Rovaniemi Lapland, Finland Travel Guide
High-end hotels with modern design and Arctic influences, like Arctic Light Hotel. These properties often give premium services, fine dining, and stylish interiors.
Reputable international and Finnish chains (Scandic, Lapland Hotels, Original Sokos Hotel) that offer comfortable stays with standard amenities. They present a reliable balance of comfort and cost.
More affordable options, including basic hotels and guesthouses. Omena Hotels, for example, have automated check-in, a convenience for budget-conscious travelers.
Budget-friendly options with dormitory beds and private rooms. Hostels provide communal facilities and foster a social atmosphere. Hostel Cafe Koti is a popular choice.
Popular for Northern Lights viewing, with glass roofs. Located outside the city to minimize light pollution. Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, Santa's Igloos Arctic Circle, Apukka Resort are examples.
Seasonal structures built from snow and ice, an overnight experience with warm sleeping bags. Arctic SnowHotel is an example. Open from December to March.
Self-catering units with private saunas for a secluded, traditional Finnish stay. Santa Claus Holiday Village cottages are well-equipped for families.
Platforms like Vrbo offer numerous choices, excellent for families or groups desiring more space and self-catering options.
The choice of where to stay in Rovaniemi largely depends on travel priorities. Each area is a different ambiance and accessibility to attractions.
Excellent for Northern Lights viewing due to minimal light pollution. Many unique Arctic experiences are directly on-site (glass igloos, ice hotels, safaris). Immersion into the Arctic wilderness and tranquility.
Far from city amenities and public transport. Dedicated transport (shuttle, taxi, rental car) for travel. Typically higher-end and more expensive. Dining options are usually limited to the resort's own restaurants.
If you seek Northern Lights, book a glass igloo or a cabin outside the city for better dark sky access. This balances unique lodging with aurora viewing.
For families, cottages and vacation rentals provide more space and kitchen facilities, potentially a cost-effective option for longer stays.
Hostels in the city center are a practical choice for solo or budget-conscious travelers, often with communal spaces.
This table shows reputable accommodations across various categories, helping you choose your stay.
Near Santa Claus Village, nestled in forest. Stylish design, stunning views, excellent for Northern Lights from your room. Modern and private.
Right at Santa Claus Village. Glass-roofed igloos directly on the Arctic Circle, convenient for Santa Claus attractions. Cozy and well-equipped.
City Center. Boutique-style, modern Lappish design, popular restaurant (Gaissa). A high-quality city stay.
Ounasvaara Hill. Offers ski-in/ski-out access in winter, panoramic city views. Features a restaurant and good access to nature trails.
City Center, riverside. A large, well-established hotel with a swimming pool and a central location on the Kemijoki River. Reliable and comfortable.
City Center. Central location, clean, good atmosphere, with a popular cafe on-site. Social and budget-friendly. Book via Hostelworld.
Santa Claus Village. Cottages with kitchens, direct access to Santa and various activities within the village. Ideal for families with children.
€30 (dorm) - €100 (private) for Hostels. €150 - €400 for Family Cottages. Prices are indicative and vary significantly by season, availability, and room type.
Highest prices occur during peak winter, especially Christmas and New Year. Plan accordingly.
Shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) usually have more moderate prices and availability.
Early reservations for unique accommodations like glass igloos are strongly suggested.
Compare prices across various booking platforms and direct hotel websites.
Expect accommodation prices to be significantly higher from December to early January, and during the peak Northern Lights season.
Visiting during shoulder seasons (late autumn or early spring) generally has better value for accommodation and fewer crowds.
Longer stays in vacation rentals or cottages can be more cost-effective.
Decide if proximity to city attractions or wilderness activities is more important for your stay.
Check recent reviews on booking platforms to verify experiences of other travelers.
