Things To Do
in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland in northern Finland, located right on the Arctic Circle. The town is known as the official home of Santa Claus and is a popular destination for visitors seeking a magical winter experience. Rovaniemi experiences extreme temperatures, with freezing winters and warm summers, making it a unique destination for outdoor activities such as husky sledding and northern lights tours.
The town also offers cultural attractions, including the Arktikum museum and the Korundi House of Culture.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Arktikum Museum to learn about Arctic culture and history. Enjoy a warm drink at the café while appreciating the beautiful river views.
Take a walk at the Ounasvaara hill for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding nature. You can also enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving local delicacies.
Experience the Finnish sauna culture in the evening at a local spa. End your day with a quiet stroll by the river or relax by a cozy fireplace.
Hit the slopes at the Rovaniemi Ski Resort for some skiing or snowboarding. The crisp morning air and fresh snow will invigorate your spirit.
Enjoy lunch at the resort and then take a snowshoeing or cross-country skiing lesson to explore the snowy trails. Marvel at the winter wonderland surrounding you.
Warm up with dinner at a local restaurant. If the sky is clear, look out for the Northern Lights later in the night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to Santa Claus Village, attracting tourists year-round.
- Stunning natural beauty with Northern Lights and surrounding Arctic landscapes.
- Rich cultural experiences with opportunities to learn about Sámi culture.
- Wide range of winter activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding.
- Safety and low crime rates, making it a family-friendly destination.
- Long and harsh winters can be challenging for some visitors.
- High cost of living and activities compared to other destinations.
- Limited daylight during winter months can affect travel experiences.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding in peak months.
- Remote location may require significant travel investment.
Best Activities in Rovaniemi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful nature trails and forests surrounding Rovaniemi.
Embark on a thrilling sled ride through the snow-covered landscapes.
Experience the mesmerizing aurora borealis in the Arctic wilderness.
Enjoy an adrenaline-pumping ride through the snowy landscapes.
Try your hand at traditional Finnish ice fishing on the frozen lakes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Rovaniemi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Rovaniemi
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Rovaniemi and the surrounding area, perfect for photography and enjoying the northern landscape.
A popular spot for capturing the cityscape and the Northern Lights, offering stunning vistas of Rovaniemi and the Kemijoki River.
Provides picturesque views of the Arctic Circle line, and an opportunity to take photos with Santa and his reindeer.
Food in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Lappish dish made with potatoes, meat, and blood, often served with lingonberry sauce. Recommended to try at Roka Kitchen & Bakery.
Must-Try!
Sautéed reindeer served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce. Can be savored at Nili Restaurant.
A Finnish fish pie, typically filled with fish, pork, and bacon. Try this at Cafe & Bar 21 or Rovaniemen Wanha Asema.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Rovaniemi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The heart of the city's culinary scene, offering a variety of local delicacies such as smoked fish, reindeer meat, and Lappish berries. Perfect for exploring street food options like grilled sausages and crepes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rovaniemi, Finland, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when interacting with locals.
Finnish people value punctuality, so it's important to be on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Rovaniemi.
It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home in Rovaniemi, Finland, as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the space.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Rovaniemi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Rovaniemi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rovaniemi, Finland, tipping is not expected, as it is not a common practice in the country. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or for a tour, a small tip of 5-10% may be appreciated.
Payment in Rovaniemi, Finland is primarily done through electronic means, such as credit or debit cards. Cash is also widely accepted. It's important to note that the Euro (EUR) is the official currency, and most establishments do not accept other currencies.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Rovaniemi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for snow activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and experiencing the magic of the Northern Lights.
Experience the transition from winter to spring, with longer daylight hours and the possibility to engage in activities like snowshoeing and husky sledding.
Enjoy the Midnight Sun and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and visiting reindeer farms.
Witness the beautiful fall foliage and engage in activities like berry picking and wildlife spotting.
Rovaniemi at Night
Hiking in Rovaniemi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular outdoor recreational area near Rovaniemi, Ounasvaara offers numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, spectacular views, and beautiful landscapes.
Located a bit further from Rovaniemi, this national park features extensive hiking trails among stunning fells and diverse flora and fauna.
A scenic canyon area with hiking trails, Korouoma is known for its beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and the chance to see unique wildlife.
Enjoy a scenic hike along the Kemijoki River, where you can experience tranquil nature, riverside views, and opportunities for birdwatching.
Close to the city, the Rovaniemi Municipal Forest offers a network of trails for walking and hiking, making it easily accessible for a quick outdoor escape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Rovaniemi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Rovaniemi by plane.
The main airport serving Rovaniemi, located about 10 kilometers northwest of the city center.
An international airport located approximately 200 kilometers south of Rovaniemi, serving the city of Oulu and surrounding areas.
Located about 115 kilometers south of Rovaniemi, this airport serves the Kemi and Tornio regions.
Located around 180 kilometers northeast of Rovaniemi, it is the main airport for the northern Lapland region.
A fictional name, as there is no airport by this name; however, several smaller airports serve the Lapland region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Rovaniemi, making up a significant portion of the population.
An indigenous people with a distinct culture, language, and traditional livelihoods, residing in northern Finland including Rovaniemi.
A smaller community that has historical presence in the region, contributing to local culture.
A demographic group that has increased in number, particularly due to various immigration waves.
Many students from various countries come to Rovaniemi for education, particularly at the University of Lapland.
A transient demographic that significantly impacts the local economy, especially during peak travel seasons.
The Soul of Rovaniemi
Discover the essence of Rovaniemi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a popular sport in Rovaniemi, with local teams and youth development programs fostering a strong community interest.
Due to its snowy climate, cross-country skiing is a favorite pastime, with numerous trails available for both recreation and competition.
Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity in Rovaniemi, attracting both locals and tourists to enjoy the vast snowy landscapes.
Football enjoys a significant following, with local clubs and youth leagues actively promoting the sport.
Orienteering is a favored outdoor activity in the region, capitalizing on Rovaniemi's natural terrain and scenic landscapes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rovaniemi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rovaniemi encompasses a growing trend for vegetarian and vegan options. Many restaurants and cafes, such as Cafe & Bar 21 and Roka Kitchen & Bakery, offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.
Numerous establishments, including Kauppayhtiö and Arctic Light Hotel Restaurant, are attentive to gluten-free dietary needs, providing a range of gluten-free dishes on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Rovaniemi with these cultural adventures.
