A magical destination, Rovaniemi is home to an array of natural wonders, from the phenomenon of the Northern Lights to the magnificent midnight sun. A gateway to the Arctic, Rovaniemi rests within six kilometres of the Arctic Circle and is known for its beautiful icy wilderness.
Things to do in Rovaniemi
You can witness the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi up to 150 nights of the year. The spellbinding light show can be seen from the Arctic Garden, 10 minutes’ walk from the city centre. Adventure seekers should join an Aurora Hunt, where you can observe the dancing astral from a snowmobile, husky sledge or reindeer sleigh.
Experience the magic of Christmas every day of the year in Rovaniemi, the “official” hometown of Santa Claus. Cross the Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village and Santa Park. The merry elves at Santa Claus’s Post Office can also help you send a postcard home from Arctic Circle.
Lose yourself in Arktikum, Finland’s fascinating science museum showcasing the culture, history and nature of the Arctic. The museum’s magnificent 172-metre long glass corridor is the perfect place for observing the night sky.
A trip to Rovaniemi wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Ranua Wildlife Park, the northernmost zoo in the world that specialises in Arctic fauna. A perfect destination for animal lovers, meet the mighty polar bears and Finnish brown bears.
Getting around Rovaniemi
A small town with a radius of one kilometre, Rovaniemi is best explored by foot. For destinations outside of town, catch one of the local buses. Rovaniemi Airport is the easiest way into the city and is eight kilometres north of the town centre.