Book your favourite year-round activities in Rovaniemi !
Please note: During December-March, many activities in Rovaniemi sell out early. We recommend you book in advance to guarantee the availability. To check availability, select filter ‘When‘.
Other activities to do in Rovaniemi
Events
Get to know local life by taking part in events! Rovaniemi has long been – and still is – a central venue for northern happenings. Find events listing here.
Sights and attractions
Where to go and what to see in Rovaniemi? There are scores of sights and attractions in the Official Hometown of Santa Claus – find them listed here.
Eat and drink
Traditional Lappish food tastes delicious both in restaurants and by a campfire. Rovaniemi has great options for local culinary excursions, see more here.
Shopping
The lively town centre of Rovaniemi is great for shopping. Along with stores selling modern goods, local arts and handicrafts are available in many shops. See more here.
Other services
You never know when you need more than the usual travel services in an exciting place like Rovaniemi! See here what’s on offer – you might be surprised!
Discovering every magical season
No matter when you visit, Rovaniemi has activities that highlight the beauty and uniqueness of the arctic environment. The Arctic Circle runs right through Rovaniemi, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking the ultimate northern experiences and thrilling activities.
From the mesmerizing Northern Lights to the midnight sun and colors of autumn, Rovaniemi is a prime destination for natural phenomena. By choosing the guided activity tours you ensure to have the best chance to marvel at these incredible sights with an expertise of professionals.
Early winter
Christmas time in Rovaniemi
Explore Seasons in Rovaniemi
Winter
Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus and reallife winter wonderland located at the Arctic Circle in Lapland Finland.
Spring
Rovaniemi is the city of the Midnight Sun, surrounded by Arctic nature, where Lappish culture and a wide range of activities meet!
Summer
Rovaniemi is the city of the Midnight Sun, surrounded by Arctic nature, where Lappish culture and a wide range of activities meet!
Autumn
There is something so magical in nights spent under the Auroras in Glass Cabins and Igloos or waking up from a unique accommodation to a first snowfall.
Northern Lights Season
Seasons when Northern Lights appear Read more about Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland Explore Seasons in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi Webcam
Rovaniemi webcam, Santa Claus Village webcam, Ounasvaara webcam and Koivusaari webcam all give you a chance to sneak peek the accurate, current view in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland.
Year-round Christmas activities – meet Santa Claus
As the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers a magical collection of year-round Christmas activities. Visit Santa Claus Village, and cross the Arctic Circle in one of the world’s most unique destinations.
One of the most exciting activities in Rovaniemi is to meet Santa Claus and your visit wouldn’t be complete without meeting him. Share your Christmas wishes all year round, take memorable photos, and learn about Santa’s global mission to spread joy and happiness.
Rovaniemi is the perfect place to explore Arctic culture. From learning about Lapland’s indigenous Sámi culture in museums to enjoying reindeer sleigh ride activities, there’s no shortage of opportunities to connect with this unique heritage. Discover Rovaniemi’s Museums and Galleries. Delve into Lapland’s history and Arctic science at museums like Arktikum. These cultural hubs provide insight into Rovaniemi’s past, present, and the natural wonders of the region.
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Lapland by participating in local lifestyle activities. Learn to create unique souvenirs, such as felted wool products, traditional reindeer hornworks, or wooden carvings, guided by skilled local artisans. These workshops offer a hands-on way to connect with Lapland’s culture and take home a piece of its magic.
Water and ice activities for memorable adventures
Rovaniemi’s rivers and lakes offer experiences all year round. Try memorable water activities like ice fishing and ice floating in winter and river cruises or canoeing in summer, just to name a few. These water-based experiences reveal a different side of Lapland’s beauty.
Experiencing the arctic activities and nature during the snowless season
Rovaniemi transforms into a lush and vibrant landscape during the snowless season, offering a new perspective on the beauty of the Arctic. From endless summer days under the midnight sun to the rich colors of autumn, activities in Rovaniemi during this time are perfect for exploring the wonders of nature.
