The incredibly popular city of Rovaniemi is considered the perfect gateway for anyone in search of Lapland’s raw wilderness.
It’s a place built for exceptional outdoor adventures; one day you’re gliding through the snow-covered wilderness behind a gang of enthusiastic huskies, the next you’re doing a cold plunge in a frozen lake before heating up in a traditional Finnish sauna.
It’s wild and untouched, yet incredibly accessible to travellers. Not to mention that it’s one of the world’s best places to experience the Northern Lights.
Then there’s accommodation, which will effortlessly match Lapland’s many iconic experiences.
From design-led retreats set within the Arctic wilderness to premium glass igloos offering unrivalled views of the Aurora Borealis, a stay in Rovaniemi is more than simply a base; it’s a destination in its own right, one where all your Arctic adventures start from.
Based on my own time exploring the Arctic wilderness, I’ve curated this in-depth guide to help you pick the right base for your travel style and budget.
See it as my personal interpretation of the best hotels in Rovaniemi, a selection of carefully curated picks that strike the perfect harmony of quiet luxury and thrilling outdoor experiences.
Here’s my guide to the best hotels in Rovaniemi, Lapland.
Disclaimer | All imagery is my own, and the words in this article are based on my first-hand experiences, meaning I visited each hotel personally.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying a virtual coffee here.
Where is Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is situated right on the Arctic Circle in northern Finland and serves as the capital of Finnish Lapland, with direct air connections via Rovaniemi Airport.
Widely known as the hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi acts as the primary gateway to the Arctic wilderness, offering travellers the region’s most iconic winter experiences, including husky safaris, glass igloos, and snowmobile adventures.
It’s also considered one of the world’s best places to witness the Northern Lights.
5 Spectacular hotels in Rovaniemi
1. Apukka Resort
In all honesty, the stunning Apukka Resort needs little introduction.
Easily one of the best-known hotels in Rovaniemi, Apukka Resort is a superb Arctic retreat that feels entirely immersed in Lapland’s captivating natural scenery.
Charming, spacious, and unlike anywhere else in Lapland, this resort effortlessly blends comfort, luxury and adventure, with a hands-on personal approach that is simply put, hard to rival.
With eight distinctive accommodation options, two exceptional in-house restaurants, and all activities right there on-site – husky rides, snowmobile tours, and cold plunges, among others, Apukka is truly one of the most convenient bases for your Arctic adventure.
During my time at Apukka, I was fortunate to spend time in the Kammi Igloo, a gorgeous two-story igloo complete with a glass dome to admire the Northern Lights from your bed. It also provides a spacious living room to rest and recharge, and all the modern amenities for cosy evenings indoors.
Beyond the Kammi Igloo, Apukka offers a wide range of unique stays, each designed with comfort and Northern Lights viewing in mind. From Aurora Cabins to Lakeview Suites to their private Villa Apukka, there’s something for everyone here.
Another great touch is that all essential winter gear is provided, from thermal overalls to winter boots and warm woollen socks to mittens, so that you stay warm during your outdoor activities.
From the friendly staff to the personal approach, the wonderful food offerings, and the outstanding activities and experiences, Apukka Resort deserves all the praise.
Where | Apukka Resort
Cost | Starting at €400,- a night
Go for | Comfort, luxury, and an exceptional hands-on, personal approach
2. Vaattunki Wilderness Resort
This magnificent boutique-style resort has recently been reimagined, offering the perfect balance between elevated luxury, modern-day comfort, and raw natural charm.
Nestled on the edge of the Raudanjoki River and encircled by dense forests and frozen lakes, Vaattunki Wilderness Resort feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it exactly the type of getaway travellers picture when planning a trip to Lapland.
Here, you can choose between intimate Panorama Huts, traditional Arctic Deluxe Log Cabins, spacious Riverside Suites, and iconic Aurora Cabin Igloos, each defined by a distinctive character and an ever-present touch of Nordic elegance.
The interiors are downright gorgeous, and it’s easy to notice that every element is thoughtful and carefully considered, from the raw natural materials and clean, minimalist Nordic design to the warm lighting and cosy finishing touches.
