Rovaniemi

Finland, Europe

Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers a magical blend of nature and culture. Nestled in the Arctic Circle, this winter wonderland is famous for its stunning Northern Lights and unique reindeer experiences. Visitors adore the Santa Claus Village, where they can meet Santa year-round! The surrounding Arctic wilderness provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, including snowshoeing and husky sledding. Its rich Sámi culture and regional traditions make it a captivating destination throughout the year.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Rovaniemi

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Rovaniemi

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Santa Claus Village

Meet Santa Claus and explore festive attractions year-round.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

See the Northern Lights

Witness breathtaking auroras in the Arctic sky.

Booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Arktikum

Discover Arctic history and culture through engaging exhibits.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience a Husky Safari

Take an exhilarating ride with friendly huskies.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Rovaniemi Church

Admire the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Snowmobile Safari

Adventure through snowy landscapes on a snowmobile.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Santa Park

Enjoy attractions and shows in an enchanting underground park.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Ice Fishing

Experience tranquility while fishing on frozen lakes.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a Reindeer Sleigh Ride

Enjoy a traditional ride through snowy forests.

Booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Korundi House of Culture

Explore Finnish art and enjoy live performances.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Finnish

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Rye Bread

VE

Traditional Finnish dark bread. (National dish)

Karjalanpiirakka

V

Karelian pasty with rice filling.

Kalakukko

Fish pie made with rye crust.

Reindeer Stew

Hearty stew made with reindeer meat.

Salmon Soup

Creamy soup with salmon and potatoes.

Phrases to learn

English

Finnish

Hello

Hei

(Hey)

Yes/No

Kylla / Ei

(Kew-lah / Ey)

Thank you

Kiitos

(Kee-tohs)

Excuse me

Anteeksi

(Ahn-tek-see)

How much?

Kuinka paljon?

(Kween-kah pahl-yon)