Santa Claus Village: The ultimate winter wonderland guide

Since we were little, we’ve all heard the stories about Santa Claus working tirelessly on Christmas. He loads up his workshop-made toys onto a sleigh, guided by his trusty reindeer, and slides down chimneys (or maybe our HDB rubbish chutes for Singaporeans) to deliver gifts to all the good kids.

Now, we might have grown a bit since then, or maybe we’re full-fledged adults. But you know what? That doesn’t mean we can’t bring back those magical Christmas dreams with Santa Claus. And where’s the best place to make it all come true? None other than the enchanting Santa Claus Village in Finland!

In this blog, we’re diving into everything related to Santa Claus Village, so get ready and let the Christmas excitement begin!

Where is Santa Claus village?

Wondering where our beloved Christmas icon clocks in for work? Well, to be precise, it’s none other than Lapland, Finland. And in the heart of Lapland, you’ll find it nestled in a charming little city called Rovaniemi. But here’s the catch, you won’t spot it smack in the middle of Rovaniemi city centre. Nope, you’ll need to hop on some transportation to make your way to Santa Claus’s cozy abode.

Santa Claus village Finland address: 96930 Rovaniemi, Finland

Closest airport to Santa Claus village Finland: Rovaniemi Airport

Santa Claus village opening hours: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

Santa Claus village entrance fee: $0

Santa Claus village tickets: Not applicable

Santa Claus village contact:

• +358 (0)207 99999
• [email protected]

Santa Claus village Finland map

How to get to Santa Claus village? 5 ways to get from Rovaniemi to Santa Claus Village

Hold on to your reindeer, folks! Before you start dreaming about meeting Santa Claus, let’s talk about how to get from Rovaniemi to Santa Claus village.

• By Plane: If you’re flying in, you’ll land at Rovaniemi Airport. From there, you’ll need to find a way to get to the village. Some hotels might offer shuttle services, so it’s a good idea to check with your hotel first. Another option is to hop in a taxi.
• By Bus: Just take bus 8 from Rovaniemi city centre to Santa Claus village. Take note that bus schedule from Rovaniemi to Santa Claus village differs from season to season.
• By Taxi: Take a taxi from Rovaniemi to Santa Claus village. You can arrange from Rovaniemen Lähitaksi.
• By Car: If you’ve rented a car in Rovaniemi city centre, it’s about an 8-kilometer drive to the village. You can’t miss it—the village has distinctive towers and a grand gateway right along highway E4 (European route E75). But be cautious if you’re not used to driving in winter conditions; it can be challenging. You can park your car at Santa Claus village parking free of cost.

Not sure which is the best way to Santa Claus village? We recommend hopping on a bus. But here’s the trick – you’re better off staying in Rovaniemi rather than right at the village itself. We’ll dive into the accommodation options near Santa Claus Village in just a moment.

Things to do in Santa Claus village

Booked your trip to Santa Claus village? Checked. Arrived on the day? Checked. Now what?

Time to take a tour to Santa Claus village. Whether you’re up for some snow frolicking (especially if you’re there during spring or winter) or looking for other exciting activities within the village, we’ve got you covered.

Here are six must-try experiences for your visit. Oh, and a quick heads-up: some activities, like sledding (obviously), are only up for grabs in Winter or Spring. So, no sledding through autumn leaves – it just doesn’t have that snowy charm!

Santa Claus Village Christmas house

One of the real treats of this village is getting to meet Santa Claus himself, right? And what could be more heartwarming than giving this hardworking man a warm hug at the Christmas house? The icing on the cake is that his trusty little helpers (we mean those adorable elves) can snap a photo with the jolly man for you. But, just a heads-up, this delightful service isn’t on the house. Here’s the Santa Claus village photo price:

• For downloadable photographs and videos, prices start at 50 EUR (for a group of up to 5 people), with an extra 5 EUR for each additional person, and an extra 20 EUR for each additional photo file.
• If you fancy an A4-sized photograph, that’ll set you back 35 EUR.
• And for a set of A6-sized photographs (4 in total), it’s 40 EUR.

If you want to spill the beans about why you’re coveting certain gifts, just swing by the Santa Claus Office and have a cozy chat with Santa himself.

