things-to-do-in-Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi: The Official Hometown of Santa Claus

Rovaniemi, nestled in Finnish Lapland, offers a truly magical experience for travelers seeking winter wonderlands and Arctic adventures. Here are some must-do activities for your trip:

Embrace the Magic:

  • Visit Santa Claus Village: Meet the jolly man himself, send postcards from his official post office, and explore festive shops.
    • Tip: Pre-book your Santa visit to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Cross the Arctic Circle: Stand astride the iconic line marking the northernmost point where the sun remains visible for 24 hours in summer and disappears completely in winter.

Arctic Adventures:

  • Go Huskies Sledding: Experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies through snowy landscapes.
    • Choose your adventure: Opt for shorter introductory rides or multi-day expeditions into the wilderness.
  • Snowmobiling: Zoom across frozen lakes and forests, enjoying breathtaking views of the Arctic scenery.
  • Ice Fishing: Test your skills and patience trying to catch fish through a hole in the ice. Local guides can teach you the ropes.

Experience Lapland Culture:

  • Arktikum Museum: Delve into the history, culture, and environment of the Arctic region through interactive exhibits and displays.
  • Ranua Wildlife Park: See Arctic animals like polar bears, lynx, reindeer, and wolves in their natural habitats.
    • Seasonal Tip: Winter offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of snow-covered landscapes and observe the animals’ adaptations.

Northern Lights:

  • Aurora Borealis Hunting: Witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights across the night sky.
    • Book a guided tour: Local experts know the best spots and times for viewing.

Other Activities:

  • Reindeer Farm Visit: Interact with friendly reindeer, learn about their traditional role in Lapland culture, and enjoy a sleigh ride.
  • Relax in a Sauna: Experience the Finnish tradition of sauna bathing followed by a refreshing dip in a cold lake or snowdrift.

Getting Around:

  • Rovaniemi is easily navigable by foot, bicycle, or public transportation.
  • Taxis are readily available for longer distances.

Accommodation:

Rovaniemi offers a wide range of accommodation options from cozy cabins and traditional Finnish guesthouses to modern hotels.

Tips for Planning your Trip:

  • Best time to visit: December to March for winter wonderland experiences and Northern Lights viewing.
  • Pack warm clothing: Layers are essential, including thermal underwear, waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, and scarves.
  • Learn basic Finnish phrases: While English is widely spoken, a few words in Finnish will enhance your experience.

Enjoy your magical adventure in Rovaniemi!