Where to stay in Rovaniemi [Best Places to Stay for 2024]
Rovaniemi in Finland, a favorite place of mine from several visits. It offers diverse experiences for all kinds of travelers depending on the season. This beautiful city caters to both adventure-seekers and those who want a more relaxed lakeside retreat.
During my stays, I experienced a range of accommodations, from cute little bed and breakfasts to luxurious 5 star hotels. Each stay was comfortable, enhanced by the warm hospitality of the locals, which added a sense of security, especially when traveling solo.
To assist fellow travelers in choosing the best accommodation in Rovaniemi, I’ve compiled this guide. Rovaniemi offers a wide array of hostel and hotel choices, including unique options like treehouses and igloos.
Whether you prefer staying in the city center or the serene Lapland countryside, there’s something for everyone.
This guide encompasses various accommodation types in Rovaniemi, from budget hostels to 5 star luxury hotels, and provides insights into the best areas to stay in for tourists exploring Finnish Lapland in 2024.
It includes recommendations on the top hotels, key Rovaniemi attractions, neighborhood insights, and even local homestays for a more authentic experience.
In a hurry and need the answer quick?
- Best area to stay in Rovaniemi for first time: Santa Claus Village
- Best area to stay in Rovaniemi on a budget: Rovaniemi City Centre
- Where to stay in Rovaniemi to see northern lights: Ounasvaara & Sinettä
- Best Hostel in Rovaniemi: Hostel Café Koti
- Best Budget Hotel in Rovaniemi: Scandic Polar
- Best Mid Range Hotel in Rovaniemi: Nova Galaxy Village
- Best Family Hotel in Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Holiday Village
- Best Luxury Hotel in Rovaniemi: Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara
Please note, while pricing is great to have in articles, due to the seasonal fluctuation, I don’t want to provide inaccurate information.
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Want a quick video overview?
Discover the best places to stay in Rovaniemi in this informative video! Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly options, unique local experiences, or you’re unsure what neighborhood to stay in Rovaniemi, our guide covers it all.
Dive into Rovaniemi neighborhoods and find your perfect home away from home. Watch now for insider tips and make your Rovaniemi trip unforgettable!
Rovaniemi City Centre – Where to stay in Rovaniemi for Tourists
Rovaniemi City Centre is an ideal base for tourists exploring the Finnish Laplands. Its central location makes it perfect for those planning day trips into the countryside and seeking the convenience of city amenities.
Who Rovaniemi City Centre is Ideal for:
- Tourists planning extended stays in Rovaniemi such as 4 days in Rovaniemi
- Those preferring to stay close to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shops
What’s Good About Rovaniemi City Centre:
- High concentration of accommodations, including some of the best hotels in Rovaniemi
- Walkable layout, allowing easy exploration of the city
- Convenient for day tour pickups
What’s Not So Good About Rovaniemi City Centre:
- Can be busier than the country areas
- You may not be able to see the Northern lights as clearly as you would in other areas.
Why Stay in Rovaniemi City Centre:
Rovaniemi City Centre is the heart of the city, offering a blend of cultural experiences and nature. It’s a hub for both leisure and exploration, making it a top choice for where to stay in Rovaniemi Finland for tourists.
Things to Do in Rovaniemi City Centre:
- Explore local shops and restaurants
- Visit the Arktikum Science Museum
- Experience the Northern Lights from within the city
- Embark on countryside day trips
- Enjoy the convenience of city life while being close to nature
Here’s My List Of Places To Stay In Rovaniemi City Centre
Hostel Café Koti – Best Hostels In Rovaniemi City Centre
Looking for cheap hotels in Rovaniemi? Hostel Café Koti is a highly-rated accommodation with chic Scandinavian-style rooms and dormitories. There is a shared lounge and fully-equipped kitchen, shared bathrooms, laundry facilities, and a Finnish sauna. As the name suggests, there’s also a really nice cafe downstairs with a delicious breakfast. I’m not usually a Hostel person but I loved staying here – it’s super welcoming and comfy.
Scandic Polar – Best Budget hotel In Rovaniemi City Centre
The Scandic Polar is a budget-friendly stay in the city centre. The twin, double and family rooms all have comfortable beds with traditional furnishings. Pub Pisto is a rustic bar you can pop into in the evening to have a drink and socialise with other guests. Head down to the buffet breakfast in the morning, or request a takeaway breakfast bag from reception if you’re in a hurry.
