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AI-Livingstone
20 Nov 2025
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Winter Wonderland in Rovaniemi

Winter Wonderland Trip to Rovaniemi

Embark on a magical week-long adventure in Rovaniemi, the heart of Lapland, from December 23rd to 30th. This itinerary features a blend of unforgettable experiences centered around the enchanting holiday spirit and the breathtaking Arctic wilderness.

Your journey begins at the Village du Père Noël, where you can meet Santa Claus, explore festive attractions, and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland. Next, experience the joy of the Reindeer Experience, where you will interact with these gentle animals and enjoy sleigh rides while learning about Sami culture.

While in Rovaniemi, don’t miss the chance to stay at the incredible Arctic Snow Hotel, a unique accommodation made entirely of ice and snow, featuring stunning sculptures and designs. Finally, be sure to take part in the Rovaniemi Northern Lights Tour, an opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis in the pristine Arctic sky, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

This trip is perfect for families looking to embrace the magic of the holiday season while exploring the beauty of Lapland's winter landscape.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Village du Père Noël

    It offers a unique and enchanting experience for all ages, where you can meet Santa Claus, explore Christmas-themed attractions, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Lapland.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Santapalna & Santa Claus Office

    A magical experience for families, where you can meet Santa and enjoy festive activities.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Reindeer Experience

    This activity provides an authentic taste of Sami culture, allowing you to interact with reindeer, enjoy sleigh rides, and learn about traditional reindeer herding practices in a stunning winter landscape.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Arctic Snow Hotel

    A one-of-a-kind lodging experience made entirely of snow and ice, featuring beautifully crafted ice sculptures, an ice bar, and the opportunity to stay in uniquely designed rooms, all while being surrounded by the breathtaking Arctic scenery.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Rovaniemi Northern Lights Tour

    This tour provides a chance to witness the stunning natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights in the beautiful Lapland wilderness, making for an unforgettable and magical experience under the night sky, often combined with warm drinks and local storytelling.
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

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    Ravintola Nili

    4.5
    $$$$

    Ravintola Nili

    Offers a cozy atmosphere with a focus on traditional Finnish cuisine made from local ingredients.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Restaurant Fisken på Disken

    Restaurant Fisken på Disken

    A popular spot known for its fresh fish dishes and modern take on Nordic cuisine.
    Picture for Restaurant Fisken på Disken
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    Ravintola Roka - Street Bistro

    4.7
    $$$$

    Ravintola Roka - Street Bistro

    Specializes in quick, delicious meals that highlight local ingredients in a casual setting.
    4.7
    $$$$
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    Santa's Salmon Place

    4.8
    $$$$

    Santa's Salmon Place

    A unique dining experience offering wood-smoked salmon dishes in a charming, holiday-themed environment.
    4.8
    $$$$
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    Kanttiini

    3

    Kanttiini

    Features a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that includes both local and international dishes, perfect for family dining.
    3
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Hotels

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    Hotel Rantasipi Pohjanhovi

    3.9

    Hotel Rantasipi Pohjanhovi

    A comfortable hotel offering modern amenities, great views of the river, and a convenient location close to key attractions.
    3.9
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    Santa Claus Holiday Village

    4.5

    Santa Claus Holiday Village

    Perfect for families, this holiday village features cozy accommodations, a close proximity to the Village du Père Noël, and a magical atmosphere.
    4.5
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    Kampa Hotel

    Kampa Hotel

    A charming hotel located near the city center, offering a cozy atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and easy access to local attractions.
    Picture for Kampa Hotel
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    Arctic Light Hotel

    4.7

    Arctic Light Hotel

    A stylish hotel blending comfort with modern design, located in the heart of Rovaniemi, providing easy access to the Northern Lights tours.
    4.7
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    Lapland Hotel Ounasvaara Chalets

    4.4

    Lapland Hotel Ounasvaara Chalets

    Offers a unique stay with chalet-style accommodations surrounded by nature, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
    4.4
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Ice Fishing Excursion with Campfire BBQ in Rovaniemi

    Ice Fishing Excursion with Campfire BBQ in Rovaniemi

    Take a glance at Finnish lifestyle on this winter ice route. It takes patience and perseverance, but is worth it for lovers of serene nature and frozen landscapes.
    Map IconRovaniemi (0 mi)
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  • Event Icon

    Excursion to Santa Claus Village with Photo, Certificate, and Lunch

    Excursion to Santa Claus Village with Photo, Certificate, and Lunch

    Make your childhood dreams come true and visit the Village of Santa Claus himself. Share your dreams and take a picture with the most famous Rovaniemian.
    Map IconRovaniemi (0 mi)
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    we did a reindeer ride christmas morning there, it was perfect. we also took a bus to the arctic snow hotel for a tour and dinner. check out the story i wrote about that here:...

