Rovaniemi – The true heart of Lapland

Visit Rovaniemi, Santa’s official hometown

Imagine a place where the Northern Lights dance across the sky, where you can meet reindeer, and where Santa Claus himself welcomes you with open arms. Welcome to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus!

What you need to know

What to do and where to stay in Rovaniemi

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Travel from Tromsø to Rovaniemi - Where, how & what

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The Arctic Route: Your easiest transportation option to go skiing in Narvik, Levi & Tromsø

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Where is Rovaniemi?

Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland (Northern Finland), Rovaniemi sits right on the Arctic Circle. Approximately 10 hours driving a car from Tromsø, this unique location makes it the perfect base for your Arctic adventures, such as snowmobile, reindeer sledding, meeting Santa Claus at the Santa Claus village (in Rovaniemi), visit the Arctic Circle (and literally cross it), among many other opportunities. The Arctic Route bus brings you daily between Tromsø and Rovaniemi, during wintertime (1st December – 31st March), offering the easiest and most comfortable way to travel between these two towns.

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Why should you visit Rovaniemi during wintertime?

  • Meet Santa Claus at the Santa Clau’s village
  • Step over the Arctic Circle, as the geographic line is running through Santa Claus Village
  • Witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights
  • Experience authentic Sami culture
  • Embark on thrilling snowmobile adventures
  • Enjoy a wide range of winter activities

Traveling between Rovaniemi and Tromsø by bus: The Arctic Route

From December 1st to March 31st, hop on the Arctic Route winter bus connecting Tromsø and Rovaniemi. This scenic journey takes you through breathtaking Arctic landscapes, making your trip an adventure in itself!

This winter bus route also stops at other strategic bus stops such as Levi and Kittilä Airport. The Rovaniemi Airport is located 15 minutes from Rovaniemi city center and 10 minutes from Santa Claus Village, also allowing good connections between strategic points.

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What to do in Rovaniemi

Santa Claus’ Village: Where Christmas never ends

Step into a world of wonder at the Santa Claus’ Village, open year-round:

  • Meet Santa in his office (daily, 10 AM – 5 PM)
  • Send postcards from Santa’s Main Post Office
  • Cross the Arctic Circle line
  • Enjoy reindeer sleigh rides (weather permitting, 10 AM – 4 PM)
  • Shop for unique Arctic souvenirs

You can read further information about what to do at the Santa Claus’ village and Rovaniemi here.

Beyond Santa: Thrilling Arctic experiences

Where to stay in Rovaniemi: Cozy comfort in the Arctic

Rovaniemi offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler:

If you would like to read further into detail about the different types of accommodation in Rovaniemi, check it here.

Rovaniemi is more than just a destination; it’s a magical experience that will stay with you forever. From meeting Santa Claus to witnessing the ethereal Northern Lights, every moment in Rovaniemi is filled with wonder.

Travel by bus between Tromsø (Norway) and Rovaniemi (Finland), daily, between 1st of December and 31st of March, with the Arctic Route. Prebook your bus ticket to guarantee your spot.

Book your bus ticket here

Visit Tromsø – What to do

Tromsø, or “the gateway to the Arctic”, in Northern Norway offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike:

  • Northern Light tours (September to March);
  • Whale Watching tours (from November to January);
  • Exhilarating snowmobile tours (for the adrenaline junkies);
  • Dog sledding tours (one of the all-time best-sellers);
  • Boat and fjord tours (for those seeking a maritime adventure and offering a unique perspective of the rugged coastline)

Tromsø’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and Arctic charm makes it an irresistible destination for those seeking an extraordinary and unforgettable travel experience.

Visit Tromsø