 hours away from the city center and close to the Gulf of Bothnia.

Inside the Kemi Snow Castle, you will be amazed at what many say is the world’s most beautiful ice and snow castle, where you’ll be able to closely analyze the details of the ice sculptures, enter the Snow Chapel, and simply walk through the snowy grounds, taking in the sight of colorful lights illuminating further the beauty of the chilly walls.

Observe the beautiful art carvings onto the castle’s walls, designed by local Finnish artists that will take your breath away, as well as the transparent ice cubes decorating the staircases inside.

Bring your charged camera to capture the moment of you sitting on a completely ice-made chair, or setting your chilled drink on an ice-made table.

By booking a Kemi Snow Castle tour, you get access to roundtrip transportation, entrance inside the castle, a traditional lunch, a guide, and even special clothing to withstand the cold temperatures inside the castle.

Day trip experiences to the Kemi Snow Castle start at $203 USD.

• Kemi Snow Castle day trips

28 – Raft through the Arctic Rivers of Rovaniemi

Enjoy the white-water rafting fun on the arctic rivers, on a 3-hour journey that involves excitement, bravery, and a team mindset.

Raft through the waters of the Raudanjok river, known to never freeze over even in the winter, while being surrounded by the Rovaniemi wilderness. No matter the season you may be visiting, rafting through some of the arctic rivers will always be a possibility.

Get trained and informed on how the rafting experience will be, as well as learn your important role within the rafting team.

As part of your rafting experience, you will have access to special equipment including a life vest and helmet, an English-speaking tour guide, and even a light snack afterward. Children are allowed on the rafting experience from the age of 7 and up, always accompanied by an adult.

When packing for the rafting experience, make sure to bring a spare change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof sack to keep your phone safe.

Rafting experiences on the Arctic Rivers start at $87 USD.

• rafting in Rovaniemi

29 – Feel the exciting challenges at Adventure Park Huima

Let the exhilarating times roll at Adventure Park Huima , where you and your friends can engage in some challenges together, climbing up ropes, going down slides, managing your balance walking across unstable net bridges, all while wearing a safety harness, and a helmet.

Children starting from the age of 4 and up are welcome to join the fun on their own obstacle course (track), and children 14 and over along with adults, can choose between the 10 different obstacle courses (tracks) spread out through the treetops of a beautiful forest.

In addition to the different tracks, other activities like bowling, minigolf, the pool and spa, and even gym facilities are available and may be subject to different hours of operation, so make sure to double-check before booking.

The Adventure Park itself is open from Spring to the end of September.

When planning your trip to Adventure Park Huima, make sure to wear appropriate clothing like sneakers and if possible, athletic clothing to help you as you crouch down, or climb up things in order to make the experience enjoyable.

30 – Earn bragging rights after winning the Karting on ice games

Karting on ice is essentially a similar concept to go-karting on a race track, where you will be able to hop on your own special go-kart designed to glide through the snow and drive on one of the specific tracks onsite.

Get into the competitive spirit as you challenge your friends or family members to a friendly ice-karting lap around the icy track, giving you a unique opportunity to go-kart on ice using a miniature version of a snowmobile, in the middle of an enchanting winter forest.

Children over the age of 10 that measure a height of 150 cm and over are welcome to join in on the fun. You will be provided with special warm clothes and a helmet as part of your experience, as well as 2 racing laps, each one consisting of 20-25 minutes per session.

Some bookings may also include other activities as a bonus such as ice fishing, and will also provide you with a warm beverage and light snack. See who out of your group ends up taking the number one spot in the special awards ceremony to close off your exciting time ice karting.

• karting in Rovaniemi

31 – Learn about Lappish culture and history at the Forestry Museum of Lapland

A perfectly encompassing space where you get to truly learn about Lappish history, and the lives and work of the people of the 19th century in Lapland, is a visit to the Forestry Museum of Lapland . The museum is located only an 8-minute drive from the city center, near Salmijärvi lake.

Walk onto the museum grounds, which have the original homes that used to be utilized for forestry as a way to earn money in the 1870s up until the 1950s. Take a look at the special equipment used to create this industry that became part of the Lappish culture, and is still preserved all this time.

The museum is known to be one of the most authentic museums showcasing a lot of details and visual examples of the hard labor conditions that people had to work in, especially in the Arctic Circle. Learn about the lumberjacks, logging, and step inside what used to be real homes, adorned with details representative of the times.

Your visit will not only teach you about this important piece of local culture but also help continue keeping the museums open for others to learn.

32 – Enjoy some breathtaking kayaking

Pine forests, wildlife, and expansive views of the horizon fill your vision as you kayak here – it’s little wonder that it’s such an appealing sport!

This is the perfect vessel for enjoying some classic Finnish experiences; paddle under the endless sun of summer evenings, or paddle right up to a reindeer farm!

If you’re traveling with kids aged 4 and up, you’ll enjoy this experience together with your guide, as you traverse the Finnish Lapland, and then afterward, enjoy a few Finnish snacks!

The best part about booking a kayak tour is that additional bonuses like roundtrip transportation, and more are included in the price, which makes this experience less complicated, and smoother!