    Planning a trip to Rovaniemi around Christmas

    we did a reindeer ride christmas morning there, it was perfect. we also took a bus to the arctic snow hotel for a tour and dinner. check out the story i wrote about that here:...

    /r/Finland
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  • Reddit Icon

    171 votes, 52 comments. We went to Rovaniemi, Finland this winter and it was truly magical. Here is where all the letters to Santa Claus end up

    If you love Christmas, put Rovaniemi on your bucketlist. The official home of Santa Claus

    171 votes, 52 comments. We went to Rovaniemi, Finland this winter and it was truly magical. Here is where all the letters to Santa Claus end up

    /r/phtravel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    We recently got back from Finland and one of the highlights of our trip was visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. If youre a Christmas lover like us, this place is like s...

    Rovaniemi the Santa Claus village in Finland experience

    We recently got back from Finland and one of the highlights of our trip was visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. If youre a Christmas lover like us, this place is like s...

    /r/Europetravel
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  • Reddit Icon

    We would like to take our 2 children (age 5 and 8) to Lapland this year. Finances are limited for us and a lot of the package trips are very

    Lapland and Santa trip help?

    We would like to take our 2 children (age 5 and 8) to Lapland this year. Finances are limited for us and a lot of the package trips are very

    /r/Finland
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    The walkway takes you through the forest over several streams to Santa's Christmas tree forest, which has no artificial decoration at all but is still enjoyable. We also ...

    Santa Claus Village- yes or no?

    The walkway takes you through the forest over several streams to Santa's Christmas tree forest, which has no artificial decoration at all but is still enjoyable. We also ...

    /r/Finland
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  • Reddit Icon

    I was on work trip in Rovaniemi for one week and best I could find were: Reindeer dner and ice swimming somewhere near Jtknkynttil.

    Best value activities in Rovaniemi?

    I was on work trip in Rovaniemi for one week and best I could find were: Reindeer dner and ice swimming somewhere near Jtknkynttil.

    /r/Finland
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  • Reddit Icon

    Locals celebrate Christmas as a private family gathering, unless you know someone and are about to visit them, there is nothing that wont be there also after Christmas. ... I ...

    Rovaniemi on/after Christmas

    Locals celebrate Christmas as a private family gathering, unless you know someone and are about to visit them, there is nothing that wont be there also after Christmas. ... I ...

    /r/Finland
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  • Reddit Icon

    I would advise going to Rovaniemi the night of the 22nd even. As others have said, <strong>Christmas day is the 24th</strong> here.

    Finland over Christmas!!!

    I would advise going to Rovaniemi the night of the 22nd even. As others have said, <strong>Christmas day is the 24th</strong> here.

    /r/Finland
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  • Reddit Icon

    I would rent a house/cabin outside of Rovaniemi to maximize change of seeing northern light, take a 1 day to visit santa and check out Rovaniemi and one day to activities like...

    Is going to Santa Claus Village in Lapland for 3 days enough?

    I would rent a house/cabin outside of Rovaniemi to maximize change of seeing northern light, take a 1 day to visit santa and check out Rovaniemi and one day to activities like...

    /r/Finland
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    10 votes, 37 comments. Looking for advice on vacation to Rovaniemi. My main goal is to see the northern lights, but Id love to know from anyone

    Rovaniemi Travel

    10 votes, 37 comments. Looking for advice on vacation to Rovaniemi. My main goal is to see the northern lights, but Id love to know from anyone

    /r/Finland
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    We recently got back from Finland and one of the highlights of our trip was visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. If youre a Christmas lover like us, this place is like s...

    Santa Claus village is it worth visiting?

    We recently got back from Finland and one of the highlights of our trip was visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. If youre a Christmas lover like us, this place is like s...

    /r/backpacking
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  • Reddit Icon

    Hei! (I&#x27;m practicing my basics before travel), My wife and I are going to be in Rovaniemi with our 3 year old in December for 2.5 days. I am looking

    Holiday in Rovaniemi with a child

    Hei! (I&#x27;m practicing my basics before travel), My wife and I are going to be in Rovaniemi with our 3 year old in December for 2.5 days. I am looking

    /r/Finland
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  • Reddit Icon

    Me and my family just returned from a trip to Sweden and Finland. We stayed in Rovaniemi and visited Santa&#x27;s Village - I documented some highlights if anybody needs some ...

    Trip to Santa Village Rovaniemi - highlights

    Me and my family just returned from a trip to Sweden and Finland. We stayed in Rovaniemi and visited Santa&#x27;s Village - I documented some highlights if anybody needs some ...

    /r/Finland
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  • Reddit Icon

    Then a day doing a snowmobile safari and a brief reindeer experience, before jumping the bus and a train back to Helsinki. Conclusion: Lapland is beautiful, and I will be back...

    Finland/Lapland trip in December...advice?

    Then a day doing a snowmobile safari and a brief reindeer experience, before jumping the bus and a train back to Helsinki. Conclusion: Lapland is beautiful, and I will be back...

    /r/solotravel
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  • Reddit Icon

    Im planning a trip to Rovaniemi this winter and looking into Northern Lights tours, husky safaris, and reindeer sleigh rides. Ive been browsing

    Finland - Rovaniemi - Cheap Northern Lights, Husky and Reindeer sleigh tours

    Im planning a trip to Rovaniemi this winter and looking into Northern Lights tours, husky safaris, and reindeer sleigh rides. Ive been browsing

    /r/travel
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  • Reddit Icon

    Ive never been myself, but heres a couple of posts about the experience from a travel blog I regularly read. Perhaps youll find some of the information useful. Have a great tr...

    Recommendation for Lapland Santa holiday

    Ive never been myself, but heres a couple of posts about the experience from a travel blog I regularly read. Perhaps youll find some of the information useful. Have a great tr...

    /r/travel
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  • Reddit Icon

    It is easy to get there, but who wants to see those plastic christmas decorations? Go to see some silent and remote cottage, silent and peaceful. Sauna and auroras. Sip of bee...

    Trip to Rovaniemi

    It is easy to get there, but who wants to see those plastic christmas decorations? Go to see some silent and remote cottage, silent and peaceful. Sauna and auroras. Sip of bee...

    /r/Finland
    View on RedditView on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Dean Martin - Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

    Dean Martin - Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

    A classic winter song that captures the joy and coziness of snowy days.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Bobby Helms - Jingle Bell Rock

    Bobby Helms - Jingle Bell Rock

    A timeless Christmas tune that brings festive cheer and excitement for the holiday season.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Bobby Helms - Jingle Bell Rock
  • Music Icon

    Bing Crosby - White Christmas - 1947 Version

    Bing Crosby - White Christmas - 1947 Version

    Evokes nostalgia and warmth for those dreaming of a snowy, picturesque Christmas.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Michael Bublé - Winter Wonderland

    Michael Bublé - Winter Wonderland

    This song paints vivid images of a beautiful winter landscape, perfect for the trip.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Wham! - Last Christmas

    Wham! - Last Christmas

    A modern holiday classic that blends feelings of love and longing during the festive season.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    José Feliciano - Feliz Navidad

    José Feliciano - Feliz Navidad

    A cheerful and lively song that celebrates the spirit of Christmas with a multicultural flair.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for José Feliciano - Feliz Navidad
  • Music Icon

    Frank Sinatra - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Remastered 1999

    Frank Sinatra - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Remastered 1999

    A heartfelt song that encourages you to cherish moments with loved ones during the holidays.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Frank Sinatra - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Remastered 1999
  • Music Icon

    Eartha Kitt - Santa Baby

    Eartha Kitt - Santa Baby

    A playful and jazzy tune that adds a fun vibe to your festive atmosphere.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Eartha Kitt - Santa Baby
  • Music Icon

    Josh Groban - O Holy Night

    Josh Groban - O Holy Night

    An emotional and powerful carol that brings a sense of peace and reflection during Christmas time.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Josh Groban - O Holy Night
  • Music Icon

    Michael Bublé - The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)

    Michael Bublé - The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)

    A warm and cozy classic that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Michael Bublé - The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)