Rovaniemi’s snowless season offers an unforgettable chance to connect with the Arctic nature in a new light. Whether seeking adventure or serenity, the land of the midnight sun and golden autumn promises unique experiences that will stay with you forever.
With a network of cycling paths and forest trails, biking is an excellent way to explore the Arctic terrain. Rent a bike and pedal through peaceful woodlands, past rivers, and even across the Arctic Circle itself, adding an active edge to your holiday.
For a more laid-back experience, spend time by the Kemijoki and Ounasjoki rivers. Enjoy a quiet picnic, try your hand at fishing, or simply sit back and admire the untouched beauty of the Arctic environment. These serene moments are a key part of the snowless season’s experiences in Rovaniemi.
The Northern Lights activities begin in August
The snowless season in Rovaniemi is as much about adventure as it is about finding peace in nature. As the Arctic skies clear, the Northern Lights season in Rovaniemi kicks off in August, offering an incredible opportunity to witness this natural wonder early in the year. The crisp, darkening nights are the perfect backdrop for the aurora borealis to light up the sky in dazzling colors. Beyond the mesmerizing display, Rovaniemi offers an array of exciting activities to make the most of the season. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking to relax under the stars, Rovaniemi has something to offer as the Northern Lights season begins.
Endless summer days under the Midnight Sun
In the heart of summer, Rovaniemi experiences the phenomenon of the midnight sun, when the sun doesn’t set for weeks. This unique feature allows visitors to enjoy activities in Rovaniemi at any hour of the day.
Summer in Rovaniemi brings endless daylight and vibrant greenery, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, canoeing, and fishing. It’s a season filled with activities that showcase Lapland’s stunning natural landscapes.
Hiking through pristine landscapes
Explore the many hiking trails around Rovaniemi, such as the Ounasvaara Nature Trails. These routes offer panoramic views, lush greenery, and opportunities to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. The long daylight hours make hiking one of the most popular activities in Rovaniemi during the summer.
The rivers and lakes surrounding Rovaniemi provide ideal conditions for canoeing and paddleboarding during the summer. Glide over crystal-clear waters while enjoying the tranquility of the Arctic wilderness. For those seeking water-based activities in Rovaniemi, this is an unforgettable opportunity to experience arctic waters.
As the summer fades, Rovaniemi becomes a palette of vibrant autumn hues, creating a magical setting for outdoor adventures and unique activities in Rovaniemi.
Arctic nature offers a bounty of wild berries and mushrooms during the snowless season. Visitors can experience foraging in the forests, a deeply rooted tradition in Finland, while enjoying the crisp autumn air. These trips are among the most rewarding and hidden gem type of activities in Rovaniemi.
Autumn in Rovaniemi is a paradise for photographers. The rich colors of the forests and the soft, golden light create breathtaking landscapes. Capturing these moments is not only an art but also one of the most cherished activities in Rovaniemi during the fall.
Rovaniemi winter activities
Winter in Rovaniemi is like stepping into a fairytale. The snow-covered landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for an array of thrilling and serene activities.
With its thick blankets of snow, Rovaniemi is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The town’s surrounding forests, frozen rivers, and rolling hills provide the perfect backdrop for immersing yourself in the beauty of the Arctic.
Top destination for Northern Lights activities
Rovaniemi is one of the best places to witness the aurora borealis. During winter, the dark skies above the Arctic Circle light up with this mesmerizing natural phenomenon, offering a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking to catch the Northern Lights. Visitors can enjoy snowmobile safaris, husky sledding, or snowshoeing under the aurora, combining adventure with the chance to witness one of nature’s most stunning phenomena.
Rovaniemi offers the perfect balance of adventure, cultural discovery, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination during the winter season. Experience the traditions of the Lappish people with a reindeer safari. Glide through snowy forests and across frozen lakes while learning about the life of reindeer herders. This eco-friendly journey offers a quiet and authentic way to explore the arctic wilderness.
A Blend of relaxation and adventure
In Rovaniemi, winter activities cater to all types of adventurers. From thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling to peaceful walks through snowy forests, there’s something for everyone. The stark beauty of the region also makes it ideal for tranquil moments of reflection, far from the hustle and bustle of daily life.