Santa Claus Village in Finland – Tourists Favourite Finnish Destination

Santa Claus Village in Finland is truly a Magical place! You can see Finnish culture and tradition in many ways in Finland, especially during reindeer herding.

Whether you are sending postcards from the Santa Post Office or seeing Northern Lights. This Village provides you a thrilling experience with wonder and excitement and if you want to experience this beautiful place, then the Finland Tour Package by Roaming Routes will provide you an unforgettable experience.  

Santa Claus Village Highlights:

Santa Claus Village Location: Latitude – 66.55°N, Longitude 25.85°E 

Places Near Santa Claus Village: Rovaniemi, Arctic Circle, Snowman World etc.

Santa Claus Village ground area Height from sea: 200m (656 feet)

Santa Claus Village Temperature: -5°C to -15°C in daytime and -15°C to -30°C in night

Weather near Santa Claus Village: Cold

Nearest Airport to Santa Claus Village: Rovaniemi Airport

Best Months to Visit Santa Claus Village: December to March

Best Time to see Santa: 9A.M to 6P.M

Where is Santa Claus Village in Finland?

Santa Claus Village is situated in Lapland, Rovaniemi. In the Northern Part of Finland directly on the Arctic Circle. You can easily reach Santa Claus Village by Flight, Train or by Bus. Whether you are Following Northern Lights or aiming to visit in Winter. Santa Claus Village provides you with a perfect Gate to the miracle of the Arctic circle.

Why Tourist Love Santa Claus Village in Finland

Visit The Real Santa Claus

Isn’t it interesting that we can see Santa Claus everyday? Santa meets the people in the office at the main building of Santa Claus Village. He is there everyday from 9AM To 6PM to chat with Visitors, take photos and spread the Christmas cheer.

Cross the Arctic Circle

Santa Claus Village is at the top of the Arctic Circle. So you can just walk over the Arctic Line while visiting Santa Claus village.

Send a Postcard

Santa Claus Village specially has a post office, where you can send the mail cards to your loved ones with a stamp of a Arctic circle postage. Here, You can also schedule a postcard to your Family, Friends and loved ones send on Christmas Eve. It sounds very cool!

Santa Gifts Shop

There are many local stores in Santa Claus Village, but popular items are Reindeer skin and things made out of reindeer Horn. Under the Santa office there is a local store which used to sell cute Christmas decor items. 

Meet Mrs Claus

Behind Santa Claus Village there is “Mrs Santa Claus Cottage”, where people used to make Gingerbread Cookies with her. 

For visiting Mrs Claus you have to do pre booking and pay a small entrance fee.

Ride a Reindeer

After Visiting Santa, people used to go to see their animals such as reindeers, alpacas, sheep and goats. They book a forest walk with Reindeer, as they are very calm animals, who generally let people pet them with love.

Try out Finnish Dishes

There are a few restaurants in Santa Claus Village, that offer both casual and fine dining restaurants. Finnish serve a traditional dessert made with cheese and served with warm cloudberries. 

Best Time to Visit Santa Claus Village in Finland

Christmas time is the Best Month to see Santa Claus Village because you can experience the snow along with your visit to Santa Claus Village. You should visit during November to January to get a thrilling experience of snow, shiny lights and Christmas festival.

But if you are planning to see the Northern Lights also, then the Best Time to see Santa Claus Village is in December with a clear sky and magnificent views.

How to get to Santa Claus Village in Finland

By Air 

Just Fly from Ivalo airport of Finland to Santa Claus Village, but some people end up flying to Helsinki and from there Travellers will take a flight for Rovaniemi which is just only about 1 hour 15 minutes away from Santa Claus Village.

By Train 

Another way to reach Santa Claus Village is by Train. Tourists usually choose the Santa Claus Express which is a night train. This Train usually takes about 12 hours.

By Car

Many Local people drive to Rovaniemi, which is the nearest city to Santa Claus Village, but it is a 10 hours drive from Helsinki. 