The gorgeous sights and peeks into local culture are unbeatable!

33 – Do some stand-up paddleboarding under the Midnight Sun

Enjoy a memorable experience of stand-up paddleboarding through the quaint lakes of Lapland, especially during the Midnight sun, between the months of June-July/August.

Explore as you learn how to balance on your paddleboard, and take in the miraculous sight of the glowing sun for 24 hours during the special Midnight sun.

A great way to connect with nature, and listen purely to the sound of water against your board as well as the animals nearby, a paddleboarding experience is perfect for you whether you’re a newbie or you’re a professional.

A Midnight Sun paddle board experience starts at $50 USD and includes ground transportation guide, snacks, a life vest, and the paddle board.

Children are welcome to take part in paddleboarding if they are age 14 and older, and accompanied by an adult. Make sure to pack your own swimsuit for this experience, as well as sunscreen.

• paddleboarding in Rovaniemi

34 – Search for moose on the move

As some of the largest (and most adorable) native animals, moose are practically a mascot of the north; and no visit to this area would be complete without a safari to see them!

Enjoy a thrilling ride out into the wilderness, watching for these iconic creatures in their natural habitat when you book a Moose Safari! Be taken out to the Finnish wilderness with a professional tour guide, straight to the places where these incredible animals gather. Tucked inside a heated minivan, you’ll have no problem keeping warm while observing!

You’ll learn useful and interesting information regarding the moose, and other animals you may spot, all while enjoying a Finnish snack!

There’s nothing like seeing some of these massive mammals pass by!

• moose safari in Rovaniemi

35 – Check out what’s happening at Lappi Areena

Lappi Areena is Rovaniemi’s largest indoor arena, where different activities and events take place all year round, from concerts to expos, sporting events, and more.

One of the most common and popular activities not to miss at Lappi Areena is a hockey game.

Located 3.5 kilometers on the other side of the Kemi river, the Lappi Areena is a modern areena, created to host a variety of events comfortably, with a capacity of 3,500 people, and has a large gym, 3 ice rinks, multiple meeting spaces, and even a restaurant and pub inside.

You can also rent an “ice shift” and reserve a time frame on the ice where you can train or simply skate around the ice rink, available on their website.

So whether you’re wanting to find an event to buy tickets for or you want to find a gym class, there are many different uses available for you to take advantage of at Lappi Areena.

To find out what upcoming events they have, make sure to head over to their official arena website, and make your plans accordingly.

36 – Making dinner plans at the best restaurants

Indulge in the perfect aromas blending together native Lappish ingredients like berries with grilled beef at Arctic Restaurant . Serving seasonal dishes, and utilizing meats from local providers, you can rest assured knowing that you are about to enjoy an authentic Lappish dish.

Aitta Restaurant welcomes you with its fresh twist on Nordic class dishes, like the classic hearty stews, and braised beef dishes. Enjoy getting cozy in front of the central fireplace, as you sip on some regional wine made from arctic berries like blueberries and cloudberries.

For a fusion of flavors, check out Käyrämön Keidas , offering a magnificent flavor combination of Chinese dishes and Finnish delicacies. From buffet to a la carte, and even a cafe, enjoy both of these exquisite cuisines under one roof. Due to its location, this makes Käyrämön Keidas (Panda Restaurant) the northernmost Chinese restaurant in the world.

It goes without saying that Ice Restaurant will by far be one of the coolest restaurants you’ve ever visited (pun intended), greeting guests with meals prepared with local ingredients, and perfectly concocted cocktails. Though the air may be chilly, each guest will be offered proper clothing as well as a blanket for themselves or to share with their partner. The restaurant may be cold, but the hospitality is very warm and welcoming.

• Ice Restaurant experience

37 – Book a ski lesson at Ounasvaara Ski Oy

Have you ever wanted to get on a snowboard and glide through the slopes like the pros? Then don’t think twice about visiting and booking a skiing class at Ounasvaara Ski Oy , a ski resort located only 5.2 kilometers from the city center.

Catch spectacular views from the slopes down below of frozen lakes, snow-covered trees, and the city on the horizon, before tearing up the slopes and catching some major adrenaline on the way down.

Open all year round, the winter months are some of the most popular times to visit the ski resort for the purpose of skiing as well as winter tobogganing,

However, during the summer months, you can hop on the ski lifts which will take you up the slopes and gift you with some of the most sweeping views of the city below and the natural beauty around. In the summer you can also rent a bike or mountain bike and bike your way down the slope using the specific bike trails, and even enjoy some summer bobsledding.

Enjoy a cup of hot coffee or tea inside the cafe on the resort, helping you keep warm after spending time outside, which offers an inviting ambiance to relax your bones a bit.

38 – Create magical memories on a horse riding tour

If you’re looking for a romantic activity to share with your partner while in Rovaniemi, don’t hesitate to book a horse riding tour with a guide that will take you through the magical winter landscape of the local wilderness, taking in the fresh air, under the glowing sun.

Saddle up on top of Irish Cob horses, a unique horse breed meant for these types of harsh climate conditions, and take to the snowy paths, coming face to face with the beauty of Rovaniemi and romanticizing the moment while on horseback.

