Rovaniemi 2 Day Itinerary

Two Days in Rovaniemi: The Magic of Lapland

This itinerary combines the must-see highlights with off-the-beaten-path experiences for a truly unforgettable trip to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus.

Where to Stay:

  • Arctic TreeHouse Hotel: Luxurious glass-roofed cabins nestled in a pine forest (Splurge)
  • Santa Claus Holiday Village: Cozy cabins and igloos near Santa Claus Village (Mid-Range)
  • Hostel Cafe Kota: Affordable hostel with a communal atmosphere (Budget)

Transportation:

  • Walking: Rovaniemi city center is compact and easily walkable.
  • Bus: Local buses connect most attractions within the city and surrounding areas.
  • Taxi: Readily available but can be expensive.
  • Rent a Car: Offers flexibility for exploring further afield, especially during winter.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Rovaniemi experiences extreme weather conditions. Pack warm layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes. In winter, daylight hours are limited.
  • Currency: Euro (€) is the currency used in Finland. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Language: Finnish is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.

Day 1: Santa Claus & Arctic Adventures

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Start your day at the Santa Claus Village, cross the Arctic Circle, and meet the man himself! Send postcards from the Santa Claus Post Office, explore the Elf Workshop, and enjoy festive treats.

  • Lunch (12:00 PM): Enjoy a traditional Finnish lunch at Restaurant Nili in Santa Claus Village, known for its reindeer stew and salmon soup.

  • Afternoon (2:00 PM): Head to Arktikum, the Arctic Centre museum, to learn about the culture, history, and nature of the Arctic region through interactive exhibits.

  • Evening (6:00 PM): Embark on a Northern Lights hunting tour. Many companies offer tours by bus or snowmobile, increasing your chances of witnessing this breathtaking phenomenon.

  • Dinner (9:00 PM): Warm up with a delicious meal at Ravintola Lappi, known for its modern interpretations of Lappish cuisine.

Day 2: Husky Adventures & Local Culture

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Experience the thrill of husky sledding. Several companies offer guided tours through snowy forests, letting you mush your own team of huskies.

  • Lunch (12:00 PM): Enjoy a hearty lunch at Cafe&Bar 21, offering delicious sandwiches, salads, and warm drinks in a cozy atmosphere.

  • Afternoon (2:00 PM): Immerse yourself in Lappish culture at the Ranua Wildlife Park. Observe Arctic animals like polar bears, wolves, and reindeer in their natural habitat.

  • Evening (6:00 PM): Indulge in a traditional Finnish sauna experience at your hotel or a local sauna center. Relax and rejuvenate after a day of adventure.

  • Dinner (8:00 PM): Enjoy a farewell dinner at Ravintola Sampo, savoring Lappish delicacies like reindeer, arctic char, and cloudberries.

Additional Tips:

  • Book tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Dress warmly, even in summer, as temperatures can be cool.
  • Try traditional Finnish foods like reindeer stew, salmon soup, and Karelian pies.
  • Learn a few basic Finnish phrases. Locals appreciate the effort!
  • Be respectful of nature and wildlife.

Other Points of Interest:

  • Ounasvaara: Hike or take the cable car to the top for panoramic views of Rovaniemi.
  • Pilke Science Centre: Interactive exhibits about forestry and wood construction.
  • Korundi House of Culture: Art exhibitions, concerts, and performances.

Enjoy your magical journey to Rovaniemi!