And if he’s not quite on board with your wish, no biggie! You can always air your grievances with Mrs. Santa Claus. She might not have the power to grant your every wish, but she’s all ears and ready to listen. You’ll find her hanging out at the Santa Claus Reindeer Resort.

Santa Claus Village Reindeer farm

Now, before you get too carried away dreaming of soaring through the skies with Santa’s reindeer, let us gently bring you back down to Earth. These reindeer are keeping their hooves firmly on the snowy ground, which means you can hop on a reindeer ride right in the backyard of Santa Claus Office at the Arctic Circle in Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi.

These enchanting reindeer rides are available throughout the winter and into spring, with prices ranging from 20 EUR to 99 EUR depending on the season and whether it’s a peak period.

Now, what about summer, you ask? Well, even reindeer need a little R&R, so they take a summer break. But don’t fret; you can still pay them a visit and hang out for around 80 EUR.

Arctic circle Santa Claus village Finland

The Arctic Circle is like a special spot on Earth because it’s where the Sun does some really cool things. On the shortest day of the year in the northern part of the world, which we call the winter solstice, in the Arctic Circle, the Sun doesn’t even show up during the day. And on the longest day of the year up north, which we call the summer solstice, in the Arctic Circle, the Sun stays up all day and night! So, it’s a place where the Sun acts kind of funny.

Guess what? You can actually find the Arctic Circle in Santa Claus Village, which is in Rovaniemi. It’s about 8 kilometres north of the city centre, and they’ve marked it really clearly. The coolest part? You can even get a certificate to prove that you’ve been there. Talk about showing off a little!

Husky Ride Santa Claus village

Did you know that huskies can tough it out in temperatures as bone-chilling as -50°C? That’s one of the reasons why Finland is an absolute paradise for these furry pals. And if you’ve got a soft spot for huskies, you absolutely need to give this adventure a whirl!

Picture yourself on a sled, led by a pack of these magnificent huskies, with a pro musher at the reins, guiding you on a thrilling ride through the forest trails. It’s an unforgettable experience, and your chance to bond with these incredible huskies.

Northern lights Santa Claus village

Ah, the ever-exciting quest for the Northern Lights in the icy cold! But let’s have a little reality check here – seeing the Northern Lights up at the Arctic Circle is a bit like a treasure hunt. You need a clear sky, the right weather, and, of course, a dash of good old luck. Yep, luck plays a pretty big role here. It’s not a guarantee just because you’ve paid for it.

Now, here’s a tidbit for you: statistically, the Northern Lights tend to put on their best show around the autumn and spring equinoxes. Of course, they make appearances throughout the winter too. So, if the statistical stars align just right and luck is on your side, you might just get treated to a spectacular Northern Lights display!

Santa Claus village post office

Santa Claus Village postcard might just be the perfect gift for friends and families. All you have to do is hit the post office at the Santa Claus Village.

Fun fact: this post office is a bustling hub where a whopping 2 million postcards get whisked away to destinations all across the globe. The hardworking elves on duty make sure each and every post gets the special Arctic Circle postmark treatment.

But hey, that’s not all. It’s a full-service post office, so if you’ve got parcels or any other mail to send on its merry way, they’ve got you covered. Just like your typical post office, the fees here are all about the weight. So, if you happen to have a heavier gift in tow, make sure you’ve got enough cash to cover it. It’s all part of the postal adventure!

What to eat in Santa Claus Village?

We are aware that the Santa Claus village salmon gets all the hype, but you know what? There are some other spots you should definitely give it a taste too!

Where to stay in Santa Claus village?

Looking for accommodations at Santa’s Claus village? Anxious about finding a cozy spot during the festive season? No need to fret; you’ve got choices! We’ve put together a list of all the lodging options, both within and beyond the magical confines of Santa Claus Village.

Alternatively, check out Santa Claus village Finland packages!

