Places to Stay in Rovaniemi

Trying to figure out Rovaniemi places to stay? I have brought you the details on resorts, luxurious hotels, or something more budget-friendly.

As the capital of Lapland and the official gateway to the Arctic, Rovaniemi has a special kind of magic that keeps pulling me back. I have explored it in autumn and winter. Each season offers an entirely different but equally stunning experience.

Based on my travels, I will list the best areas to stay in Rovaniemi and what you can expect. 

What is the Best Area to Stay in Rovaniemi?

The best area to stay in Rovaniemi is Ounasvaara. This scenic hilltop area is known for its cosy luxury cabins, ski slopes, and easy access to some of the things to do in Rovaniemi like think husky safaris, snowshoeing, and Northern Lights tours.

Rovaniemi City Center is the option for those who like staying closer to the action. Right around Koskikatu Street, you will find a lively mix of bars, authentic Lappish restaurants, and convenient connections like the Santa Claus Express train station. Hotels like Arctic Light and Scandic Rovaniemi City put you right in the heart of it all.

Best Hotels Rovaniemi Lapland

The best hotels in Rovaniemi Lapland are Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle, Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus, Haawe Boutique Apart Hotel, Santasport, and Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos.

For a front-row seat to the Northern Lights, Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle offers glass-roofed accommodations, complete with an Aurora Alarm System that alerts you when the lights make their appearance.

Would you prefer to stay in the city? Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus puts you right in the action. If boutique luxury is more your style, Haawe Boutique Apart Hotel has Arctic-inspired suites, each designed and provided with a private kitchenette. Families and adventure seekers will love Santasport.

Luxury Stays in Rovaniemi

If you are more fond of luxury stay, we have brought you some quality options that you may want to try while visiting Rovaniemi:

1. Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos – Best for a Winter Wonderland Experience

Located in the middle of Finnish Lapland, the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi offers one of the most unique stays in the world. While the experience is undoubtedly magical, visitors should be aware of some aspects before booking.

One of the best features is the Aurora alarm system, which alerts guests when the Northern Lights are visible and prevents visitors from staying up in hopes of catching a glimpse. Some visitors have pointed out a design flaw the reflections on the glass roof at night can sometimes be distracting.

The temperature inside remains at -5°C to -9°C, which means sleeping here is not for the faint-hearted. It is not always helpful to book for more than one night, as the extreme cold and limited facilities can be uncomfortable.

Due to freezing conditions, guests are not allowed to keep their belongings in the room. For those who cannot tolerate the entire night in the ice hotel, a heated backup room with lockers and extra beds is available.

The Arctic SnowHotel has two main dining options:

• The Ice Restaurant – A surreal experience where everything, including the tables and glasses, is made of ice.
• The Kota Restaurant – A more traditional Lappish dining experience with a cosy wood fire in the centre.

Guests can enjoy:

• Snow Saunas and outdoor Jacuzzis are a must-try, offering the ultimate contrast between freezing temperatures and steaming hot baths.
• Ice Bar & Sky Bar are perfect for a drink in a truly unique setting.
• The Reindeer & Snow Slide Area is Great for families.
• Ice Sculpting Workshops is a hands-on activity where guests can create their frozen artwork.

However, it is not for everyone. If you are looking for complete comfort and luxury, the limited facilities in the Snow Hotel might not be ideal. It is recommended that you book for just one night.

2. Arctic City Hotel – Best for a Cozy, Central Stay with Excellent Dining

If you are looking for a centrally located hotel with excellent service and top dining, Arctic City Hotel is a solid choice. Rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, it is usually praised for its friendly and attentive staff, especially individuals like Gabriela, who go the extra mile to make stays special.

The breakfast here is a standout, with guests talking about the fresh porridge, crispy bacon, and even candlelit tables in the morning something rare for hotels. 

One traveller mentioned in a review that the homemade berry jams and warm cinnamon rolls were a delightful surprise. The on-site pub and restaurant also serve some of the best-rated meals in Rovaniemi, making it an excellent stay for food lovers.

During my visit, I tried the reindeer stew, a local speciality, and was impressed by the rich, savoury flavours. Location-wise, you are right in the heart of Rovaniemi, within walking distance of major attractions and bus connections. The hotel also provides covered parking, a useful benefit for renting a car in Rovaniemi.

However, room sizes are small, making it better suited for solo travellers or couples rather than large families. Also, there is no air conditioning, which can make summer stays uncomfortable. For winter travellers, though, this will not be an issue. Avoid visiting here in the peak summer months if you cannot handle the heat.

