Curator’s statement
My first winter journey through Finland felt like stepping into a snow globe where every moment was new for our family. In Helsinki, we eased into Nordic life with cozy cafés and design-forward streets. Up in Rovaniemi, we experienced real Arctic adventures—sledding through forests and watching the sky for the Aurora Borealis. It became more than a trip; it was the start of shared winter memories we’ll talk about for years.
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Things to do in Helsinki & Rovaniemi
Helsinki
Ferry to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: A short ferry ride from the harbor brings you to this UNESCO-listed island fortress with snowy paths, sea views, and centuries of history.
Vanha Kauppahalli: This historic indoor market is perfect for warming up while tasting local Finnish bites like salmon soup and pastries.
Temppeliaukio Church: Carved directly into solid rock, this architectural marvel is both striking and serene. The natural light and acoustics create a quiet, memorable moment in the middle of the city.
Sibelius Monument: Set in a snowy park, this abstract sculpture made of steel pipes is a fun visual stop and a great photo opportunity.
Oodi Central Library: More than a library, Oodi is a warm public living room with beautiful design, reading nooks, and play spaces. It’s a wonderful place to pause, relax, and experience everyday Finnish life.
Santa's Express Train: The overnight train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi feels like part of the adventure itself. Enjoy the convenience of waking up in the Arctic.
Rovaniemi
Santa Claus Village: Crossing the Arctic Circle and meeting Santa makes this a magical highlight for everyone. The festive atmosphere, snow-covered cabins, and cheerful energy make it feel like a real-life winter storybook.
Reindeer farm and husky farm visits: Visiting a traditional reindeer farm and racing through snowy trails on a husky sled introduces Lapland’s heritage in an unforgettable way.
Snowmobile on a frozen river and climb to the hills for the view: Gliding by snowmobile along a frozen Arctic river feels surreal, with vast white landscapes stretching in every direction. The route then climbs into the hills, where you pause for a panoramic lookout over Lapland’s silent forests—an unforgettable perspective that makes the wilderness feel endless and wild.
Northern Lights hunt in a glass igloo with barbecue: Experience the magic of the Aurora Borealis from the cozy comfort of a glass igloo while enjoying a private barbecue. The combination of warm food, soft lighting, and the dancing lights above makes this a truly unforgettable Arctic adventure.
Places to eat & drink in Helsinki & Rovaniemi
Sautéed reindeer from Lappi Ravintola
Lappi Ravintola
Experience authentic Lappish cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting. Traditional dishes like sautéed reindeer, fish, and local berries make it a must-visit to taste Arctic flavors.
Cafe Regatta
This charming lakeside café is famous for its cinnamon buns and warm drinks. The red wooden cottage and snowy outdoor seating make it a picture-perfect stop.
Fazer Cafe
A Helsinki institution for chocolate lovers and coffee enthusiasts. You can enjoy beautifully crafted pastries, cakes, and hot chocolate in a stylish setting.
Santa’s Salmon Place
Specializing in fresh salmon dishes, this casual spot is perfect for a hearty lunch after exploring the Arctic Circle.
Arctic Eye
Enjoy panoramic views of the snowy Arctic landscape while dining on modern Nordic cuisine. The combination of fine dining and spectacular scenery makes it a memorable stop.
Hesburger
Finland’s local fast-food chain is a convenient option for families on the go. It offers familiar burgers and fries with a Nordic twist, making it a quick, budget-friendly meal during sightseeing.
Need to know
Rent winter clothes: Temperatures in Lapland can drop far below freezing, so renting thermal suits, boots, and gloves locally is often easier than bringing everything from home.
Take Santa’s Express for the experience: Even if it’s quicker to fly, the overnight train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is part of the adventure and creates a fun memory.
Get your Arctic Circle certificate: Crossing the Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village comes with a certificate.
Send postcards from Santa’s Post Office: Mail a postcard to yourself for next Christmas, or send festive greetings to family and friends directly from Rovaniemi—it’s a charming way to share the magic of the Arctic.
Travel Advisor
Leah Chen
Leah Chen
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