Romantic Getaway Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi: awaken your inner child...
Stop depriving yourself and travel more often!
For French travellers, Finland is generally considered a luxury destination, like many Nordic countries… Unless you know how to find the best deals.
Rovaniemi is no exception, as you first need to fly there or, at best, take the train from Helsinki. Once there, activities and excursions are expensive compared with the cost of living in France.
The two main things to do when visiting Rovaniemi for a weekend or a week are exploring Santa Claus Village and enjoying the many outdoor activities available, whether you visit in winter when everything is covered in snow or during the summer.
Excursions are not only expensive, but many of them are completely unnecessary and offer poor value for money. Careful research is therefore essential if you do not want your entire budget to disappear. This is precisely what we offer on our Guided Tours in Rovaniemi page.
In the meantime, you will already find plenty of ideas here for things to see and do, our selection of romantic or unusual accommodation in Rovaniemi, as well as our recommendations for romantic restaurants to complete your getaway to Santa Claus Country.
When should you visit Rovaniemi for a romantic getaway?
While the best time to visit Rovaniemi depends on the activities you enjoy and the atmosphere you are looking for, let’s be honest… Winter, with its snow-covered scenery and Arctic activities, remains an unforgettable experience. Bear in mind that Rovaniemi is usually still covered in snow in March and April!
Winter
The period from December to March is ideal for anyone who loves snow and the magical atmosphere of Christmas.
December is the perfect time to meet Santa Claus in his village and enjoy the festive atmosphere, Christmas decorations, markets and themed activities. Of course, the large crowds during this month will not appeal to everyone… The period from approximately 15 December to 8 January is best avoided.
You can enjoy a wide range of activities, including dog sledding, skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and reindeer sleigh rides.
Winter is also an excellent time to see the Northern Lights, as the long, dark nights provide better visibility. The beauty of the snow-covered landscapes creates the perfect setting for a winter holiday.
Summer
From June to August, summer in Rovaniemi offers a completely different experience.
Thanks to the Midnight Sun, the days seem almost endless, giving you plenty of time to explore nature, go hiking and enjoy outdoor sports.
Summer is ideal for activities such as hiking, canoeing, fishing, cycling and boat trips on the local rivers.
Temperatures are pleasant and generally range from 10°C to 20°C, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without the intense cold of winter.
If you are looking for a Christmas experience filled with the magic of Santa Claus, snow activities and the Northern Lights, winter is the ideal time to visit Rovaniemi. If you prefer long days, milder temperatures and outdoor adventures, summer will offer a completely different but equally rewarding experience. It is up to you to choose the season that best matches your wishes and expectations for your visit to Rovaniemi.
How can you travel to Rovaniemi from France?
The easiest year-round option for international travellers is to fly to Helsinki and then take a domestic flight to Rovaniemi. Several connections operate every day, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
You can also take the overnight Santa Claus Express from Helsinki. It allows you to save one night’s accommodation and arrive in Rovaniemi the following morning.
During winter, Rovaniemi becomes much easier to reach directly. Seasonal flights operate from numerous European cities, including London, Dublin, Brussels, Paris, Amsterdam, Milan, Frankfurt and Madrid. Routes and operating dates change every year, so check the official list of direct flights before booking.
In summer, direct international flights are much more limited, making Helsinki the most reliable connection. A direct service from Milan Bergamo also operates throughout the year.
Rovaniemi Airport is located approximately 10 kilometres from the city centre and only 3 kilometres from Santa Claus Village. The journey to central Rovaniemi takes around 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or airport shuttle.
Choose cosy accommodation in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for a romantic weekend. Do not settle for an ordinary hotel bedroom or apartment. You can choose a hotel with bedrooms featuring private saunas or hot tubs for an intimate and relaxing experience.
If you prefer greater flexibility and privacy, a charming apartment with a private sauna will allow you to relax at your own pace.