3. Arctic Light Hotel – Best for a Festive Stay in Rovaniemi

If you are looking for luxurious and exceptional service, Arctic Light Hotel should be at the top of your list. Rated 4.7/5 on Google and 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, this boutique hotel is known for its stylish interiors, outstanding breakfast, and prime location in the heart of Rovaniemi.

The rooms are beautifully designed, warm, and spacious. If you are travelling with kids, the loft rooms are a smart choice plenty of space, a foldout couch, and thoughtful touches like small welcome gifts for children.

One of the biggest highlights here is the breakfast expect freshly squeezed juice shots, gourmet selections, and high-quality ingredients. The on-site restaurant is equally amazing, offering exceptional dinner options.

For those planning winter trips, the hotel’s location is ideal close to Santa Claus Village, the Arktikum Science Museum, and even spots where you might see the Northern Lights near the river.

Staff members like Antonio, Marjut, and Joni stand out for their top-tier service, assisting with everything from luggage storage to arranging early morning tour-friendly packed breakfasts.

However, if you are visiting in peak season, expect a higher price tag compared to similar hotels. Also, while the staff is generally excellent, some seasonal hires may lack local knowledge, making it tricky when asking for directions to tour meeting points.

That said, if you want a 5-star experience with cozy, festive vibes, Arctic Light Hotel delivers. It is a step above many pricier options, including Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle, which some guests found underwhelming in comparison.

Cheap Hotels In Rovaniemi Finland

For budget travellers, cheap hotels in Rovaniemi deliver great value without compromising on comfort. While they may lack luxury amenities, they often include essentials like free WiFi, breakfast, and closeness to bus connections for Arctic tours.

4. Santa Claus Holiday Village – Best for a Family- Friendly Stay 

If you are looking for a family-friendly stay in Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Holiday Village is an experience you will not find anywhere. Rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, this resort offers cosy private cottages inside the famous Santa Claus Village, perfect for families with kids.

The cottages feel like mini studio apartments with a private sauna, kitchenette, and Chromecast-enabled TV. Some guests mentioned hearing outside noise, so light sleepers might want to bring earplugs. Breakfast is included, but opinions differ kids love the pastries and hot chocolate, while adults find it basic.

Activities are a big part of the experience, but some tours offered through the hotel can be overpriced. If you are visiting for serious husky sledging or an Aurora Borealis tour, booking with an independent tour company is best.

However, if you have young children, the on-site reindeer rides, Santa meet-and-greet, and Christmas post office make it a fantastic experience. The location is about 15 minutes from the Rovaniemi train station, with taxis costing around €35. Renting a car is a good idea, as the food options in the village are limited and pricey.

Santa Claus Holiday Village is one of the best cheap hotels in Rovaniemi. Just be prepared for a commercial feel and extra costs for photos and souvenirs.

5. Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna

The Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna is the option if you need a reasonably priced, mid-range hotel in the heart of Rovaniemi.

With a 4.2/5 rating on Google and 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, it is within easy walking distance of the best Rovaniemi restaurants, shops, and major attractions perfect for first-time visitors or families wanting an easy stay. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-equipped, with amenities like a mini fridge, kettle, and an iron and ironing board.

Some guests have mentioned that the pillows and blankets feel a bit worn, and since there is no air conditioning, the rooms can get warm in the summer. That said, the windows open for ventilation, and some rooms include a small desk fan.

If you are travelling with kids, they will love the children’s playroom, and the guest sauna is a nice addition for those who appreciate a bit of relaxation. A family staying here mentioned how their kids enjoyed the playroom’s selection of books and toys, giving parents a chance to relax in the sauna after a long day of exploring.

The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, and they are happy to help with everything from booking tours to arranging taxis or even recommending ski resorts. Parking is available for €12 per day, making it convenient for those driving. 

6. Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus – Best Spacious Rooms

Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus is a realistic choice with spacious rooms and a prime location. Rated 4.1/5 on Google and 4/5 on TripAdvisor, it is just a short ride from the train station and within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and local attractions.

The rooms are big, clean, and well-heated, but the beds are a common complaint they are twin beds pushed together and manage to slide apart easily. If you are travelling as a couple, this might be unpleasant.

The breakfast is decent, with a good selection, but it can run low if you arrive late. The hotel has a free sauna but is separated by gender and has no spa, which might be disappointing if you expect a wellness experience. There is also a tiny casino on-site, though it has nothing luxurious.

One downside is that the hotel sometimes hosts events with loud music that can be heard up to the fourth floor, making sleep difficult on some nights. Also, food and drinks at the hotel are overpriced a Coke costs around £4, so you are better off visiting the shop next door. If you are a light sleeper, bring earplugs.