Now, here’s a package that’s just tailor-made for those who like to take it easy or have a bit of extra cash to spare. For instance, when winter rolls around, Santa Claus Village rolls out the Winter Wonder Package, and it’s a real treat. The package includes:

• Accommodation: Choose between cozy Classic cottages or elevate your stay with a Superior cottage, complete with your very own private sauna. Daily cleaning ensures a hassle-free retreat.
• Warm winter attire: They offer thermal overalls and boots to keep you snug during your stay, so you can focus on enjoying the winter wonderland.
• Delicious full-board meals: Indulge in hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and delightful dinners, all included in the package. You won’t have to worry about a thing.
• Arctic Circle Crossing Certificate: You’ll receive a special certificate to commemorate your crossing of the Arctic Circle – a unique keepsake of your Arctic adventure.
• Private Meeting with Santa Claus: Experience the magic of Santa Claus with a private meeting right in your cottage. It’s a truly enchanting moment you’ll cherish.
• Day trip to Ranua Zoo: Immerse yourself in the wonders of Arctic wildlife at Ranua Zoo, a captivating experience you won’t want to miss.
• Northern Lights expedition: Venture into the wilderness in search of the mesmerising Northern Lights, a breathtaking natural phenomenon.
• Arctic fun day: Get ready for a day of thrilling activities, including reindeer and husky sleigh rides, ice fishing, and outdoor adventures. It’s an action-packed day in the snow!

You know what they say, convenience can come with a price tag. We took a speedy peek at the rates for a 3-night stay from January 3, 2024, to January 6, 2024, and it came to €1,869 EUR. And that’s if it’s still considered peak season. Now, it’s up to you to weigh if it’s worth every penny.

Airbnb near Santa Claus village Lapland

If you’re all about that cozy, local feel, Airbnb is the way to go. In Rovaniemi, you’ve got around 352 cool places up for grabs. Rates kick off at a comfy 72 SGD per night and can go up to 1443 SGD for a swanky villa. So, if you’re rolling with a crew, pooling your funds for a spacious villa might just be the smart move to keep things easy on the wallet.

Santa Claus Village weather

From the tropical region? It comes as no surprise if you hit the search for “Weather in Santa Claus village Finland”.

Santa Claus village temperature is based on four different seasons.

Spring

• April: 5 to 10 degrees Celsius
• May: 10 to 20 degrees Celsius

Summer

• June: 15 to 20 degrees Celsius
• July: 20 to 25 degrees Celsius

Autumn

• August: 10 to 20 degrees Celsius
• September: 5 to 15 degrees Celsius
• October: 0 to 10 degrees Celsius
• November: -10 to 5 degrees Celsius

Winter

• December: -20 to -10 degrees Celsius
• January: -30 to -15 degrees Celsius
• February: -20 to -15 degrees Celsius
• March: -15 to -5 degrees Celsius

Best time to visit Santa Claus village

Choosing the best time to visit Santa Claus Village really comes down to what kind of adventure you’re after.

If you’re on a quest to witness the mesmerising Northern Lights, your sweet spot is between late August and early April when the skies are usually crystal clear. Now, if you’re yearning for an authentic Christmas experience complete with Santa Claus himself, mark your calendar for the mid-November to mid-January period, known as the enchanting blue twilight of the Polar Night.

As February strides in, daylight starts stretching, and the dark winter gradually transforms into a brighter, more cheerful springtime. If you’re all about winter sports, you’ll find the prime conditions you crave from December to March. Then, as we head into the latter part of April, the snow begins to melt, and May ushers in the revival of nature’s beauty.

From early June to early July, Rovaniemi bathes in the radiant glow of the Midnight Sun, creating a magical backdrop for your adventures. And for those seeking the pinnacle of summer activities and events, the glorious days and nights of June through August won’t disappoint.

Finally, as September arrives, prepare to be dazzled by the breathtaking display of Autumn Leaf Colour as nature erupts into a stunning array of earthy hues.

How long to spend at Santa Claus village?

Now, let’s get real about the challenge ahead. It’s not just about how long you plan to stay or how much cash you’re willing to splurge. There are a few key factors to keep in mind:

• Weather: Brace yourself! Days are short, and nights are long in this part of the world. Plus, the weather can be as unpredictable as a box of chocolates. Your plans for the day may hinge on what Mother Nature has in store.
• Timing: While Santa’s always around, the season you choose to visit matters for other activities. Think about when you’re going. You could arrive just after the vibrant autumn colours have faded or a tad early for full-blown winter fun. Sometimes, the snow might be a no-show.
• Temperature: “Cold” doesn’t quite cover it. If you’re used to the tropics, prepare for a chilly shocker. Give yourself a few days to adjust – it’s a whole different kind of cold up here!