If you are driving in Winter, then the roads are icy, so drive slowly. Oh! Wait dont forget to watch out for Reindeers on Road!

List of popular Restaurants at Santa Claus Village

Lapland Restaurant Kotahovi

It is a famous place for Lappish dishes like mashed potatoes and reindeer stew. You will experience the traditional Finnish flavour with the versatility of their culture. 

Christmas House Restaurant 

Christmas House is the best place for breakfast and its delicious pastries. There is always the festive vibes. You should try the Hot chocolate with Cinnamon Buns!

Santa Pizza and Burger

If you are travelling with kids, then it is the best place for them as it is a kid friendly place which provides food like pizza, burger, fries and chocolate with a quick service. 

Santa Salmon Place

Chefs traditional grilled salmon on an open fire surrounded by rustic wooden huts and smoky aromas. You should try the salmon with hot berry juice.

Snowman World Ice Restaurant and Bar

There is a speciality that tables and glasses are frozen, so wear gloves. As the entire restaurant is made up of ice and snow. You should try the Arctic cocktails in ice glasses. 

Quick Facts about Santa Claus Village

What to wear in Finland During Winter

• Finland Lies in the Northern Hemisphere and so does Santa Claus Village and usually gets snowy at the end of the october. So temperature can change at any time. So bring warm clothes with you.
• Use a Layer under your other clothes. The base layer should be of thermal innerwear. It is your secret weapon against the cold temperature. Just think you are wearing clothes made from the woolen fabrics and it hug you tight and give warmth. This is the magic of Thermal Innerwear, you will admire it and think about how you will survive the winter without it.  
• As a mid layer you should cover your body with woolen shirts and pants. 
• Your Outer Layer should be warm and Waterproof snow jacket and pants.
• The local people used to keep Villasukka (woolen socks) in their shoes to keep their toes warm.
• Wear insulated gloves, they are perfect for cold weather and snow play. 

Monthly Weather Chart

Santa Claus Village is for everyone

• Families: Engage in the magic of Lapland with reindeer petting and it is a perfect place for kids as they will get a chance to meet Santa and make a snowman there. They will create a lifetime memory. 

• Couples: Book a romantic Northern Lights tour and sit near the fireplace near your Glass Igloos and enjoy the beautiful evening with your loved ones. It will feel like a fairy tale moment. 

• Solo Travelers: Join the group of Safaris or visit The Arktikum Museum, where you will come to know about the fascinating things about polar life and if you are curious about the local culture. Then visit the nearest Santa Claus Village and explore their market, tradition and delicious dishes. 

• Adventure seekers: Try Husky sledding and snowmobiling near the Santa Claus Village. For ultimate adventure and if you are excited to kick it then try Ice Fishing on a Frozen Lake because nothing is more adventures than doing the ice fishing and taking the fish for your dinner.  

Best Photo spots for Instagrammable locations

• In front of Santa Office pose with the Jolly man. The beautiful christmas decor makes the perfect background for your photo.
• Click the photo while crossing the Arctic Circle Line, it will be a lifetime experience! You will receive a certificate for it.
• If you are staying in a Glass igloos, then set the tripod to capture the Aurora activity from your cabin.
• If you are taking a ride of Reindeer under the snowy forest, then it will be the perfect picture for your Instagram or for your Travel Scrapbook.
• There is also a Christmas Tree Plaza,it is a giant tree which is decorated with lights and small artificial gifts. It is a magical spot to capture in your phone during sunset.  

Nearby Places to explore after a visit to Santa Claus Village

Arktikum Museum

It is not just a museum, it is a beautiful journey that will tell you everything about their culture, life and tradition. 

You will walk through exhibition that showcase:

Sami Indigenous Culture

Behind the science of Northern Lights

Arctic wildlife

It is just 10-20 minutes away from Santa Claus Village. The museum also has a glass tunnel which provides you a beautiful view of the snowy landscape. It is a perfect place for solo travellers and families who are interested in its history. 

