Your Ultimate Guide to the Heart of Lapland
Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is a place where magic meets reality. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and winter wonderland activities.
Rovaniemi has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top things to do in this enchanting arctic city.
1. Visit Santa Claus Village
No trip to Rovaniemi is complete without a visit to Santa Claus Village. Located right on the Arctic Circle, this magical place is where you can meet Santa Claus every day of the year.
The village is full of festive cheer, with shops selling local crafts, cafes serving warm drinks, and the opportunity to send a postcard from Santa’s official post office. Don’t forget to cross the Arctic Circle line and get a certificate to prove it!
2. Explore the Arktikum Museum and Pilke Science centre
Dive into the Arctic’s rich history and culture at the Arktikum Museum. This architecturally striking glass building showcases engaging exhibitions on the Arctic region’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Explore the fascinating insights into Sámi culture, the effects of climate change, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. The Arktikum offers more than just displays—it provides an immersive journey into the essence of the Arctic.
Right next to Arktikum there is also Pilke Science Centre, where interactive exhibits bring to life the region’s forestry and sustainable practices.
Together, these attractions offer a comprehensive and engaging experience for anyone curious about the Arctic world.
3. Chase the Northern Lights
Rovaniemi is one of the best places in the world to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. From late August to early April, the dark arctic skies often come alive with vibrant colors.
Join a guided tour or venture out on your own to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon. Popular spots for Northern Lights hunting include the shores of the Kemijoki River, Ounasvaara Fell, and various remote locations outside the city where light pollution is minimal.
Every now and then sky is so full of Northern lights that you can witness these lights even in the city center.
Read my posts; Hunting the Northern Lights in Lapland – How To Avoid Common Mistakes and Northern Lights Tour Vs. Northern Lights Hunting, to maximize your experience OR participate to the guided northern lights tour/ hunting.*
4. Experience a Husky Safari
For an adrenaline-filled adventure, embark on a husky safari through the snowy wilderness.
Guided by a team of enthusiastic huskies, you’ll glide through pristine forests and frozen lakes, experiencing the thrill of dog sledding.
Many tours also include a visit to a husky farm, where you can learn about these incredible dogs and even meet some of the puppies.
Bearhill Husky Safaris* is easily the best option in Rovaniemi.
5. Go Snowmobiling
Rovaniemi is a haven for snowmobiling enthusiasts. With hundreds of kilometers of well-maintained trails, you can zoom through snowy forests, across frozen lakes, and over hills.
Snowmobiling tours are available for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly rides to more challenging expeditions that take you deep into the wilderness.
You can find wide variety of snowmobile tours in GetYourGuide.*
6. Take a Reindeer Sleigh Ride
Reindeer are an integral part of Lapland’s culture, and a sleigh ride is one of the most traditional ways to experience the arctic landscape.
Several local farms offer reindeer sleigh rides, allowing you to take in the serene beauty of the snowy surroundings while learning about the significance of reindeer in Sámi culture.
Some tours also include the opportunity to feed the reindeer and enjoy a hot drink by an open fire.
You can find wide variety of snowmobile tours in GetYourGuide.*
7. Explore Ounasvaara Fell
Ounasvaara Fell is a recreational area just a short distance from the city center, offering a variety of outdoor activities year-round. In winter, it’s a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
In the summer, you can hike the trails, go mountain biking, or enjoy the panoramic views from the top.
The area is also great for spotting wildlife and experiencing the midnight sun.
8. Explore the Local Cuisine
Rovaniemi offers a variety of dining options where you can sample traditional Lappish cuisine.
Nili Restaurant in the city center is really good option for traditional Finnish food. From reindeer dishes to fresh Arctic char and berries, the local food is a reflection of the region’s natural bounty.
For a unique dining experience, visit a kota restaurant where you can enjoy a meal by an open fire, surrounded by the warmth and ambiance of this traditional setting. There is at least 3 Kota restaurants in Santa Claus Village.
9. Visit the Rovaniemi City Center
Stroll along the Kemijoki River, explore local shops showcasing Lappish handicrafts. Savor the offerings at cafes and restaurants that range from traditional Finnish pastries to contemporary cuisine.
Some of my personal favorites are Cafe 21, Gustav and Roka street bistro.
While some may describe Rovaniemi’s architecture as rough around the edges, this blend of rugged design and natural beauty creates a distinctive atmosphere.
Despite mixed opinions about the city’s aesthetic, it has a unique charm that’s worth experiencing. Families will also find plenty to enjoy! Including the Angry Birds Playground, Naava Café’s ice skating rink and playground and Lordi’s square has Christmas market every year.
Find out more about Rovaniemi here!
*This post contains affiliate links marked with (*). Clicking on an affiliate link does not incur any costs to you nor any income to me. However, if you decide to purchase a product through my affiliate link, I receive monetary comission. This comission does not increase the amount you pay. I only recommend companies and products that I have personally used and found to be good.
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