Go all in and book a memorable nocturnal horse-drawn carriage ride, where you’ll be able to possibly catch a few glimpses of the Northern Lights as you comfortably sit back and get cozy, listening to interesting facts, stories, and legends.

If you plan to do this activity, please make sure to pack comfortable shoes and clothes to smoothly ride along for the typical duration of 1-2 hours. Perfect for families, friends, or partners, a horse riding tour in Rovaniemi is an experience not soon to be forgotten.

• horse riding in Rovaniemi

39 – Pack your hiking boots to walk the Nature trails

Stretch your legs, and breathe in all the fresh natural air of the arctic embarking on a hike on one of the many nature trails in Rovaniemi.

Walk through the beautiful fells surrounded by rivers, stunning forestry, and deep valleys at the Koivusaari nature trail, situated near the Pisavaara Strict Nature Reserve (Europe’s most protected nature reserve).

Take a stroll through the 7 kilometers of nature path that runs along the sea, and stop for a moment at the log house where many other hikers stop to create fire to get warm for a bit before taking off again.

The trail is less than 3 kilometers away from the city center.

Situated 1 hour from Rovaniemi is the Kätkävaara walking path , offering visitors a view of the local flora and fauna of the area, a great bird-watching viewpoint not to miss, and a monument to commemorate the old railroad that was there and served a great purpose.

In the summer, enjoy the picturesque view of sheep on the fields, and all throughout the year, catch sights of various other animals like mute swans and glaucous gulls. The trail is around 2.5 kilometers.

40 – Interact with wolfdogs at the Arctic Wolfland Sanctuary

Animal lovers, you’ll want to see this! Experience an afternoon interacting with a family living in the countryside of the Laplands with their wolfdogs and farm animals when you book a guided visit to the Artic Wolfland Sanctuary !

In this experience, you’ll get to interact with the beloved wolfdogs, while learning and seeing how they live and work on a daily basis on the farm. You’ll also get to meet the family, and learn more about their story, and how they decided the countryside in the Lapland was for them!

You’ll also get to join the family on a walk through the woods with their wolfdogs, or even opt to spend a whole day with them to really go for the full experience!

• Artic Wolfland Sanctuary tours

41 – Take an e-bike through the woods

With hearty tires and a helpful motor, e-bikes are the perfect vehicle for exploring the hushed vastness of the Arctic woods.

Moving through the tundra, you’ll see full blooms of lichen, skinny pines, and great overlooks that show off the tundra in all of its glory.

The best way to maneuver through the dense woods is on an eBike wilderness tour, which will support you as you make your way through rugged terrain, without costing you too much effort. This way, you’re able to see more, and faster!

Along with a group and your guide, you’ll go off into the deep forest with confidence, feeling excitement when you reach the impressive views in no time!

It’s certainly good motivation to keep pedaling!

• bike tour in Rovaniemi

42 – Be a guest at the Snow Hotel

Another truly unique and incredible hotel experience not to miss is the Snow Hotel, only a 20-minute drive from the city center.

Take the opportunity to see what it feels like to sleep on a completely ice-made bed, as you look around and take in the carved art pieces, illuminated beautifully in your room. Each guest will be equipped with proper and specialized sleeping bags lined with fur perfectly keeping you warm safely throughout the night.

If you’ve ever wanted to stay in an igloo, then you got it as an option at the Snow Hotel, where you’ll be able to share a room with one other person inside.

Before the night ends, stop by Ice Restaurant, offering an incredible variety of hot Lappish food, in an icy environment where you’ll be seated on an icy chair and eating from an icy table.

To ensure that you don’t miss the beauty of the Northern Lights, each room has an Aurora Alarm, which will scan the skies for you and wake you up just in time to catch the lights, if you wish to set it up.

Make sure that even though you are equipped with special sleeping bags, you also pack long sleeve shirts, pants, hats, and gloves to ensure extra warmth. Please be aware that due to the cold nature of the hotel, guests can only book a one-night stay.

• Snow Hotel tours

43 – Perfect your swing at Santa Claus Golf Club

A great way to enjoy some time under the Midnight sun is going golfing at Santa Claus Golf Club , located only 8 minutes away east of Rovaniemi!

Enjoy golfing in one of the most beautiful and fresh golfing courses, surrounded by the Lapland woods, and minor hills, and not to mention breathing in the cleanest air while playing, which creates the perfect atmosphere for some golf!

To book your tee time, make sure to head to the main website, and check out availability, as well as green fees and rental equipment fees. Reservations are required, so please make sure to make them following the instructions laid out on their website.

And don’t forget to take some breaks in between to try some local delicacies!

44 – Visit Finland’s largest glacial pothole at Giant’s Kettle, Sukulanrakka

A geologic phenomenon not to miss is the sight of the impressive vertical holes called Giant’s Kettle, said to have been created through the consistent and forceful movement of rocks onto the bedrocks, over time creating the holes.

Today, the largest pothole is called Paholaisen liemikirnu, or the Devil’s soup churn, and measures a staggering 15 meters deep below the surface and 8 meters in diameter.

Some of these potholes are around 10,000 years old, and nearby the potholes, you can see a few of the rocks said to have been the cause of the creation of these holes over time.

