Travel from Tromsø to Rovaniemi – what to do and where to stay in Rovaniemi
11 December 2023
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Your next cross-border Arctic experience awaits as you journey from Tromsø to Rovaniemi. Discover vibrant places, indulge in exciting activities, and experience the beauty of Finnish Lapland. The journey, taken on new and comfortable coaches, will connect you to the famous Santa Claus Village, Levi Skiing Resort, and Kittilä Airport, among others. If you are searching and organizing your trip between these two destinations, this article is for you: find here how to travel between Tromsø and Rovaniemi, where to stay in Rovaniemi, what to do there.
Tromsø – The Gateway to the Arctic
Tromsø, known as the Gateway to the Arctic, offers a vibrant city life that is sure to captivate you. The city is teeming with activity, with something happening all the time. Many travel here in the search of northern lights, whale watching, dog sledding, snowmobile and all sorts of Arctic adventures.
The Arctic Route
The journey between Tromsø and Rovaniemi is a spectacle in itself. With its winter route, running daily between the 1st of December and the 31st of March in both directions, the Arctic Route provides a comfortable ride with free Wi-Fi (between Tromsø and Kilpisjärvi) , USB/electronic charging points, and a toilet inside the bus. The drivers are experienced in driving in Arctic conditions and fluent in English, ensuring a smooth journey. The buses offer optimal temperature and comfortable seating.
Check the calendar here to book your ticket, we advise you to book in advance because some days might be sold out.
Please note: there is a time difference of 1 hour between Norway (UTC/GMT+1) and Finland (UTC/GMT+2).
Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi, home to the famous Santa Claus Village, is a true winter wonderland, located in the North of Finland.
Indulge in a magical Christmas atmosphere and meet Santa Claus himself! The village has a lot of entertainment, restaurants, an ice restaurant and ice bar, a Santa Post Office and several souvenir shops.
Activities and experiences to try in Rovaniemi
There’s a myriad of activities to try along the way, from snowmobile safaris and skiing to experiencing Sami culture, husky safaris, ice fishing, and more. Check some ideas here.
Accommodation options
There are several spectacular accommodations worth visiting during this route, providing a mix of luxury and authenticity, to all budgets:
Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi
Experience Lapland’s ever-changing nature while enjoying the comforts of a hotel room at Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle.
These luxurious, spacious glass igloos are intended for year-round use, offering a unique opportunity to witness the magical northern lights, spectacular midnight sun, and the beautiful winter polar night.
Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus in Rovaniemi
Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus is located close to everything Rovaniemi city center has to offer such as activities, guided excursions, safaris, and a vibrant culture.
With spacious rooms, a bathtub for a pinch of luxury, and beautiful views over the city, this hotel guarantees a memorable stay.
Santa’s Hotel Rudolf in Rovaniemi
For budget travelers, Hotel Rudolf is the perfect option. Offering buffet breakfast and restaurant discounts at Hotel Santa Claus, which is only 600 meters away, it provides an affordable yet comfortable stay.
Local cuisine
Savor local food and culture along the way. The restaurants along the route serve Nordic menus created to be shared. Santa’s breakfast is a pleasant surprise with a variety of traditional and local flavors and dishes.
Tips for the journey
Here are a few tips for your journey:
Be aware of the time difference between Norway and Finland;
Ensure to book your activities and accommodation in advance;
Dress warmly and appropriately for the weather conditions;
Stay hydrated and take regular breaks during activities.
The journey between Tromsø and Rovaniemi is more than just a trip; it’s an adventure that offers stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and the chance to meet Santa Claus. So, pack your bags and embark on this Arctic experience!
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