Rovaniemi 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: December 25th

Morning

9:00 AM - Santa Claus Village

Start your day at the famous Santa Claus Village (Joulupukinpuisto), a popular destination for Christmas enthusiasts. Meet Santa and his wife, take a photo with the big man himself, and explore the surrounding village.

  • Address: Ylläskyläntie 801, Rovaniemi
  • Getting There: Free bus from Rovaniemi city center or drive there yourself (parking available)

Afternoon

12:30 PM - Lunch at Santa Claus Village Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at the Santa Claus Village restaurant, serving traditional Finnish cuisine.

  • Address: Inside the Santa Claus Village

2:00 PM - Visit Santa’s Office

Visit Santa’s office and send a postcard to family and friends from the official Santa Mailpost office.

Evening

7:00 PM - Dinner at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort restaurant, serving local cuisine with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.

  • Address: Ounasvaarantie 21, Rovaniemi

9:30 PM - Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) Campfire Experience

Experience a campfire under the starry sky and try to spot the Northern Lights at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. If you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

Accommodation

  • Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort: A luxurious resort with glass-roofed igloos offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and Lake Ounasjärvi.
    • Address: Ounasvaarantie 21, Rovaniemi

Transportation

  • Free Bus: The Santa Claus Village offers a free bus from Rovaniemi city center to the village.
  • Car Rental: Rent a car for more flexibility in traveling around the area.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Dress Warmly: Bring warm clothing, including gloves, hats, and scarves, as it can get chilly even during the summer months.
  • Northern Lights: Be prepared to spend at least 3-4 hours outside for a chance to spot the Northern Lights.
  • Santa’s Gift Workshop: Visit Santa’s gift workshop to see elves making toys and learn about the process of crafting these special gifts.

Day 2: December 26th

Morning

9:00 AM - Rovaniemi City Museum (Arktikum)

Start your day at the Rovaniemi City Museum (Arktikum), which tells the story of Lapland’s indigenous people, the Sami.

  • Address: Pohjontie 4-6, Rovaniemi
  • Getting There: Walk from Rovaniemi city center

11:00 AM - Lunch at Arktikum Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at the restaurant located within the museum.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - Visit to Rovaniemi City Center

Spend the afternoon exploring Rovaniemi’s charming city center, with its bustling streets and shopping opportunities.

  • Address: Rovaniemi city center

Evening

7:30 PM - Dinner at Fiskari Restaurant

Dine at the Fiskari restaurant, known for serving fresh fish dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

  • Address: Keskuskatu 1 A, Rovaniemi

9:00 PM - Visit to Ounasvaara Ski Resort (optional)

If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, consider visiting the Ounasvaara Ski Resort for some evening skiing or snowboarding. If not, simply enjoy the peaceful night in your accommodation.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Aakenus: A comfortable hotel located near Rovaniemi city center.
    • Address: Keskuskatu 1, Rovaniemi

Transportation

  • Walking: Explore Rovaniemi’s city center on foot for a more leisurely pace.
  • Car Rental: Use your rented car to travel around the area.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Shopping: Don’t forget to check out Rovaniemi’s shopping centers, like Ounasvaara Ski Resort’s shops or the Arktikum mall.
  • Skiing/Snowboarding: If you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, consider renting equipment and taking a lesson at Ounasvaara Ski Resort.

Day 3: December 27th

Morning

8:00 AM - Visit to Santa’s Reindeer Farm (Santashoppe)

Start your day with a visit to the Santa’s Reindeer Farm (Santashoppe), where you can see real reindeer and learn about their habits.

  • Address: Ylläskyläntie 802, Rovaniemi
  • Getting There: Free bus from Rovaniemi city center or drive there yourself (parking available)

11:00 AM - Lunch at Reindeer Farm Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at the restaurant located within the reindeer farm.

Afternoon

1:30 PM - Visit to Local Market and Handicraft Center

Spend the afternoon exploring Rovaniemi’s local market and handicraft center, where you can find unique souvenirs.

  • Address: Rovaniemi city center

Evening

6:00 PM - Farewell Dinner at a Restaurant of Your Choice

Enjoy a farewell dinner at any restaurant in Rovaniemi that suits your taste.

This itinerary provides a mix of Christmas-related activities, exploration of Lapland’s culture and nature, and relaxation. Remember to check the opening hours for each location and adjust your schedule accordingly. Don’t hesitate to ask locals or staff members for advice on making the most out of your time in Rovaniemi!