Introduction
Finland’s Lapland is the northernmost region of Finland, known for its stunning Arctic landscapes, vast wilderness, and magical winter experiences. It’s famous as the home of Santa Claus, the Northern Lights, and unique cultural heritage, including the indigenous Sámi people.
- Home of Santa Claus
Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland, is globally recognized as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Open all year round, the village welcomes visitors from every corner of the world to meet Santa in person. With his warm smile and friendly elves, a visit here brings the magic of Christmas to life no matter the season. Santa meets guests in his cozy chamber, making each encounter feel personal and unforgettable, especially for families with young children. - Cross the Arctic Circle Line
One of the most iconic features of the village is the chance to cross the Arctic Circle, marked by a white line that runs through the center of Santa Claus Village. Visitors can step across this geographical landmark and even receive an official certificate to commemorate the experience. It’s a unique and symbolic moment, representing a journey into the Arctic wilderness and the heart of Lapland’s magic. - The Santa Claus Post Office
Operated by Finland’s national postal service, the Santa Claus Main Post Office is more than just a post office—it’s a place full of charm and wonder. Every year, it receives hundreds of thousands of letters from children around the world. Visitors can write their own cards or letters and send them with a special Arctic Circle postmark. The post office also allows guests to schedule Christmas cards for future delivery, adding a magical touch to holiday greetings. - Reindeer and Husky Sleigh Rides
Santa Claus Village offers unforgettable reindeer and husky sleigh rides, which are both traditional and thrilling. Glide across snow-covered landscapes pulled by gentle reindeer or energetic huskies while wrapped in warm blankets. These rides aren’t just fun—they’re a window into Lapland’s rich heritage, where reindeer herding and dog sledding are still a part of everyday life for many locals. - Winter Wonderland Activities
Beyond meeting Santa, the village is a gateway to a wide range of winter activities. Families and adventure-seekers can enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Many tours also offer Northern Lights excursions, where you can chase the elusive Aurora Borealis under the vast Arctic skies. For children, there are safe snow slides, mini-snowmobiles, and plenty of places to play in the deep snow. - Northern Lights and Arctic Beauty
Santa Claus Village is located just a few kilometers from the best places to witness the Northern Lights, one of the most breathtaking natural phenomena on Earth. From late August to April, the skies above Lapland come alive with green, pink, and purple hues dancing across the sky. Visitors can enjoy the show from special glass igloos or during guided tours into the silent wilderness. - Year-Round Christmas Spirit
One of the most unique aspects of Santa Claus Village is that it celebrates Christmas every day of the year. The decorations, music, and festive spirit never fade, creating an immersive experience for visitors even during the summer months. Christmas trees twinkle with lights, holiday music fills the air, and shops sell a wide variety of Christmas-themed souvenirs and Finnish handicrafts. - Family-Friendly Accommodations
The village and surrounding areas offer a range of cozy accommodations, from traditional log cabins and glass igloos to family hotels and luxury chalets. Many places come equipped with saunas and fireplaces, perfect for warming up after a day in the snow. Staying within the village also means easy access to attractions and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. - Sámi Culture and Local Cuisine
A visit to Santa Claus Village also offers a chance to explore the local Sami culture, the indigenous people of Lapland. Cultural experiences include storytelling, traditional music, and crafts, as well as tastings of Sámi cuisine like reindeer stew, Arctic char, and berry-based desserts. Restaurants and cafes in the area also serve hearty Finnish food that keeps guests fueled for snowy adventures. - Easy Access and Welcoming Atmosphere
Despite its Arctic location, Santa Claus Village is easily accessible. Rovaniemi Airport is just minutes away, with direct flights from Helsinki and other European cities. The village is well organized, family-friendly, and welcoming to all ages. Staff members are multilingual, and the warm hospitality of the Finnish people ensures that every visitor leaves with magical memories and a sense of joy.
Where to stay in Finland
. Helsinki – Best for Urban Exploration
- Why stay here? Finland’s capital offers a mix of Nordic design, coastal charm, museums, restaurants, and easy access to day trips.
- Top Areas:
- Kamppi or Kluuvi (central and close to everything)
- Katajanokka (quiet, scenic, and near the harbor)
- Popular Hotels:
- Hotel Kamp (luxury)
- Radisson Blu Plaza
- The Folks Hotel Konepaja (boutique)
- Lapland (Rovaniemi, Levi, Saariselkä) – Best for Winter & Northern Lights
- Why stay here? For snow, reindeer, Santa Claus Village, aurora hunting, and magical Arctic landscapes.
- Top Spots:
- Rovaniemi (family-friendly, Santa Claus Village)
- Levi (ski resort, luxury igloos)
- Saariselka (glass igloos, remote feel)
- Unique Places:
- Arctic TreeHouse Hotel (Rovaniemi)
- Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (Saariselkä, glass igloos)
- Levin Iglut Golden Crown (Levi)
- Lakeland (Savonlinna, Kuopio, Mikkeli) – Best for Nature & Relaxation
- Why stay here? Ideal for summer trips, lakeside cabins, canoeing, saunas, and peace.
- Top Areas:
- Savonlinna (castle, lakes, opera festival)
- Mikkeli and Kuopio (local culture and nature)
- Accommodation Types:
- Lakeside cottages
- Spa hotels
- Nature lodges
Things to Do in Finland
- See the Northern Lights in Lapland
From late August to April, Finnish Lapland offers one of the best chances in the world to witness the Aurora Borealis. Head to remote areas like Saariselka, Yllas, or Luosto, or stay in a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen or Levi to watch the lights from bed.
- Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle, and explore a magical world of snow, reindeer, and elves. Open year-round, this is a must for families or Christmas lovers.
- Experience a Traditional Finnish Sauna
Sauna is a way of life in Finland. Try a lakeside wood-fired sauna in the countryside or a public sauna in Helsinki like Löyly or Allas Sea Pool. For the full experience, follow it with a dip in a lake or the sea—even in winter.
Day Trips from Helsinki
- Porvoo – Historic Old Town
- Travel time: ~1 hour by bus or car
- Why go? Wander through cobblestone streets, see the 15th-century cathedral, and visit charming cafes and local craft shops.
- Highlight: Riverside red wooden houses and Finnish pastries in quaint cafés.
- Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Travel time: 15-minute ferry from Helsinki Market Square
- Why go? Explore an 18th-century island fortress, museums, and scenic trails.
- Tip: Great for a relaxed afternoon with a picnic.
- Nuuksio National Park
- Travel time: ~45 minutes from Helsinki
- Why go? Perfect for hiking, lake views, forest bathing, and spotting wildlife.
- Highlight: Finnish Nature Centre Haltia and peaceful lake swimming in summer.
