Rovaniemi 2 Day Itinerary

July 19, 2024

Rovaniemi 2-Day Itinerary

Arctic Circle: Start your day by crossing the Arctic Circle, a must-do experience in Rovaniemi. Take a photo at the signpost and get your certificate to prove you’ve been there!
Santa Claus Village: Visit Santa’s home and meet the big man himself. Explore the surrounding area, which features shops, restaurants, and a post office where you can send Christmas cards from the Arctic Circle.

Arktikum Museum and Science Centre: Learn about Lapland’s history, culture, and natural environment at this interactive museum.
Ounasvaara Nature Trail: Take a short hike through the beautiful winter landscape of Ounasvaara Hill. The trail offers stunning views of Rovaniemi and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Dinner at Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park’s Ski Resort Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Finnish cuisine, such as karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) and salmiakki (salty licorice), while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding national park.
Northern Lights Safari: Head out on a guided tour to spot the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The clear skies of Lapland offer ideal conditions for viewing this natural phenomenon.

Rovaniemi Church and Town Hall: Visit these iconic buildings, which feature unique architectural designs inspired by traditional Finnish and Sami cultures.
Local Market: Browse the stalls at the local market, where you can find handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.

Snowmobiling or Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of snowmobiling or dog sledding through the beautiful winter landscapes of Lapland. Guided tours are available for both activities.
Ranua Wildlife Park: Visit this unique wildlife park, which is home to over 50 species of Arctic animals, including polar bears, reindeer, and arctic foxes.

Dinner at Kaarni Restaurant: Savor modern Finnish cuisine, featuring local ingredients such as salmon, bear, and berries.
Relax at a Local Sauna: Unwind in a traditional Finnish sauna, an essential part of the country’s culture. Many accommodations offer sauna facilities.

Hotel Pallas: Stay at this cozy hotel located near the Ounasvaara Nature Trail, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel: Experience luxury accommodation in a unique treehouse-style room, featuring stunning views of the surrounding forest.

Rovaniemi Airport: Fly into Rovaniemi Airport, which offers connections to Helsinki and other European cities.
Local Bus: Use the local bus service to get around Rovaniemi, with routes connecting major attractions.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but can be more expensive than public transportation.

Pack warm clothing: Rovaniemi can be very cold in winter, so dress warmly and bring layers.
Bring a camera: The stunning landscapes and Northern Lights make for incredible photo opportunities.
Respect local culture: Learn about Sami culture and traditions, and respect the local environment and wildlife.
Language: While many locals speak English, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Finnish phrases, such as “hei” (hello) and “kiitos” (thank you).

Lapland University of Applied Sciences: Take a tour of the university, which offers insights into Arctic research and education.
Rovaniemi’s Winter Sports: Try your hand at winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, or ice hockey at one of Rovaniemi’s many sports facilities.
Finnish Design: Explore local design shops and markets, featuring unique Finnish handicrafts and souvenirs.

Enjoy your trip to Rovaniemi!