7. Sokos Hotels – Best for a Comfortable Stay Near Rovaniemi’s City Center

Rated 4.2/5 on Google, it offers clean, spacious rooms with modern amenities, making it an excellent option for families, couples, and business travellers.

The location is excellent right by the river and within walking distance of the city centre, restaurants, and shops. Guests admire the friendly staff and the well-maintained rooms, which include a mini bar, kettle, facial tissues, and even an ironing board.

However, some mention that slippers are not provided, and sauna access is limited, which might be a downside if you expect a full spa experience. One of the best features is the breakfast buffet, which offers a good mix of international dishes and plenty of variety. There is secure parking for €12 per day if you are driving.

While the hotel balances comfort and affordability, prices can fluctuate significantly during peak tourist seasons, so booking early is advisable. Overall, Sokos Hotels is one of the best places to stay near Rovaniemi if you want a quiet, well-equipped hotel with easy access to the city’s attractions. 

City Center Hotels

City centre hotels in Rovaniemi put you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and tour pick-up points.

8. Scandic Rovaniemi City – Best for a Stay with Easy Tour Access

Scandic Rovaniemi City is a solid hotel option with easy tours and public transport access. Rated 4.1/5 on Google, this hotel is just across the street from a shopping mall and within walking distance of restaurants, attractions, and tour pick-up points. The rooms are clean and functional, though relatively small, especially if you stay longer than a few nights.

There are no in-room tea or coffee-making facilities, which is disappointing after a long day in the cold. However, the modern bathrooms are well-equipped with showers, hairdryers, and an ironing board, and the hotel offers a daily cleaning service.

Breakfast is plentiful and served early, making it perfect for those heading out on outings. However, the menu does not change much, which can feel repetitive for longer stays. The on-site restaurant is surprisingly good, serving well-cooked steaks, salmon, and pasta worth checking out if other spots are fully booked.

The biggest thing is the location. The hotel is near a direct bus route to Santa Claus Village and the airport, and almost all tour operators pick up and drop off here. A fellow traveller I met on tour mentioned how convenient it was to leave the hotel and find a shuttle waiting especially on chilly winter mornings when you do not want to walk far.

If you are staying in Rovaniemi for tours, shopping, or just a short visit, this is one of Rovaniemi’s most convenient city-centre hotels do not expect too much space in the rooms! Since the rooms are compact, it’s a good idea to pack efficiently. One tip is to use the under-bed storage for luggage, as space can be limited. However, the location more than makes up for it, with cafes, shops, and the main attractions just a short walk away.

9. Nova Skyland Hotel – Best for a Cozy Stay Near Santa Claus Village

Nova Skyland Hotel is among the best choices for a quiet yet magical stay near Santa Claus Village. Rated 4.6/5 on Google, this relaxed, exclusive retreat offers private accommodations with modern comforts, making it perfect for couples, families, and even solo travellers.

The rooms are very spacious, with some units featuring two floors, two full bathrooms, and a private sauna a rare find in Rovaniemi. Guests specifically love the comfortable beds and warm atmosphere. The breakfast is excellent, with options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions like lactose-free and gluten-free.

Located within Santa Claus Village but slightly away from the busy areas, Nova Skyland offers a peaceful setting while keeping you close to reindeer encounters, winter activities, and the Arctic Circle webcam. The service is good, with staff like Eetu going the extra mile to help with tour bookings, restaurant recommendations, and guest needs.

Due to the design, the bathroom floor gets wet after showers, and some guests found the lighting system overly complex. However, these are minor issues compared to the overall luxury experience. For a highly rated, beautifully organised hotel with a private sauna and fantastic service, Nova Skyland is one of Rovaniemi’s best city centers hotel.

Romantic Hotels for Couples in Rovaniemi

Romantic hotels for couples in Rovaniemi offer cozy, private stays with stunning Arctic views and private saunas. D you want a secluded cabin or a stylish boutique hotel? Rovaniemi has the perfect romantic escape for two.

10. Glass Resort – Romantic Stay with a Private Jacuzzi and Sauna

Glass Resort provides stunning glass-walled cabins, private saunas, and outdoor jacuzzis with the best Arctic views. Rated 4.7/5 on Google, this high-end accommodation is located in Santa Claus Village, offering a balance of privacy and access to winter activities.