There are stairs that allow you to go down a bit more to see what it feels to be inside these potholes and imagine the magnitude of nature’s force to create these holes in the ground.

Located only 25 minutes from the city center, this is a fascinating natural occurrence that you must see with your own eyes, and learn more from the guides.

45 – Experience a night in a Yurt at District Rovaniemi Oy

Have you ever wanted to stay the night in the middle of the Lapland? Consider staying a night or two at a Yurt, which is an insulated round tent, with all the amenities you could need for a comfortable overnight stay.

What’s better about staying in a yurt than a traditional hotel is that you’ll get to enjoy stargazing like nowhere else, as the District Rovaniemi Oy has yurts located in secluded areas of the woods, making it prime viewing spots for stargazing!

Choose to stay in a Hilltop Yurt for optimal sky views, and enjoy the comforts given to you by the District Rovaniemi Oy.

Pro tip: Yurt stays are available all year long, so no need to wait for the winter!

• see price & reviews

46 – Make your nights go on at the best bars and nightclubs

Enjoy the fresh and delicious drinks at Roof Terrace Mökki , a small, cozy, and very Finnish rooftop offering a comforting vibe, where you can escape for a bit from the busy city life, and into a quieter ambiance.

Grab some snacks and drinks at Uitto Pub , while playing a rousing game of darts or board games with friends in a cozy and friendly ambiance. Enjoy some classic drinks, or order a Finnish beer like a Karhu or Sahti.

Feel the luxurious vibes inside Frans & Chérie chatting with friends over delicious foods, exceptional drinks, and select French wines. Ask your waiter to help you choose a wine that will pair well with your meal to further elevate your experience.

If you’re looking for a fun night of dancing and drinks, don’t hesitate to go to the Night Club and Karaoke Bar where the most action happens on Fridays and Saturdays. Meet up with friends to dance the night away, or go on your own and meet new people. The Night Club and Karaoke Bar offers craft cocktails, as well as a great selection of Finnish beers.

How to get to Rovaniemi?

To get to Rovaniemi, visitors fly into Rovaniemi Airport (RVN), situated around 10 kilometers north of the city center of Rovaniemi.

Some of the most common ways to get to Rovaniemi from the airport is via the bus, which costs anywhere from 2-15 euros and takes around 30 minutes. Another great option to take you from the airport to the city center is looking into airport transfers in Rovaniemi .

An airport transfer will take you to the city center in around 10 minutes, and will usually cost as low as $44 USD for a family, which will drop you off at your desired location.

Where to stay in Rovaniemi?

Enjoy the cozy and chic Nordic lodging decor at Lapland Hotels Ounasvaara Chalets , rated highly for its location next to the Ounasvaara Ski Center perfect for those traveling to Rovaniemi for its skiing. Enjoy the picture-perfect views from your private terrace, available in each room, as well as the in-house restaurants, Restaurant Rantasauna and Restaurant Thulia. Those who are looking to stay somewhat near Santa’s Village will love staying at this hotel, as it’s only a 10-minute drive.

Take advantage of the free bike and Nordic walking stick rentals available at the Scandic Rovaniemi City Hotel . Known for its beautiful and modern interior decoration, you’ll feel welcomed the moment you step inside the lobby. Enjoy the in-house restaurants, as well as the proximity to the Arktikum Science Museum and the Rovaniemi Train Station. Don’t forget to take advantage of using the Finnish sauna inside the hotel.

Situated only a 5-minute drive from the Rovaniemi Airport and Santa’s Village, the Arctic Light Hotel is the perfect stay for those travelers looking to remain in the middle of the city. Enjoy the bright and airy rooms, some even including a kitchenette, and enjoy the beautiful views from your private terrace every morning with your cup of coffee. Lastly, refuel for the day ahead enjoying breakfast at the hotel, offering a great mix of American and Finnish dishes by a chef.

How about a stay inside an igloo while in Rovaniemi? Check out Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle , equipped with all the amenities you would need, and more from a typical hotel – from fast wifi, a flat-screen TV, breakfast, a modern, private bathroom, and more. Don’t forget to set your Aurora Alarm located in your room to wake you up in time to catch the amazing Northern Lights above you.

• best hotels in Rovaniemi

Where to go next?

While you’re planning your trip to Rovaniemi, don’t forget to check out some of Finland’s other hot spot cities not to miss.

Contemplate checking out all the amazing things to do in Kiruna , known to have the world’s largest Iron-ore mine which welcomes tourism, and another hot spot to catch the Northern Lights between September-March.

Don’t forget to see all the cool things to do in Helsinki , Finland’s capital city! Aside from the ample history museums to discover in Helsinki, the city is also known for its cutting-edge modern art scene, and beautiful Nordic architecture! Consider multi-day trips from Rovaniemi , to plan and organize various other popular day trips near the city! Ride comfortably and securely as you visit some of the most highly coveted destinations in Finland, to make the most out of your time there.

Final thoughts

Rovaniemi is a winter wonderland destination that you have to visit at least once in your life.

