About
Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, in northern Finland, and the place many visitors associate with Santa Claus, who is said to have his official hometown here. Santa Claus Village, on the Arctic Circle just outside the town, is the best-known stop for families and first-time visitors, and it sits within easy reach of the rest of the city.
Rovaniemi works well as a base for Arctic experiences. Depending on the season, visitors can go husky sledding, visit reindeer farms, and take part in a range of winter activities. The town is also a well-known place to look for the Northern Lights, which are most often seen on clear, dark nights.
What a visit looks like
- Santa Claus Village: a short trip from the centre, and the usual starting point for a first day.
- Reindeer farms: a chance to meet the animals and learn about life in Lapland.
- Husky sledding: one of the area's most popular winter outings.
- Northern Lights: visible from the area on suitable clear nights, which makes a flexible schedule useful.
Because Rovaniemi is a major tourist hub, it offers a good range of places to stay and eat, and its activities are easy to arrange once you are there. A visit suits travellers who want a mix of Arctic scenery and organised winter experiences, especially those visiting with children.
Planning your trip
Winter is the season most people picture when they think of Rovaniemi, with snow, short daylight and the chance of the aurora. Check what is running and when before you go, since outdoor activities depend on the weather and the time of year. Allow at least a couple of days so that you have room for the main attractions and a backup night for the lights.
