Rovaniemi’s Splendor: A Historical Walk through Lapland’s Capital

Rovaniemi is the vibrant capital of Finnish Lapland, located just a stone’s throw from the Arctic Circle, and known as the official hometown of Santa Claus.

On this walking tour, you’ll learn about the war that almost ruined the city, take in some of its famous sights, and get to know how Rovaniemi became the capital of the north. I’ll share details about what makes it a magical, year-round destination. In winter it’s a frozen wonderland, perfect for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, and in summer the midnight sun offers endless daylight for outdoor adventures.

The tour starts alongside the Kemijoki River, from where you’ll cross Finland’s first cable-stayed bridge, Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge. You’ll pass by Culture House Korundi (home to an orchestra, museum, and contemporary art gallery) and Arktikum Museum, an Arctic research centre and one of Rovaniemi’s favorite cultural hubs.

Along the way, you’ll have a chance to:

• Learn about the importance of the city’s river
• Hear about the conflict between Finland, the Soviet Union, and Germany during World War II, and how Finland held multiple allegiances
• Discover the Lapland Gold Rush’s history, when mining took off here in the 1870s
• Experience local architecture by famed Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto, and hear how he helped redesign parts of the town that were destroyed in 1944
• Stop by the Jäger Movement memorial, dedicated to Finnish volunteer soldiers who fought during the First World War
• Find out how Finland’s famous airline, Finnair, first took off
• Be tempted to take a plunge at the Ounasvaaran Latu Ice Hole

Join this Arctic storyteller on a walk through Rovaniemi’s city center and discover its iconic sights and fascinating history. By the end of this hour-long tour you’ll see how, with its unique blend of nature, culture and Christmas spirit, Rovaniemi captures the hearts of visitors from around the world.