Every kid who celebrates Christmas has always wanted to meet Santa Claus. The round-bellied white-bearded man in red can be found in shopping malls around the world to spread joy to those children. But none of them can compare to the actual Santa Claus, who resides Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland—the ultimate destination for a magical holiday experience. Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, this charming village offers an unforgettable winter adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
This article covers activity in Santa Claus Village during the northern hemisphere’s winter season. The village is also open during other seasons of the year, but I have not experienced that for myself.
Exploring the Village
Arriving at Santa Claus Village feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. The landscape is blanketed in pristine snow, with evergreen trees adorned with twinkling lights, creating a scene straight out of a holiday postcard. The crisp, cold air fills your lungs as you make your way through the village, anticipation building with every step.
Santa’s Gift House is at the entrance to the village, containing a gift shop filled to the brim with Christmas souvenirs and knickknacks. Within the same building is the visitor’s help desk, which is where you can purchase a certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle border.
Santa Claus Village offers a wide range of winter activities that cater to visitors of all ages. Embark on a thrilling husky sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests, feeling the wind in your hair as you glide across the winter wonderland. Or opt for a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride under the starlit sky, accompanied by the gentle sound of sleigh bells.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, snowmobiling offers an exhilarating way to explore the Arctic wilderness, while ice fishing provides a serene escape amidst the icy landscape. And don’t forget to actually cross the Arctic Circle, which runs right through Santa Claus Village, marking your journey with a truly unforgettable moment
Meeting with Santa Claus
The highlight of the village is definitely meeting with Santa Claus. Upon entering his residence, you are led up some small flights of stairs before waiting in front of Santa’s room. Posted outside are framed photos of Santa alongside selected people who have visited, including a few celebrities.
Once our turn was called, we stepped onto a musical stage-like platform that was decorated to feel like a comfy and cozy home on Christmas Day, adorned with traditional Finnish decor. Items like an antique telephone, large bookshelf, and a chest took up most of the space, and present boxes were neatly placed around them. We sat down on a bench across from Santa Claus himself. We discussed where we travelled from and whether we’ve been good this year, then he wished us a very Merry Christmas as we exited. Whether you’re young or young at heart, the experience of meeting Santa Claus is sure to fill you with joy and excitement.
We were met with another gift shop on the way out. A fun activity here is to purchase a postcard and write a letter to your future self or anyone else that will be received on the following Christmas Day. We did this ourselves and we can confidently say that it will definitely be delivered!
There are a good handful of restaurants to eat at in the village, especially if you are looking to try some traditional Lappish cuisine. We went to try a popular spot called Santa’s Salmon Place, where thick and juicy salmon fillets are grilled by the open fire and can be eaten alongside raclette cheese and traditional berry juice.
How to reach: bus / car
The village is located 8 km from Rovaniemi City Centre and is easily reached by car on highway E4. The village and its entrance gateway can be easily spotted along the highway.
The local bus number 8 runs year round between Rovaniemi city centre and Santa Claus Village. If you are staying within the city then this is an inexpensive and reliable way to reach the village.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter!
Get updates on new blog posts, new itineraries, and new personal adventures from us!