Things to see and do Rovaniemi

A must-see cultural and architectural site in Rovaniemi, with its glass roof stretching over 170 m along the banks of the Ounasjoki River. Comprising the Arctic Center of the University of Rovaniemi and the Provincial Museum of Lapland, the complex is dedicated to the nature and cultures of the peoples of the Far North. History is not forgotten, with the painful episode of the Second World War: in October 1944, the German army destroyed 90% of Rovaniemi.

It's hard not to be impressed by the quality of the exhibits and the educational aspect of the displays. We learn a whole host of things, from the fact that "Arctic" comes from Arktikos in Sami, meaning "land of the great bear", to the fact that the giant crab was introduced by man into the Barents Sea, throwing the entire ecosystem out of balance. In short, this entertaining tour is highly instructive. Everyday objects are on display, and good films are shown to help you learn more about the Sami people. Allow at least 2 hours for your visit.

The museum regularly offers temporary exhibitions, which are less costly to enter (usually 5 euros), and allow you to rediscover the site over and over again. They also offer a less time-consuming and different approach to the museum, for visitors in a hurry who would still like to enter this incredible building. It's a must-see!

Little bonus: the café-restaurant in the center is delicious! Perfect for a gourmet break after your visit.

An agency that is both professional and on a human scale. Here, you will not be drowned in groups of tourists. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to excursions: a night outing on a snowmobile to discover the Northern Lights, a magical sled dog tour, snowshoe hiking on the heights of Rovaniemi, cross-country skiing outings? In the summer, you can raft down a river, and much more! In addition, guides will pick you up and take you back to your accommodation, and in winter, you will be provided with head-to-toe outfits!

Lapland Safaris offers winter and summer excursions to enrich your stay and keep you entertained. In winter, snowmobile rides, reindeer- or husky-drawn sleighs, hole fishing, dinner and overnight stay in an igloo... In summer, traditional boat cruises, visits to reindeer farms and a wide range of activities to do on your own. Thanks to its network of service providers, the agency can offer stays throughout Lapland. Beware, however, that this is group tourism, and you'll often be working with large groups.

Here it is, the famous village that draws crowds from all over the world. Santa's workplace. You can even take a photo with him, or send a card from his post office! As for the rest, Santa's village is nothing more than an open-air shopping mall, where you can find absolutely every Lapland souvenir you can imagine, from Lappish handicrafts to Christmas decorations, and where you can indulge in all the typical activities. The place is fun, but the prices are exorbitant.

It's the hub where you can schedule safaris or get information on everything. Previously, the tourist office was located at Lordi Square: Lordi was the pseudonym of a singer before becoming the name of a Finnish hard rock band formed in 1996. A jack-of-all-trades, Mr. Lordi, the band's lead singer, began making demos on his own before forming his own group. The band won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2006. Their victory prompted the town of Rovaniemi to rename a square in their honor. A fitting tribute!

The elves have finally authorized the disclosure of the location of this unique place in the heart of the forest where everyone can discover the true story of Christmas. True tradition lovers will be happy to discover this address lost in the middle of nature, where many superb activities await them. But this dream comes at a (very expensive) price, because there's no question of coming by car and spoiling the fairy-tale atmosphere. We will pick you up in town or you will have to take a shuttle.

An underground amusement park with Santa Claus as its main theme. Here, you'll meet elves, reindeer and all the logistics that go to make up the Christmas miracle! Fun with children, the atmosphere is cheerful and exotic, and despite the high prices and permanent crowds, it's an extra dimension to the Santa Claus Secret Forest that's worth appreciating. Reservations recommended. Tickets valid for all attractions on two consecutive days. Be warned: the area is very, very, very touristy!

This is a very serious agency, on a human scale, where you'll be greeted with a smile! In winter, snow activities are the order of the day, with snowmobile tours of all kinds, including night-time northern lights, husky sleigh rides, reindeer farm visits, ice-fishing sessions and more. In summer, you can enjoy rafting, jet-skiing or paintball. And to round things off, there's also a bar, restaurant and accommodation.

This little ice village is a must when visiting Santa Claus! Some attractions to entertain young and old like a descent in a tyre on an icy slide, an Ice Bar to taste a cocktail, a restaurant to feast... All this in an igloo atmosphere, and the possibility to sleep in the igloo, without risk of catching cold, wrapped up in a blanket... In short, there's plenty here to enjoy in Santa's country. Ideal to make the children dream!

A modern, interactive site where you can learn all about sustainable forestry. The exhibits are well designed for children, who will quickly understand the process of photosynthesis and the principle of eco-responsibility. You can also get lost in a reconstituted birch forest, to feel the life of the forest at night. National park information desk for hiking and fishing sites (maps available). Extended opening hours in high season; see website.

Built in a former postal depot dating from 1933, the space offers a large number of cultural events, mainly musical, but it also has a solid collection of contemporary art. It is also the home of the Lapland Chamber Orchestra. Temporary exhibitions change four times a year. It is an important cultural venue for the city, but it is also a place where you can meet to admire the beauty of the premises, in perfect harmony with the spirit of the place, and enjoy a coffee or a quiet moment in the complex's library.

Alvar Aalto's work, which once again imposes his touch. A beautiful cultural hall for both theatre and concerts. The congress centre has three halls for concerts, cocktail parties, conferences and all kinds of events. In its largest room, it can accommodate up to 419 people. You can also see the library located opposite, which has been extensively redesigned according to the plans of the master architect (1965). Aesthetics and practicality are combined to perfection. Superb work on the light in particular.