Whether it’s checking into the Snow Hotel and spending the night sleeping on an ice bed with a special sleeping bag, it’s getting your Elf diploma at SantaPark, or it’s mushing through the Finnish wilderness – your senses will surely be captivated.

We hope you enjoyed this comprehensive list of 40 fun things to do in Rovaniemi, Finland, and that you’ve found more than enough inspiration to book your trip to this magical natural destination.

Happy travels!

10 Things To Do In Rovaniemi With Kids In Winter

Rovaniemi, Finland is known as the official hometown to Santa Claus. What many may not realize is there is a variety of other wonderful activities to participate in while in Rovaniemi. Join us as we share 10 things to do in Rovaniemi with kids.

* Some of our activities were sponsored by Visit Rovaniemi . I will indicate below which activities these are. Please know that even those these activities were sponsored, we only share honest opinions of the attraction s.

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Visit Santa Claus Village

When planning things to do in Rovaniemi with kids, Santa Claus Village was priority #1. Santa Claus Village is located 8km or approximately 5 miles from the city of Rovaniemi. You can easily spend an entire day experiencing all that Santa Claus Village has to offer. We were graciously hosted by Visit Rovaniemi and provided tickets to Snowman World, the reindeer ride, and our digital downloads while visiting Santa.

The quaint village is full of magical Christmas wonder. There are a variety of activities for your family to participate in while visiting Santa Claus Village. You can jump aboard a sleigh and take a ride behind the reindeer. Or if you are interested in petting reindeer or trying nordic skiing you can stop by the Elf’s Farmyard and Petting Zoo. Of course, you will stop by and share your Christmas wish with Santa. You might also stop for a visit with Mrs. Claus. Snowman World is a great place to experience ice and snow sculptures. You can also ride the most intense tube ride I’ve ever seen. You’ll also want to stop by the Main Post Office to see all of Santa’s Mail and send a postcard to a friend.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Santa Claus Village. Be sure to head over to our Family Guide to Santa Claus Village Finland post to learn more about everything offered.

It can often be confusing when planning a trip to Rovaniemi to learn that there is both Santa Claus Village and Santa Park. Santa Park is located just down the road from Santa Claus Village. Santa Park is an indoor Christmas theme park located in an underground cavern. It is where the elves make the toys 🙂

Santa Park was not originally planned on our list of things to do in Rovaniemi with kids. However, when I found out about it I knew we had to go experience it. We had a great time. What really sold me was that the tickets allow you to attend for two consecutive days. From watching an elf show to participating in elf school, there are a lot of fun activities to participate in at Santa Park. Head on over to our article, Should we visit Santa Park? to learn more about all Santa Park has to offer.

One thing that we did not have on our plan of things to do in Rovaniemi but wish we would have was the Ranua Zoo. Located approximately an hour from Rovaniemi the Ranua Zoo features 50 wild animal species. Ranua Zoo is open year-round with the following hours:

• June 1 – August 31, daily between 9 am – 7 pm
• September 1 – May 31, daily between 10 am – 4 pm

You can rent a car and travel up to Ranua Zoo. There are also many safari groups that will take you up there. I would suggest you plan a full day to visit if you are visiting in the winter. With such a short window of daylight in the winter, the time you will want to be at the zoo will be midday. Since our free day was taken up with two sick kids we weren’t able to visit.

Check Out The Playgrounds

This might sound like a strange addition to our list of things to do in Rovaniemi with kids but I highly recommend you take some time to play at the local parks.

Our first day the bus we took from the train station dropped us off right next to the park. We couldn’t resist and we let our kids go play. Of course, we had to be extra cautious due to the snow but it was a fun way to get some energy out after 2 days of travel.

Rovaniemi also has the Angry Birds park which is free. The Angry Birds Park is located on the riverbank by Valtakatu-street, within walking distance from the city center. With something for the young kids, older kids, and the young at heart 🙂 this is a park you should definitely check out. Of course, you should always use your own discretion to check the weather conditions and decide if it is safe for your kids.

Rovaniemi Cultural Pass

The Cultural Pass is one ticket that gives you entrance to 3 cultural museums (Arktikum, Pilke, and Korundi) in Rovaniemi. You can visit the museums as many times as you would like in 7 days. Visit Rovaniemi graciously hosted us and provided our family with the cultural pass. I will detail the three museums included in the Culture Pass below.

Arktikum is both a science center and museum that allows you to experience the Arctic culture. There were so many great exhibits but our kids really enjoyed the Northern Lights exhibit. In this exhibit, you can lay on your back and experience the northern lights and the Finnish folklore behind them. We also enjoyed learning about the history and culture of Lapland by completing a scavenger hunt that the children were presented when we checked in. Whether learning about the native animals or about the indigenous people of the region there was so much to learn while at Arktikum!

The Pilke Museum is a science museum has exhibits that help you see the forest in a whole new way. Similar to a children’s museum in the States, Pilke has many hands-on activities to help the children learn.

There were so many exhibits that my children loved. My oldest really loved getting behind the wheel of a forestry machine. The special arts & crafts section in the middle museum was my daughter’s favorite. She was able to create a special Christmas craft. My youngest loved the pretend saw to cut wood and the train set with a logging truck. Let’s not leave out the parents 🙂 Mom and Dad loved singing karaoke on an anthill (you’ll have to watch our youtube video to catch a glimpse of that 🙂 ) This was a lovely museum and my kids definitely asked to come again. Unfortunately, our schedule did not allow us to do so but we hope to visit again someday in the future!

