Things To Do
in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi, Finland, is the capital of Lapland and is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Nestled at the confluence of the Kemijoki and Ounasjoki rivers, it offers a unique blend of urban life and stunning natural beauty. The city serves as a gateway to the Arctic Circle, attracting visitors for its winter sports, northern lights, and cultural experiences.
With its rich Sámi heritage and modern architecture, Rovaniemi is a fascinating destination year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Arktikum Museum to learn about the Arctic region and the history of Lapland.
Enjoy lunch at a local café, then head to Santa Claus Village to meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and explore the gift shops.
Dine at a traditional Lappish restaurant, followed by a stroll to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights if conditions are favorable.
After breakfast, take a guided snowmobile tour through the snowy forests and frozen lakes.
Warm up with a hot drink at a local café, then visit the Rovaniemi Art Museum for contemporary Finnish art.
End your day with a sauna experience, a quintessential Finnish ritual, followed by dinner at a cozy restaurant.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transportation fare | $3 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $100-200 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and unique Arctic experiences.
- Rich cultural heritage and opportunities to learn about Sámi traditions.
- Wide range of outdoor and winter sports activities.
- Harsh winter conditions may not be suitable for all travelers.
- Limited daylight in winter can restrict activities.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions.
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Anteeksi" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Missä on wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kuinka paljon tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Hyvää päivää" - Good day
Places to Visit in Rovaniemi
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the magic of the North Pole with its iconic Santa Claus post office and whimsical decorations.
A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of Rovaniemi and the surrounding forests, especially beautiful at sunset.
The museum's striking architecture and surrounding landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for photography.
Food in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sautéed reindeer served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce, a must-try for visitors.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught salmon prepared with local herbs and served with seasonal vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can find local produce, handicrafts, and street food offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Finns have a strong connection to nature; always respect the environment and follow the principles of 'Everyman's Right.'
Finnish people value personal space and may seem reserved. Avoid being overly intrusive in conversations.
Saunas are places for relaxation; be respectful of others' privacy and follow local customs regarding nudity.
Safety
Tipping in Rovaniemi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Finland, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. However, it’s good to carry some cash for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect snow-covered landscapes, ideal for winter sports and viewing the Northern Lights. Temperatures can drop significantly.
A beautiful time with melting snow and blooming flowers. Great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Experience the midnight sun with long daylight hours, perfect for exploring nature and enjoying outdoor festivals.
Witness the stunning fall foliage and the return of the reindeer herding season, offering unique cultural experiences.
Rovaniemi at Night
Hiking in Rovaniemi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular trail offering varied terrain, beautiful views, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A bit further away, this park features extensive hiking routes through stunning natural landscapes, perfect for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Rovaniemi by plane.
Located just 10 km from the city center, Rovaniemi Airport is well-connected with major cities in Finland and offers international flights, especially during the winter season.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Sámi community has a rich cultural heritage and is known for traditional reindeer herding and handicrafts.
A growing demographic in Rovaniemi, many young people are attracted to the region for employment opportunities in tourism and technology.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport in Finland, with local teams representing Rovaniemi in various leagues.
A favored activity among locals and tourists alike, with numerous trails available for skiing in the winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rovaniemi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.
Gluten-free options are available at several restaurants, especially in larger establishments.