For a more unusual experience, choose a glass igloo from which you can watch the Northern Lights from your bed, or stay in an ice hotel for a truly out-of-the-ordinary adventure.
These options allow you to enjoy an unforgettable romantic weekend in Rovaniemi. To save valuable time, take a look at our selection of accommodation in Rovaniemi city centre, in Santa Claus Village or around the city. All the properties feature private saunas or other special benefits. Not only will this make your stay particularly enjoyable, but it can also save you money on so-called indoor or outdoor sauna excursions costing more than €100 per person.
What can you see and do during a romantic weekend in Rovaniemi?
Discover Rovaniemi in greater depth
The earliest traces of human settlement in the Rovaniemi region date back approximately 7,000 years. Over the centuries, Rovaniemi has evolved from its prehistoric roots and Sámi heritage into a modern and dynamic city.
Its rich history, marked by periods of prosperity and hardship, makes it a unique destination where past and present meet harmoniously. Whether you want to discover its fascinating history, enjoy winter activities or explore the local culture, Rovaniemi offers an unforgettable experience.
We are not going to lie to you: Rovaniemi is far from being the most beautiful city featured on our website. Nevertheless, our stay there remains one of the most wonderful trips we have ever taken.
Rovaniemi city centre is filled with interesting attractions illustrating the region’s rich history and culture. From the architecture of Alvar Aalto and the magnificent frescoes inside the church to three interactive museums, lively squares and the spectacular Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge, there is plenty to see and do. Whether you love art, are fascinated by history or simply enjoy discovering new experiences, central Rovaniemi has something for everyone.
Immerse yourself in the magic of Santa Claus Village
Santa Claus Village, located a few kilometres north of Rovaniemi city centre, is an unmissable attraction for every visitor to Lapland, whether you are 9 or 99!
NO, you do not need to book a guided excursion to Santa Claus Village… NOT AT ALL! Admission to the village is free, and we strongly advise against booking any Santa Claus Village excursion that offers absolutely no added value.
There are countless things to see and do in the village in one location, including activities you may have thought were only available as part of an organised excursion, such as reindeer rides, husky rides and snowmobiling, one of Lapland’s most iconic activities.
Santa Claus Village is very well served by buses from Rovaniemi city centre and the airport. You can take the public number 8 bus or the special Santa Claus Bus during the peak winter season. In summer, the latter is replaced by the Airport Bus.
Our advice is to arrive when the village opens, if possible, to avoid queues depending on the season and to give yourself enough time to see as much as possible. You can easily spend two full days exploring Santa Claus Village at a leisurely pace. Here is a quick overview of what you can expect.
When you arrive, do not miss the opportunity to cross the imaginary Arctic Circle, marked by a white line on the ground. Take photographs as you cross the Arctic Circle to commemorate the occasion.
Then make your way to Santa Claus’s house to meet him in person! The visit is completely free. You only have to pay if you want to purchase souvenir photographs or videos. You can talk to Santa Claus and capture this memorable moment.
Visit Santa Claus’s official Main Post Office, where you can send postcards bearing a special postmark. After all, it is not every day that you find yourself in a place as magical as the Arctic Circle. You can also write a letter to Santa Claus or discover letters sent from all over the world.
Explore the village shops to find unique souvenirs, handmade toys, winter clothing, soft toys and other items inspired by Santa Claus and Lapland.
Visit Santa’s Pets
The elf attraction, renamed “Santa’s Pets” in 2024, is a delightful interactive experience that allows visitors to discover the magical world of the elves. Activities include games, stories, crafts, animals and an educational trail.
During our visit in 2019, visitors could try a particularly enjoyable and playful Lappish activity: putting on traditional wooden Lappish skis and following a short marked trail suitable even for people who had never skied before. Unfortunately, this typically Lappish activity has since disappeared, which we deeply regret.
Before heading to the village in the morning, remember to pack sausages, marshmallows and bread in your backpack. Sit beside the wood fire, grill them yourself and make your own sandwiches.
