Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is not merely the administrative center of Lapland in northern Finland, but also the world-famous residence of Santa Claus, attracting travelers with its fairytale atmosphere. If you have decided to travel to Rovaniemi for polar adventures, it is useful to study the logistics in advance, as this Arctic city has excellent transport accessibility. Figuring out how to get to Rovaniemi is quite simple: you can fly here comfortably by plane, arrive by train or bus, or drive by car along picturesque winter routes.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the heart of Lapland is by air. Unlike many remote northern locations, the city has its own international airport, Rovaniemi (RVN), located just 10 kilometers from the city center. This air hub is known for its unique atmosphere and holds the honorary title of the "Official Airport of Santa Claus".

Regular flights connect the city with Helsinki year-round: the flight from the capital of Finland takes just over an hour. During the high winter season, flight connections expand significantly with direct charters from various European cities. If tickets for a direct flight are sold out, you can consider flying to neighboring airports in the cities of Kemi or Kittilä as an alternative, from where it is easy to reach your destination by bus or rental car.

Traveling by rail is one of the most atmospheric and convenient ways to get to the capital of Lapland. Rovaniemi has its own railway station, where trains arrive daily from Helsinki and other major cities. Finnish Railways (VR) provide a high level of service, making the trip north a pleasant and relaxing part of your vacation.

The direct night train, the "Santa Claus Express", has become a true legend among travelers. This is a comfortable double-decker train that departs from the capital of Finland in the evening and arrives north of the Arctic Circle the next morning. By choosing this option, you save daylight hours for sightseeing and can get a good night's sleep in cozy private sleeping cabins, some of which are even equipped with their own ensuite showers.

A train journey allows you to smoothly immerse yourself in the fairytale: you fall asleep in the city and wake up amidst snow-covered forests. The station is conveniently located just a few kilometers from the center, from where it is easy to get to hotels or head straight to Santa Claus Village.

Bus services in Lapland are distinguished by high reliability and comfort, allowing travelers to enjoy the snowy taiga landscapes right from the window. One of the most popular routes is the trip from the coastal city of Kemi: covering a distance of 120 kilometers takes only about an hour and a half. An equally picturesque road leads from the north, from the ski resort of Kittilä, located 150 kilometers away; buses cover this route in approximately two hours, often making stops at key tourist locations.

For those planning a complex route across Scandinavia, there are convenient connections even with neighboring Sweden. The trip from the town of Pajala, located 180 kilometers to the west, lasts about three hours and crosses the state border, opening up views of the Tornio River valley. Modern coaches run regularly, making the journey a tireless part of your Arctic adventure.

Traveling by car through Lapland offers an incredible sense of freedom and the opportunity to enjoy views of Arctic nature at your own pace. The drive from the port city of Kemi along the main E75 highway takes only about an hour and a half, as the distance is approximately 120 kilometers. If you are coming from the popular resort of Kittilä, be prepared for a picturesque two-hour journey of 150 kilometers, running through dense snow-covered forests.

A route can also be conveniently planned from neighboring Sweden: the road from the town of Pajala will take just under three hours, during which you will cover about 180 kilometers. The quality of the road surface in the north is excellent, but it is worth remembering that taxis for such distances in Finland are an expensive luxury, often exceeding 200–300 Euros, so renting a car remains the most practical choice for independent travelers.

Preparing for a trip to Rovaniemi requires special attention, as this Arctic city lives by its own unique rules and rhythms. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible and free of organizational difficulties, we have compiled a list of the most important recommendations for guests of the capital of Lapland.

1. Clothing and Gear: The main rule of Lapland is layering. In winter, the temperature can drop below -20°C, so be sure to bring high-quality thermal underwear, wool sweaters, and windproof outerwear. Footwear should be warm, with thick soles, and preferably a size larger to accommodate warm socks.
2. Transport: The city center is compact enough for walking, but it is more convenient to get to Santa Claus Village and the airport by the Santa’s Express bus (route No. 8). Taxis in Finland are safe and reliable but expensive, so for frequent trips around the area, it is more economical to rent a car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro. In Rovaniemi, bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from souvenir shops to taxis, so there is no need to carry large amounts of cash. However, keeping a few coins for lockers or gratuities can be useful.
4. Health and Safety: The city is very safe for tourists and families, but in winter, the main hazard is icy conditions, so please be careful on the streets. The tap water here is considered some of the purest in the world — it is perfectly safe and clean to drink directly from the tap without boiling. Pharmacies are easily recognized by the green sign "Apteekki".
5. Communication: Although the official languages are Finnish and Swedish, almost all service sector workers and many locals speak excellent English. Learning the simple word "Kiitos" (Thank you) shows respect and is sure to bring a smile to the person you are speaking with.
6. Local Etiquette: Finns value personal space, quietness, and punctuality. In public places, it is not customary to speak loudly or draw excessive attention to oneself. If you have booked a safari or excursion, arrive exactly on time — waiting for latecomers is not the norm here.
7. What to Avoid: Never walk on groomed cross-country ski tracks — this is considered a breach of etiquette and damages the track. Also, avoid walking on the ice of the Kemijoki River in unmarked places, even if it seems solid: currents can erode the ice from below.
8. Extra Tip: If you are hunting for the Northern Lights, download special apps with solar activity forecasts (for example, Aurora Alert). For observation, it is better to move away from streetlights, for instance, to the park near the Arktikum museum on the riverbank.

By following these simple practical tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on the magic of the Arctic. May your journey be safe, warm, and full of bright impressions!