Ounasvaara Hill

It is just a 10 minute drive from Santa Claus Village. Ounasvaara Hill serve an outdoor adventure ground where tourist enjoy all the thrilling adventures. In winter it is skiing and snowboarding. But in summer it is transformed into hiking and mountain bike races. 

Just climb over the top of the hill to get the beautiful view of Rovaniemi with surrounding forests. Wait! Don’t forget to see the view of mountains from the summit.

Ranua Wildlife Park

It is situated in the northern part of Finland, with over 50 spices of northern and arctic animals. Where you will see the snowy owls, wolves, polar bears, arctic foxes and many more.

It is beautifully designed in 2.8 km of area with wooden furniture. When you enter there is a chocolate factory and souvenir shop near it. Ranua Wildlife Park is a beautiful experience that your kids will love.

Snowhotel and ice castle 

Located just 2 hours away from the Santa Claus Village, which is covered entirely with snow and rebuilt every winter. It is like going to a real ice wonderland.

It is basically designed as ice suites and sculpture with an ice restaurant. Couples also often get married in a snow chapel. Seriously, isn’t it interesting? 

Thrilling Adventure in Santa Claus Village

Husky Sledding

It is one of the thrilling adventures in Santa Claus Village. You will sit on a sled which is pulled by their trained Huskies under the snowy forest. It is a new experience either you will sit back or enjoy the view or handle the sled yourself and go on a ride. 

You will pass through snowy forests, frozen lakes and sometimes you can see the sight of wildlife. Just wear warm woolen clothes with thermal innerwear inside, which is provided by your tour guide. 

It is a comfortable ride with your family and loved ones. Sometimes tour guides also provide the snacks during the ride. It is mainly done from November to March. Husky sledding is a lifetime experience that you will remember. 

Reindeer Ride

It is a traditional adventure which connects you with Lapland “Sami Culture” They are generally calm animals, you will sit on a wooden sledge behind them. Reindeer Ride are especially used to see Aurora activity, warm blankets are provided to you during the ride.

Reindeer are very calm animals. You can feed them or you can take a photo with them. It is suitable for all types of age groups. You can enjoy Reindeer Ride in both daytime and under the starry sky. Reindeer Rides have cultural connection to the North.

Snowmobiling Safari

Snowmobiling is basically done in winter. It is a type of race which is done across the frozen lakes with high speed. Before beginning they provide you safety instruction with thermal suits and helmets. 

You will ride through icy valleys and across the arctic landscapes. Different routes with different duration are available, they have only two spaces, one for driver and one for passenger, but if you want to switch then you can. 

It is a thrilling adventure which is available only from December to March. Snowmobiling will give you a taste of Arctic Adventure.

Snowshoeing

They are the special footwear which is basically designed to walk on snow. They allow you to walk on thich snow, where hiking isn’t possible. Snowshoeing is a peaceful adventure, where you will be surrounded by quietness with the whisper of trees. Tour guides usually provide a short break with hot Chocolate.

You will just walk on snow and experience the fresh Arctic Air. Snowshoeing is a silent and magical place to get away from the crowd and relax. 

Do and Don’t at Santa Claus Village

Do

• Do cross the Arctic Circle line, so that you will get the certificate of it.
• Do send the letter with an Arctic Circle stamp from the Santa Post office.
• Do try their famous Finnish dishes like reindeer food and salmon soup.
• Do book your adventure activities in advance, so that you don’t need to wait there in line.
• Do dress warmly according to their weather condition.
• Do visit the nearby attraction.

Don’t

• Don’t skip the safety instruction which is provided to you at the time of your activities.
• Don’t think that everything is open late at night, local stores and attraction places are likely to be closed by 6Pm. So Plan according to that.
• Don’t bring the Euro coins only someplace they accept Euro notes only.
• Don’t forget to charge your camera or take the power banks with you.
• Don’t think every local person understands English. So download the language converter app.
• Don’t arrive late at the booking activities because tour guides follow the strict rules. 

