Embark on an unforgettable journey to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and the largest city in Europe by area! Rovaniemi is a captivating and internationally renowned destination in Northern Finland, attracting travelers from all over the world. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers much more than just year-round Christmas spirit and the magic of Lapland. Rovaniemi is a hub of activities! Embark on a snowmobile safari or a horse-drawn sleigh ride, visit the animals at Ranua Zoo, and witness the magical Northern Lights dancing across the sky. Meet Santa Claus in his own hometown Santa Claus Village is a must-visit destination in Rovaniemi, especially for families and all Christmas enthusiasts. Located on the Arctic Circle, the village offers the chance to meet Santa Claus and his elves throughout the year. Children and adults alike can send Christmas greetings from the world’s northernmost post office, and there’s a wide range of souvenirs and handicrafts available. You can also meet Mrs. Claus at the Santa Claus Reindeer Park. Have a chat with her and listen to her stories while also seeing Santa’s magnificent reindeer! Experience local culture on a reindeer farm Reindeer are an essential part of Lapland’s culture. In Rovaniemi, there are several reindeer farms where you can learn about reindeer herding and enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride. The farms provide insight into traditional reindeer herding and what it means today, often concluding the visit with a warm drink and sausages by the campfire. It’s an authentic way to experience Lapland, not to mention meeting the friendly and gentle reindeer. Marvel at the northern lights – Nature’s own memorable light show Rovaniemi is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, with the season lasting from August to April. Imagine watching the sky light up with vibrant green, purple, and red lights – an experience that will leave you speechless. Many local companies offer guided tours to see the Northern Lights, but sometimes you can even catch a glimpse from the city area if the sky is clear and weather conditions are favorable. Dive into history at Arktikum and science centre Pilke The Arktikum museum and Science Centre Pilke are two cultural attractions in Rovaniemi that offer a deep dive into Arctic life and Lapland. At Arktikum, you can explore the history, culture, and Arctic research of Lapland, while Pilke focuses on sustainable forestry and biodiversity. Both places are great for families and are particularly engaging for visitors of all ages. Each cultural spot also has its own gift shop where you can find a souvenir for yourself or a friend. Savor the flavors of Lapland in local restaurants Food in Rovaniemi is an experience in itself. The city boasts several restaurants offering traditional Lappish delicacies like sautéed reindeer, salmon soup, and blueberry pie. We recommend trying the local flavors and enjoying the bounty of Lapland’s nature, often made with fresh and local ingredients. Travel to Rovaniemi comfortably with OnniBus Traveling to Rovaniemi on OnniBus' new Volvo double-decker buses is a convenient way to reach the city. The upper deck seats 71–78 offer exceptional comfort with spacious table seating, allowing you to relax, work, or watch movies while enjoying the scenery on your way north. Book your trip to Rovaniemi's extraordinary nature and attractions. Be sure to reserve your seat early and choose the best seat for a comfortable journey. Rovaniemi awaits you for a winter adventure where the magic of Christmas, natural wonders, and cultural experiences meet. A journey to Rovaniemi is easy with options like the OnniBus MEGA M4 line, which runs directly from Helsinki to the official hometown of Santa Claus. From the Oulu bus station, the direct trip to Rovaniemi takes less than three hours, and from Jyväskylä, the travel time is 7 hours and 55 minutes. Hop on board and experience the magic of Lapland on your way to Rovaniemi!