Each luxurious cabin has floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to watch snowfall or (if you are lucky) the Northern Lights from bed. The in-room sauna is a guest favourite, and the outdoor jacuzzi is a dream after a cold day. The restaurant on-site is something else, with guests calling it Michelin-worthy the three-course meals, wine pairings, and fresh local ingredients set it apart from most hotels in the area.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Cabins are not the most spacious, and the spiral staircase to the bedroom can be tricky to guide something to assume if you are uncomfortable with narrow steps. Some cabins have limited privacy in the outdoor jacuzzi, as they are visible from walkways, though this could easily be fixed with a screen.

The location is on the edge of Santa Claus Village, so while it is walkable, dragging luggage through snow or ice can be challenging. Glass Resort is one of Rovaniemi’s most magical romantic hotels for couples. Be prepared for premium pricing and some minor design issues, but the price is worth it for a truly memorable experience.

11. Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara

Rated 4.4/5 on Google, this private accommodation is located on a hilltop surrounded by forest. It offers peace, privacy, and a front-row seat to the Northern Lights without the city lights interrupting.

The Mystic Deluxe Rooms have cozy interiors, warm lighting, and an in-room sauna. The rooftop terrace provides panoramic Arctic views, and many guests have spotted the auroras right from their room windows or the hotel’s parking lot. The on-site restaurant serves high-end Lapland cuisine.

Guests talk about the three-course gourmet dinners and various breakfast buffet, which includes regional specialties, fresh eggs, porridge, and local berries. However, some diners felt rushed during dinner service, which detracted from the relaxed atmosphere.

The hotel is about 45 minutes on foot from Rovaniemi’s center through a scenic winter trail. A taxi is recommended for convenience. A bus service to Santa Claus Village is available directly from the hotel. The only downside it that there is no elevator, so be prepared for stairs (though staff happily assist with luggage).

For couples looking for a private, nature-filled retreat with cozy cabins, saunas, and top-tier dining, Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara is one of the most romantic hotels in Rovaniemi just be ready for a bit of a trek if you want to explore the town!

Hotels Near Rovaniemi

Hotels near Rovaniemi offer a mix of cozy cabins, luxury resorts, and budget-friendly stays just outside the city center. 

12. Apukka Resort – Unique Accommodations & Activities

If you are looking for one of the best places to stay in Rovaniemi for an authentic Arctic adventure, Apukka Resort gives an unforgettable experience. Rated 4.5/5 on Google, this resort presents Aurora cabins, glass igloos, and cosy wooden lodges, all surrounded by Lapland’s stunning nature.

The activities here are Rovaniemi husky sledging, reindeer rides, snowmobiling, frozen lake sauna experience and ice fishing. The Santa Claus safari is particularly magical for families, with elves who create a storybook-like adventure for children. You might even witness the

Northern Lights from your cabin’s glass ceiling if you are lucky though clear skies are never guaranteed.

The on-site restaurant serves hearty meals, but the food is expensive and of average quality, so consider dining in Rovaniemi for more options. The staff are exceptionally warm and helpful, often going out of their way to adjust special requests.

During my stay, they provided great recommendations for nearby restaurants and even helped arrange a late-night taxi when shuttle services had stopped running. The location is about 15 minutes from Rovaniemi’s centre, and shuttle services are available, but having a rental car is ideal for flexibility. 

If you rely on public transport, check the shuttle schedule in advance, as service frequency can vary, especially in the evening.

13. Motelli Rovaniemi – Best for Budget-Friendly, Self-Catering Cabins

Do you need affordable self-catering accommodation near Rovaniemi? Motelli Rovaniemi is a great option. Rated 4.1/5 on Google, this budget-friendly motel offers cosy cabins in a peaceful, snowy forest setting, making it ideal for families, groups, and travellers with cars.

The cabins vary, so check carefully when booking some come with fully equipped kitchens and private saunas, while others only have a microwave and basic amenities. The interiors are warm, clean, and functional, though some guests found certain units a bit dated.

Linen and towels cost an extra €10 per person, and you will need to make your bed, as housekeeping is not included during your stay. There is no on-site restaurant, but you can grab a frozen pizza and coffee at reception.

A rental car is highly recommended, with Rovaniemi about a 10-minute drive away, though buses and taxis (around €30 one way) are available. Motelli Rovaniemi is one of the best value-for-money accommodation hotels & cabins near Rovaniemi.

Places to Stay in Rovaniemi FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the best places to stay in Rovaniemi relies on what you want glass igloos for Northern Lights, cosy cabins for privacy, or city-centre hotels for easy access to attractions.

Book months in advance to secure the best rates if you visit in winter. Self-catering options like cottages and motels help save on dining. For an amazing stay, consider location, amenities, and seasonal demand.