Enjoy the different types of sledges available for fun rides and plenty of laughter. You will also see long-haired goats, sometimes a little unruly inside their enclosure, which will happily eat from your hand.
The village has approximately twelve restaurants, ranging from simple snack bars to cosy romantic restaurants. We have prepared a short selection for you, and three restaurants particularly caught our attention. Bear in mind that some establishments close during the summer season.
Experience Lappish cuisine
Lappish cuisine is deeply rooted in the traditions and culture of Finnish Lapland. It reflects the region’s natural resources and relies on local ingredients such as reindeer, fish, wild berries and mushrooms. During the summer, you can even book a wild berry and mushroom picking excursion.
One traditional speciality is poronkäristys, a dish made with sautéed reindeer meat, onions and berries, usually served with potatoes and lingonberries. Lohikeitto, a salmon and potato soup delicately flavoured with dill, is another popular speciality in Rovaniemi. It is also very easy to prepare if you are staying in an apartment with a kitchen.
As the capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi offers a variety of restaurants where you can discover these local specialities. Take a look at our selection of romantic restaurants in Rovaniemi city centre, in Santa Claus Village and outside both of these areas.
Try extraordinary winter activities
Winter in Rovaniemi is a magical season during which the city transforms into a genuine winter wonderland. Among the most popular activities, snowmobile safaris offer an exhilarating way to explore the vast snow-covered landscapes of Lapland, crossing forests and frozen lakes.
Husky and reindeer sleigh rides are also unmissable experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture while admiring breathtaking landscapes. You can enjoy these activities in Santa Claus Village or visit a reindeer or husky farm, where you can learn more about how these iconic local animals are raised.
For anyone who enjoys fishing, ice fishing is a traditional activity combining peace and excitement.
Cross-country skiing is perfect for exploring the surrounding countryside at a gentler pace, while snowshoeing provides a unique perspective on the local plants and wildlife.
If you are looking for thrills, sledging and snow tubing on the snow-covered hills are entertaining activities for children and adults alike. At the end of the day, nothing compares with relaxing in a traditional sauna, followed by a dip in icy water if you are feeling particularly brave.
Explore summer adventures in nature
Summer and autumn in Rovaniemi offer a wealth of outdoor activities for nature and adventure lovers. Thanks to the Midnight Sun, the seemingly endless summer days allow you to make the most of hikes through lush forests and rolling hills, where nature reveals its full beauty.
The region’s rivers and lakes become ideal playgrounds for canoeing, kayaking, fishing and even sauna boat trips, offering both relaxation and exploration. Picking wild berries and mushrooms is also a popular activity and allows you to taste some of Lapland’s natural treasures.
In autumn, the landscapes become covered in vibrant colours, creating an idyllic setting for hiking and cycling. The Ounasvaara Hill hiking trails provide spectacular panoramic views over the city and surrounding area, while guided excursions allow visitors to discover local wildlife such as elk and migratory birds. Outdoor saunas, often located beside lakes, provide an authentic and relaxing experience after a day of exploring.
From September onwards, Rovaniemi enters another magical period as the Northern Lights season begins to illuminate the night sky. You can also visit reindeer farms and husky farms, with rides in wheeled carts.
For culture lovers, visits to the three museums in Rovaniemi city centre and contemporary art exhibitions will enrich your stay. Local markets, with their handmade products and culinary specialities, offer another opportunity to discover the region’s gastronomic heritage. In short, summer and autumn in Rovaniemi provide an extensive range of activities combining adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery.
Discover Lappish culture
Travelling to Lapland for winter activities, reindeer, huskies and the Northern Lights is wonderful, but if you want to explore the region in greater depth, it is worth immersing yourself in Lappish culture.