Korundi is the Art Museum in Rovaniemi. The museum features works from artists who either work in the North or were born there. My oldest son and I visited this museum on our own. My youngest two were sick so we felt like it was a perfect time for our visit to the museum. We had such a nice time together. The exhibits were nicely spaced and several had benches were you could sit and just take in the art. The museum also had a nice little gift shop and a small refreshment area. While this was a great place to visit with my oldest, I don’t know that it would have been appropriate to bring my three-year-old to.

Family Outing With Happy Fox

When I was planning our things to do in Rovaniemi, I knew that I wanted to find activities that were family-friendly. There are a lot of companies that have outings but they are often for large groups of people. Anyone with children knows that flexibility is key to having a good experience when you are traveling.

When scouring the internet and the Visit Rovaniemi site I came across an outing with a company called Happy Fox . The excursion I booked was the Family Winter Fun excursion which lasts 4 hours. Our hosts were Mika and Kristina. From the moment they picked us up until they dropped us off, they put their full energy into making our experience the best it could be. I appreciated that not only were they great hosts, but they were fully committed to the safety of our family.

Our family fun time included a snowmobile-pulled sled on the frozen river, skiing, ice fishing, and lots of sledding on a variety of sleds. It was such a precious time of playing together as a family. Mika & Kristina graciously answered all the questions we had about the culture (and I’m a question-asker 😳). They were also very organized. They always had the next activity ready before my kids could even ask “what’s next?” We finished our time together by eating sausages, berry juice, coffee, and tea in traditional kata. It was such a beautiful day.

Husky Tour & Farm Visit

We’ve never been husky sleigh riding and/or driving (it’s really not that popular in Florida 😂) so it was at the top of our list of things to do when traveling to Rovaniemi. I contacted a variety of tour groups to find the perfect fit for our family. Boy what a beautiful fit that I came across Husky and Yoga Nature .

We spent our time with Aksana & Antti and their beautiful Siberian Huskies. We booked the private family excursion which included a lengthy sleigh ride, hot drinks, pancakes, and lots of snuggle time with the dogs. The beauty of this outing vs going with one of the larger outfitters was all the personal touches. We truly felt as if we were part of Aksana & Antti’s family. You could tell that the dogs are considered part of their family in the sweet demeanor they had when interacting with the children.

I’m not gonna lie I was a little nervous when they told me I was going to be driving one of the sleds (I went thinking I was going to be sitting cozy dozy in the sleeping bag with the kids). However, they were so kind teaching me and getting me going that within minutes I was loving it! My oldest son even got to drive a little with dad for the very last part of our trip which was special. We loved our time with Husky Yoga and Nature and highly recommend them to families looking for a great place for a Husky ride.

Ounasvarra Park

Another experience we considered when thinking about things to do in Rovaniemi was skiing at Ounasvarra Park . Ounasvarra Park is a ski resort in the heart of Rovaniemi. Again we didn’t have enough time to do this activity but if we would have had more time we definitely would have.

Ounasvarra offers 13 slopes that include a variety of skill levels. I really love that they have a special section called Rendi’s Snow World for the younger kids in your family. This section includes a child slope that provides a safe place for little ones to learn to ski. It also has a tubing section.

If you have older children in your family you might want to try the winter toboggan course that Ounasvarra offers. For children 12 years old or older, the toboggan course is a separate 800-meter course that is made specifically for sledding. The sleds have a steering wheel and brake to help control your speed. Ounasvarra is a great place to have a day of family fun in Rovaniemi.

Hunting The Northern Lights

Hunting the Northern Lights was definitely something we were looking forward to on our trip to Rovaniemi, Finland. I did quite a bit of research before going to figure out what was the best way to see the Northern Lights. While there are many service providers who will attempt to help you see the Northern Lights, the weather is the big determining factor as to whether you will see the lights or not.

We had been given the advice not to take a tour but rather rent a car and search for the Northern Lights on our own. We decided to take this option and in the long run we were happy with this decision. In order to help our hunt we downloaded the Aurora Alert! app which will give you a signal once the northern lights are visible in Rovaniemi. We also downloaded Aurora Forecast & Alert which is also helpful for identifying when there might be the possibility to see the Northern Lights.

While our recommendation for the Northern Lights would definitely be the same-to hunt on your own, some people are just more comfortable going with a local. If you would like to hire someone to take you in search of the Northern Lights you can find a list of providers at Visit Rovaniemi .

In the end we did not get to see the Northern Lights but we had a good time in search of them 🙂 Read more about that in the hiking section below!

Hiking in Rovaniemi

While hiking might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of things to do with kids in Rovaniemi (especially in the winter), it really was a fun activity for our family.

When we started looking for a place to view the Northern Lights we came across the Ounasvaara winter trail . If I’m honest I was a little nervous when my husband mentioned taking the kids on a hike at night. Thankfully the trail was well-groomed and once our eyes adjusted there was plenty of light from the moon to light the way. We were thankful that we had our headlamps that we had brought available if we needed them. We were also thankful to have a sled to pull our youngest in.