Santa Claus village luggage storage

Chances are you’ll find yourself in the Santa Claus Village during the winter season, and the last thing you need is to haul your luggage through heaps of snow. Lucky for you, there are four places in Rovaniemi City Center and one right in the heart of Santa Claus Village where you can stash your stuff. Let us break it down for you.

In Rovaniemi City Center:

• Arctic Design Shop at Valtakatu 24 in Rovaniemi offers luggage storage at 5 EUR per bag per day. They’re open from 11 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, 11 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays, and 12 PM to 4 PM on Sundays. Remember, you’ll need to book online at radicalstorage.com.
• Smuk Shop at Jaakonkatu 3 charges 8 EUR per bag per day. They’re closed on Mondays but open from 8 AM to 6 PM Tuesday through Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays, and 11 AM to 4 PM on Sundays. You can contact them at [email protected] or visit smukshop.fi for more details.
• If you’re near the train station at Ratakatu 3, you can use their lockers. They’re open every day from 5 AM to 9:30 PM. The locker sizes vary, and you can book them for 3, 6, 12, 24, or 72 hours. The price depends on the locker size, duration, and season. Check out vr.fi/en/railway-stations-and-routes/rovaniemi for more information.
• K-Market Toriportti on Lapinkävijäntie 3 offers luggage storage for 5 EUR per bag per day. They’re open from 7 AM to 10 PM on weekdays, 8 AM to 10 PM on Saturdays, and 9 AM to 10 PM on Sundays. They’re conveniently located across from the bus station.
• Wonderlapland/Loopiloo at Rovakatu 19B charges 10 EUR per day for luggage storage. Their opening hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 5 PM on weekends. You can find more information at wonderlapland.com.

In the Santa Claus Village:

• For those visiting the Santa Claus Village, Sunny Safari at Tähtikuja 1, 96930 Rovaniemi, offers luggage storage services. You can contact them at +358 401 895595 or visit their website sunnysafari.fi.

Now, you’re all set to keep your belongings safe while you explore Rovaniemi and the magical Santa Claus Village!

Is Santa Claus village worth visiting?

Ah, the age-old question: Is Santa Claus Village really worth the visit?

Well, let’s face it, spending your money in Finland can put a dent in your wallet, especially when you’re hitting up a popular spot like Santa Claus Village. So, aside from having your finances in order, some good old-fashioned planning goes a long way.

We’ve combed through Santa Claus holiday village reviews and the general consensus is that the village itself isn’t huge; some folks even say a day there is plenty. It tends to close shop around 6 pm.

But you know what? Most folks agree that the sheer joy of meeting Santa Claus in his hometown adds a sprinkle of magic to your trip that’s worth every penny. And when you throw in all the other snowy activities, it turns Christmas into a real-life fairy tale.

Before you go…

Booked your holidays to Santa Claus village? Decided on your Santa Claus village tour activities? Now, let’s talk cash.

The truth is, a trip to Finland can burn a hole in your pocket, especially in a tourist hotspot like this. We all adore Santa Claus, but what we don’t adore are those foreign exchange fees and rates that can eat into our funds. So, if you’re looking to save a few bucks, you might just have enough left over for another awesome winter activity or some souvenir shopping.

That’s where the amaze travel card comes into play.

With the amaze travel card, you can wave goodbye to those pesky exchange rate woes and make your Lapland adventure even more fantastic.

Just link it up with your Mastercard bank card or load up your amaze wallet, and you’ll enjoy stellar FX rates with every purchase worldwide. Plus, you can earn InstaPoints on your FX spends and cash them in for sweet cashback or discounts on international money transfers.

P.S. Haven’t snagged your amaze card yet? Well, now’s the perfect time to sign up before your Santa Claus Village Finland holiday trip kicks off! It’s your ticket to saving some serious moolah.

Sign up via the Instarem app and start using amaze instantly. It’s totally free.

*T&Cs apply

**Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with products or vendors mentioned.