It’s time to leave behind the vision of sun-soaked beaches and think about a different kind of climate. Here is a place where white nights reign and the northern lights dance in the sky, and where reindeer trudging through snowdrifts are far more common than seaside gulls.
Rovaniemi is the capital of Finland’s Lapland region. However, the city is better known as the magical capital of the Arctic and the official town of Santa Claus. Located on the edge of the Arctic Circle, this town used to attract tourists only in the winter. It was then that children would meet Santa Claus in a snow-covered cabin straight out of a fairy tale, while adults fulfilled childhood dreams of riding snowmobiles through the wilderness. However, those times have changed somewhat, as although winter remains the peak tourist season in northern Finland, visitors are starting to see Rovaniemi as more than just a fleeting holiday attraction.
Santa Claus Village
It is in Rovaniemi (actually 8 km from the city center) where you’ll find the place that every child who believes in Santa Claus dreams of visiting. Santa Claus Village (not to be confused with Santa Park, which we’ll talk about shortly) transports its guests from all over the world into a fairytale setting all year round. Snow-capped cottages let you immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and discover the secrets of the world’s hardest-working elves.
In Santa Claus Village, there are endless attractions. You can meet Mrs. Claus, see how Santa’s post office operates, visit the Elf Academy, where these nimble creatures perfect their skills, or take a walk through Santa’s fir-covered forest. You’ll also cross the Arctic Circle line, which runs through the village’s central square. In fact, you’ll even receive a certificate to commemorate this “feat.”
Meeting Santa Claus
But of course, what most children visiting Santa Claus Village look forward to the most is meeting Santa himself. And this is possible at two spots in the park. The first is Santa’s Office, located right by the central square, where Santa is waiting for a visit and a quick chat with the little ones. You can also sit on Santa’s lap in his Christmas House, located a bit further away. In both cases, you can meet Santa for free, but you’ll have to pay extra for any photos.
Santa Claus’ Post Office
Upon entering this place, you’ll be enchanted by the tons of colorful, sparkling letters, but the magical decor isn’t its only attraction. You can use Santa’s Post Office just like any other. You can send letters and packages to anywhere in the world, at any time of the year. A letter sent from this place will be special not only because it passes through the hands of magical elves, but also because Santa’s helpers stamp it with a special Arctic Circle postmark. Additionally, if you use the special red mailbox, your postcards will be delivered to recipients just before Christmas, even if you send them in the summer.
Santa Park Amusement Park
A completely different park, though located near Santa Claus Village and centered around the same theme, is Santa Park. This time, it’s an indoor venue that offers a break from the freezing Arctic temperatures. Santa’s Cave is another stop full of attractions. In addition to meeting Santa and visiting the post office, you’ll also board a magical train and see the workshop where traditional toys are crafted, thanks to the elves.
In the park, children will also watch a special show, learn the art of decorating gingerbread cookies, and master the tricks of Santa’s helpers at the Elf School. It’s also the only place in the world where you can cross the Arctic Circle underground.
It’s important to note, however, that unlike Santa Claus Village, Santa Park is only open during the holiday season, roughly from early November to early January. Ticket prices also vary depending on the week. Naturally, the holiday park is most expensive during Christmas week itself.
Santa Claus Village or Santa Park?
There’s no clear answer to the question of which park is more worth visiting. If you’re heading to the North Pole outside the holiday season, the choice is simple (since Santa Park is closed then). However, in the winter months, it might be a bit harder to decide. If you think the winter atmosphere is key to the holiday spirit, consider Santa Claus Village. But if you’d rather focus on Santa’s secrets than on your freezing nose, Santa Park might be the better option. In Santa Claus Village, there’s no admission fee to enter the park, but you’ll pay for some attractions, while in Santa Park, it’s the opposite scenario.
