How to Get to Rovaniemi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Rovaniemi Airport RVN

Air travel generally offers the quickest and most convenient way to reach Rovaniemi, especially for international visitors.

Airport Details

Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of Rovaniemi city center.
Often called the "official airport of Santa Claus" due to its proximity to Santa Claus Village and festive atmosphere.
Compact and easy to navigate, with a relaxed atmosphere compared to larger international hubs.

Airlines & Routes

Year-round direct flights mainly connect Rovaniemi to Helsinki. Seasonal routes to Europe are common in winter.

Flight Information

Finnair: Operates year-round direct flights from Helsinki (HEL) to Rovaniemi multiple times daily. Also offers seasonal direct flights from major European cities.
Norwegian: Provides flights from Helsinki (HEL) to Rovaniemi, and some seasonal direct European routes.
Other European Airlines (seasonal): EasyJet, Ryanair, Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Edelweiss Air operate direct charter or scheduled flights to RVN during peak winter (Dec-Mar).

Seasonal Fluctuations

Flight availability is highest, and prices are significantly higher, during peak winter (Dec-Mar), especially around Christmas and New Year.

Airport Facilities

Rovaniemi Airport is small but modern and efficient. It has basic services: cafes, snack bars, gift shop, car rental desks, free Wi-Fi, and Santa Claus-themed amenities.

Airport Transfers

Santa's Express / Airport Bus operates between RVN, city center, and Santa Claus Village (~€8-€10). Taxis cost ~€20-€30 to city center. Rental cars are available.

Direct Flight Options from Global Hubs

Year-round Connections

Year-round direct connections to Rovaniemi are mainly from Helsinki.
Travelers from outside Europe typically connect via Helsinki Vantaa Airport (HEL).
Alternatively, connect via other major European cities that present seasonal direct flights to RVN.
This often equals an one-stop journey from North America or Asia.

Affiliate Resources for Flights

Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.
Skyscanner for comparing flight prices.
DiscoverCars.com for car rentals.
AirHelp for flight compensation.

Land Transportation

Train Connections VR

Rovaniemi maintains connections by train to Helsinki and other major Finnish cities. The "Santa Claus Express" night train runs daily between Helsinki and Rovaniemi, taking approximately 12-13 hours, with various accommodation options (seating, sleeping compartments, car-carrying wagons). Book tickets on VR's website.

Long-distance Buses

Matkahuolto, Finland's main intercity bus operator, has extensive connections. Buses are more economical but slower than trains. OnniBus.com offers budget routes. The Rovaniemi Travel Centre serves as the main hub for both train and long-distance bus services, making transfers convenient.

Self-Driving Considerations

Roads in Finland are well-maintained. Winter driving (Nov-Mar/Apr) legally requires winter tires (rental cars include these). Expect harsh weather, reduced visibility, and slippery roads. Drive cautiously; reindeer and elk roam freely, especially at dawn and dusk. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended for non-EU/EEA citizens. Minimum rental age often exceeds 18.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Rovaniemi is an inland city, so direct sea or river arrivals do not happen. However, sea travel can form part of a broader journey to Finland.

Baltic Sea Connections

Finland's capital, Helsinki, functions as a major cruise and ferry port.
Numerous ferry services connect Helsinki to Stockholm, Sweden (Viking Line, Tallink Silja Line), and Tallinn, Estonia (frequent 2-hour journeys).
If you arrive in Helsinki by ferry, you can continue your journey to Rovaniemi via domestic flights, trains, or long-distance buses from Helsinki.

River Transportation & Procedures

The Kemijoki and Ounasjoki rivers grace Rovaniemi. In summer, river cruises operate for sightseeing, seeing the city and nature from the water. These are not typically used for point-to-point transportation.

Arrival & Connections

Immigration at Seaports: Arriving by international ferry means immigration procedures at the seaport, similar to airport arrivals.
Connections to Land Transportation: Major ferry terminals in Helsinki present good connections to local public transport networks. This permits easy access to Helsinki Airport, Helsinki Central Railway Station, or Kamppi bus station for your onward journey to Rovaniemi.
River Cruises: Primarily for sightseeing in summer, not for transport.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing passengers from Finland, whether by air, train, or bus. The ticket price covers all fees.

Departure Recommendations

Flights: Arrive at Rovaniemi Airport at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights, and 2-2.5 hours before international flights. Allow extra time during peak winter season.
Train/Bus: For departures from Rovaniemi Travel Centre, 15-30 minutes before departure generally suffices.
VAT Refunds: If you are a non-EU resident with eligible "Tax Free" purchases, allow extra time at the airport for refund procedures before check-in. Look for "Tax Free" or "Global Blue" signs.

Airport/Station Facilities

Rovaniemi provides basic facilities for departing travelers, making the departure process smooth and comfortable.

Available Amenities

Rovaniemi Airport: Check-in desks, security screening, a small duty-free shop, and a cafe for snacks and drinks.
Rovaniemi Travel Centre: Waiting areas, ticketing services, and usually some small kiosks or cafes for train and bus passengers.

Affiliate Resources for Planning

Visa & Travel Docs

IVisa (consumer visa application service) and VisaHQ (direct visa and passport service).

Travel Insurance

World Nomads (adventurous travelers), SafetyWing (digital nomads), and Insubuy (US visitors).

Health & Safety Gear

LifeStraw (water filtration), Adventure Medical Kits (first aid), Pacsafe (anti-theft bags).

Departure Reminder

Reconfirm your flight or train departure times the day before you leave. This averts surprises, notably during winter when weather influences schedules.

How to Get to Rovaniemi