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Planning a winter trip to Rovaniemi? You’re in for a special treat.
This Arctic city is the kind of place where every day feels like stepping into a snow globe—think pine forests covered in fresh snowfall, steaming saunas, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you’re here for adventure, culture, or the northern lights, Rovaniemi delivers an experience that feels both magical and effortless.
To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together the ultimate 3-day Rovaniemi itinerary, filled with winter adventures, cozy meals, and can’t-miss local experiences. From husky mushing to canyon hikes and late-night aurora hunts, this guide has everything you need to plan an unforgettable Lapland getaway. Let’s dive in!
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The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Northern Lights excursion! This tour stood out amongst the rest because there’s no time cap, so we could chase the aurora borealis until we found it, and our guide was absolutely fantastic.
Check out the 1,700+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Getting to Rovaniemi is simple—you’ll typically fly in from Helsinki—and once you arrive, getting around is just as easy. You can rent a car, but you won’t necessarily need one for this itinerary. The town is compact and walkable, Uber is available for quick trips, and most of the best winter experiences include pickup right from your hotel. It makes exploring Rovaniemi and the surrounding Arctic landscapes incredibly seamless.
Here’s a quick look at how to spend three unforgettable days in Rovaniemi:
Day 1: Start your Lapland adventure with a thrilling morning of husky mushing, followed by a hearty lunch and a relaxing Finnish sauna session. After a quick dinner, end the night floating in a thermal suit on a dark Arctic lake—one of Rovaniemi’s most unforgettable winter experiences.
Day 2: Spend today exploring the frozen cliffs and waterfalls of Korouoma Canyon on a guided winter hike. After returning to the city, enjoy a cozy Lappish dinner at Nili before unwinding with a pint at Oliver’s Corner.
Day 3: Begin your day with breakfast at Café & Bar 21 before revving through the snowy forest on a snowmobile safari. After lunch at Roka Street Bistro, visit the Arktikum Museum or relax in a sauna. Finish your trip with an epic northern lights hunt stretching late into the Arctic night.
Day 1
Morning – See the Arctic wilderness with a husky mushing experience
There’s no better way to start your first day in Rovaniemi than with this husky safari through the snow-covered forest. This is one of those bucket list Lapland experiences that actually lives up to the hype.
The tour begins bright and early at 8:30 am (though the exact time will be confirmed after booking). You’ll get the choice to meet at the office in downtown Rovaniemi or get picked up from Santa Claus Holiday Village, which is especially convenient if you’re staying there. From either spot, it’s a short drive to a cozy husky farm tucked into the quiet countryside.
The dogs usually greet you before you even see them—an excited chorus that sets the tone for the rest of the experience. After slipping into the provided thermal overalls, boots, and gloves, you’ll meet your team of huskies and learn how they’re trained, cared for, and paired for sledding. And then the real magic begins!
Once the sled takes off, the forest falls into that peaceful Lapland silence. Gliding along a 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) trail feels like entering another world. You can take turns driving the sled, but simply sitting back and watching the huskies run is just as unforgettable.
When you return, you’ll warm up by a fire with hot drinks and gingerbread cookies before heading back around 12 pm—perfect timing to grab lunch and continue your Rovaniemi adventures.
Book your spot here and let a team of huskies show you the best of Lapland!
Lunch – Kauppayhtiö
After a full morning out in the snow, you’ll be more than ready for something warm and hearty—and Kauppayhtiö is the perfect spot. This cozy, quirky café is just a short walk from the city center and serves exactly the kind of comfort food you crave after a husky safari. Think generous burgers, loaded fries, and daily specials that hit the spot without slowing down your afternoon plans. Just keep in mind that Kauppayhtiö doesn’t open until 1 pm on weekends and is closed on Mondays, so make sure to plan ahead.
If you’re not rushing to a hotel sauna after lunch, this is also a great window to wander around downtown Rovaniemi. The city center is compact and easy to explore, with colorful shops, cafés, and wintry streets that make for an effortless stroll. Even 30–45 minutes of exploring gives you a feel for the local vibe before heading into a slow, relaxing afternoon.
