Rovaniemi-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Rovaniemi

  • Morning: Arrive at Rovaniemi airport. Take a taxi or shuttle bus (10-15€) to your accommodation.
  • 9:00 AM: Check-in at Havu Guest House ( approx. 80€ per night), located in the city center, within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Rovaniemi Visitor Centre (free admission) to get an overview of the area’s history, culture, and attractions.
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Punahukka Restaurant (approx. 20€ per meal), serving traditional Finnish cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Ounasvaara Ski Hill (free admission) for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscape.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Arktikum Restaurant (approx. 30€ per meal), serving local specialties.

Day 2: Snowmobiling and Reindeer Herding

  • 9:00 AM: Take a snowmobile tour to the nearby forests and hills (approx. 60-80€ per person, depending on the duration).
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at SnowCastle Restaurant (approx. 25€ per meal), serving international cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit a reindeer herding farm, such as Pallas-Yllästunturi Reindeer Farm (free admission).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Café Korva (approx. 25€ per meal), serving local specialties.

Day 3: Snowman and Santa Claus

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Snow Castle (free admission) to see the largest snow castle in the world.
  • 10:00 AM: Meet Santa Claus at Santa’s Office (approx. 15€ per person, depending on the experience).
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Pohjolan Kahvi (approx. 20€ per meal), serving traditional Finnish cuisine.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Arctic Art Museum (free admission) to see unique art pieces and exhibitions.

Day 4: Northern Lights and Sauna

  • 9:00 AM: Take a guided Northern Lights tour (approx. 50-60€ per person, depending on the duration).
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Arktikum Restaurant (approx. 30€ per meal), serving local specialties.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit a public sauna (approx. 10-15€ per person) to experience traditional Finnish bathing culture.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Punahukka Restaurant (approx. 20€ per meal), serving traditional Finnish cuisine.

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Rovaniemi Market Square to buy souvenirs, try local snacks, or have a leisurely breakfast.
  • 11:00 AM: Check-out from your accommodation and head back to Rovaniemi airport for departure.

Things to know:

  • Weather: Be prepared for cold temperatures (average -10°C in winter) and potential snowstorms.
  • Transportation: Use public transportation, walk, or take taxis/shuttle buses when necessary. Rent a car for longer trips.
  • Safety: Wear proper clothing (insulated coat, gloves, hat, scarf) and follow instructions from tour guides.

Tips:

  • Try local specialties like reindeer meat, cloudberry pie, or snow-melting liquor.
  • Learn some basic Finnish phrases to interact with locals.
  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife.
  • Don’t miss the unique Arctic experiences offered by many tour operators.