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Things to do in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland

Rovaniemi is where Finland’s wilderness meets Christmas wonder. Located right on the Arctic Circle, this Lapland town is packed with adventurous things to do. Be it chasing the Northern Lights, meeting Santa or exploring frozen forests and unique Arctic museums, it’s a place that is ideal for both a winter getaway or a summer escape. Here’s a complete guide to the best activities, attractions, and experiences in Rovaniemi.

Why visit Rovaniemi

Reindeer pulling a sled with people through snowy forest in Rovaniemi.

Rovaniemi is the gateway to Finnish Lapland where snowflakes sparkle under the Aurora Borealis, reindeer wander freely, and every season brings its own kind of magic.

It’s perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike. So, really, it’s for everyone. In winter, you’ll find husky safaris, snowmobiles, and Santa’s famous village.

In summer, the midnight sun turns night into day, ideal for kayaking, hiking, and exploring Lapland’s natural beauty. Whatever time you visit, Rovaniemi promises experiences you’ll only find north of the Arctic Circle.

Rovaniemi travel guide

Top things to do in Rovaniemi - Quick summary

Activity What you’ll do Best time of the year Recommended tour

Visit Santa Claus Village

Meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle, enjoy Christmas events

December to January

Santa Claus Village tour

Chase the Northern Lights

Go on aurora-hunting tours

Late August to mid-April

Northern Lights chase tour

Go on a Husky or Reindeer Safari

Ride with huskies or reindeer through the snow or forest

Winter (snow season)

Santa Claus & sledding tours

Try winter sports & Arctic adventures

Snowmobiling, ice-fishing, skiing, etc in Arctic

December to March

Northern Lights & snowmobiling

Take day trips around Lapland

Excursions into Arctic wilderness & wildlife parks

Any season (choose activity accordingly)

Santa Claus Village tour

Top things to do in Rovaniemi

Santa Claus Village entrance in snowy Rovaniemi with visitors and festive lights.

Visit Santa Claus Village

Meet Santa Claus in his official hometown. And yes, it is open every day of the year. Cross the Arctic Circle line, send a postcard from Santa’s Post Office, and explore the souvenir shops and cafes that make this village feel like a real-life Christmas card. Santa Park, located nearby, is an underground amusement park featuring elf workshops, gingerbread decorating, and family-friendly rides.

Couple taking selfies under Northern Lights in Levi, Finland.

Chase the Northern Lights

Rovaniemi is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. From late August to early April, the night skies come alive with green and purple waves of light. You can join a guided tour by snowmobile, reindeer sleigh, or minivan. For the best experience, head to viewing points like Ounasvaara Hill, Vikaköngäs, or the frozen lakes near Apukka Resort. Local guides help with photography and timing to make sure you catch the show.

Reindeer sledding through snowy landscape with mountains, showcasing Sami culture experience.

Go on a husky or reindeer safari

Few experiences capture Lapland’s spirit like a sled pulled by huskies or reindeer. Husky safaris offer speed and excitement, while reindeer rides are quieter and deeply rooted in Sámi tradition. You’ll find both near Rovaniemi city and at dedicated farms like Apukka Resort. Most tours include warm gear, transfers, and time to meet the animals up close.

Arktikum Museum & Science Center entrance in Finland with circular courtyard.

Explore Arktikum and Lapland’s cultural museums

The Arktikum Museum offers a fascinating look into Arctic science, local culture, and the effects of climate change. Its glass-tube architecture points north and is one of Rovaniemi’s most recognizable landmarks. Also worth visiting are the Pilke Science Centre, which focuses on sustainable forestry, and the Korundi House of Culture, home to Finnish art and orchestral performances.

Snowmobile riders on snowy trail during Northern Lights tour.

Try winter sports and Arctic adventures

For those who love the outdoors, Rovaniemi offers endless winter activities. Go snowshoeing across frozen lakes, snowmobiling through the forest, or ice fishing in total silence. Skiers can head to Ounasvaara Hill, just ten minutes from the city center. Many operators also offer combination tours – think huskies by day and Northern Lights by night. If you’re feeling bold, try a snow sauna followed by an ice plunge.

Visitor on deck during Reykjavik Classic Whales tour at sunset.

Experience the midnight sun in summer

When the snow melts, Lapland transforms into a green, glowing paradise. Between June and August, the sun never fully sets. Locals spend their “white nights” hiking, canoeing, and cycling under the midnight sun. Kayak along the Kemijoki River, explore forest trails, or enjoy an outdoor sauna at the water’s edge. Summer in Rovaniemi is quieter, warmer, and ideal for those who want to see Finland beyond its winter postcard image.

Children with Santa Claus at Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi, Finland.

Discover Rovaniemi City Centre

Rovaniemi’s compact downtown offers plenty to see and do. Walk across the Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge for views of the Kemijoki River, explore local boutiques for Finnish design, or relax in cafes like Café & Bar 21. For free things to do in Rovaniemi, stroll through Lordi’s Square (named after Finland’s Eurovision-winning band), or head to Ounasvaara Hill at dusk for panoramic views of the city and, in winter, a possible Aurora sighting.