Afternoon – Relax in a Finnish Sauna
No winter itinerary in Finland is complete without a proper sauna session. Most hotels in Rovaniemi have their own sauna, and if yours does, this is the perfect time to enjoy it. But if you want something a little different (or your hotel doesn’t have one), there are some fantastic local options that each offer a unique take on a classic Finnish tradition.
For a public sauna experience, head to WNTR Sauna by Kesarafla, where you can share the heat with locals in a laid-back setting. If you prefer something more intimate, Arctos Lapland offers luxury private sauna experiences, complete with peaceful spaces that feel worlds away from downtown. Another great pick is Roiske Water Activities Centre, where you’ll find saunas alongside pools and aquatic activities—ideal if you want to mix relaxation with a bit of movement.
All three open from 3 pm or 4 pm onward, and sessions typically last 1 to 2.5 hours. That gives you plenty of time to unwind, reset, and warm up before heading to your 7 pm Arctic lake float, which pairs beautifully with a calm sauna afternoon.
Dinner – Rosso
After a slow, relaxing sauna session, keep things simple with an easy dinner at Rosso, a casual Italian restaurant right in the heart of Rovaniemi. It’s a great pick for nights when you’re short on time—the service is quick, the atmosphere is warm, and the menu has something for everyone. You’ll find comforting pizzas, creamy pastas, and hearty mains that refuel you without feeling too heavy before your evening adventure.
This spot is especially ideal if your sauna session runs a little long. Even if you don’t sit down until closer to 6 pm, you’ll still have time to enjoy a relaxed meal. And the best part? Rosso is just a two-minute walk from the meeting point for your Arctic lake float, so there’s no stress about timing or transportation. You can simply finish dinner, bundle back up, and stroll over for one of the most unique experiences of your entire trip.
Evening – Swim in an Arctic lake (in waterproof thermal suits!)
After dinner, make your way to one of Rovaniemi’s most unforgettable nighttime experiences—this Arctic lake float under the stars. The tour meets at 7 pm, and you can either get picked up from select hotels or walk to the central meeting point, which is just a short stroll from Rosso. From there, it’s about 25 minutes to a quiet Arctic lake far from city lights, giving you perfect darkness for northern lights viewing while you float.
This is one of those Lapland activities that sounds a little funny at first, but it’s surprisingly relaxing and incredibly popular. Everything is organized for you: transportation, warm drinks, snacks, and the thermal rescue suits that keep you warm and completely dry. Once you arrive, your guide shares safety tips and helps you into the suit before leading you to the ice hole.
Slipping into the lake is a moment you’ll never forget. The suit insulates so well that it feels like drifting inside a cozy cocoon rather than anything icy. As you lie back and float, the sky opens up into brilliant stars on clear nights and, if you’re lucky, the aurora borealis shimmering overhead.
Afterward, you’ll warm up by an open fire with hot drinks and cookies or step inside a heated wooden cabin before heading back. The tour usually wraps up around 10 pm, giving you three full hours to experience the magic of a true Arctic night.
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime way to end your first day in Rovaniemi, this evening lake float is it!
Dive into this epic Arctic night—book your ice-swimming tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 2
Full-day – Hike among frozen waterfalls in Korouoma Canyon
Kick off your second day in Rovaniemi with this full-day trip deep into one of Lapland’s most dramatic winter landscapes—Korouoma Canyon. You can choose between 7:30 am, 8 am, or 9 am start times, but after last night’s late Arctic lake float, the 9 am departure feels just right. The tour lasts most of the day, wrapping up around 4 pm at the latest, giving you plenty of daylight for the full experience.
If you’re staying in central Rovaniemi, you can meet directly at the tour office downtown. Those staying outside the city can arrange pickup, which makes the morning nice and easy. From there, it’s just over an hour to reach this incredible nature reserve, yet it feels like entering a different world entirely.
Once you arrive, your guide outfits you with all the necessary winter gear, including boots, snowshoes, and optional snow spikes for the steeper sections. The adventure begins with a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) hike through a silent forest before opening up to the icy cliffs and frozen waterfalls that make Korouoma so famous. These sheer curtains of ice draw climbers from around the world, and you’ll have a front-row look—no climbing skills required.