Hotel Aakenus – Best Mid-range hotel In Rovaniemi City Centre
For something cosy yet affordable in Rovaniemi, Hotel Aakenus is a wonderful mid-range accommodation option. There’s a sauna and terrace, an on-site restaurant for home-cooked meals, daily breakfast and a dinner buffet, and a bar in the lobby. You can also borrow an iron and an ironing board from reception. All rooms have some basic amenities, like a desk and a kettle, and two reading lamps on either side of the bed.
Arctic City Hotel – Best Family hotel In Rovaniemi City Centre
The Arctic City Hotel is an absolute gem, and one of the best hotels in Rovaniemi for small families. Have a drink and light meal at Bull Bar and Grill, try a Lappish speciality at the in-house restaurant, order room service, or start your morning with a buffet breakfast. The elegant junior suite has a separate living room and a private sauna, with complimentary bathrobes and slippers.
Arctic Light Hotel – Best Luxury hotel In Rovaniemi City Centre
One of the best hotels in Rovaniemi for an elegant stay is the Arctic Light Hotel. The aura loft, the magic double room and the spacious suite are all uniquely decorated, with expensive chandeliers and plenty of cosy blankets to stay warm in the winter. The hotel offers a lounge bar, a terrace, a healthy breakfast, 24-hour reception and, of course, a sauna.
Santa Claus Village – Where to stay in Rovaniemi with Family
Santa Claus Village is a magical destination for families visiting the finish Laplands, especially if you’re planning a 1-night stay in Lapland. Located just 15 minutes from Rovaniemi’s city center and close to the airport, it’s the official home of Santa Claus and a hub of family-friendly activities.
Who Santa Claus Village is Ideal for:
- Families looking a unique holiday experience
- Those interested in experiencing the magic of Santa Claus and Arctic animals
What’s Good About Santa Claus Village:
- Best place to stay in Rovaniemi in proximity to Santa Claus Village
- Variety of family-friendly hotels and accommodations
- Access to city amenities while being near the Village
What’s Not So Good About Santa Claus Village:
- While this area is great for families, it is a somewhat isolated from the city.
- There are fewer restaurants in this area.
Why Stay in Santa Claus Village:
Staying in Santa Claus Village is an magical experience, offering direct access to festive activities and the spirit of Lapland. It’s an ideal choice for families looking for a blend of comfort, adventure, and the magical aura of Santa Claus.
Things to Do in Santa Claus Village:
- Visit the petting zoo and reindeer farm
- Head out on Arctic tours
- Stay in unique accommodations like apartments, cottages, or nearby igloo hotels
- Explore Santa Claus Village and its festive attractions including a visit with Santa.
- Enjoy family-friendly activities tailored for kids and adults alike
Here’s My List Of Places To Stay In Santa Claus Village
Capsule Hotel Ibedcity – Best Hostels In Santa Claus Village
Capsule Hotel Ibedcity is a wonderful accommodation when travelling on a budget. While dorm rooms are available, the standard family rooms with five beds are perfect if you have young kids with you. The hotel includes a shared kitchen and dining area, plus a lovely garden and terrace. Like most places in Finland, it has a sauna too.
Apartment Suutarintie – Best Budget hotel In Santa Claus Village
Located by the gorgeous Kemi River, Apartment Suutarintie is the perfect Rovaniemi accommodation if you like to have your own space. There are two modern apartment options, with the superior apartment coming with a separate living room and two sofa beds. Both options include a fully-equipped kitchen and a washing machine. The owners live onsite, and can help plan your activities.
Nova Skyland Hotel – Best Mid-range hotel In Santa Claus Village
Wondering where to stay in Rovaniemi for couples? Nova Skyland Hotel is a stunning winter wonderland, ideal for a romantic getaway. Go for the Scandinavian-style Nordic Cottage, or the cosy Aurora Honeymoon Suite with a fireplace and private sauna. The rooms all have large windows, so you can admire the outside view without freezing! The breakfast is exceptional, and the staff are so kind.