Guests on a bus tour watching Northern Lights in Rovaniemi.

Take day trips around Lapland

Rovaniemi makes the perfect base for exploring other parts of Finnish Lapland.

  • Kemi: Visit the SnowCastle of Kemi and take an icebreaker cruise on the frozen sea.
  • Levi: Known for skiing, spas, and stylish igloo hotels.
  • Inari: The cultural heart of the Sámi people and home to Siida Museum.
  • Ranua: A family favorite with its Arctic Wildlife Park and resident polar bears.

These short trips give you a taste of Finland’s diversity – from coastal ice adventures to cultural escapes.

Seasonal experiences in Rovaniemi

Season Highlights Must-do activities

Winter (Dec–Mar)

Snow, aurora, Santa Claus

Husky rides, aurora safaris, snow hotels

Spring (Apr–May)

Peaceful transition season

Ice fishing, nature walks, reindeer calves

Summer (Jun–Aug)

24-hour daylight

Midnight hikes, canoeing, cycling

Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Colorful “Ruska” season

Photography, Northern Lights, foraging

Unique and local experiences in Rovaniemi

These experiences capture what makes Lapland magical… its mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

  • Stay in a glass igloo and watch the Northern Lights from your bed.
  • Try a traditional smoke sauna followed by an Arctic ice dip.
  • Learn Sámi crafts or attend a local workshop in reindeer herding.
  • Spend a night in a SnowHotel made entirely of ice.
Guests relaxing in a hot tub under Northern Lights in Rovaniemi.

Free and family-friendly things to do in Rovaniemi

You don’t have to spend much to enjoy Rovaniemi. Walk across the Arctic Circle line, visit the public aurora viewpoints, or enjoy sledding in the snow-covered parks. Families will love the Santa-themed playgrounds and easy access to kid-friendly tours. For budget travelers, many museums offer free entry days, and the city’s compact layout means you can explore most attractions on foot.

How to plan your Rovaniemi trip

When to visit

December to March for snow and Santa; August to April for Northern Lights; June to August for the midnight sun.

Where to stay

City Centre for convenience, Santa Claus Village for families, Ounasvaara for nature and views.

Getting around

The city is walkable, and most of the tours include round-trip transfers. Buses connect major attractions.

How long to stay

A stay of two to four days in Rovaniemi is ideal for covering the major activities and attractions in and around the city for most travelers.

Frequently asked questions about things to do in Rovaniemi

What are the best things to do in Rovaniemi, Finland?

The most popular activities in Rovaniemi include visiting Santa Claus Village, chasing the Northern Lights, going on husky and reindeer safaris, exploring the Arktikum Museum, and snowmobiling through the Lapland wilderness. In summer, kayaking, hiking, and midnight sun experiences take center stage.

What is Rovaniemi best known for?

Rovaniemi is known as the Official Hometown of Santa Claus and one of the best places on Earth to see the Northern Lights. It’s also the gateway to Finnish Lapland, offering everything from Arctic wildlife parks to luxury glass igloo stays.

When is the best time to visit Rovaniemi?

Visit from December to March for snow, winter activities, and Santa experiences. For the Northern Lights, plan between August and April. If you prefer the midnight sun, travel during June or July when daylight lasts 24 hours.

Can I see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi?

Yes, Rovaniemi offers excellent aurora visibility from late August to early April. The best viewing spots include Ounasvaara Hill, Apukka Resort, and areas outside the city lights. Joining a guided aurora tour improves your chances and helps with photography.

What can you do in Rovaniemi in summer?

Summer in Rovaniemi brings kayaking on the Kemijoki River, hiking under the midnight sun, berry picking, and outdoor saunas. With 24 hours of daylight, you can explore nature trails, visit reindeer farms, or take scenic drives through Lapland.

What are some fun winter activities in Rovaniemi?

Top winter experiences include husky sledding, reindeer rides, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and overnight stays in snow or glass igloo hotels. Don’t miss the Santa Claus Village — it’s especially magical during December.

How many days do I need in Rovaniemi?

Three to four days is ideal for most visitors. This gives you time for Santa Claus Village, a Northern Lights safari, husky or reindeer tours, and some downtime for museums or saunas. Shorter 2-day itineraries can work for those focusing only on key highlights.

Is Rovaniemi good for families?

Absolutely. Most attractions, from Santa Claus Village to reindeer farms and museums, are family-friendly. Many accommodations offer cozy cabins and family suites, and local tour operators provide warm clothing for children during outdoor activities.

Are there free things to do in Rovaniemi?

Yes. You can walk across the Arctic Circle line, visit Lordi’s Square, explore local parks, or watch the Northern Lights from public viewpoints. Many museums have free entry days, and the city center is best explored on foot.

What’s the difference between Rovaniemi and Levi or Tromso?

Rovaniemi offers a mix of family attractions and cultural sites, while Levi is focused on skiing and spa resorts, and Tromso is known for dramatic fjords and aurora viewing. Rovaniemi is the best option for first-time visitors who want both adventure and festive charm.