Northern lightsAround 8 hours
The Chase
An extended northern lights hunt, travelling wherever conditions look most promising.
Shared tours aren’t suitable for small children. Families can ask about a private tour.
From your Arctic Rest hosts
Our recommendations & things to do in Rovaniemi
Looking for a great meal, a memorable experience or a rental car? Here are some of our personal recommendations to help you enjoy your stay!
01 / Explore
Explore at your own pace
Rent a car from Insider Car Rental and discover Rovaniemi and its surroundings at your own pace. We recommend booking ahead, especially during the busy winter season.
€5 off your car rental
INSIDERLODGE02 / Adventure
Winter adventures with Tuomas, the Arctic Native
Tuomas is a friend, an entrepreneur and a great karaoke singer — although there’s no need to mention that last part to him! 😄
If you’re looking for authentic, heartwarming winter experiences, get in touch with Tuomas and his team at Arctic Native Adventures & More.
Northern lights3–4 hours
The Lookout
A shorter northern lights tour, visiting up to three locations for a chance to see the aurora.
Nature walkApprox. 5 km
Frozen in Time
Walk to Korouoma’s spectacular frozen waterfalls along an approximately 5 km trail that can be challenging.
Not recommended for small children or guests with reduced mobility.
Nature walkApprox. 5 km
Into the White
Explore Riisitunturi National Park’s snow-covered trees on a moderately demanding 5 km walk.
Suitable for families comfortable with winter hiking.
Northern lights tours
Photos, snacks and hot drinks included. Thermal overalls are available on request.
Nature walks
Photos, snacks and an open-fire barbecue included.
Find your winter adventure
Contact the team for prices, availability and help choosing your adventure. Some tours may be available at short notice, so it’s worth asking even after you arrive!
5% off Arctic Native tours
JAKO503 / Eat well
Our favourite places to eat
Our personal favourite
Roka Street Bistro
A cosy, relaxed bistro serving delicious food with flavours from near and far.
Mexican flavours
Yuca
Handmade tacos and vibrant Mexican flavours in a colourful, laid-back setting.
Waffles & a well-earned treat
Cafe & Bar 21
A welcoming spot for savoury or sweet waffles, lunch and a well-earned treat.
A special dinner
Nili
Enjoy the flavours of Lapland in a warm, rustic setting. A lovely choice for a special dinner.
04 / Our local shortlist
Our quick top five
Visit Santa Claus Village
A Rovaniemi must — and a little Christmas magic.
Catch a RoKi ice hockey game
A proper Finnish experience!
Go northern lights hunting
On your own or with a guide. With a little luck, you’ll see them dance across the sky.
Ski at Ounasvaara
Try cross-country or downhill skiing.
Make a day of the city
Stop by Lordi’s Square, eat at Roka, enjoy waffles at Cafe & Bar 21 and try a pint of Lapland Original Lager on tap.
Plan your winter in Rovaniemi
Explore our area comparison, four-day itinerary, aurora advice and winter packing guide.
Explore GuidesWe may receive a commission when you book through a partner referral. We recommend partners we know and trust and whose services we have experienced ourselves.
Have a wonderful time planning your trip, and thank you for choosing to stay with us! ❄️😊