Santa Claus Holiday Village – Best Family hotel In Santa Claus Village
Make your childhood dreams come true with a stay at the Santa Claus Holiday Village. Located in the very heart of Santa Claus Village, all of the cottages have private saunas and kitchenettes. The family suite has four beds, and cots can be added if you’re travelling with a baby or toddler. Taste some traditional Lappish food at the Christmas House Restaurant, shop for souvenirs, and ask the staff to organise unforgettable activities like reindeer and husky safaris.
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – Best Luxury hotel In Santa Claus Village
If you’re searching for a unique 1 night stay in Lapland, look no further than the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel. The luxurious Nordic cabins here are set within the forest and have floor-to-ceiling windows to admire the beautiful surroundings. Most rooms fit two to three people comfortably, while the two-bedroom Arctic Glass House is the best choice for families. There’s a restaurant and bar at the property, a 24-hour front desk, and a gift shop for scoring some souvenirs.
Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle – Luxury hotel In Santa Claus Village
Personally I think this is one of the best Rovaniemi hotels. Stay in a modern Rovaniemi igloo hotel at Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle. The cosy glass igloos come with a sauna, a hot tub or an alcove with two additional beds. Bathrobes and slippers are also included for a bit of extra luxury. The rooms have tablets to easily contact staff and receive convenient notices for the Northern Lights. During summer, this is one of the coolest places to experience the midnight sun.
Ounasvaara – Where to stay in Rovaniemi to see Northern Lights
Ounasvaara, an area situated on a hill just 3 kilometers from Rovaniemi’s city center, it offers a blend of natural beauty and proximity to the city and Santa’s Village. It’s one of the best places to stay in Rovaniemi for couples and people who want to check out the Northern Lights.
Who Ounasvaara is Ideal for:
- Couples seeking a romantic getaway
- Northern Lights chasers looking for the best viewing spots
- Travellers preferring a balance of city convenience and natural surroundings
What’s Good About Rovaniemi City Centre:
- Offering easy access to both city and nature
- Variety of accommodation options, including some of the best hotels in Rovaniemi to see the Northern Lights
- Mix of urban amenities and outdoor activities
What’s Not So Good About Ounasvaara:
- This area is a little more quiet so there are less options for resturants, meaning you may need to head into the city to at out.
Why Stay in Ounasvaara:
Staying in Ounasvaara combines the nature with the convenience of city life. It’s a top choice for those wondering where to stay in Rovaniemi for couples or to witness the incredible Northern Lights without excessive light pollution.
Things to Do in Ounasvaara:
- Explore ski slopes and forested areas for Northern Lights viewing
- Visit the adventure park and golf course, open year-round
- Climb the Ounasvaara observation tower for panoramic views
Here’s My List Of Places To Stay In Ounasvaara
Ukonloma Cottages – Best Budget Hotel In Ounasvaara
If you’re looking for a rustic log cabin in the woods type of vibe, Ukonloma Cottages is perfect. While there are one-bedroom cottages with private saunas, the smaller holiday homes and economy cottages are even more budget-friendly. Each cottage has a kitchenette and a fireplace with views of the lake, and guests can use the rowboats and barbecue facilities freely.
Guest House Koskenkylä – Budget hotel In Ounasvaara
Guest House Koskenkylä offers affordable one-bedroom apartments in a quiet area. All recently-renovated apartments have a kitchenette and a washing machine. You can enter using a keypad, so arriving in the middle of the night isn’t an issue. The outside of the guest house is lit up with fairy lights, creating a really magical setting.
Ounasvaaran Lakituvat Chalets – Best Mid-range hotel In Ounasvaara
The Ounasvaaran Lakituvat Chalets are a beautiful Rovaniemi accommodation for anyone who wants to be surrounded by nature. The modern cottages have two bedrooms plus an additional loft bed, a private sauna, a kitchen, and a lounge room with a fireplace. With all of the thoughtful touches and amenities, you’ll really feel at home here.
Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara – Best Luxury hotel In Ounasvaara
One of the most luxurious hotels in Rovaniemi, Finland is Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara. This stunning hotel has a rooftop terrace with views over the city and the Kemijoki River, perfect for watching either the Northern Lights or the midnight sun. The beautifully-designed rooms have private saunas, large windows and cosy light fixtures. Stop by the cafe-bar in the lobby to warm up by the fireplace, and dine at the award-winning Restaurant Sky Ounasvaara.