In both places, you’ll be able to eat, buy souvenirs, and quickly feel the holiday magic. However, when it comes to the main attractions, only the post office and Santa’s Office are found in both. The choice of attractions depends entirely on your personal preferences. It’s worth noting that during your visit with Santa in the Village, you can only purchase official photos taken by the elves, and children don’t receive any gifts. On the other hand, in the competing park, you’re allowed to use your phone camera, and for an extra fee, your little ones can receive a nice gift from Santa.
And what if you want to visit both places? That’s absolutely possible, especially since the entrance ticket to Santa Park is valid for two consecutive days. The two attractions are also relatively close to each other. You can cover the distance between these Christmas wonderlands by taking a special city bus, but a much more enjoyable option would be a short, winter walk.
Rovaniemi City Center and its Attractions
It’s undeniable that Santa Claus and his village brought Rovaniemi worldwide fame. However, that doesn’t mean the city’s attractions end there. Despite the proximity of wild forests and the Arctic climate, the city center is constantly bustling with life, thanks to the cafes and restaurants open at every turn. Don’t be surprised if, while strolling through the central streets, you spot reindeer calmly walking by.
The modern city, designed by renowned Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, surprises at every turn (even from a bird’s-eye view, as Rovaniemi’s city plan resembles the shape of a reindeer’s head with antlers). You’ll feel like you’re in the wilderness when visiting the Arctic garden Arboretum Arktikum, or like you’re in a city of the future when admiring the city’s icon – the Jätkänkynttilä Bridge – or the theater building. In summer, Rovaniemi transforms into a city of festivals, in spring, a university campus, and in winter, a kingdom of Christmas markets. What more could you want?
Arktikum – Discover Life in the Arctic
You have to admit that the Arctic isn’t one of the most popular tourist regions on Earth. That’s why most people have relatively little knowledge about life in this area. With those in mind who want to learn more about the Arctic, Rovaniemi’s most popular museum was created. Arktikum is an institution that combines a science center with the Regional Museum of Lapland.
The Arctic Centre of the University of Lapland primarily focuses on conducting multidisciplinary research in the Arctic region. The results of these studies are mostly presented to the public through a constantly evolving exhibition. Thanks to this exhibit, you’ll discover the secrets of reindeer herders’ lives, learn how many seasons occur in Lapland, and understand why climate change poses such a significant challenge to the development of this region.
Complementing the knowledge gained from the exhibits are the artifacts collected in the same building by the Regional Museum of Lapland. This institution has made it possible for visitors to view tools, photographs, and natural materials that answer many questions about the history, culture, and nature of the Arctic.
Pilke Science Centre and Korundi House of Culture
Arktikum’s neighbor is the Pilke Science Centre, another institution focused on raising awareness of local culture. This time, however, it brings us closer to Finnish forests. Pilke allows you to step inside a birdhouse, see how ants work under a magnifying glass, and understand why forests are such an essential part of Finnish culture. It’s also the place to inquire about permits and get advice if you’re planning to explore nature trails or try fishing in the Rovaniemi area.
After leaving the Pilke Science Centre, a short walk will take you to a place that will especially appeal to artistic souls. Korundi House of Culture is home to the Lapland Chamber Orchestra, which regularly organizes concerts, and the Rovaniemi Art Museum, which offers high-quality exhibitions by artists from across the Arctic. The collection, displayed in ever-changing themed exhibitions, allows you to explore contemporary Finnish art.
Skiing, Ice Skating… or Maybe a Sauna?
Sports and activity enthusiasts will likely be interested in some different attractions, and they certainly won’t be disappointed. Rovaniemi is a paradise for sport lovers, and the countless hiking trails surrounding the city are just the beginning of what this area has to offer.
You can glide along rivers and lakes in kayaks, or when the frost bites, on ice skates. Near Rovaniemi, you can try cross-country skiing or more thrilling downhill runs. A visit to traditional saunas can also be combined with winter swimming. Additionally, you can enjoy fat biking, snowmobiles, jet skis, or floating—relaxing as you drift on icy lake waters in special suits.