Midway through the hike, you’ll warm up around an open fire with a hearty Finnish campfire lunch, which somehow tastes even better surrounded by snowy canyon walls.
If you’re craving a true taste of Lapland’s untouched wilderness, this canyon hike delivers—and you can read HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here that say the same.
Book your spot here and step into a winter world you’ll never forget!
Dinner – Nili Restaurant
After a full day exploring Korouoma Canyon, you’ll be more than ready for a relaxing evening back in Rovaniemi. Head to your hotel for a refresh, then make your way downtown for dinner at Nili Restaurant—one of the coziest spots in the city and a favorite for traditional Lappish cuisine. The space feels warm and rustic, with wood accents and soft lighting that make it the perfect place to unwind after hours in the snow.
The menu highlights local ingredients like reindeer, Arctic char, and wild berries, prepared in a way that feels both authentic and elevated. It’s a great chance to try regional flavors you may not find anywhere else on your trip. Nili is closed on Sundays, and because it’s such a popular dinner spot, making a reservation here is highly recommended, especially in winter.
Evening – Oliver’s Corner
To end the night on a relaxed note, walk just around the corner to Oliver’s Corner, a friendly Irish pub with a laid-back atmosphere. After a long day outdoors and a hearty Lappish dinner, this is the perfect place to settle in with a pint and unwind. The crowd is a mix of locals and travelers, giving it a fun but unpretentious vibe that’s easy to enjoy for as long—or as briefly—as you like.
It’s an easy, comfortable way to wrap up day 2 before heading back to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Day 3
Breakfast – Cafe & Bar 21
Kick off your final morning in Rovaniemi with breakfast at Café & Bar 21, a local favorite known for its cozy vibe and delicious morning dishes. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, you’ll find plenty of options here, but whatever you order, don’t skip their hot chocolate. It’s rich, warm, and easily one of the best ways to ease into a winter morning.
The café opens at 8 am, making it the perfect start before your last big adventure of the trip. Even better, it’s only a three-minute walk to this morning’s tour meeting point, so you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast without rushing out the door.
Morning – Snowmobile through the Lappish forest
Once you’ve fueled up for the morning, trade the cozy café for wide-open Arctic landscapes on this snowmobile safari through the forest. This tour runs from 10 am to 12:30 pm, and you can either meet at the downtown Rovaniemi meeting point or opt for hotel pickup if you’re staying farther out. Either way, getting started is quick and easy.
Once you arrive, the team outfits you with proper Arctic gear: insulated overalls, boots, gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet. Whatever you packed from home suddenly feels like fall clothing in comparison, and within minutes, you’ll be fully suited up for the cold.
Before the engines roar to life, your guide gives a simple and confidence-boosting briefing—just enough information to make you feel prepared without dragging out the fun. Then you’re off, following snowy trails that wind through quiet forest and stretch across frozen lakes. Snowmobiles are a big part of daily life in Lapland, so riding through the Arctic Circle this way gives you a small glimpse into how locals actually move around in winter.
The ride lasts about an hour, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery, and somewhere along the way, you’ll stop to warm up with hot blueberry juice. It’s one of those small Lapland touches that somehow feels perfect out in the cold.
For an adventurous and easy introduction to the region’s wilderness, this snowmobile safari is hard to beat—it’s no surprise this tour has earned so many rave five-star reviews.
Book your snowmobile tour here and join in the winter fun!
Lunch – Roka Street Bistro
After your morning out in the snow, head back into the city center for lunch at Roka Street Bistro, a cozy and stylish spot that’s perfect for warming up and refueling. This bistro is known for its bold, modern take on Nordic flavors, and it’s a great place to try dishes featuring reindeer or fresh salmon—two Lapland specialties that are both delicious and beautifully prepared here.
The atmosphere is relaxed but refined, making it a nice break between outdoor activities. Whether you go for something hearty or lighter, the plates here are always packed with flavor and perfect for easing into your afternoon plans.
Even better, Roka Street Bistro is just a 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from your next stop, which keeps the day moving at an easy, comfortable pace.