The city’s three main museums, Arktikum, Pilke Science Centre and Korundi, provide unique perspectives on Lappish culture, the Arctic climate and contemporary art. A combined ticket is available, allowing you to save some money and visit all three museums, each located in Rovaniemi city centre and easily accessible on foot.
Visit the fabulous Arktikum Museum
Arktikum is a museum and science centre exploring Lappish culture, the history of Lapland and the Arctic climate. Located beside the Ounasjoki River, the building itself is remarkable, with a long glass corridor resembling a tunnel of light.
The permanent exhibitions on Lappish culture present the history and traditions of the Sámi, the Indigenous people of Lapland. You can discover traditional objects, clothing, hunting tools and stories about everyday life.
Arktikum also features exhibitions about Arctic nature, exploring the region’s wildlife, plants and unique climate. You can learn more about the Northern Lights, the changing seasons and the challenges posed by climate change.
The museum also tells the history of Lapland, including the Second World War and the reconstruction of Rovaniemi.
The Arktikum section of the museum is currently closed for renovation until 6 December 2024. The Provincial Museum of Lapland section remains open. This museum specialises in the culture, prehistory, history, architectural traditions and natural environment of Lapland.
Pilke Science Centre
Pilke Science Centre focuses on forests and the sustainable use of forest resources in Finland. It is an interactive museum offering practical and educational experiences.
The exhibitions allow you to discover the Arctic forest, its inhabitants and the many different uses of wood. You can experience the work of a lumberjack, explore forest simulations and learn how Finland manages its forest resources.
Pilke offers numerous interactive activities, making it an ideal place for families. For example, you can operate wood-cutting machines or learn to identify different tree species.
The museum places particular emphasis on sustainable development and demonstrates how Finnish forest management balances commercial use with the preservation of nature.
Korundi House of Culture
Korundi House of Culture is a contemporary art centre housing the Rovaniemi Art Museum and the Lapland Chamber Orchestra.
Rovaniemi Art Museum presents works by contemporary Finnish and international artists. Its exhibitions feature a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography and digital art.
Korundi is also the home of the Lapland Chamber Orchestra, which performs regular concerts and musical events. It is an ideal place to enjoy classical music in a modern setting.
Korundi also hosts workshops, performances and temporary exhibitions, making it a vibrant centre for art and culture.
Together, these three museums provide a rich, diverse and complementary insight into Lappish culture, the Arctic environment and contemporary art. Each one offers a unique perspective, helping visitors gain a better understanding of the identity of Rovaniemi and Lapland.
Go in search of the Northern Lights
Nothing is more romantic than snuggling beneath a warm blanket with your partner while watching the Northern Lights dance across the night sky. It is a magical and mysterious experience that creates lasting memories. It is also possible to see the Northern Lights without spending an astronomical amount of money on an organised excursion, which is important to know!
One of the advantages of Rovaniemi is that several observation spots are accessible without a car. You can simply walk or take a bus to places such as the area behind Arktikum Museum or the summit of Ounasvaara Hill.
Arktikum Museum, located in central Rovaniemi, is a well-known place for watching the Northern Lights. Behind the museum lies a vast open area offering an unobstructed view of the sky, making it popular among Northern Lights hunters. There is also less light pollution in this area, improving your chances of seeing the aurora in all its splendour.
A little farther away, Ounasvaara Hill, located just outside Rovaniemi, provides another excellent viewpoint. By moving away from the city and its lights, you have a good chance of seeing the aurora dancing across the night sky.
You can even combine two experiences by dining in an excellent restaurant while watching the Northern Lights with your partner!
Go hiking
Without needing a car, you can enjoy two very different hikes during your romantic weekend in Rovaniemi.
A city walk
Do you want to stretch your legs and explore without travelling too far? This three-kilometre loop will allow you to take some lovely photographs, especially if you walk it close to sunset. It crosses Rovaniemi’s two iconic bridges spanning the Kemijoki River: the Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge and Vanhasilta Bridge.
