Rovaniemi in winter is nothing short of magical. When snow blankets the forests, and the Northern Lights illuminate the Arctic sky, it feels like stepping into a winter wonderland.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural experiences, or a chance to immerse yourself in the peace of nature, Rovaniemi is suitable for every type of traveller.

I’ve been lucky enough to experience Rovaniemi in winter first-hand. And trust me—it’s one of the most unique, enchanting destinations you can visit.

Whether you prefer adventure or quieter experiences, Rovaniemi has a variety of adventures to offer.

Let’s dive into the must-do winter activities that will make your Rovaniemi trip one to remember!

It’s one of the most exciting ways to explore the wilderness. You’ll just love the dogs’ joy as they run through the snow.

Husky rides in Rovaniemi range from short trips lasting about an hour to longer expeditions.

Longer tours give you more time to bond with the huskies and explore further. I’d recommend starting with a 1 to 1.5-hour tour if it’s your first time. It’s enough time to take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy the ride without becoming too demanding.

Don’t be surprised if the dogs are barking and full of energy before the tour begins—they’re eager to get going!

A professional guide will go with you on a snowmobile or their sledge, ensuring your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.

Some tours allow you to drive the sledge yourself. Others might pair you with a guide who will drive the team while you sit back and take in the scenery. Have this in mind when booking your tour!

Some packages include extra experiences, such as a visit to a husky farm where you can learn more about the dogs and their training.

I booked a huskies tour with Apukka Resort. The tour lasted about 2 hours and it included a pick-up and drop-off service in a central location in Rovaniemi.

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you want to meet the huskies without riding a sledge, you can visit a huskie farm instead. If you’re travelling on a low budget, this is actually a cheaper way to meet the huskies!

To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, head to Rovaniemi between September and March. This is when the nights are the longest and the skies are darkest.

However, the best period is generally from November to February. One thing to note is that the Northern Lights are elusive, and there’s no guarantee you’ll see them on any given night. Weather conditions, solar activity, and light pollution all play a role in whether the auroras will make an appearance.

Still, don’t be sad if you don’t see them on your first attempt. The journey to find the Northern Lights is an adventure in itself. Even if you miss them, the experience of trekking through snow-covered forests under the starlit sky is unforgettable.

Some of the best spots to view the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi include the shores of Ounasjoki River, the summit of Ounasvaara Fell, and various lakes outside the town.

The closest place to Rovaniemi centre to watch this nature show is the garden behind the Arktikum (Arktikum Arboretum). 

💡 EXTRA TIP: To increase your chances even more, download an app like My Aurora Forecast. This handy tool tracks aurora activity, cloud cover, and other essential details. It helps you to know when and where to go for the best chance of spotting the lights.

But remember—even with all this technology, there’s never a 100% guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights. The key is to enjoy the journey and be flexible with your plans.

Many of these tours provide more perks, such as warming fires, hot drinks, and snacks. Prices for these tours generally range from 80€ to 150€ per person. It all depends on the duration and amenities included.

A reindeer sleigh ride in Rovaniemi is a must-do experience! It’s perfect for anyone seeking a more traditional and peaceful winter activity.

Reindeer have been an integral part of Sami culture in Lapland for centuries. And so, reindeer sleigh rides offer a glimpse into this fascinating way of life. You’ll have the chance to meet the reindeer herders and learn about the important role these gentle animals play in Arctic survival.

Depending on the tour, you can either sit back while the reindeer pulls you along or have the opportunity to steer the sleigh yourself. For example, on the tour ride I chose with Sieriporo Safaris, I was sitting and relaxing in the sleigh.

Many reindeer sleigh rides also include a visit to a reindeer farm. There you can learn more about reindeer herding and even feed these friendly creatures. The herders commonly share stories about their way of life and traditions.

Snowmobiling in Rovaniemi offers a different kind of thrill. It’s fast-paced and gives you the freedom to explore areas that might be harder to reach by foot or sledge.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there are snowmobiling tours available for all skill levels.

The adrenaline rush I felt as I navigated through snowy trails and past towering trees was unforgettable. It’s the perfect activity for anyone looking for a bit of excitement on their trip.

