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Rovaniemi: Where the Arctic comes alive

Welcome to Rovaniemi, the place where reindeer outnumber people and Santa Claus has a permanent address. Perched right on the Arctic Circle, this compact yet captivating city offers the full northern experience: aurora-lit skies, frozen forests, glass igloos, husky sleds, and pure winter wonder.

For families, it’s the world’s most magical Christmas town. For couples, it’s a fairy-tale getaway. And for adventurers, it’s the launchpad to the Arctic wilderness.

If you’re planning a trip, this guide covers everything. From when to visit and where to stay to what to pack, which tours to book, and even how it compares to Levi, TromsO, and Reykjavík.

Quick overview

  • Country: Finland
  • Region: Lapland (crosses the Arctic Circle)
  • Best time to visit: December–March (snow & Northern Lights); June–August (midnight sun)
  • Languages: Finnish, English widely spoken
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Average trip duration: 3–5 days
  • Airport code: RVN (Rovaniemi Airport)
  • Best for: Families, couples, photographers, first-time Arctic travelers
Reindeer sleds traveling through snowy forest in Lapland.

Why visit Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is one of those rare destinations where magic feels tangible. You’ll walk through snow-covered pines while reindeer bells echo in the distance. You’ll sip hot chocolate beside a roaring fire after chasing the Northern Lights across frozen lakes.

It’s a place that combines Arctic adventure with childlike wonder. Home to Santa Claus Village, glass igloos, saunas, and some of the best Northern Lights tours in the world. Whether you’re here for the wildlife, the white landscapes, or that one perfect aurora photo, Rovaniemi promises a trip unlike anywhere else.

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Best time to visit Rovaniemi

Season Months Highlights Average temperature

Winter

Dec–Mar

Northern Lights, Santa Village, snow hotels

−20°C to −5°C

Spring

Apr–May

Fewer crowds, nature walks

−5°C to +5°C

Summer (Midnight Sun)

Jun–Aug

24-hour daylight, hiking

+10°C to +20°C

Autumn

Sep–Nov

Foliage, early auroras

+5°C to −10°C

Getting there and around

Getting there

  • By air: Daily flights from Helsinki (1h 15m). This is the fastest way.
  • By train: The Santa Claus Express is an overnight sleeper from Helsinki with cozy cabins and scenic Arctic views.

Getting around

  • Rovaniemi is compact, with most attractions being 10–20 minutes apart.
  • Shuttle buses connect the airport, city center, Santa Village, and Ounasvaara.
  • Taxis and rental cars are available, but most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off.

​Find more info on getting to and around Rovaniemi >

What to eat and drink in Rovaniemi, Finland

Traditional Finnish meal with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce at Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi.

Finnish Lapland has a small but mighty food scene rooted in local produce, wild berries, and hearty Arctic meat.

  • Poronkäristys (Reindeer Stew) – the local delicacy.
  • Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup) – comforting and creamy.
  • Cloudberries – tart golden berries found only in the north.
  • Try: A Lappish gin at Bar & Café 21 or hot glögi (mulled wine) by the fire.

Top restaurants:

  • Roka Kitchen
  • Nili, Café & Bar 21,
  • Yuca
  • Arctic Restaurant

Where to stay: Best neighborhoods in Rovaniemi

City Center – For convenience & nightlife

Stay close to shops, restaurants, and the train station. Perfect for short stays or first-timers.

Top Stays: Arctic Light Hotel • Scandic Pohjanhovi • Hostel Café Koti

Santa Claus Village – For festive charm

If you’re traveling with family (or secretly love Christmas), this is your spot. You’ll wake up surrounded by twinkling lights and reindeer.

Top Stays: Santa Claus Holiday Village • Glass Resort • Nova Skyland Hotel

Ounasvaara Hill – For luxury & nature

Perched above the city, Ounasvaara offers ski slopes and sweeping views. Great for couples and honeymooners.

Top Stays: Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara • Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

Kemijoki Riverside – For peace & privacy

A short drive from town, this area is dotted with glass igloos and cabins along the river. Ideal for aurora watching.

Top Stays: Apukka Resort • Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

Pro-tip: Book at least 2–3 months in advance for December stays — Rovaniemi sells out fast.

Packing tips

  • Thermal base layers & fleece
  • Waterproof boots
  • Gloves, balaclava, and wool socks
  • Power bank (cold drains batteries fast!)
  • Tripod for night photography
  • Swimsuit (for saunas & spa igloos)

​Rovaniemi in winter >

Husky vs reindeer tours: Which one’s best for you?

ExperienceHusky SafariReindeer ride

Vibe

Fast, adventurous, hands-on

Slow, scenic, cultural

Duration

1–4 hours

30 mins – 2 hours

Who it’s for

Thrill-seekers & photographers

Families, couples, kids

Setting

Forest trails, open snowfields

Reindeer farms, quiet woods

Season

Nov–Apr

Dec–Mar

Fun fact

You’ll drive your own team of huskies!

You’ll get a reindeer driving license!

How to see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi

Photographer capturing Northern Lights in Rovaniemi on a guided tour.

Best months: Late August to early April

Best time: 9pm - 2am

Best spots: Ounasvaara Hill, Vikaköngäs, Apukka Resort, or frozen lakes

Tips:

  • Pick a dark, clear night away from city lights
  • Layer up as it can drop below −25°C
  • Carry a tripod & learn long exposure settings
  • Book at least one guided Aurora tour in Rovaniemi for local expertise

Rovaniemi vs Reykjavík vs Levi vs Tromso for Northern Lights

City Best forNorthern Lights Activities Vibe

Rovaniemi (Finland)

Families & first-time Arctic travelers

Excellent (Dec–Apr)

Santa Village, huskies, glass igloos

Magical & cozy

Reykjavík (Iceland)

Nature + city combo

Great (Sep–Mar)

Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon

Urban + adventurous

Levi (Finland)

Skiers & couples

Excellent (Nov–Mar)

Ski resorts, spa igloos

Sporty & romantic

Tromso (Norway)

Aurora chasers & photographers

Outstanding (Oct–Mar)

Whale tours, fjords

Arctic cosmopolitan

In short, for storybook magic pick Rovaniemi, for nature and nightlife, Reykjavík is your place. If you want to relax, ski and hit up spa retreats, go to Levi and pick Tromso for dramatic fjords and whale-watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rovaniemi is in northern Finland, right on the Arctic Circle. It’s the capital of Lapland and serves as the gateway to the Arctic region, surrounded by forests, rivers, and snowy wilderness.