Rovaniemi Travel Guide | Lapland | Finland

While exploring Lapland, I based myself in Rovaniemi, which is a lovely city in the southern part of Lapland. Great base if you want to see Santa, go on different tours, and catch the magical Lapland vibe.

In this guide, you will find out everything you need to know about Rovaniemi and the best tips to prepare for your trip to Lapland.

1. How to get to Rovaniemi

2. Where to stay in Rovaniemi

3. Weather in Rovaniemi 

4. What to pack for Rovaniemi 

5. Things to do in Rovaniemi 

6. Day trips from Rovaniemi

7. FAQ

How To Get To Rovaniemi

Reaching Rovaniemi is easier than most people expect. You have three solid options. You can fly directly into the city, you can drive up through Finland, or you can take one of the long-distance trains or buses that connect the south with Lapland. Each option works well, but the best choice depends on how much time you have and how confident you feel traveling in winter conditions.

Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

Flying is the simplest and fastest way to get to Rovaniemi. The airport sits only a short drive from the city, so you can land and reach your hotel within minutes.

Rovaniemi has seasonal direct international flights from the UK, Norway, Turkey, and France. Those are the most common flights to use to get to Rovaniemi, but several countries during the winter season do special flights even from Croatia, Spain, and Italy. From the UK, the common departures come from London, Manchester, and Bristol. From Norway, you often see direct flights from Oslo. From France, most winter flights leave from Paris.

Within Finland, you can fly to Rovaniemi from Helsinki several times per day. In high season you may also find flights from Tampere, Turku, or Oulu, depending on the airline schedule.

If you want the quickest and most reliable arrival, the airport is the way to go.

Driving To Rovaniemi

Driving is a good choice if you want freedom to explore Lapland at your own pace. Many travelers fly into Helsinki or Oulu, rent a car, and make the road trip north.

The drive from Helsinki to Rovaniemi takes about 10 to 11 hours, depending on the weather. From Oulu it is much shorter, usually 2.5 to 3 hours. Winter roads in Lapland are well maintained, but they can still be icy and snowy. If you have experience driving in winter, this option is smooth and very enjoyable. If you do not, then flying or taking the train might be easier.

The benefit of having a car is simple. You can chase the northern lights, visit nearby villages, reach trailheads easily, and explore beyond the standard tours.

Train And Bus Options

Finland has an excellent long-distance rail system. The most popular option is the night train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. You board in the evening, sleep in a cabin, and wake up in the Arctic. It is comfortable, practical, and a great way to save time.

Daytime trains run too, and the journey usually takes about 8 to 12 hours depending on the route.

Long-distance buses also connect Rovaniemi with cities like Oulu, Tampere, and Helsinki. These are reliable and usually cheaper than trains, although not as quick.

If you prefer to travel slowly and see more of Finland on the way, the train or bus can be a really pleasant option.

Where To Stay In Rovaniemi

So I have drafted up this simple map where the purple circle indicates where the main part of the city is. If you want convenience, booking within that big circle will be the best choice. There are several hotels and Airbnbs available in that area. The smaller purple circle within the bigger circle indicates where exactly the center of the city is. That is where the main street of Rovaniemi is, with several shops, restaurants, and a big shopping center at one end of it. Booking within that little circle will guarantee you have everything you need within 5 minute walk - shops, restaurants, and all the tour agencies.

Now, I stayed within the pink circle. It does take around 10/15 minutes to walk to the Rovaniemi center, but I absolutely loved it. This area features some bigger houses, so ideal for those traveling with a big family or friend group that wants to stay together in a big but cozy house. And for me personally, I didn't mind the little walk across the bridge; I actually really enjoyed it.

Weather In Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi looks calm and magical in photos, but the weather has a personality of its own. Temperatures dip far below zero, daylight changes fast, and conditions shift quickly. Knowing what to expect makes the whole trip smoother.

Winter is the longest season here. From December to March, temperatures often stay between –10°C and –25°C. Snow is guaranteed, and the landscape turns fully white. The cold in Rovaniemi is sharp because of the wind chill –15°C can feel much colder when the wind picks up. The biggest surprise for me was the short days. Daylight is limited in mid-winter. You might get only a few hours of soft blue light each day. At the beginning of December, when I visited, it got dark already at 3PM, and when you wake up at 9AM it is still dark! Something I was ready for and had to adapt to.

Spring is still cold, usually around –5°C to +5°C, but the days grow longer. Summer is short and mild, with long sunlight hours and temperatures around 15°C to 20°C. Autumn cools down fast, and by late October, the first snow usually arrives.

Here are the average temperatures throughout the travel season:

These are the average temperatures. For example, in 2025, in December, one weekend the temperature dropped to -20°C!

