Rovaniemi isn’t just another winter destination – it’s the official hometown of Santa Claus, a hub for Arctic adventures, and one of the best places in the world to chase the Northern Lights. Nestled right on the Arctic Circle, this Lapland gem offers a mix of adventure, culture and cozy Nordic charm.
Top Things to Do in Rovaniemi
1. Visit Santa Claus Village
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life Christmas wonderland, Santa Claus Village is the place. Arrive early at 9 AM to beat the crowds and get a photo with Santa himself. The village is open year-round, but visiting when everything is blanketed in snow makes it extra magical.
Don’t miss the Santa Claus Post Office, where you can send postcards with an official Arctic Circle postmark. You can even schedule letters to be sent the following Christmas—perfect for surprising friends and family. While here, explore the souvenir shops, meet Santa’s reindeer, and cross the Arctic Circle line, officially marking your entrance into the far north.
You could easily spend an entire day here, but if you’re short on time, 3–4 hours should cover the main highlights.
2. Ride with Reindeer and Huskies
- Reindeer Ride
A peaceful reindeer sleigh ride through snow-covered forests is one of the most serene experiences in Lapland. Reindeer herding is an essential part of Sámi culture, and many tours include a chance to learn about their traditions.
- Husky Safari
For something faster-paced, take a husky sled ride through the Arctic wilderness. These energetic dogs are born to run, and you’ll even have the chance to drive your own sled. Most tours range from short 10-minute rides to multi-hour adventures deep into the snowy landscapes.
3. Experience Finnish Cuisine
Warm up with a traditional meal at Restaurant Nili or Roka Street Bistro, where you can try authentic Finnish dishes like reindeer stew, Arctic char, or salmon cooked over an open fire.
For something quick and casual, grab a warm pastry and a cup of hot berry juice, a Lapland specialty, at one of the cafés in Santa Claus Village.
4. Explore Winter Activities
Rovaniemi is a paradise for winter sports lovers. Popular activities include:
- Snowmobiling across frozen lakes and forests
- Ice karting, a fun alternative to traditional go-karting
- Ice fishing on a frozen lake
- Sauna experiences, a must-try Finnish tradition
- Wilderness survival classes, where you’ll learn how to build fires and shelters in the Arctic cold
5. Hunt for the Northern Lights
With around 150 nights of Northern Lights activity per year, Rovaniemi is one of the best places to see this natural wonder. Book a guided aurora tour for the best chances—many tours take you far from city lights and offer heated tents or campfires where you can sip hot cocoa while waiting for the sky to light up.
Pro Tip: Book your aurora tour for the first night of your trip. If you don’t see them, you’ll have extra nights to try again.
Fun Facts About Rovaniemi
- The town was almost completely destroyed during WWII, but it was rebuilt with a layout inspired by reindeer antlers—designed by famous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto.
- Rovaniemi has only a few hours of daylight in winter, but the snow reflects enough light to make it feel brighter than you’d expect.
- The Northern Lights are visible here around 150 nights a year, but clear skies and solar activity determine whether you’ll catch a show. Book the tour the first night of your trip so that you have plenty of time to catch them if they don’t appear the first time.
What to Wear in Rovaniemi During Winter
Lapland’s winter temperatures often drop below -4°F – and without much sun – dressing properly is essential.
Layering is Key
- Base Layer: A moisture-wicking thermal top and leggings (avoid cotton)
- Mid Layer: A warm fleece or wool sweater and insulated pants
- Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof winter jacket and snow pants
Must-Have Accessories
- Insulated, waterproof boots (avoid regular sneakers)
- Thick wool socks (bring extra pairs)
- Thermal gloves and mittens (mittens are warmer)
- A warm hat
- A neck gaiter to protect against wind
- Hand and feet warmers for extra heat
If you don’t own proper winter gear, many tour operators provide thermal suits and boots for outdoor activities.
Souvenir Tip: Bring Home a Piece of Lapland
For a unique keepsake, consider buying a handcrafted knife from a local artisan, complete with an engraved handle—a traditional Lapland tool. Other great souvenirs include:
- Locally made berry liqueurs (try cloudberry or lingonberry)
- Sámi jewelry
- Reindeer hides
BOOK NOW!
Are you considering a trip to Rovaniemi? If there’s one takeaway from this blog, it should be to BOOK NOW!
Rovaniemi is small, and if you want to stay near the main street, options are limited—especially when it comes to hotels, glass igloos, and cottages. If you’re planning to visit next December or January, booking early is key to securing the best accommodations and avoiding sky-high prices.
- Arctic City Hotel – Great central location, modern comforts
- Arctic Light Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel with cozy rooms
- Apukka Resort – Stay in a glass igloo for an unforgettable view of the Northern Lights