Hiking on Ounasvaara Hill
Ounasvaara Hill is an unmissable destination for anyone who loves nature and outdoor activities in Rovaniemi. It offers several hiking trails suitable for different ability levels. You can choose a short route for a gentle walk or a longer trail for a more demanding adventure. The paths are clearly marked and wind through pine forests and woodland.
During your hike, you will reach several viewpoints offering spectacular panoramas over Rovaniemi and the surrounding area. The summit of Ounasvaara Hill provides a 360-degree view of the city, rivers and vast Lappish forests. It is an ideal place to take photographs or simply admire the scenery.
In summer, the long days and pleasant temperatures make hiking on Ounasvaara Hill a perfect activity. You can also explore the trails by mountain bike or go running.
In winter, Ounasvaara Hill becomes a popular destination for downhill skiing and snowboarding, with ski slopes and lifts. The hiking trails can also be used for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Ounasvaara Hill has visitor facilities, including picnic areas and rest stops. Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara, located at the top of the hill, has restaurants and bars, making it an excellent place to relax after your hike and admire the view.
In addition to hiking, Ounasvaara Hill offers other activities such as treetop adventure courses, zip lines and sledging slopes.
Explore Rovaniemi at night
Exploring Rovaniemi at night reveals a magical world of possibilities. Whether you are interested in nightlife, culture or nature, there is something to suit every taste.
Hunt for the Northern Lights
One of the most impressive night-time experiences in Rovaniemi is seeing the Northern Lights. Several guided excursions take you to places away from the city lights to maximise your chances of witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon.
Admire Santa Claus Village illuminated at night
If you visit Santa Claus Village during the winter season, make sure you remain until closing time, after darkness has fallen. Fully illuminated, it offers an enchanting atmosphere filled with festive decorations, twinkling lights and a particularly romantic setting. The ultimate experience is being lucky enough to see the Northern Lights at the same time!
Join a night-time hike
Night-time hikes around Rovaniemi are perfect for nature lovers. Northern Lights hunting, Lappish barbecues and snowshoeing adventures after dark are just some of the available options. These excursions allow you to walk beneath the stars and discover nocturnal wildlife, with stops for hot drinks or beside a campfire.
Experience saunas and Nordic baths
If you are looking for a relaxing experience, Rovaniemi has saunas and Nordic baths that remain open in the evening. It is an excellent way to unwind after a busy day.
Discover the local nightlife
Rovaniemi has bars, pubs and restaurants where you can experience the local nightlife. Some establishments feature live music or themed evenings, creating a lively atmosphere for an enjoyable night out.
Attend a cultural event
Local museums such as Arktikum and the Korundi contemporary art centre sometimes organise evening events featuring concerts, exhibitions or film screenings. It is an opportunity to discover Rovaniemi’s culture from another perspective.
These night-time activities provide an insight into the diversity and richness of this Lappish destination.
Where can you go on an excursion outside Rovaniemi?
If you have decided to spend longer than a weekend in Rovaniemi, here are three suggestions for excursions outside the city, depending on your personal interests.
Excursions to Kemi aboard an icebreaker and to the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine in Luosto are unique experiences that reveal some of Finnish Lapland’s natural and cultural treasures. The final suggestion allows you to see animal species native to the Arctic and northern regions.
Take a trip to Kemi
Kemi is a small coastal town located approximately 115 kilometres south of Rovaniemi, on the northern shore of the Gulf of Bothnia. It is best known for attractions connected with ice and the sea. This is a truly exceptional excursion.
The Sampo Icebreaker is one of Kemi’s main attractions. Weighing more than 3,500 tonnes, the Sampo takes you on a genuinely unique adventure across the frozen sea. During the excursion, you can visit different parts of the ship, learn how it operates and even have the opportunity to walk on the floating ice. Part of the excursion also includes swimming in the icy water while wearing a specially designed waterproof survival suit. It is an unforgettable experience that will cost less if you travel to Kemi the previous day, stay overnight and take the morning cruise.