The best way to prepare for your trip is to monitor and check the weather forecast, and of course, you can also check the real-time information via one of the webcams:

Check out Web Cams

What To Pack For Rovaniemi, Finland

Packing for Rovaniemi is all about staying warm, dry and comfortable. Winter here feels magical, but only if you are dressed for it. Temperatures often hit minus numbers and activities are outdoors most of the day, so good layers matter more than anything.

Essential Winter Clothing

A proper winter jacket and insulated pants are the foundation. Go for something windproof and thick enough for long periods in the cold. Add thermal layers under your clothes. A warm base layer on top and thermal leggings will make a big difference.

Bring waterproof gloves and try to have two pairs. One usually gets wet from snow. Warm, comfortable snow boots are a must. Make sure they have a good grip for ice and enough room for thick socks.

Accessories

Thick winter socks are essential. Many people pack two pairs per day. Cover your face if the wind is strong. A balaclava or a simple face mask will protect your skin. A warm hat and neck warmer will help keep heat in, especially during long nights outside. Heat packs are great for pockets, boots, or gloves. They help when temperatures drop below zero.A power bank is useful since phones lose battery faster in the cold.

Things To Do In Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi in winter feels like a giant outdoor playground. Snow everywhere. Lights glowing in the dark. Tours leaving at all hours. You get a mix of classic Christmas magic, proper Arctic experiences, and fun activities you won’t find in many other places. Here is what you can do during your visit in Rovaniemi!

Santa Claus Village

This is the famous one. The “real” home of Santa. And yes, it actually feels magical.

The village sits about 8 km from Rovaniemi city center. You can reach it by bus, taxi, or tour transfer. Public bus takes around 15 minutes, taxis even less.

The best part is crossing the Arctic Circle line, which runs right through the village. You can also meet Santa, visit the reindeer, try short winter activities, and explore the shops.

Don’t miss the Santa Claus Post Office, where you can send postcards stamped with the official Arctic Circle postmark. This of course, is a must-do when traveling with kids, but I, as an adult, also enjoyed visiting the site and catching that Christmas feeling.

Arktikum Science Museum

Arktikum is one of the best indoor stops in the city. This is one of my favorite museums I have ever been to because it was so interactive and interesting. It covers Arctic research, Lapland’s history, and Sámi culture in a really engaging way. The highlight is its long glass corridor, which doubles as an aurora-watching spot on clear winter nights.

Ounasvaara Hill

Just outside the city center, Ounasvaara gives you a full winter sports menu without leaving Rovaniemi. You can ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or take cross-country trails through the forest. The views from the top are beautiful, especially during blue-hour light. It’s small compared to major Finnish ski resorts, but incredibly convenient if you want a half-day activity.

Ice Karting

If you want something fun and different, an ice karting tour is a great pick. You race small karts on snow and ice, drifting through corners while laughing half the time. It’s safe, guided, and easy to reach from town. A good option if you want a break from the more traditional Arctic activities.

Northern Lights

Rovaniemi does get auroras, but you need the right conditions: a clear sky, enough solar activity, and dark surroundings. Your best chances are between late August and early April. Many travelers join guided tours since they take you away from the city lights and know where the skies are clearest. Seeing them is never guaranteed, but when it happens, it’s unforgettable.

Day Trips From Rovaniemi

As I mentioned before, Rovaniemi is a very convenient location to base yourself in. Not only because it has all the amenities you need for your trip, but also geographically it is conveniently located 1-2h drive away from my amazing location to visit as a day trip.

Korouoma Canyon and Ranua Wildlife Park are a 1-2h drive away from Rovaniemi. City Kemi is just an hour away from Rovaniemi, offering amazing Icebreaker Cruises. Of course, Raindeer Sledding and Husky Sledding will be offered in closer locations, so only a ~30-minute drive away from Rovaniemi, but at the end, it also turns into a whole day trip.

I go into more detail about all the amazing things you can do around Lapland in my Lapland Travel Guide.

FAQs About Rovaniemi Travel Guide

What Is The Best Month To Visit Rovaniemi?

December is great for the festive vibe, but February and March offer the best mix of daylight, stable weather, and Northern Lights chances.

Can You See The Northern Lights In Rovaniemi?

Yes, you can see the northern lights in Rovaniemi. Visibility depends on clear skies, solar activity, and a bit of luck. Peak season is September to March, especially on cold, cloud-free nights.

Do I Need Special Winter Clothing?

Yes. Winters here hit −20°C and below, so you’ll need thermal layers, insulated jackets, snow boots, and proper face protection. Many tours also provide extra gear.

Is It Easy To Get Around Rovaniemi Without A Car?

For most travellers, yes. Tours include hotel pickup, and local buses reach spots like Santa Claus Village and Ounasvaara. A car is only needed if you want full freedom to explore Lapland.