Top reasons to visit Rovaniemi
- Magical Winter Wonderland: Experience Rovaniemi's enchanting snowy landscapes, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
- Exciting Outdoor Activities: Enjoy snowmobile tours, skiing, and other thrilling winter sports in the picturesque surroundings.
- Cultural Attractions: Explore local museums, art galleries, and the Rovaniemi Theater for a taste of Finnish culture.
- Charming Christmas Markets: Discover cozy markets offering seasonal delights, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: Find a range of lodging, from family-friendly hotels to relaxing guesthouses with saunas.
Find great hotels in Rovaniemi
Experience the charm of Rovaniemi with a variety of lodging options, including hotels and guesthouses tailored for every traveler. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly accommodations, adventure-filled family vacations, or a relaxing sauna experience, Rovaniemi has something for everyone. Discover the best hotels in this enchanting destination and immerse yourself in the beauty of Lapland, Finland.
- Scandic Rovaniemi City: Scandic Rovaniemi City is a cozy 3.5-star hotel designed for adventure seekers and business travelers alike. Nestled in the heart of Rovaniemi, this property is ideal for those looking to explore outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, all available nearby. The hotel is pet-friendly, ensuring that your furry companions can join in on the fun. Amenities include food and water bowls for pets, while service animals are welcomed without fees. With a focus on adventure sports, this hotel caters well to active travelers.
- Arctic City Hotel: As a 4-star establishment, the Arctic City Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Located conveniently in Rovaniemi, guests can easily access ski lifts and shuttles, making it an excellent choice for ski enthusiasts. The hotel features a range of recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and swimming, appealing to both thrill-seekers and leisure travelers. Pet owners will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, as the hotel permits pets and provides food and water bowls. This accommodation promises a thrilling yet comfortable stay.
- Arctic Light Hotel: The Arctic Light Hotel stands out as a 4.5-star boutique hotel that celebrates diversity and creativity. Perfect for LGBTQIA travelers, this property is adorned with unique decor and artworks that provide an artistic touch to your stay. Situated in Rovaniemi, it allows pets and features amenities such as food and water bowls, ensuring a warm welcome for all guests. The hotel’s commitment to inclusivity and style makes it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable experience in Lapland.
Where to stay in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi, the heart of Lapland, offers a magical winter wonderland experience perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Explore cozy Christmas markets, enjoy outdoor activities in the snowy landscape, and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere of this charming city. Nearby, you can find picturesque neighborhoods that enhance your recreation experience, making Rovaniemi a delightful destination for travelers looking to embrace the spirit of the season.
- Napapiiri: Nestled near Rovaniemi, Napapiiri is a charming village that offers a unique blend of family-friendly activities and adventure experiences. Known as the home of Santa Claus, this destination is particularly lively from July through December, making it ideal for holiday enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in skiing at nearby resorts or enjoy a round of golf during the warmer months. The local attractions include a delightful theme park and a beautiful church, providing both entertainment and cultural enrichment. Whether you're on a family getaway or seeking thrilling adventures, Napapiiri is a must-visit.
- Apukka: Located just a stone's throw from Rovaniemi, Apukka is a picturesque village that thrives on outdoor activities, particularly during the winter months from November to January. This destination is perfect for families and sports enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for skiing and golfing. Visitors can explore breathtaking lookout points and immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding the area. Apukka’s charm lies in its accessibility to attractions like theme parks, offering a delightful mix of excitement and relaxation for travelers of all ages.
- Sinetta: Sinetta is a quaint village located near Rovaniemi, attracting visitors year-round with its sports and skiing options. Peak seasons are during January and the spring months, making it an excellent choice for winter sports lovers. The area boasts fantastic ski fields and resorts, perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers. Sinetta is also close to urban parks and piazza squares, providing a nice blend of outdoor activities and community charm. Whether you're hitting the slopes or enjoying local parks, Sinetta promises a memorable experience.
Things to do in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi offers an exciting blend of family-friendly activities and adventure experiences. Visitors can enjoy snowmobile tours, city sightseeing, and thrilling ski resorts with ski lifts and lessons available. Don't miss out on the vibrant nightlife that adds to the charm of this Lapland destination. Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring the local scene, Rovaniemi promises a memorable vacation filled with fun and adventure.
Shopping
In Rovaniemi, you can visit Revontuli Shopping Center, which offers a mix of entertainment and shopping. Sampokeskus Shopping Centre is another great option with various shops and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore local boutiques in nearby areas for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the serene beauty of Arctic Golf Finland, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes. For sports enthusiasts, Lappi Areena and Rovaniemi Stadium offer vibrant atmospheres, hosting various events that keep you active and engaged in the local sports culture.
Adventure
At Ounasvaara ski resort in Rovaniemi, embrace thrilling winter sports like skiing and snowboarding against a stunning Arctic backdrop. With trails for all skill levels, enjoy outdoor adventures and breathtaking views that make each descent unforgettable.
Nightlife
In Rovaniemi, the Rovaniemi Theater offers a blend of romance and culture, making it a perfect spot for an enchanting evening. Meanwhile, the Maxim Movie Theater Complex provides family-friendly entertainment, screening the latest films in a cozy atmosphere ideal for a fun night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi provides various ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Lordi's Square, and consider walking or biking for transportation. The best times to find lower hotel rates are from May to June and August, with Fridays being the least expensive days to stay. Booking a month in advance or snagging last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can lead to significant savings. Utilize Expedia's search tool to compare room rates and filter for eco-friendly options, while also considering package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Rovaniemi is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Rovaniemi are May to June and August, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are moderately higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Rovaniemi is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rovaniemi is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Rovaniemi is Sunday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel in Rovaniemi with your flights and activities.
Find the best attractions in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is a fantastic destination for families and adventure seekers, offering a mix of entertainment and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore exciting attractions like theme parks, ski resorts, and art museums, catering to those interested in outdoor activities and family fun. Don't miss the local museum, Rovaniemi Theater, and the beauty of Arctic nature while enjoying your vacation in this charming Finnish town.
- Santa Claus Village: Experience the magic of Christmas year-round at Santa Claus Village, a whimsical theme park where you can meet Santa, explore charming shops, and enjoy festive attractions. Perfect for families, it offers delightful entertainment vibes in a winter wonderland setting.
- Ounasvaara: Embrace the thrill of winter sports at Ounasvaara, a premier ski resort featuring stunning slopes and breathtaking views. Whether skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, this outdoor adventure destination promises exhilarating experiences for all skill levels.
- Arktikum: Discover the fascinating world of the Arctic at Arktikum, a science museum that offers engaging exhibits on local culture and nature. Ideal for families, it combines education with a deep cultural appreciation of Lapland’s heritage.
Best time to go to Rovaniemi
The best time to visit Rovaniemi can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Rovaniemi falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Rovaniemi falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Rovaniemi
When planning a trip to Rovaniemi, you have a couple of major airport options. Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) is located 8.0km from the city center. Nearby hotels include the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel and Santa's Igloos Arctic Circle, both 1.6km away, and the Arctic Light Hotel, which is 8.0km from the airport. For those considering Kemi Airport (KEM), located 95.0km away, notable hotels include Hotel Merihovi and Scandic Kemi, both 4.8km from Kemi Airport, and Motel Käpylä, situated 3.2km away. Each hotel offers convenient access to its respective airport, making your travel experience smoother.