Rovaniemi Tours

Just 8 km north of Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Village is one of Finnish Lapland’s most popular attractions, and it’s open year-round. You can reach it easily by local bus, taxi, or guided tour, with most transfers taking 10 to 15 minutes. Guided tours are the easiest way to go, especially in winter, since they include hotel pickup, snow gear, and visits to nearby attractions.

  • Hassle-free transfers: Enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, saving time and effort while traveling comfortably through snowy Rovaniemi roads.
  • Guaranteed experiences: Skip ticket queues, cross the Arctic Circle easily, and experience Santa’s highlights without worrying about logistics.
  • Winter comfort: Stay warm in heated minibuses, with guides helping you manage snow gear and icy conditions.
  • Extra stops: Combine your visit with husky farms, reindeer rides, or Arctic Circle photo stops for a fuller Lapland experience.
  • Local insights: Hear Santa stories, Finnish traditions, and photography tips from friendly local guides who know the area best.

Compare your options

ModeDurationCostBest forKey notes

Guided tour

3 to 4 hours (round trip)

€99 to €219

Families, first-timers

Includes hotel transfers & Arctic Circle ceremony

Local bus

~15 min

€4 to €5

Budget travelers

Frequent, but limited at night

Taxi

~10 to 12 min

€25 to €35

Small groups, families

Fast, reliable, direct

Self-drive

~10 to 12 min

€40+/day

Independent travelers

Add nearby stops; parking limited in peak season

Santa Claus Village guided tour

Visiting Santa Claus Village on a guided tour is the most convenient and stress-free option, especially in snowy months when public transport can be limited.

Santa Claus Village entrance with snow-covered pillars and Christmas tree, Rovaniemi.

Handy tips for your Santa Claus Village visit

  • Best time: Visit between 10 am to 3 pm for good daylight (especially in winter).
  • Seasonal note: The village is busiest in December, so book tours and transfers early.
  • Budget hack: Save money by taking Bus #8 from Rovaniemi city center. It runs directly to Santa Claus Village and back for under €10, making it the most affordable transport option.
  • Winter gear: If you don’t have proper snow boots or thermal clothing, rent them in Rovaniemi before your visit. Local shops and tour operators offer affordable daily rentals to keep you warm in sub-zero temperatures.
  • Photo tip: For the best Arctic Circle photos, visit early in the morning when the dawn illuminates the snow naturally, perfect for capturing the winter wonderland and festive village atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions about getting to Santa Claus Village

The local Bus #8 is the cheapest, costing around €4 to €5 each way. It’s reliable and runs several times daily.