When we were planning for our trip to Rovaniemi we were told about laavu’s which are traditional Finnish shelters. These shelters are often stocked with wood and a great place to camp while waiting to see the Northern lights. The Ounasvaara Winter Trail was our choice because it included an observation tower and a laavu. This hike was perfect for little legs as it wasn’t too long and as I mentioned it was well-groomed. Since we were in search of the Northern Lights, we were on this trail at night.

Once we arrived at the laavu and lookout tower we realized that the steps up the lookout tower were very steep and covered in ice. We decided my husband would go up with my oldest first to assess the situation. They went up and said the view was gorgeous but that we needed to be very careful going up and coming back down. We decided it was too dangerous for the three-year-old so my daughter and I went up next. If I’m honest I’d tell you I was pretty scared, but the views at the top were unbelievable. From the top of the tower you could see the entire skyline of the city. I’m pretty sure this view would be gorgeous no matter what time of the year you visit.

Visiting Rovaniemi, Finland was an amazing experience for our family. There are a couple of additional tips we would like to share for when you visit Rovaniemi.

If you have small children having a sled is a must. We pulled our smallest around in a sled all through Santa Claus Village, on our hike, and we used it just to ride of course.

When visiting a new place sometimes it is difficult to find kid-friendly places to eat. Our favorite place we ate in Rovaniemi was Siipiravintola Wingston . We were referred to this restaurant by a local. We really enjoyed not only the food but the family-friendly atmosphere as well.

One of our favorite stores to purchase our sleds, food, and other necessities at was the K City Market. This store is very similar to Walmart in the States. It is not located right in the city but it is only a short drive away and we found the prices more affordable.

Remember that the location of Rovaniemi means there is only about 3 hours of daylight in the winter (possibly less depending on when you visit). Be sure to keep this in mind when planning your excursions/outings as it gets quite a bit colder once the sun has gone down.

In Conclusion

Rovaniemi is such a great place to visit with kids. It has amazing things to do with kids and such kind and authentic people. If Rovaniemi, Finland is not already on your travel bucket list stop what your doing and add it now 🙂 If you are planning a trip to Rovaniemi we would love to answer any questions you have. Please leave them in the comments below!

Please leave us a comment below and let us know any questions you have about things to do in Rovaniemi. If you have any other questions about Rovaniemi we’d like to help you with those as well. Remember to sign up for our newsletter and join us over on  Instagram  where we are also sharing our adventures in Rovaniemi, Finland. Be sure to also subscribe to  our YouTube channel  and hit the notification bell so you will be notified when all of our Rovaniemi videos are uploaded. Stay Peachy!

54 thoughts on “10 Things To Do In Rovaniemi With Kids In Winter”

What a cool place to visit – especially in the winter. I will have to add this to my someday list.

Pam, Thanks so much! It really is a great place to visit in the winter. However, after visiting I now want to visit in the summer as well 🙂

This is such a unique experience! I love it! I love the list of things to see and do!

Lisa, Thanks so much. We really had such an amazing time. Stay peachy!

What an amazing place to visit! I’d love to do just about everything you did. I would be all about Santa Claus Village and Santa Park. I mean, elf school! How cool is that? And I’d love to try the sleds and the husky tour. I’d also try to see the Northern Lights. That’s on my list. It looks like you had an amazing trip with wonderful memories!

Stacey, Looks like we would be fast friends! Rovaniemi is so wonderful and there are so many wonderful things to do there. We did have a wonderful trip full of wonderful memories. Thanks for stopping by!

1. I didn’t know Santa’s home was outside of the North Pole.

2. Santa Village and Santa Park look really cool.

3. As I was reading about the Hunt for Northern Lights, I was hoping to see your photo of them at the end. 😔

I plan to do a Northern Lights cruise in the near future.

Ola, I’m sorry we didn’t see the northern lights. I was 🙁 too! Santa Village and Santa Park were both so fantastic. I hope you get to do the Northern Lights cruise. I would love to hear about it 🙂

Wow! It looks like so much fun, but I must admit I would be intimidated by the cold weather. I’m a Florida girl to the core, so anything other than flip flop weather is cold to me! The Pilke museum looks like it would be a hit with my boys.

Susan, Thank you! It really was so fun. Don’t worry I’m a Florida girl too-born and raised but I was able to bear the cold for Santa 🙂 It was funny the whole time we were there all the locals kept saying “It’s so warm” and the temperature was right at freezing 🙂 I know your boys would love the Pilke museum as well! Thanks for stopping by!

Wow, you did so much. Amazing! I loved the dog sledding. We did that in the Yukon and loved it. Great photos and you really make a great case for a trip.

Heather, Thanks so much! Isn’t the dog sledding amazing! I’m happy you enjoyed the post and I hope you get to go to Rovaniemi one day to experience the magic 🙂

I love the Cultural Pass to visit 3 cultural museums. We like learning the history and why thing are the way they are.

Missy, Thanks so much. Yes, the cultural pass was lovely! It was a great introduction to the city and the culture and the children really enjoyed it!