If you’re lucky, some snowmobile tours also offer the chance to spot wildlife, like reindeer or Arctic foxes. The guides are knowledgeable and will make sure you have a safe and thrilling adventure.

I booked my snowmobile tour with Wild Nordic and definitely recommend their services!

Imagine sitting by a hole drilled into the ice of a frozen lake, surrounded by silent, snow-covered landscapes as you wait for a fish to bite.

Ice fishing is a popular activity among locals. Many ice fishing tours are led by experienced guides who can teach you the ins and outs of fishing in Arctic conditions. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of catching your own fish in the middle of the frozen wilderness!

Once the hole is drilled, you’ll drop your fishing line into the icy water and wait. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced fisherman. Your guide will be there to offer tips throughout the process.

While you wait for the fish to bite, you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding nature.

Some tours even provide a warm hut or shelter where you can sit and relax while keeping an eye on your fishing line. It’s the perfect opportunity to take a break, sip on some hot cocoa, and enjoy the serene Arctic environment.

Many tours include transportation to and from your hotel, as well as all the necessary equipment, such as rods, bait, and warm clothing.

Cross-country skiing is a popular winter sport in Finland. Rovaniemi has a variety of groomed trails for both beginners and experienced skiers. There are plenty of places where you can rent equipment and even take a lesson or two.

Snowshoeing, on the other hand, is perfect for those who want to go off the beaten path and explore deeper into the forests and hills.

Snowshoes allow you to walk on top of deep snow without sinking, making it easy to navigate through the snowy terrain. It’s a fantastic way to explore the untouched wilderness, especially if you’re looking for some peace away from the crowds.

These tours usually last 2 to 3 hours and include all the necessary equipment. Plus, they also include a knowledgeable guide who can point out interesting wildlife and natural landmarks along the way.

Some of the best snowshoeing routes include the Ounasvaara Trail and the Santavaara area. Both offer stunning views of the surrounding forest.

Prices for snowshoeing tours start at around 70€ per person.

Located outside the city centre, this magical destination is the official home of Santa Claus. It attracts visitors from all over the world.

While the village is open year-round, there’s something extra special about visiting during the winter months. The snow adds an extra layer of charm to the experience.

At Santa Claus Village, you can meet Santa Claus himself, send postcards from Santa’s official post office, and even cross the Arctic Circle.

The village is full of festive shops and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to pick up some unique souvenirs or enjoy a warm meal after a day of exploring.

After you visit Santa, head over to Santa’s post office. There, you can send postcards stamped with a special Arctic Circle postmark. It was so cool receiving the postcard back in my home a few months later.

Besides meeting Santa, the village offers a variety of winter activities. It includes husky rides, reindeer sleigh rides, and snowmobiling. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore everything the village has to offer. You’ll want to soak in the festive atmosphere and take plenty of photos!

There’s nothing quite like drifting off to sleep while watching the auroras dance overhead. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget.

Glass igloos are available in several locations throughout Finland! But Rovaniemi is one of the best places to experience them due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle.

The igloos are made of thermal glass, which means you’ll stay warm and cosy even when temperatures outside drop below freezing.

Best Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi

There are several glass igloo accommodations to choose from in and around Rovaniemi. Some of the most popular options include the Arctic Snow Hotel, Apukka Resort or Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle.

Each igloo comes with its own unique features, such as private saunas or outdoor hot tubs, and prices start at around 400€ per night during peak season.

If you’re planning to stay in a glass igloo, be sure to book well in advance. These unique accommodations tend to fill up quickly, especially during the winter months.

This luxurious eco-friendly hotel features cosy, treehouse-style rooms. The rooms offer incredible views of the surrounding forests and snowy landscapes.

Each room is designed to blend with the natural environment. It provides a peaceful retreat where you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

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The Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is also located a short distance from Santa Claus Village. It is a convenient option for those who want to experience the magic of the village while enjoying the comfort of a luxurious stay.

The rooms have big, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Many rooms come with private fireplaces where you can curl up and enjoy the warmth after a day in the snow.

