Rovaniemi

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is a winter wonderland destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure activities. As one of the most popular destinations in Finland, Rovaniemi has something for everyone, from snowmobiling and dog sledding to Northern Lights sightings and Santa Claus visits.

Places to Visit

  1. Arktikum Science Centre: A museum that showcases the natural environment and culture of Lapland.
  2. Snow Castle: An annual winter wonderland made entirely out of snow, featuring intricate ice sculptures and a frozen waterfall.
  3. Ounasvaara Ski Resort: A popular ski resort that offers downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and other winter activities.
  4. Santa Claus Village: A theme park where you can meet Santa Claus himself, as well as his elves and reindeer.
  5. Lappish Museum of Culture: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Lapland’s indigenous people, the Saami.

Activities

  1. Snowmobiling: Explore the snowy landscapes of Rovaniemi on a guided snowmobile tour.
  2. Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing through the snowy wilderness with a team of happy huskies.
  3. Northern Lights Hunting: Join a guided tour to spot the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights.
  4. Snowshoeing: Explore the winter wonderland on snowshoes, a great way to experience the peacefulness of nature.
  5. Husky Farm Visit: Visit a local husky farm and learn about the care and training of these magnificent animals.

Where to Eat

  1. Restaurant Arktikum: A modern Finnish restaurant serving delicious seasonal dishes.
  2. Töölön Kaffihytti: A cozy café serving traditional Finnish pastries and coffee.
  3. Kahvinpaja: A charming café serving a variety of teas, coffees, and light meals.
  4. Lappia Café: A rustic café serving traditional Lappish dishes such as reindeer stew.

Where to Stay

  1. Santa Claus Hotel: A themed hotel where you can meet Santa Claus himself.
  2. Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos: A unique hotel featuring glass igloos with views of the Northern Lights.
  3. Lapland Hotels Ounasvaara Chalets: Cozy chalets located in a peaceful area surrounded by nature.
  4. Rovaniemi Backpackers Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel perfect for solo travelers.

Things to Know

  1. Weather: Rovaniemi experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures. Pack warm clothing and be prepared for winter conditions.
  2. Language: Finnish is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  3. Currency: The Euro is the local currency.
  4. Safety: Be aware of slippery roads and walkways during winter months.

Transportation

  1. Airport: Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) is located just 10 km from the city centre.
  2. Buses: Regular bus services connect the airport to the city centre and surrounding areas.
  3. Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport and in the city centre.

Tips

  1. Book in advance: Popular tourist attractions and activities can sell out quickly, so book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
  2. Pack warm clothing: Rovaniemi’s winters are harsh, so make sure to pack warm clothing, including gloves, hats, and scarves.
  3. Respect nature: Rovaniemi is a protected area, so be respectful of the environment and wildlife.

Other Things to Know

  1. Northern Lights Season: The Northern Lights can be seen from late August to early April, but the best time is from December to March.
  2. Santa Claus Season: Santa’s season typically runs from mid-November to mid-January.
  3. Snow Castle Season: The Snow Castle is open annually from late January to late April.

Conclusion

Rovaniemi is a magical destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure activities. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip to Rovaniemi, whether you’re interested in snowmobiling, dog sledding, or simply experiencing the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights.