12 Best Things to do in Rovaniemi, Finland in Winter

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Planning a winter trip to Rovaniemi? Get ready to step into pure Arctic magic.

Located right on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and the official hometown of Santa Claus. Winter transforms the city into a snowy playground filled with northern lights, husky safaris, icy forests, and cozy saunas—basically everything you imagine when you picture a perfect Arctic escape.

To help you make the most of your time here, we’ve rounded up the 12 best things to do in Rovaniemi, from snowmobiling across frozen lakes to floating under the northern lights. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for more winter fun, this list has you covered. Let’s dive in!

Things to do in Rovaniemi, Finland

1. Snowmobile through the Lappish forest

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Time: 10 am (departure times may vary)
• Highlights: Ride a snowmobile through snowy Lappish forests, explore frozen lakes and remote Arctic scenery, follow an expert guide through the Arctic Circle, sip hot blueberry juice
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide (other languages available on request), winter overalls, boots, gloves, balaclava, and helmet, snowmobile ride, hot blueberry juice
• Rating: 4.6 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

There’s no better way to dive into winter in Rovaniemi than by hopping on a snowmobile and heading straight into the forest, and this tour makes it ridiculously easy to get started!

Your guide picks you up right from your accommodation, and once you arrive, you’re handed proper Arctic gear that instantly makes whatever you packed feel like light autumn wear. Overalls, boots, gloves, a balaclava, a helmet… you’ll be bundled up and ready for the cold in minutes.

Before the engines start, your guide gives a quick briefing so you know exactly what to expect. It’s simple, clear, and gives you that boost of confidence before you hit the gas. And then the fun really starts. The trail leads you into deep Lappish forest and across frozen lakes where everything feels peaceful and untouched. Snowmobiles are a big part of everyday life up here, so cruising through the Arctic Circle this way gives you a glimpse of how locals actually get around in winter.

The ride lasts about an hour, but it never feels long—it’s just you, the snow, and that wide-open Arctic landscape stretching out around you. Plus, somewhere along the way, you’ll stop for a steaming cup of hot blueberry juice, which tastes even better when you’re surrounded by snow and silence.

If you want an adventurous, easy, and super fun intro to Lapland’s wilderness, this snowmobile safari is the perfect place to start!

Book your snowmobile safari here and kick off the winter fun!

2. See the northern lights

• Duration: 8 hours
• Time: 7 pm
• Highlights: Track the aurora with advanced technology, follow your guide to the best Lapland viewing spots, stay warm with winter gear, and get professional photos
• Inclusions: Guide, northern lights guaranteed viewing, professional photography, hotel pickup/drop-off, small-group tour, unlimited mileage and time, snacks and hot drink, all fees, winter overalls (adult sizes)
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,800+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Chasing the northern lights in Lapland can feel like a gamble, but this small-group tour completely changed what we expected an aurora hunt to be. Instead of waiting around in the cold and hoping for the best, our guide used real-time tracking tools to follow the lights across Lapland. The moment we stepped into the van, it felt like we were in good hands—and that confidence stayed with us the entire night.

The experience starts with cozy winter gear that actually keeps you warm, not the stuff you throw in a suitcase and hope for the best. And the small group size made the night feel more like an insider adventure than a tour. We could move quickly, ask questions, and spread out at each stop without worrying someone would block the view or crowd the photos. It made a huge difference once the lights showed up.

And when they did—it was magic! Our guide kept driving until we found a clear patch of sky, and suddenly the aurora started moving above us. A professional photographer captured everything while we just stood there taking it in with hot drinks in hand. It never felt rushed, just relaxed, exciting, and surreal.

Out of all the adventures we packed into our trip, this aurora hunt became the one we kept talking about. And with thousands of five-star reviews backing it up, it’s clear we aren’t the only ones who loved it!

 Reserve this northern lights tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!

3. Stay at a snow hotel

If you’re looking for a true once-in-a-lifetime experience in Rovaniemi, spending a night in a snow hotel like the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos easily fits the bill. This isn’t your average hotel—part of the property is built entirely from ice and snow, complete with snowy hallways, sculpted bedrooms, and frosty artwork that gets rebuilt every winter. Even just walking through the icy corridors feels like stepping into a real-life winter fairytale.

But the real star of the show is the glass igloo accommodation. These cozy domes sit right in the Arctic Circle and give you a completely unobstructed view of the night sky from your bed. If the northern lights decide to make an appearance, you don’t even have to go outside—just look up and enjoy the show from beneath your warm blankets. Many igloos even come with an aurora alert system, so you won’t miss a moment.

Is it a splurge? Absolutely. But it’s also the kind of experience you talk about for years. Whether you choose the ice hotel for its wow-factor or the glass igloos for their northern lights views, staying here is pure Arctic magic and one of the most memorable things you can do in Rovaniemi.

4. Hike among frozen waterfalls in Korouoma Canyon

• Duration: 7 hours
• Time: 7:30 am, 8 am, and 9 am
• Highlights: Hike into the Korouoma Canyon, admire spectacular frozen waterfalls, explore snowy trails with provided winter gear, capture photos of Lapland’s dramatic winter scenery, enjoy a Finnish snack by an open fire
• Inclusions: Professional winter clothing, winter boots, all fees, coffee/tea, private transportation, snack, hotel pick-up/drop-off for accommodations outside the city center, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you want to experience one of Lapland’s most jaw-dropping winter landscapes, this small-group hike through Korouoma Canyon is the way to go. 

This natural reserve sits just over an hour from Rovaniemi, but it feels like stepping into another world—towering rock walls, deep forest, and frozen waterfalls that look almost unreal. Your guide picks you up right from your accommodation and brings along all the winter gear you’ll need, including boots, snowshoes, and optional snow spikes for extra confidence on the descent.

Once you arrive, the adventure starts with a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) hike into the heart of the canyon. The trail takes you through thick, snowy forest before opening up to the icy cliffs and waterfalls that Korouoma is famous for. These formations turn into massive sheets of glittering ice in winter, attracting ice climbers from all over the world—and you get a front-row view without needing any climbing gear.

The small-group vibe really pays off here. It keeps the experience quieter, more personal, and lets you move at a relaxed pace while your guide shares stories about the landscape and the wildlife that calls this area home.

About halfway through, you’ll warm up around an open fire with a traditional Finnish campfire lunch. There’s something especially cozy about sipping something hot while surrounded by snow-covered canyon walls.

For a true taste of Lapland’s untouched wilderness, this Korouoma Canyon hike belongs at the top of your winter list!

Book this hike and step into a winter world you’ll never forget!

5. See the Arctic wilderness with a husky mushing experience

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Time: 8:30 am (departure time may vary)
• Highlights: Ride a husky-drawn sleigh through snowy forest trails, meet and learn about the huskies at a local farm, snap photos along the Arctic route, warm up with cookies and a hot drink
• Inclusions: Guide, pick-up/drop-off from select locations, self-drive husky sleigh ride (10 km/3.1 miles), visit to a husky farm, snacks, hot drinks, winter clothes
• Rating: 4.6 stars (check 170+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Husky safaris are a classic Lapland experience for a reason. There’s something incredibly special about exploring the snowy forest the same way locals once traveled—behind a team of energetic, hardworking sled dogs. It’s one of the most immersive ways to see Rovaniemi in winter, and after doing it ourselves on this husky safari, we completely understand the hype.

Our adventure started at a cozy husky farm outside the city, where the dogs were already howling with excitement. The guides suited us up in thick thermal overalls, boots, and gloves, and we were grateful—they kept us warm long after the sled took off. Once we met our team of huskies and learned a bit about how they’re trained and cared for, everything started to feel real.

And then we were off! The moment the dogs started running, the world went quiet in the best way. Gliding through the snow-covered forest on a 10-kilometer (6-mile) trail felt like stepping straight into a winter postcard. We took turns driving the sleigh, and while steering was surprisingly easy to pick up, simply sitting back and letting the huskies lead the way was just as magical.

After the ride, we warmed up around a fire with hot drinks and Finnish gingerbread cookies—one of those simple but perfect touches after being out in the snow. Spending time with the huskies afterward was an unexpected highlight, too – they’re incredibly friendly once they’re off duty.

If you’re looking for a true Lapland moment you’ll remember for years, this husky safari is absolutely worth it!

This experience is popular – book it here before it sells out!

6. Relax in a Finnish Sauna

Warming up in a Finnish sauna is practically a national pastime—and in Rovaniemi, it’s the perfect way to thaw out after a day of snowy adventures. Saunas are such a core part of Finnish culture that most hotels include one, but you’ll also find everything from simple public saunas to high-end private experiences around town.

If you want to try a classic local spot, WNTR Sauna by Kesarafla offers a public sauna experience where you can steam like a true Finn. For something more luxurious and intimate, Arctos Lapland has beautiful private sauna spaces you can book for yourself or your group. Families and anyone who prefers to mix in some fun will love Roiske Water Activities Centre, which pairs its saunas with pools and other water-based activities.

You can choose between electric saunas or traditional wood-heated saunas that smell like fresh birch and feel extra atmospheric. And if you want to elevate the experience, several places offer spa treatments, outdoor hot tubs, and even dinner packages. Just keep in mind that public saunas in Finland are typically nude, though men and women have their own separate areas. In mixed-gender saunas, towels or swimsuits are totally normal. 

Whether you go traditional or luxurious, a Finnish sauna session is one of the most relaxing and authentic things you can do in Rovaniemi.

7. Swim in an Arctic lake (in waterproof thermal suits!)

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 7 pm
• Highlights: Float in an Arctic lake under the night sky in a warm waterproof suit, search for the northern lights, relax with hot drinks and snacks by an open fire
• Inclusions: Thermal rescue floating suits, warm drinks, cookies, all fees, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

There aren’t many winter experiences in Lapland that feel as surreal—or as surprisingly relaxing—as ice swimming under the night sky. This small-group tour takes you about 25 minutes outside of Rovaniemi to a quiet Arctic lake far away from city lights, giving you the dark skies you need for northern lights spotting. 

Even better, everything is handled for you: pickup, transportation, warm drinks, snacks, and the thermal suits that make this whole adventure possible.

Once you arrive, the guide runs through safety tips and helps you into a waterproof rescue suit that keeps you completely warm and dry. Slipping into the icy lake is the moment you’ll never forget. Floating in an ice hole sounds intense, but the suit insulates you so well that it feels more like drifting in a warm cocoon. As you lie back and look up, the stars seem impossibly bright—and if luck is on your side, the northern lights might even dance overhead.

Whether the aurora shows up or not, there’s something magical about the stillness of floating in the middle of a frozen lake. After your swim, you’ll warm up by an open fire with hot drinks and cookies, or duck into the heated wooden cabin if you want to cozy up before heading back.

For a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience Lapland’s Arctic nights, this ice-swimming adventure is hard to beat.

Dive into this epic Arctic night—book your ice-swimming tour here!

8. Go cross-country skiing

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 10 am
• Highlights: Ski along easy private trails through forests, swamps, and open lake scenery, relax by a warm fire at a lakeside shelter, enjoy stunning viewpoints, and learn about Lapland’s culture and nature from your guide
• Inclusions: Skis and ski poles, pickups for an additional fee within the Rovaniemi area, small-group experience
• Rating: 5 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-focused way to experience Lapland, this small-group ski adventure near Lake Norvajärvi is such a gem. What makes it so special is that the entire route—winding through swamps, forest, and frozen lake—was personally built by the guides themselves. 

It’s private, quiet, and feels like stepping into a side of Lapland most visitors never see. The group size is capped at just four people, so you’re guaranteed a relaxed pace and plenty of personal attention along the way.

The skis are easy to manage and are designed so you can wear your own winter boots, which means no uncomfortable rental shoes. Once you get moving, the trail gently leads you through snow-dusted forest, across open lake ice, and into true Arctic wilderness. There’s no rush, just the soft sound of skis on snow and the kind of stillness you only find this far north.

About halfway through, you’ll stop at a cozy laavu overlooking Lake Norvajärvi. A warm fire, wide-open views, and a chance to rest make this break feel extra rewarding. Your guide shares stories about Lapland’s culture, geology, and history tailored to whatever sparks your curiosity.

By the time you reach one of the best viewpoints in the Rovaniemi area, you’ll understand why this experience feels so personal. It’s immersive, beautiful, and crafted with genuine care.

For an intimate, nature-packed Lapland adventure, this ski tour is a must—just scroll through the five-star reviews here if you still need convincing!

Snag your spot and experience these private trails for yourself!

9. Go snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is one of the easiest ways to explore Rovaniemi in winter, even if you’ve never done it before. Once you get used to the wide steps, snowshoes make walking on deep, powdery snow surprisingly simple—and they let you reach spots you wouldn’t normally see on foot.

If you want to explore on your own, there are several great trails close to town. Ounasvaara Recreational Area is one of the most popular places to go, with a variety of marked routes that wind through snowy forest. For something a bit more remote, the Arctic Circle Hiking Area is about 20 minutes from Rovaniemi and offers quiet trails that feel wonderfully wild.

Snowshoes are easy to rent, with multiple shops in the city offering hourly or daily rentals. Staff can usually point you toward the best trails based on conditions and your experience level.

Prefer to go with a guide? Most rental shops and many hotels work with local tour companies, making it simple to book a guided outing. It’s a great choice if you want help navigating the trails or want to learn more about the local nature and wildlife.

Simple, fun, and beginner-friendly, snowshoeing is a perfect way to experience Lapland’s winter scenery at your own pace.

10. Have dinner in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 6 pm, 7 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm
• Highlights: Dine inside a glass igloo, chase the northern lights with an expert guide, ride a snow scooter across a frozen lake when conditions allow, and enjoy a fully customizable, private experience
• Inclusions: Three-course dinner by the fire in a glass igloo, private transportation, northern lights hunt by snow scooters on a frozen lake, private experience
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 60+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This private glass igloo dinner and northern lights chase ended up being one of the most unforgettable nights of our time in Lapland. The experience begins with a pickup from Rovaniemi, and from there you’re driven deep into the forest to a hidden glass igloo restaurant set right on the edge of a frozen lake. 

Because it’s a private activity, the whole evening feels incredibly intimate—just you, your guide, and the quiet Arctic landscape. Once we stepped inside the cozy igloo, the glow of lanterns and the warmth from the fire made it feel like our own little world. 

We were served a hearty three-course dinner—classic Lappish dishes cooked over the open flames—while our guide shared stories about local culture, the northern lights, and what conditions give you the best shot at seeing them. The atmosphere was so peaceful that we almost forgot we were in the middle of the wilderness!

After dinner, we bundled up and headed outside to begin our aurora hunt. The sky was clear, so we rode a snow scooter across the frozen lake, searching for the darkest spot. The moment the lights finally appeared, shimmering green across the horizon, was pure magic. Watching them from the middle of a silent lake felt like something out of a dream.

If you want a night that’s romantic, cozy, and uniquely Lapland, this private dinner and aurora chase delivers in every way.

Reserve this private glass igloo dinner and aurora chase here!

11. Visit Santa’s Village and a reindeer farm

• Duration: 7 hours
• Time: 9:30 am
• Highlights: Meet Santa in Santa Claus Village, explore the post office and Christmas shops, enjoy lunch, ride a snowmobile to a reindeer farm, snuggle into a cozy sleigh for a reindeer-pulled ride through the snowy forest
• Inclusions: Guide, winter clothing, snowmobile instructions and safari (1–2 hours driving), visit to a reindeer farm, short reindeer sleigh ride, hot drinks, visit to Santa’s Village by car, meeting with Santa Claus, lunch
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 90+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Visiting Rovaniemi in winter already feels a bit like stepping into a Christmas story, but spending a full day exploring Santa Claus Village and meeting the animals that are such a big part of Lapland’s culture takes it to another level. This Santa Claus Village and reindeer tour blends all of that charm into one day—Santa, snowmobiles, reindeer, and plenty of festive fun—so we knew we had to try it.

The day begins at Santa Claus Village, and honestly, it’s impossible not to feel a little giddy the moment you walk in. We wandered through the snowy pathways, peeked into the Christmas shops, and watched kids dropping letters into the official Santa Post Office. Meeting Santa in his cozy office was surprisingly heartwarming. He welcomed us like old friends and somehow made the whole experience feel personal rather than touristy.

After a hearty lunch (much appreciated after exploring in the cold), the adventure part of the day kicked in. We rode snowmobiles through the forest to a reindeer farm, where gentle, curious reindeer were waiting for their sleigh rides. Snuggling under blankets while gliding through the quiet forest was pure winter magic, with the soft jingle of reindeer bells echoing around us.

If you’re after a day that captures the festive spirit of Lapland while mixing in a little Arctic adventure, this Santa and reindeer combo is the perfect pick. And just a quick note—you can do this experience well after Christmas has passed. Santa’s Village doesn’t go anywhere, and the magic sticks around all winter long.

This one fills up fast, so book this Santa adventure early here!

12. Visit the Arktikun Museum

If you want to understand the Arctic beyond the snowy landscapes and northern lights, a visit to the Arktikum Museum is a must. This popular museum and science center dives into the history, culture, and environment of the Arctic region, giving you a deeper appreciation of the place you’re exploring. It’s the perfect indoor activity for a chilly day, and a great way to balance all the outdoor adventures Rovaniemi offers.

The museum is beautifully designed, with long glass corridors that look out onto the snowy riverfront. Inside, the exhibits cover everything from Sámi culture and Arctic wildlife to climate research and the region’s unique relationship with nature. There are plenty of interactive displays, short films, and hands-on elements that make it approachable for all ages—not just museum lovers.

Arktikum is open every day except Monday, from 10 am to 6 pm, and tickets cost about €20. You’ll want to give yourself at least a couple of hours to wander through the galleries, watch a film or two, and explore the temporary exhibitions.

Whether you’re curious about life in the far north or just looking for a thoughtful break from the cold, Arktikum is one of Rovaniemi’s most worthwhile stops.

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi

Now that you’ve got plenty of ideas for things to do in Rovaniemi in winter, the next step is finding the perfect place to stay. Prices here definitely aren’t cheap, especially during peak winter months, but the good news is that Rovaniemi has some truly fabulous accommodations. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime Lapland trip or just want something cozy and convenient, you can make your stay as luxurious or as budget-friendly as you like.

To make choosing easier, we’ve rounded up our top picks for every budget below:

Luxury – $$$

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is one of the most memorable places to stay in Rovaniemi, offering cozy suites with huge picture windows that look straight into the forest and sometimes the northern lights. The Nordic-style rooms come with a minibar, coffee maker, plush robes, and a private entrance, creating a warm retreat after winter adventures. 

Guests love the peaceful location near SantaPark, along with the on-site restaurant, bar, and helpful concierge service that can arrange husky safaris, reindeer tours, and sauna experiences. Winter rates usually go for €850–€1,500+ per night—check Booking.com for the best prices!

Mid-range – $$

Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara is a fantastic pick for travelers who want nature, views, and easy access to winter activities. Set on top of Ounasvaara Fell, this hotel overlooks Rovaniemi and the Kemijoki River valley, with direct access to ski tracks and scenic walking trails. Many rooms even come with a private sauna.

The award-winning Restaurant Sky Ounasvaara is another highlight, serving Lappish and international dishes with panoramic floor-to-ceiling views. Guests also enjoy the cozy lobby bar, fireplace, and spacious rooftop terrace for northern lights spotting. 

Rooms here range from around €360–€800 per night in winter. Browse availability and current rates on Booking.com!

Budget – $

Hostel Café Koti is a bright, stylish, and surprisingly cozy budget-friendly stay right in the heart of Rovaniemi. Rooms and dorms feature clean Scandinavian design, and guests can choose between private bathrooms or shared facilities. The hostel has a fully equipped communal kitchen, a comfy lounge, and even a Finnish sauna—an impressive perk for this price range.

Its central location is a major highlight: shops, cafés, and museums are all within walking distance, and Santa Claus Village is just 8 kilometers (5 miles) away. Winter rates typically start around €150 per night for rooms and just €32 per night for a bed in a dorm room. Check Booking.com for current deals!

For even more great accommodations, check out all of Rovaniemi’s hotels listed here!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Rovaniemi is truly a dream winter getaway! There is something so captivating about experiencing a true northern winter – from the outdoor adventures to the cozy saunas and roaring fireplaces. These top activities will show you the best of Rovaniemi, just don’t wait to book your experiences, as it’s a popular destination!

Check out our other Europe blogs before you go! We have more winter destination guides, as well as resources for year-round travel. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan an unforgettable trip, including multi-day itineraries, where to stay guides, and more!

How to Spend ONE or TWO DAYS in Helsinki, Finland: Best 1 or 2-Day Itinerary

How to Spend TWO DAYS in Strasbourg, France in the Winter: The Best 2-Day Itinerary

8 Best Things to do in Zermatt, Switzerland in the Winter