As a local, I love to share my knowledge about my home to all travellers. Here is again one new post, Practical Tips For Visiting Rovaniemi!
Best Time to Visit Rovaniemi
The ideal time to visit Rovaniemi is between late November to March when the winter season is in full swing.
December is perfect for those wanting a true Christmas experience with Santa Claus and festive atmosphere, but it’s also one of the busiest months.
January and February are less crowded, and the thick snow combined with a little longer hours of daylight make it a fantastic time for outdoor activities like snowmobiling and skiing. Those are also coldest months!
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit too, with the “ruska” season painting the forests in vibrant colors before winter sets in. If you’re hoping for fewer crowds and mild temperatures, September to early October could be ideal. Ideal time for Northern lights spotting!
6 Insider Practical Tips for Visiting Rovaniemi
1. Book Activities in Advance
Popular winter activities like husky safaris, reindeer rides tend to fill up quickly, especially around Christmas. Booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Exception is for Northern Lights tours or hunting tours. As you never know how the weather will be, save this for the last. Just couple days, max. weeks in advance.
Learn more about Northern light tours vs. northern light hunting and how to avoid common mistakes.
2. Dress for the Arctic
Rovaniemi can get extremely cold in the winter, with temperatures dropping below -30°C.
Make sure to wear proper winter clothing, including thermal layers, a good winter jacket, and waterproof boots. Many activity providers also offer additional gear for free.
Learn how to layer for winter in Lapland.
3. Visit the Arktikum Museum
This museum is a hidden gem, offering an in-depth look at Lapland’s history, Arctic research, and indigenous Sami culture.
A great option for cold days or if you want to learn more about the region’s unique past!
4. Staying Overnight in Glass Igloos
For a magical Northern Lights experience, consider staying in one of Rovaniemi’s famous glass igloos or snow hotels.
These offer uninterrupted views of the night sky and are an unforgettable part of a trip to Lapland.
Glass igloos in Rovaniemi:
5. Visiting with Kids
Rovaniemi is incredibly kid-friendly, with plenty of activities for little ones.
Santa Claus Village is a must-visit, where kids can meet Santa, send postcards from the Arctic Circle, and explore the surrounding snowy landscapes. In the Santa Village there is also Snowman World that kids enjoy!
Do not underestimate how much fun snow can be. Many many kids could play hours in the snow in some random street corner.
There is also many free playgrounds around the city. Best one is easily Angry Birds playground. (Valtakatu 4, 96100 Rovaniemi).
If the weather is super cold, RolloHalli indoor playground is good way to let kids spend some extra energy!
6. Avoid Tourist Traps
While most attractions in Rovaniemi offer genuine experiences, some highly commercialized activities may feel overpriced.
Be sure to read reviews and consider local recommendations for the best value for money, especially when booking tours or visiting Santa Claus Village.
Read more here: Rovaniemi: Beyond the tourist traps
Is Rovaniemi Expensive?
Rovaniemi can be a bit on the pricey side, especially during peak season, but it’s still possible to travel on a budget.
Local hostels and guesthouses offer affordable accommodation if booked early, and many outdoor activities like hiking, snowshoeing, or even simply enjoying the snowy landscapes are free.
Dining out can vary in price, but there are plenty of affordable spots offering Lappish specialties like reindeer stew and arctic char.
Supermarkets are also an option if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation.
Read more; Rovaniemi on a Budget
Is Rovaniemi Too Touristy?
Rovaniemi does attract many tourists, especially in December and around the Christmas season.
However, despite its popularity, there are plenty of ways to enjoy an authentic experience, from exploring the vast wilderness to visiting lesser-known local spots.
If you want to avoid touristy feeling, avoid Christmas season and come to enjoy scenery in February or March!
Is It Worth Staying Overnight in Rovaniemi?
Definitely! Staying overnight allows you to explore the region more thoroughly and experience the magic of Lapland when the day-trippers have left.
You’ll have a chance to enjoy the peaceful winter nights, try more activities, and, of course, improve your chances of catching the Northern Lights.
