Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, located in northern Finland. After being largely destroyed in World War II, it has become a modern city and is famous as the “official” home of Santa Claus and a great spot for viewing the Northern Lights. The city is home to Arktikum, a museum and science center about the Arctic and the history of Finnish Lapland. The Pilke Science Centre features exhibits on northern forests. Korundi House of Culture includes the Rovaniemi Art Museum, showcasing contemporary Finnish art. The Santa Claus Village, located northeast, is a popular year-round attraction where you can meet Santa, shop, and stay in an igloo hotel. Nearby, Santa Park is a theme park set in a cave with attractions like a toy factory and ice sculpture gallery. In winter, Rovaniemi is a hub for snowmobiling, husky dog tours, and reindeer-drawn sled rides. The Ounasvaara ski resort offers downhill skiing and cross-country trails.
places to visit in Rovaniemi
Santa Claus Village
Santa Claus Village is an amusement park in Rovaniemi, Finland, and is known as the official home of Santa Claus. Visitors can explore a museum that showcases the history of snowmobiles in the Arctic. Inside the Village’s main building, you’ll find Santa Claus’s Office, where you can take photos and chat with Santa during designated hours.
Oulanka National Park
Oulanka National Park is located in the Northern Ostrobothnia and Lapland regions of Finland. It features a mix of northern, southern, and eastern landscapes, including pine forests, river valleys, and mires. The park is known for its untouched, protected boreal forest and river ecosystem. It is also safeguarded by the World Wide Fund for Nature from intensive reindeer herding.
Arktikum
Arktikum is a museum and science center in Rovaniemi, offering two exhibitions: the Arctic Center and the Provincial Museum of Lapland. The museum explores the culture, history, and life in the Arctic, with exhibits focusing on humans living in harmony with nature. It also hosts temporary exhibitions on various topics related to the Arctic region.
Pyhä-Luosto National Park
Pyhä-Luosto National Park is a scenic nature park located 90 minutes from Rovaniemi. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing in the park, which is known for its preserved nature and cultural heritage. The park serves as a destination for outdoor activities while protecting indigenous cultures and the region’s natural beauty.
Riisitunturi National Park
Riisitunturi National Park, located in Posio, Finnish Lapland, is known for its mountainous terrain and unique swamps. The park’s wilderness hut is located near the twin peaks of Riisitunturi, standing at 1,527 feet. It’s a great place for hiking and exploring the natural landscape, especially during the winter months.
Santa Claus’ Main Post Office
Santa Claus’ Main Post Office, located in Santa Claus Village, is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can send letters, cards, and parcels from this special post office, which is the only official Santa Claus Post Office. It’s open year-round, and all mail sent from here is stamped with a special postmark.
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is the third-largest national park in Finland, covering 1,020 square kilometers. The park’s landscape includes a chain of fells and boreal forests. It offers various trails for hiking and skiing, catering to all levels of difficulty. It’s an ideal location for experiencing diverse natural beauty.
Ounasvaara Ski Resort
Ounasvaara Ski Resort is located in the heart of Rovaniemi. The resort offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers. With its international atmosphere, Ounasvaara is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Lordi’s Square
Lordi’s Square is a well-known square in central Rovaniemi. The square is located near the Sampokeskus shopping center and is a popular spot for events, especially during the summer months. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Auttiköngäs
Auttiköngäs is a forested canyon in Finland, famous for its beautiful waterfall. The area is accessible year-round, with activities such as snowshoeing in winter and enjoying a cozy café in summer. A marked 3.5-kilometer nature trail provides a perfect family outing, with a campfire site for relaxing by the River Auttijoki.
Best time to visit Rovaniemi
The best time to visit Rovaniemi is between June and August. During these months, the weather is mild, and you can enjoy long days with plenty of daylight. This is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, visiting Santa Claus Village, and exploring nature. The summer months offer a chance to experience Rovaniemi’s beauty without the extreme cold. It’s also the time when the city is most vibrant and full of life.