The Northern Lights
No one can guarantee you’ll see the Northern Lights near Rovaniemi, but the chances of “catching” them are quite high. This mesmerizing phenomenon, often at the top of many people’s bucket lists, can be admired from late August to early April, until the nights become too bright to see any colors. The colorful lights usually dance in the sky between 10 PM and 2 AM, and they can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours—there’s no rule. But where’s the best place to wait for them?
There are countless ways and places to view the Northern Lights near Rovaniemi, and most of them are literally just a step away from the city. All you need to do is move away from the streetlights illuminating the night. You can head out of the city on your own or with the help of a local guide. Combine stargazing with a snowmobile tour, or rent a cozy glass-roofed cabin to watch the northern lights from the comfort of your home. You can find many unique accommodation options on this site.
Dog Sledding and Reindeer Rides
A particularly popular attraction in Lapland is interacting with animals native to the region, namely reindeer and huskies. Racing through the wild, snow-covered northern landscape is an experience offered by many husky farms. Both the cold and physical exertion are not harmful to these animals—in fact, they need it. Whether you choose to take such a ride is up to you. However, it’s essential to pay close attention to the conditions in which the huskies live, how they are treated by their owners, and whether they are not forced into excessively long or monotonous runs.
It’s a completely different story with reindeer. In Lapland, it’s hard not to see these animals. Many even claim that the number of reindeer living there is similar to the population of Rovaniemi. Herds of reindeer often graze freely on hills, in forests, by the roadside, near houses, and even on ski slopes. However, they are wild animals, so it’s important not to approach them. Wild, yet most of them still have owners…
Reindeer Farms
Most reindeer belong to a specific farm, meaning they have an owner. In special enclosures, the animals spend the winter, rest, and breed. During the spring and summer, they are released into the wild. So, if you’re short on time while in Lapland but really want to see reindeer, you can visit one of these farms and observe them up close (though not too close!).
Most farms offer transportation from Rovaniemi, so you don’t need to worry about getting there, but you should be mindful of the reindeer’s well-being. It’s best to visit farms where reindeer are treated with proper respect. A good sign is when owners enforce rules such as prohibiting petting, getting too close, loud behavior, or sudden movements around the reindeer.
GOOD TO KNOW: In many places, reindeer-drawn sleigh rides are also organized, but despite claims that these animals can pull up to 400 kg, we don’t recommend this attraction. It’s better to capture a beautiful photo of the reindeer and let them save their strength for pulling Santa’s sleigh through the sky.
Reindeer and Huskies in Santa Claus Village
Although it wasn’t mentioned earlier in the article, it’s time for a small caution. Reindeer and husky sleigh rides are attractions you can easily find in the aforementioned Santa Claus Village. Many people, especially those who have planned their trip to Rovaniemi around meeting Santa Claus, take advantage of this opportunity.
However, it’s important to be aware that this is the worst place for any meaningful encounter with animals. Unlike small, traditional farms, the ones in Santa Claus Village are visited by thousands of people every day, subjecting the animals to unnecessary stress. Not to mention the full-day sleigh rides organized there. If you’re in the mood for a ride, it’s better to opt for snowmobiles in Santa Claus Village and enjoy a more thrilling experience.
Rovaniemi Without a Snowy Blanket
Let’s face it—most tourists visit Rovaniemi during the winter months. After all, the image of a snow-covered city is the most popular one. But if you want to avoid the crowds and discover a completely different, less touristy, and equally charming side of this place, a summer or spring trip would be a great idea.
The winter forests then turn into expanses of green. While you shouldn’t expect heatwaves, the temperature is much more favorable for walks or bike trips than the winter frosts. It’s a great time for kayaking, picnics, or even playing golf alongside reindeer, which, by the way, have their young in the spring. And most importantly, who wouldn’t want to experience white nights and the midnight sun at least once in their life?
And you can visit Santa even in the summer or spring. Although the village won’t be buried under snow, you can still see the busy Elves preparing for winter. And it’s all in much more unique surroundings.