Never knew Finland was Santa’s home. I love Siberian Huskies, such beautiful dogs. How in the world did you think to visit Rovaniemi?!

Hera, I know-I didn’t either until I found an article on pinterest (that’s how I found out about Rovaniemi 🙂 Yes, the Siberian Huskies are so beautiful and powerful. It was such a great experience to be up close and personal with them. Thanks for stopping by!

If I ever get there I would love to do some of these activities! I pinned your article to remember all the amazing places you mentioned!!

Oh Abby I hope you will be able to make it someday. It is such an amazing place to visit. Thanks for pinning the article. Happy Travels!

What a magical experience with so many amazing adventures! I traveled to Finland about seven times over the years for work – regretting that I did not take a few extra days to explore this area. Love this post!

Thank you-it was a magical experience. That’s amazing that you’ve been to Finland so many times. It is such a lovely place to visit! Hopefully you will be able to go again and visit Rovaniemi 🙂

Hi! Im from Manchester England. You can fly from here straight to Rovaniemi two times a week in a winter time. If you book the flights early, the prize could be only 39 euros! We have been there last four christmas with our family and every time it has been such a magic experience! People there are very friendly and it is one of the safest place on earth! You can go outside anytime or anywhere without fearing anything. It is so amazing! Kids also love that place and winter activities there. Snow and cold brings you a real christmas spirit what you cant get here from England.

Hi Ray, Flying from Manchester is such a great tip-especially for 39 Euros-what a great price. That is so wonderful that you have been there four times with your family. I agree it is such a magical experience and super safe as well! Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I hope you are getting to go this year as well! Happy travels!

Oh my goodness, what a beautiful winter wonderland! You make me want to visit.

Magan, Thanks so much! It is so much fun-I hope you can make it to Rovaniemi some day 🙂

What a cool place to visit! I had no idea about this. Thanks for sharing!

Jill, Thanks so much. I’m happy I could introduce Rovaniemi to you. It is such a wonderful place to visit! Stay peachy!

This looks like a place that is filled with adventure after adventure! It looks like your family had a wonderful time. I definitely want to check out the Santa park one day with my kids. Thank you for sharing.

Brianna, It is a place so full of adventure. We had an amazing time. I hope you will be able to go sometime with your kids. It is truly a magical family-friendly destination 🙂

Awesome place to put on my must go list during the holidays!! Thank you so much for sharing this great location!

Holly, Thanks so much! It is definitely a must go for holiday travel. I hope you can make it to Rovaniemi. Happy travels!

This looks amazing! Definitely a place for my bucket list!

Tricia, It really is amazing and I agree it definitely needs to be on everyone’s bucket list. Thanks for stopping by!

This looks like a fun and unique place to visit! Thank you!

Jen, Thanks so much! We had such a wonderful time. Stay peachy!

I love reading all about your recommendations in Finland. I want to take my family to visit! Thanks!

Tracy, I’m so happy to hear you’ve enjoyed all of my recommendations. I hope you will be able to take your family to Rovaniemi-it’s magical 🙂 Happy travels!

The husky tour and farm would be a favorite in our family.

It was so amazing! I know your family would love it! Happy Travels!

These really look like a lot of fun. I’m so jealous…lol.

Susan, Thank you! It was so much fun 🙂 No need to be jealous-just take a trip there yourself 😉 Thanks for stopping by. Stay peachy!

What an incredible visit! Thank you for the tips on the museums. I’d love to hear the Finnish stories about the Northern Lights! And great tip about having a sled to pull my littles around! Although mine may not be so little by the time we make it over there!

Malia, No problem. The museums were lovely and such a great way to learn about the culture. The Finnish stories about the Northern Lights were great. We heard them both at Arktikum and our sweet tour guide at Happy Fox retold it to the kids as well 🙂 I hope you can make it in the near future. It really is such a beautiful place to visit! Thanks for your kind comments. Happy travels (hopefully to Rovaniemi!)

I had no idea this existed, but now that I do, I must go there! LOL

Carrie, I totally understand. I was the same exact way. As soon as I read about it I thought the same “we must go” and we did. Now it’s your turn 🙂 Happy travels!

Wow, such an incredible experience. Love the pictures and thank you for sharing.

Lisa, Thank you. It was incredible! I’m happy you enjoyed the pictures. Stay peachy!

Thank you! This looks so fun and enjoyable! I want to do this 🙂

Thanks Beatriz, It’s such a wonderful place to visit. I hope you can go someday!

Wow! Finland wasn’t very high on my list, but suddenly it has moved it! All of this looks amazing and I know our daughter would love it!

Michelle, Yay! I agree that I think your daughter would love it! Hope you get to go! Happy travels!

I’d love to visit Finland! Rovaniemi looks like an amazing place to explore. So much to do.

Cindy, Rovaniemi is fantastic! There are so many things to explore. I hope you can make it there someday 🙂

Finland is so reminiscent of Iceland, which is one of my favorite countries! It would be amazing to experience dog sledding & the Northern Lights again…but in Finland!

Angella, Yes it would be wonderful to experience them in Finland. I’ve never been to Iceland but would love to. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Happy travels!

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