Where to Stay in Rovaniemi: 5 Best Hotels in the Arctic
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Welcome to my blog on where to stay in Rovaniemi. As someone who has traveled the world and explored nearly 50 countries, I have come to realize that where you stay on your trip can either enhance your trip or make it a struggle to get around. Deciding where to stay in Rovaniemi may depend on the time of year that you are visiting and things that you want to see and do.
For me, I wanted the ultimate Arctic experience, and I wanted to see the Northern Lights from my bed and really feel like I was completely immersed in my experience. I am excited to share with you all of my favorite hotels in Rovaniemi so that you can have the same amazing adventure I did during my stay!
Introduction: Where to Stay in Rovaniemi
Honestly, deciding where to stay in Rovaniemi will only enhance your trip. When I first started planning my winter adventure, I was looking at what I wanted to see and do while in Rovaniemi, and what I wanted to get out of the experience.
My number one priority was the Northern Lights, so I wanted to ensure I saw them, and I wanted to stay somewhere that would elevate my entire experience and that gave me increased chances of seeing them. I also like walkability, somewhere safe, and easy to uber to and from. For me, I like staying in a few hotels so that I can get the full experience of the city.
In this guide, I will be revealing all of the best hotels in Rovaniemi so that you can decided where to stay so that your adventure to Finland is as amazing as mine was.
Best Hotels in Rovaniemi
1. Apukka Resort
When I first started researching where to stay in Rovaniemi, one of the hotels that was the top of my list was the Apukka Resort. There is something about viewing the Northern Lights from your bed that makes this experience even better. Between the Aurora cabins and the igloos style rooms they offer, you can’t go wrong with either one, and I stayed one night in each room type. Both were equally amazing, but I did love the extra space I did get in the Kammi Igloo Suite.
This resort has tons of things to see and do when it comes to excursion options, they have 3 onsite restaurants, a huge property, and you can pretty much guarantee you will see the Northern Lights form this resort. They even have a camera to detect them, and if you download the app, you will get notified as soon as they come out.
You are about 20 mins from the city, but they do have a shuttle bus that runs pretty frequently from Apukka, to Santa Claus Village, to the city center, and it costs 8 Euros per person each way, which is much cheaper than an Uber.
If staying under the stars, in a winter wonderland, where you have a high probability of seeing the Northern Lights from your cabin, then I highly recommend staying at Apukka, as I feel like it’s one of the best hotels in Rovaniemi.
2. Arctic Light Hotel
Located in the heart of the city, the Arctic Light Hotel, feels like a little hidden gem. This cute boutique style hotel was walking distance to the bus station, lots of cafes, restaurants, and shopping. The street was lit up for Christmas, even in January, and just felt like a little winter wonderland in a Christmas village.
The lobby was cozy, and a great place to relax and do some work (I actually started writing this blog from their lobby), a delicious breakfast is included, and there is an onsite restaurant, which I didn’t try, other than for breakfast.
The staff were super friendly, attentive, and took care of everything. There is an onsite sauna, which you can reserve complimentary for 30 mins, and was the first thing I tried out upon check in. The rooms are spacious, cozy, modern, and the room even had a balcony, which I didn’t use due to the snowy weather, but would be perfect in the summer.
If you are looking for a modern hotel in the heart of the city, then I highly recommend the Arctic Light Hotel for your next stay in Rovaniemi.
3. Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
If you are looking for a unique experience, then the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a great option. Think modern hotel meets the arctic forest. This arctic hotel has floor-to-ceiling windows, which is great for Northern Light gazing, and is situated in the arctic forest.
There is something about exploring Rovaniemi and coming back to this cozy hotel, that just feels like a relaxing sanctuary. Especially if your trip is winter adventure, full of busy activities.
If your travel style is glamping in the arctic, then I highly recommend the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, as it is for sure one of the best hotels in Rovaniemi.
4. Hotel Vartiosaari – The Aurora Island
If you are looking for a hotel that feels a little more secluded, then Hotel Vartiosaari – The Aurora Island may be a great option for you on where to stay in Rovaniemi. This hotel has incredible river views, and even though it’s only a few minutes from the city, it feels like you are miles away.
This hotel has great Northern Lights visibility, the rooms feel cozy and rustic, and it is really a peaceful location if you are looking for a calm retreat after a busy day exploring everything at Rovaniemi has to offer.
5. Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Rovaniemi
Located in the city center, with great access to coffee shops, restaurants, and shops, is the Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Rovaniemi. This charming hotel is a great option for all traveler types, looking for great accessibility, modern comforts, and in a walkable and safe area.
The staff at this hotel are very friendly and welcoming, the rooms are cozy and modern, and it really feels like you are coming home after a busy day exploring Rovaniemi. Breakfast in this hotel is included and there is an onsite French restaurant, with an excellent menu.
If you are looking for a cozy boutique hotel in the middle of the city, then theOriginal Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Rovaniemi is a great hotel option for you!
Conclusion: Where to Stay in Rovaniemi
In my opinion, deciding where to stay in Rovaniemi will set the tone for your entire Rovaniemi adventure. Whether you are visiting in the winter or summer, picking the best hotel in Rovaniemi that meets your travel style will only enhance your trip.
After a busy day at Santa’s Village, or hiking through the mountains, or chasing the Northern Lights, you want to come “home” to somewhere that feels cozy, comfortable, and meets your needs. I hope this guide has helped you choose the best stay that fits you and your travel style.
Need help planning or finding the right hotel for your trip? Reach out anytime! I would love to help you plan your perfect arctic adventure.