7 days in Rovaniemi, Finland: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Rovaniemi, the capital of Finland’s northernmost province, Lapland, is a gateway to the Arctic Circle and Santa Claus Village. As a magical winter wonderland with beautiful landscapes, embracing the Northern Lights, and a warm-hearted community, Rovaniemi offers an enchanting experience to all who visit. While exploring this breathtaking city, be prepared to discover world-class skiing, phenomenal ice-sculptures, and so much more. So, buckle up, get ready to be enchanted, and let’s help you make the most out of your Rovaniemi adventure!
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Rovaniemi
Spectacular natural phenomenon: The Northern Lights are a magnificent sight to behold.
Christmas lovers, rejoice! Rovaniemi is home to the famous Santa Claus Village.
Limited daylight hours during winter months.
Perfect for: Nature enthusiasts, festive spirits & winter sports lovers.
What to Bring with You
1. Warm Clothing: The Arctic weather calls for thermal layers, waterproof jackets, and insulated boots.
2. Camera: You won’t want to miss capturing stunning landscapes and Northern Lights.
3. Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while being eco-friendly.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
To experience Rovaniemi’s winter wonderland, plan your visit between November and March. This is the ideal time for witnessing the Northern Lights, taking part in winter activities, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
How to Get into Rovaniemi
1. By Air: Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) is the main gateway. Direct and connecting flights are available from various European cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use the Airport Bus to reach the city center.
2. By Train: Rovaniemi has good rail connections with the rest of Finland. Overnight trains are available from Helsinki and offer a comfortable journey with picturesque views.
3. By Bus: The city is well-connected by bus routes with other Finnish towns. Long-distance buses arrive at the Rovaniemi Bus Station, located near the city center.
7 day city guide trip to Rovaniemi, Finland
Day 1 – Arrival
Start your trip by visiting the Santa Claus Village and meeting the man himself. After that, head to the Arktikum Museum to learn about the history and culture of Lapland. For dinner, head to Nili Restaurant for some delicious reindeer dishes.
Day 2 – Nature Day
Take a hike through the beautiful Ounasvaara hill and admire the stunning views of Rovaniemi from the top. In the evening, go on a Northern Lights tour and witness one of the most incredible natural phenomena in the world.
Day 3 – Adventure Day
Get your adrenaline pumping by going on a snowmobile safari or a husky sled ride through the snowy forests of Lapland. For lunch, try some traditional Finnish Karjalan Piirakka at Kauppayhtiö Café and Bakery.
Day 4 – Day trip to Ranua Wildlife Park
Spend the day getting up close and personal with some of the Arctic’s most fascinating animals, including polar bears, lynx, and wolves.
Day 5 – Culture Day
Visit the Korundi House of Culture, which features art exhibitions and concerts from both Finnish and international artists. For dinner, try some local Lappish cuisine at Nabo Restaurant.
Day 6 – Day trip to Pyhä-Luosto National Park
Take a day trip to this beautiful park to see its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Pyhäkasteenlampi pond. You can also go on a guided snowshoe hike or ice climbing tour.
Day 7 – Shopping and Departure
Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs and gifts at the Marttiini knife factory, where you’ll find some of the best knives made in the Nordic countries. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at Roka Kitchen & Wine Bar before heading back home.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Rovaniemi, Finland
If you’ve fallen in love with the Arctic region, there are a few nearby destinations worth visiting. One of them is Tromsø, Norway, known for its stunning fjords, Arctic wilderness and the Northern Lights. Another destination is Kiruna, Sweden, where you can visit the world-famous ICEHOTEL and explore the beautiful Abisko National Park. Both cities can be reached by train or bus from Rovaniemi. Alternatively, you can take a short flight to Helsinki, the capital of Finland, and continue your travels from there.