Prices for a stay at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel start at around 450€ per night. It’s a splurge-worthy option for those looking to treat themselves to a truly special experience.

For the full Finnish experience, follow your sauna session with a dip in an ice-cold lake. The only time I tried a Finnish sauna was when I visited Helsinki in June. Even though it was a summery day, I still got to experience it and it’s totally worth it.

Ice floating involves wearing a special thermal suit that keeps you warm and dry while you float in a frozen lake. It might sound a bit extreme, but it’s an amazing experience—especially when done under the Northern Lights.

As you float in the ice-cold water, you’ll feel weightless and completely at one with the surrounding nature. If the auroras make an appearance, the experience becomes even more magical as the lights dance above you.

These tours usually last 2 hours and include all the necessary equipment. This includes the thermal suit that allows you to float comfortably in the water.

Located about 1.5 hours from Rovaniemi, this stunning park is known for its snow-covered trees and serene landscapes. This is also an excellent opportunity for winter activities like snowshoeing and photography.

The trees in Riisitunturi are often so heavily laden with snow that they look quite funny.

In winter, the park is popular for snowshoeing, and several trails cater to both beginners and experienced adventurers.

Snowshoeing through the park’s quiet trails offers a peaceful experience. It allows you to connect with nature while taking in the breathtaking views. If enjoy photographing, Riisitunturi is also one of the best spots to capture the frozen beauty of Finnish Lapland.

Be sure to dress warmly and bring snacks, as services within the park are limited.

If you’re keen on taking photographs, try to visit during the golden hours near sunrise or sunset. This is when the lighting can make the snow look even more magical.

This canyon, known for its frozen waterfalls, is a popular destination for winter hikers and ice climbers alike.

The icy waterfalls create an awe-inspiring sight against the backdrop of the snowy canyon.

The hike through Korouoma Canyon is not only scenic but also provides a glimpse into the rugged beauty of Finnish nature.

You’ll encounter several frozen waterfalls along the trail, resembling frozen sculptures. The trail can be challenging in winter due to the snow, but the views make every step worth it.

These museums allow you to explore everything from the fascinating Sámi culture to contemporary Finnish art. They offer a welcome break from the chilly outdoor activities.

The museum’s exhibits are interactive, making them engaging for visitors of all ages.

Don’t miss the stunning glass tunnel, which offers a panoramic view of the river and, if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights on clear evenings.

The museum also hosts concerts, performances, and events throughout the year. Check the schedule if you’re interested in catching a live show.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Save some money and buy the Cultural Pass for 25€. This pass gives you access to the Arktikum Museum, the Korundi Museum and also the Pilke Science Centre.

Often called the “Home Cavern of Santa Claus,” this Christmas-themed wonderland features everything from elf workshops to gingerbread baking, ice sculptures, and, of course, a chance to meet Santa Claus himself.

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Santa Park offers a variety of activities for all ages, making it perfect for families. Some highlights include the Elf School, where you can learn the secrets of becoming one of Santa’s helpers, and the Ice Gallery, where intricate ice sculptures are on display.

Plan to spend around 3-4 hours here to experience all the attractions.

This thrilling adventure allows you to witness the power of a real icebreaker as it carves a path through the frozen sea.

The Sampo Icebreaker, one of the most popular options, departs from Kemi, a short drive from Rovaniemi. The cruise offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ship’s operations and even gives you the chance to swim in the icy waters (safely suited in a thermal survival suit!).

During the cruise, you’ll tour the engine room, and captain’s bridge, and learn about the icebreaking process.

The entire restaurant, from tables to plates, is made from ice, creating an incredible setting. These restaurants usually offer traditional Lappish dishes. This includes reindeer stew, salmon soup, and Arctic char, served on ice plates or cold surfaces to enhance the experience.

The Amethyst Mine is one of the few mines open to the public in the world. Visitors can dig for their own amethyst crystals and learn about the geology and history of this beautiful stone.

The mine is open year-round, but winter visits have the added magic of snow-covered landscapes.

The visit begins with a guided tour that includes a snowcat ride up to the mine. Once there, you’ll learn about the formation of amethysts and the history of the mine.