Sinettä – where to stay in rovaniemi in winter
Sinettä, a captivating Finnish city in Lapland, about 20km from Rovaniemi city center, offers a quiet escape into picturesque landscapes and traditional culture. It’s an ideal destination for winter enthusiasts and Northern Lights chasers.
Who Sinettä is Ideal for:
- Travelers seeking a peaceful retreat from city life
- Northern Lights enthusiasts looking for clear skies and no light pollution
- Adventure seekers interested in winter sports
- Nature lovers who enjoy fishing, hiking, and outdoor activities
What’s Good About Sinettä:
- Proximity to Rovaniemi while offering a relaxed environment
- Clear skies, making it one of the best places to stay in Rovaniemi in winter for Northern Lights viewing
- Variety of activities suitable for both winter and summer
What’s Not So Good About Sinettä:
- You may need to hire a car to get to Sinettä as it is 28km from the airport.
- It is more regional which might not suit everyone.
Why Stay in Sinettä:
Sinettä offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for travelers looking to immerse in the culture of the Lapland or unwind amidst nature. Its located away from the main city ensures a more intimate Northern Lights experience.
Things to Do in Sinettä:
- Engage in winter sports like skiing
- Enjoy summertime activities such as fishing and hiking
- Experience the local culture and traditions of Lapland
- Relax in the beautiful, serene landscapes away from the hustle of the city
- Witness the Northern Lights in a clear, unobstructed setting
Here’s My List Of Places To Stay In Sinettä
Holiday Home Palomuotka – Best Budget Hotel In Sinettä
One of the top budget-friendly places to stay in Rovaniemi is Holiday Home Palomuotka. Unwind in total peace and quiet by the lake, and wait for the Northern Lights to appear. The holiday home comes with everything you’d need, including a fireplace, a private kitchenette and a TV.
Palojärven Lomakeskus – Budget hotel In Sinettä
Save some money on hotels in Rovaniemi, Finland by staying in a self-catering cottage at Palojärven Lomakeskus. Each lakefront room is nicely decorated with lovely garden views, and some of the bungalows include private saunas. You’ll also have access to a full kitchen. You can hire snowmobiles here during the winter or try ice fishing.
Nova Galaxy Village – Best Mid-range hotel In Sinettä
Take the opportunity to stay in an Aurora Hut at Nova Galaxy Village, a unique accommodation in Lapland. The small huts have panoramic windows and include a comfortable double bed, a small kitchen, charging ports, and a composting toilet. There’s also private wood-burning saunas next to each hut. The property has a restaurant, free WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk. Breakfast is offered too, with plenty of different options.
Villa Aurela – Best Family hotel In Sinettä
Villa Aurela is a gorgeous mid-range hotel in Rovaniemi that’s exactly like the pictures. The modern three-bedroom villas face the Norvajärvi Lake and include a kitchen, an outdoor dining area, a fireplace, a sauna, a living room, a high chair for kids, and many more thoughtful touches. Pets are allowed too, and ski-to-door access and ski storage facilities are provided.
Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos – Best Luxury hotel In Sinettä
For an amazing Arctic Circle experience, stay at the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos. The igloos have heated floors and a 360-degree thermal glass roof, so that you can gaze up at the night sky from your bed. They also include private bathrooms and optional Aurora alarms. Adventurous types can even spend a night in an igloo that’s kept below zero degrees Celsius. Arctic SnowHotel also has a shared snow sauna and outdoor jacuzzi, three restaurants and an ice bar.
FAQs About hotels in rovaniemi finland
Final Thoughts: accommodation in rovaniemi
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking to get out of Rovaniemi, there’s a perfect place for you to stay! From luxury hotels and cosy Airbnbs to rustic cabins and log villas, there’s something for everyone in this city.
Make sure to check out these amazing accommodations and book the one that best suits your needs.
And don’t forget to make the most of your time by exploring this beautiful city and all that it has to offer. Book one of these amazing hotels today and start planning the perfect trip in Rovaniemi!
Read More:
- 19 Things to do in Rovaniemi – That People Actually Do!
- 15 Things to do in Rovaniemi in Autumn
- Best day trips from Rovaniemi in Autumn
- Budget Travel Guide to Rovaniemi
- The Ultimate Guide to Rovaniemi
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