Afternoon – Visit the Arktikun Museum
After lunch, make your way to the Arktikum Museum, one of the best places in Rovaniemi to dive deeper into Arctic life, science, and culture. This museum opens at 10 am every day except Mondays, when they’re closed, so visiting in the afternoon works perfectly with your schedule. Plan to spend about two hours here, which is just the right amount of time to explore without feeling rushed.
Arktikum is known for its interactive exhibits, immersive storytelling, and stunning architecture, including the long glass corridor that stretches toward the Ounasjoki River. Inside, you’ll learn about everything from the Sámi people and Arctic wildlife to climate science and the northern lights. It’s the kind of museum that keeps you engaged from start to finish, no matter your age or interests. Admission is €20 for adults, and well worth it for the depth and variety of the exhibits.
If you’d prefer a slower-paced afternoon, you can always swap the museum for another sauna session—a wonderfully relaxing option, especially after a busy morning on a snowmobile. Either way, you’ll want to head back to your hotel afterward for a short rest. You’ve got a late night ahead, so a little downtime now will make the evening feel even more enjoyable.
Dinner – Saigon Noodle Bar
If you’ve had your fill of Lappish dishes over the past few days, switch things up tonight with a comforting bowl of pho at Saigon Noodle Bar. This cozy spot is a favorite for its flavorful broths, fresh herbs, and warm, satisfying bowls that hit the spot, especially after a busy day of snowmobiling and museum hopping. It’s one of the best places in Rovaniemi to enjoy something different while still getting that comforting, winter-friendly meal.
Since tonight’s tour includes hotel pickup at 7 pm, you’ll want to head out for dinner on the earlier side. Saigon Noodle Bar is quick, delicious, and easy to enjoy without feeling rushed, making it an ideal choice before your evening adventure. After a hearty bowl of pho, you’ll be perfectly warmed up and ready for the final big experience of your Rovaniemi trip.
Evening/Night – See the Northern Lights
Tonight’s adventure is the big one—this full-night northern lights hunt that kicks off at 7 pm with hotel pickup. This isn’t your typical “stand and wait” aurora tour. Instead, your guide uses real-time weather and aurora forecasts to actively chase clear skies across Lapland. From the moment you step into the van, you’ll feel like you’re in expert hands, which is exactly what you want on a night that can stretch all the way to 3 am.
The tour provides proper winter gear, and the small group size makes the experience feel personal and flexible. You can move quickly, ask plenty of questions, and spread out at each stop without worrying about crowds or blocked photo angles.
What sets this tour apart is its aurora sighting guarantee. Unlike most tours that simply let you reschedule if you don’t see the lights, this one promises to find them that night, even if it means staying out late and driving deep into Lapland. That dedication pays off. Once your guide finds a break in the clouds, the sky can suddenly come alive—greens, purples, movement—and a professional photographer captures it all while you enjoy hot drinks under the stars.
Whether the lights dance right away or you chase them for hours, this is the kind of night you’ll talk about long after the trip ends. And with well over a THOUSAND five-star reviews from travelers who’ve done it, it’s clear this tour delivers exactly what so many people come to Rovaniemi hoping to see.
Reserve your northern lights tour here and make your final night unforgettable!
Related Read: Have some extra time? Check out our list of the best winter activities in Rovaniemi!
Where to Stay in Rovaniemi
Now that you’ve got the perfect Rovaniemi winter itinerary, the next step is finding an ideal 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.
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- 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!
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Thanks for reading!
Three days in Rovaniemi is just the right amount of time for a winter getaway! You can experience the outdoor beauty and thrilling activities, then rest and relax in a Finnish sauna and by a roaring fireplace – pure bliss. I recommend booking any of these activities and accommodations in advance, as Rovaniemi is a popular winter destination and you don’t want to miss out.
Check out the rest of our Europe blogs for more winter itineraries and planning guides! We actually have resources for year-round travel, so I will leave a few more helpful itineraries, where to stay guides, and top things to do that can help you plan a lovely vacation.
How to Spend ONE or TWO DAYS in Helsinki, Finland: 1 or 2-Day Itinerary
How to Spend TWO DAYS in Zermatt, Switzerland in Winter: 2-Day Itinerary
How to Spend TWO Days in Strasbourg, France in the Winter: 2-Day Itinerary