Rovaniemi Travel Advice

Key facts
Language Finnish
Timezone GMT +2
Currency EUR:Euro
Flight duration 3 hrs 30 mins from gatwick

Rovaniemi Travel Advice

Best time to go to Rovaniemi

Bracing best describes the weather here. Right through December, Rovaniemi shivers in temperatures of anything between -2 and -10°C. And on the coldest days, the mercury can plummet to a teeth-chattering -30°C. You’ll need to wrap up extra-warm whenever you go outside. We’re talking multiple layers, snuggly hats, gloves and snow boots.

There’s something else you should know - between November and February, the sun doesn’t rise very high in the sky. So when you wake up, it’s pitch black outside. And by mid-afternoon, it’s back to black once again. The time inbetween - around 10am to 2.30pm - isn’t bright daylight, either. During this ‘grey time’, it stays semi-light, almost like dusk. It feels a bit strange at first, but it’s really magical.

Passports & Visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Lapland but must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa information, www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/finland/entry-requirements.

Don't forget to arrange your travel money and insurance before you go.

Health & Safety

You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. It’s worth checking to make sure it covers winter sports such as snowmobile rides, and husky and reindeer sleigh-rides. It’s also a good idea to get a European Health Insurance Card – or EHIC – before leaving the UK. Though it’s not a substitute for travel insurance, it entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Lapland residents. It won’t, however, cover you for medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment or non-urgent treatment. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/finland/health

NEED TO KNOW

What should I pack?
If you’re coming to Lapland for the day, wear warm clothes and only take hand luggage on the plane. We’ll lend you a cosy all-in-one thermal suit and some boots, but please bring your own gloves, socks and a hat. If you’re on a longer trip, we’ll still kit you out with the necessary gear, which is yours for the duration of your holiday. It’s a good idea to bring lots of layers, too. Other bits you could consider include brightly coloured hats for your little ones – everyone looks the same in a snowsuit. Most hotels here have a sauna, so don’t forget your swimwear. Loungewear is handy for evenings spent hanging out at your hotel, too. And your favourite festive top is a must for our Christmas jumper competition.
What’s the weather like?
In December, daytime temperatures range from 0 to -20 degrees, but it can fall to -40 during cold spells. You’ll get four to five hours of ‘grey light’ between 10am and 3pm. The rest of the time it’s dark, but still quite bright because of the snow. And all the activity areas are well lit.
What’s the food like?
It depends where you stay, but most hotels in Lapland put on international buffets. Usually, there’s a selection of meat, fish and pasta dishes to choose from, as well as vegetables and salad. You’ll also find kids’ favourites, like chips, meatballs, and burgers.
Is Lapland suitable for young children?
We don’t recommend our Lapland trips for children under 4-years-old. That’s because the chilly temperatures and types of activities aren’t suited to really little ones. If you do bring toddlers along, though, you’ll need to provide their own thermal clothing.
Do I need insurance?
It’s essential you and your family have the protection you need in case the unexpected happens. What’s more, if you want to take part in any snow sports when you’re away, you’ll need a policy that covers you for these. For more info, ask us about travel insurance when you book your holiday.
Is there any skiing?
Although skiing isn’t included in our Lapland packages, it’s easy to arrange some time on the slopes. You’ll find cross-country and downhill skiing in most of our destinations, but Levi and Yllas in Kittilä are the best places for the sport.
Can I drive a snowmobile?
If you want to get behind the wheel of a snowmobile, make sure you bring your full UK driving licence. As long as local guides agree, children aged 12 and over can ride as a passenger. Younger children have to travel in a sleigh pulled by one instead.