What do travelers say after visiting Santa Claus Village in Finland?

A few of the reviews of visitors who have visited Santa Claus Village are as follows:

It is an extraordinary place, especially straight out from the Christmas movie. Visiting Santa Claus Village and meeting Santa is a lifetime experience you will capture. The whole village is decorated with beautiful lights and don’t miss out on sending postcards from Santa post office to your loved ones.

If you are a fan of Wonderlands, then it is the perfect palace for it. Just crossed the Arctic Circle, met Santa and saw the beautiful activity of Aurora. The nearby Glass Igloos stay are perfect for couples.

Just wear warm clothes because it gets freezing outside and try the local dishes like reindeer stew and salmon soup. The souvenir shops are great places for handmade Finnish gifts.

Send the postcard to your loved ones from the Santa office with an Arctic Circle stamp! It is a cool experience. You will also get the certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle line and you can also get a chance to meet Mrs Claus too. 

Magical Facts about Santa Claus Village

Did you know that Santa never takes a one day leave, he is available every year in his office. No matter what time you will visit , this old jolly man is always ready with a gentle smile and warm greetings.

In Lapland Reindeer are not just for adventure, they are part of their daily life. With 200,000 Reindeer and 180,000 people are a beautiful creature that actually outnumber humans in that region! No wonder you will see them roaming freely or sometimes crossing roads. 

Daily Santa Claus receives 500,000 letters from children around the world. They are stamped with a special Arctic stamp and Santa does not read them. 

If you are planning to see the Northern Lights then just book the Finland Tour Package of Roaming Routes to see the Aurora Borealis with Santa Claus village in Finland. 

Santa Claus Village in Finland is a place that your loved ones will never forget. So just pack your bags and enjoy the magic of Christmas, no matter what time of the year it is. Meeting Santa is always very special.  

Common FAQ’s on Santa Claus Village

Q.1 What is the Best Time to Visit Santa Claus Village?

The Best Time is From November to January which offers you a beautiful snowy experience. 

Q.2 Is Santa Available everyday?

Yes, you can meet Santa Claus everyday from 9AM TO 6PM. 

Q.3 Why is the Arctic Circle famous in that Village?

Arctic Circle is famous because, if you cross the Arctic Circle Line then you will get the certificate. 

Q.4 What are Adventure Activities in Santa Claus Village?

The thrilling activities include Reindeer rides, Snow games, husky safaris and Sami Museum.

Q.5 What is the famous Food in Santa Claus Village?

Salmon soup, Reindeer stew and local Pastries are very famous.

Q.6 Can I book the Hotel for Overnight?

Yes, you can there are cozy cabins and glass igloos and hotels.

Q.7 What is the mode of Transport for Santa Claus Village?

You can Visit Santa Claus Village by Air, Train or bus.

Q.8 Does Santa Claus Village open in Summer also?

Yes, Santa Claus Village is open everyday and you can meet Santa every Year.

Q.9 What is the Famous shopping place in Santa Claus village?

There are many local shops near Santa Claus village which is famous for its items which are made up of reindeer. 

Q.10 Does Santa Claus Village have guided tours?

Yes, guided tours are available and they tell about culture, tradition and famous things about Santa Claus village. 

Q.11 What clothes do you wear in Santa Claus Village?

Wear woolen clothes layer by layer, warm shoes and a woolen hat and gloves.

Q.12 Can we rent winter clothes in Lapland?

Yes, you can rent warm and trendy clothes at affordable prices in Lapland. 

Q.13 What money is used in Finland?

Euro currency is used in Finland.

Q.14 How long is a flight to Lapland?

The average direct flight time is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Q.15 Which countries are closest to Lapland?

The countries which are closest to Finland are Finnmark country, Troms country in Norway, Murmansk Oblast and Russia.