Every winter, Kemi builds a gigantic SnowCastle featuring ice sculptures, hotel bedrooms, an ice restaurant and entertaining activities for visitors of all ages. The castle’s design changes every year, making each visit a unique experience.
Kemi also offers picturesque coastal scenery and interesting museums, making it an enjoyable and varied excursion.
Visit the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine
The Lampivaara Amethyst Mine in Luosto is located approximately 90 kilometres north of Rovaniemi, in the Pyhä-Luosto hills. It is one of the few amethyst mines in the world open to visitors.
Visit the mine: The excursion includes a hike or a journey in a special vehicle to reach the summit of Lampivaara, where the mine is located. Guides tell the story of the mine and explain how amethysts are formed. You will also have the opportunity to dig for your own amethyst, which you may take home with you, subject to certain restrictions.
Enjoy the panoramic view: The mine offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it an ideal place to take photographs and admire the landscape. The Pyhä-Luosto region is known for its ancient forests and rugged scenery, making it particularly appealing to nature lovers.
The Lampivaara Amethyst Mine is an ideal excursion for anyone who wants to discover a unique aspect of Lapland’s geology and try digging for amethysts. It is an entertaining and educational experience suitable for visitors of all ages.
Discover Lapland’s animals at Ranua Wildlife Park
Travel agencies in Rovaniemi charge approximately €125 per person for a five-hour-and-fifty-minute excursion to Ranua Wildlife Park… That is €250 for a couple!
Forget the agencies for this particular excursion and give your wallet a well-deserved break. Simply take the bus from Rovaniemi city centre. It leaves at 9.30 a.m., takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes and returns at 4.15 p.m., shortly after the park closes. Timetables may change, so check them here: https://www.kutilan.fi/en/routes#reitti-314. A return ticket for one adult costs €26.
The park covers an extensive area and is home to approximately 200 Arctic and northern European animals representing 50 different species. Numerous winter and summer activities are also available on site, including husky safaris, snowmobiling, horse-drawn rides, saunas, hiking, cycling and lake fishing. The money you save by travelling independently can therefore be spent on some of these activities. If you visit during winter, you will also appreciate having enough time to enjoy lunch at the park restaurant, which serves a buffet for less than €15 from 11 a.m.
Visiting the park involves walking approximately three kilometres of trails and takes around two hours. You can enjoy an early lunch at 11 a.m. without rushing, explore the park, return for a coffee or another drink and then take part in a husky safari, try snowmobiling or go ice fishing. Afterwards, it will be time to catch the bus back to Rovaniemi. Without booking an excursion through an agency, the day will cost approximately €70 per person, including the return bus journey, admission to the park, lunch and refreshments, but excluding safaris and other optional activities.
Combine Rovaniemi with a second city break in Helsinki
Finland is not exactly nearby, especially as there are few direct flights from France. To make the most of your time, consider combining your visit to Santa Claus Country with a stay in Helsinki by taking one week off.
A quick flight from Rovaniemi or an overnight train journey will take you there. If you would like to make it a three-destination trip, the Estonian capital of Tallinn is only a two-hour ferry journey from Helsinki and makes a very enjoyable day trip or mini-cruise from Finland.
Rovaniemi is an ideal destination for an extended romantic weekend, offering the perfect combination of nature, adventure and romance.
Whether you visit in winter for its snow-covered landscapes, sleigh safaris and enchanting Northern Lights, or in summer for its long sunny days, Midnight Sun, picturesque hiking trails and outdoor excursions, Rovaniemi has something to delight every couple.
The wide variety of accommodation, ranging from comfortable city-centre hotels to glass igloos and secluded cabins, allows you to create a truly intimate and special atmosphere. Ultimately, Rovaniemi promises a romantic getaway filled with emotion and discovery, with each season offering its own charm and unique opportunities to create precious memories.