Rovaniemi 5 Day Itinerary

Rovaniemi: A 5-Day Winter Wonderland Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the magic of winter in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus!

Accommodation:

  • Arctic TreeHouse Hotel: Luxurious glass igloos with stunning views of the Northern Lights. (Splurge)
  • Santa Claus Holiday Village: Cozy cabins and rooms within walking distance of Santa Claus Village. (Mid-range)
  • Hostel Rovaniemi: Budget-friendly option with a social atmosphere.

Transportation:

  • Rovaniemi is easily walkable.
  • Buses connect the city center to attractions like Arktikum and Santa Claus Village.
  • Taxis are readily available.
  • Consider renting a car for exploring Lapland further.

Things to Know:

  • Best time to visit: December-March for winter activities and Northern Lights sightings.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Finnish, but English is widely spoken.
  • Pack warmly! Temperatures can drop below freezing.

Day 1: Arrival & Rovaniemi Exploration

  • Arrive at Rovaniemi Airport (RVN).
  • Check into your accommodation.
  • Explore the charming city center, visit the Arktikum museum to learn about Arctic culture and environment.
  • Enjoy dinner at Ravintola Nili: Locally-sourced Lappish cuisine in a cozy setting.

Day 2: Santa Claus Village Adventure

  • Take a bus or taxi to Santa Claus Village, meet Santa himself, send postcards from the Arctic Circle Post Office, and enjoy festive activities.
  • Have lunch at Joulupukin Pajakylä Restaurant: Traditional Finnish dishes with a Christmas touch.
  • In the evening, join a guided Northern Lights tour for a chance to witness this magical phenomenon.

Day 3: Husky Sledding & Reindeer Farm Visit

  • Embark on an exhilarating husky sledding adventure through snowy forests.
  • Visit a reindeer farm and learn about these fascinating creatures.
  • Warm up with hot chocolate and local pastries at Cafe Kemppi: A cozy cafe with stunning views of the river.

Day 4: Snowmobiling & Ice Fishing

  • Experience the thrill of snowmobiling through Lapland’s wintry landscapes.
  • Try your luck at ice fishing on a frozen lake, learn traditional techniques, and enjoy a warming campfire lunch.

Day 5: Relaxation & Departure

  • Enjoy a leisurely morning at your accommodation or explore the city center for souvenir shopping.
  • Indulge in a farewell sauna experience, a Finnish tradition.
  • Depart from Rovaniemi Airport (RVN).

Tips:

  • Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable.
  • Bring a good camera to capture the stunning scenery.
  • Learn a few basic Finnish phrases for a more immersive experience.
  • Embrace the winter wonderland and enjoy the magic of Rovaniemi!