The Santa Claus Village is open every day of the year!
Rovaniemi, in Finnish Lapland, is home to Santa Claus Village, a magical spot that feels like Christmas year-round. Located right on the Arctic Circle, it’s where you can meet Santa, cross into the northernmost parts of the world, and enjoy fun activities like husky safaris, snowmobile rides, and, of course, seeing the Northern Lights. The village has a cozy, festive vibe with shops, restaurants, and even places to stay, all while offering a chance to experience the charm of the Arctic in the winter months. It’s a perfect place for anyone looking to add a little extra magic to their holiday season.
Northern Lights:
The Santa Claus Village in the Arctic Circle, is one of the best spots for witnessing the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights. The best time to see the lights is during autumn (September and early October) and mid-spring (March), though the Northern Lights can be visible throughout winter. The area offers safaris led by local guides who take visitors to ideal spots for viewing. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, if you’re lucky, you might capture the magical display.
Activities & experiences at the Santa Claus Village
Dog Sledding: Bearhill Husky | Husky Safaris & Outdoor Adventures in Finnish Lapland!
Recommended Accommodation:
- The Glass Resort is an amazing place to stay if you want a unique experience while visiting Santa Claus Village. The resort offers glass apartments with huge windows and ceilings, so you can watch the Northern Lights or starry skies from the comfort of your bed. Each apartment is super cozy with a lounge, kitchenette, sauna, and even a private hot spring spa outside.
- The Arctic Snow Hotel offers a unique experience with ice rooms, an ice restaurant, and snow saunas. You can stay in an ice hotel or cozy Glass Igloos with a view of the Northern Lights. It’s open from autumn to late winter and offers activities like ice sculpting and winter adventures.
Restaurant Recommendation:
- Restaurant Gallis is located in the village and serves delicious meals made with both local and global ingredients, giving you a taste of Lapland. It’s a peaceful spot, but still close to everything in Santa Claus Village!
- Here is a list of the restaurants located in and near the village: Restaurants and cafés at the Santa Claus Village.
Arrival & Location:
To get to Santa Claus Village, you’ll fly into Rovaniemi Airport, which is just about 10 minutes from the village. The airport has good connections to major cities like Helsinki, and there are several direct flights during the winter months. Once you land, you can easily grab a taxi or take a shuttle bus straight to the village.
If you’re coming from the city center, the village is around a 15-minute drive away, and there are local buses that can get you there too. For a more scenic trip, you can also take the train to Rovaniemi, which takes about 8 hours from Helsinki. From the train station, it’s a short bus ride or taxi to Santa Claus Village.
When you get to the village, everything is super walkable—no need to worry about driving once you’re there! Just make sure to dress warmly, especially in winter, because it can get quite cold in the Arctic Circle!
Website: Welcome to Santa Claus Village | Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi Lapland