Rovaniemi is a highly progressive European city that has undergone significant improvements, making it an easily navigable destination for tourists. The primary language spoken by locals is Finnish, with some other dialects, including the native Sami language. Travelers will find that many people, especially those in the tourism industry, speak excellent English, and possibly some other European languages.

Finland uses the Euro, and travelers will find numerous ATMs in the center of Rovaniemi that accept foreign cards.

The easiest way to reach Rovaniemi is by air. There are direct flights from Gatwick, Manchester, and even Istanbul. Alternatively, visitors can choose to stop in Helsinki for a few days and take domestic flights from Finnair or Norwegian.

As the capital of Lapland, most visitors will find themselves on a tour to this secluded and sparsely populated corner of Europe to experience the vast natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes and the unique local culture.

In winter, a tour of Rovaniemi becomes a truly enchanting world, with the city covered in snow, snowmobiles wandering on ice, the Northern Lights in the sky, and the locals’ enthusiasm for Santa Claus and Christmas everywhere.

In summer, it is also an ideal outdoor destination, with activities such as long-distance hiking and the unique experience of the midnight sun when the sun never sets. Regardless of the season, there are plenty of wonderful things to do in the capital of Finnish Lapland!

Top Attractions in Rovaniemi:

Santa Claus Village:

The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in winter. Rovaniemi is the hometown of Santa Claus, and Finland has long been associated with the Christmas legend. Locals have popularized this and built a sprawling, Christmas-themed village that is extremely crowded with tourists, making it one of the must-visit attractions in Rovaniemi. Visitors can tour Santa Claus’s Post Office, his house, meet Santa Claus himself, try local Finnish cuisine, and shop for various Christmas-themed souvenirs. It’s a festive and experience-packed program.

Northern Lights Viewing:

In winter, when the sky is dark and the days are short, Rovaniemi turns into one of the best places in the world to witness the spectacular Northern Lights. Visitors can witness this magical display in and around the city from late August to early April.

Midnight Sun Experience:

During the short summer months, one of the most extraordinary experiences in Rovaniemi is witnessing the midnight sun. For a few weeks each year, the sun almost never sets, allowing visitors to enjoy sunlight nearly all the time. Hiking at midnight, sitting under the morning sun, and making the most of the extended daylight are unique experiences.

Ounasvaara Ski Resort:

Ounasvaara is a favorite outdoor destination for Rovaniemi residents. Overlooking the city, this hill is ideal for long hikes in summer and snow sports or other winter activities when snow has fallen.

Visit the Arctic Circle:

The northern part of the Arctic Circle, known simply as the Arctic Circle, is in the north. In Rovaniemi, it runs through Santa Claus Village, located about eight kilometers north of the city center. The Arctic Circle is where the sun can stay continuously below or above the horizon for 24 hours—a phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun in summer and the Polar Night (“Kaamos”) in winter.