Imagine racing around an icy track, sliding around corners as you compete with friends or family. It’s an exciting way to add some adrenaline to your Rovaniemi winter itinerary and is suitable for all skill levels.

Ice karting is similar to regular go-karting but on a track made of ice, which makes for slippery and unpredictable turns.

Winter in Rovaniemi stretches from October to April. But the coldest months are December through February. During this period, temperatures can drop to -30 °C/-22 °F, so be sure to pack warm clothing!

Snow cover is usually reliable from November onwards, creating perfect conditions for winter sports and activities.

Daylight hours are also limited. In December and January, Rovaniemi experiences only a few hours of twilight each day. However, the short days mean longer nights for Northern Lights hunting, making this period ideal for aurora seekers.

If your goal is to experience activities like husky sledging, reindeer sleigh rides, and ice fishing, visit between December and March. During these months, Rovaniemi is fully blanketed in snow, and all winter activities are in full swing.

For Northern Lights viewing, November to March offers the best chances due to the extended nighttime hours.

Since daylight hours will be limited, remember to book most activities when there the sun is still up. Even though some activities might be cool during the night as well, most are better if you do them when there is some light available.

💡 EXTRA TIP: For a longer stay, you can add in experiences like ice fishing, a day trip to Riisitunturi National Park, and ice floating, for example. This will allow you to explore this destination at a relaxed pace and give you more chances to spot the Northern Lights.

Many glass igloos are located outside the city, providing an ideal setting for spotting the northern lights.

Many of these hotels are conveniently located in the city centre. So, it’ll be easy to access restaurants, shops, and public transportation. These options provide a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.

As staying in an igloo was not an option for the budget I had for this trip, I chose Hostel Café Koti. Although it is a hostel, I stayed in a private room with a private bathroom and the conditions were excellent.

The trains are well-equipped with sleeper cabins. So, an overnight trip will be comfortable and a memorable part of your winter journey. This is a popular choice for families and travellers who want to enjoy Finland’s stunning snow-covered landscapes.

The journey takes about 8-12 hours depending on the service. Buy here your online train tickets.

I chose to travel to Rovaniemi by night train from Helsinki. We left around 11 pm and at 11 am the next day we were in Rovaniemi. The one-way ticket cost me 49€/person. It included access to a private cabin with 2 bunk beds. In the cabin, we also had a small sink, soap, pillows, duvets and a bottle of water.

The bathrooms are shared and there is more than one per carriage. There are also some showers, where it is possible to take a shower.

How was sleeping on a train? You hear a lot of noises (even with earplugs). So, if you’re like me, this certainly won’t be your best night’s sleep! But it is amazing to wake up, open your cabin’s window and see the white forest outside.

In one of the carriages, there is also a bar service, where they serve meals and, of course, breakfast! The prices are normal for a country like Finland.

Many visitors rely on local transport options, which connect key areas. This includes the city centre and popular sites like Santa Claus Village.

Most tours in Rovaniemi include pick-up and drop-off services from central locations (check before you book!). This allows you to enjoy your day without worrying about transportation.

Convenient public transportation to Santa Claus Village and inclusive tours are the best way to get around Rovaniemi.

The secret? It’s all about layering and selecting the right clothes materials. Building layers keeps you warm outdoors and lets you adjust easily indoors. Choosing moisture-wicking fabrics is also crucial since wet clothes make you feel colder.

Want to find out more? Check out my in-depth Lapland packing list!

Whether you’re a solo traveller or a family looking to make holiday memories, Rovaniemi has something for everyone.

Experience the unique culture of Lapland, from meeting Santa in his official hometown to learning about the traditions of the Sámi people.

Even with its chilly temperatures and short days, Rovaniemi’s warmth shines through in the friendly locals, cosy accommodations, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that await you.

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland filled with snowy landscapes, Northern Lights, and unforgettable adventures, Rovaniemi is calling your name.

So, what are you most excited to experience in Rovaniemi? Let me know in the comments below!

And if you’ve already been, I’d love to hear about your favourite memories or tips for future travellers. Let’s keep the Arctic inspiration going!

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