Dining is a true delight, with Niva Restaurant serving up traditional yet refined Lappish cuisine guided by one particular principle: the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Its setting is equally impressive, framed by large floor-to-ceiling windows and cosy fireplaces, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere.
For outdoor activities, one of Lapland’s leading providers, Safartica, offers a wide range of bucket-list experiences from Vaattunki, including husky rides, Northern Lights pursuits, and snowmobiling, to name but a few.
While Vaattunki itself is already quiet and intimate, one thing I truly appreciated was the fact that you’re never too far from nature, with lots of trails starting at the resort grounds, guiding you straight into the Lappish wilderness.
Where | Vaattunki Wilderness Resort
Cost | Starting at €140,- a night
Go for | An intimate, budget-friendly retreat surrounded by Lapland’s raw, Arctic wilderness
3. Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos
As someone who enjoys discovering hotels and experiences that are not all too common, the Arctic SnowHotel and its rooms sculpted entirely out of snow are a welcoming find.
Built from scratch every season, the Arctic SnowHotel is where Lapland’s cold weather and a high level of craftsmanship come together, resulting in an unparalleled once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The rooms are truly beautiful, kept at a steady minus 5°C, while intricate sculptures carved into the thick snow walls create the feeling of spending the night in an art gallery.
For the night, guests are provided with a thermal sleeping bag designed for extreme conditions, allowing for a surprisingly comfortable night’s sleep. If you’re cold or uncomfortable during the night, rest assured and retreat to the Snowhotel lounge, where a warm sleeping area awaits.
Those who prefer to keep warm during the night could opt for one of their glass igloos instead.
Beyond the hotel, all the traditional activities can be organised, including snowmobile tours, husky rides, and Northern Lights hunts.
To me, however, the real draw lies in the more unique experiences; think ice sculpting, a snow sauna, and an iconic restaurant built entirely out of ice.
Where | Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos
Cost | Starting around €299,- a night
Go for | An unusual stay that doubles as a memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience
4. Glass Resort
Elegant, refined, and marked by stylish Nordic craftsmanship, Glass Resort is undeniably one of the most luxurious hotels in Rovaniemi.
Situated just a stone’s throw away from Santa Claus Village, this family-owned boutique hotel, or better said, resort, is pushing the boundaries when it comes to architectural expression, combining minimal design with natural materials, soft tones, and carefully considered details.
As a result, each apartment feels unique, blending in effortlessly with its Arctic surroundings.
With just two apartment types, alongside a premium lodge for larger groups, you can’t go wrong here, whether you opt for the Deluxe Glass Apartment or the Premium Glass Apartment.
You see, each unit features elevated Nordic design, complete with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall and glass ceiling, an elegant and modern interior, a private sauna, and an outdoor hot tub.
Dining is served in their in-house restaurant Gallis, where classic French cuisine meets local Nordic ingredients, resulting in carefully prepared dishes defined by pure, honest flavours.
Activities are provided by a selection of Glass Resort’s trusted local partners and can be arranged with their friendly and accommodating team.
So, if sophisticated architecture, sublime comfort, Arctic intimacy and a truly personal experience are something you’re after, Glass Resort is for you.
Where | Glass Resort
Cost | Starting at €595,- a night
Go for | A design-focused stay with an exclusive feel and premium comfort
5. Arctic TreeHouse
Another standout choice, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel strikes a unique balance between Lapland’s untamed wilderness, quiet luxury, and an elevated level of comfort.
Set on a densely forested hillside, with elevated suites offering uninterrupted views across the wintry landscape, this design-led hotel blends seamlessly into its surroundings.
As someone fond of minimalist design, I truly admire the Nordic aesthetic that defines the suites at Arctic TreeHouse, reflecting a cabin-in-the-woods atmosphere that is both authentic and elegant.
Suites are spacious yet intentionally simple, with warm, natural materials, light tones, and a panoramic floor-to-ceiling window that brings the surrounding snow-capped forest indoors.
At Rakas Restaurant, the interiors and atmosphere are equally sophisticated. Here, each dish is thoughtfully prepared, using local ingredients to highlight the pure, refined flavours of the Arctic.
As with most premium hotels in Rovaniemi, Arctic TreeHouse works with local partners to present guests with a range of Arctic activities.
Whether you wish to try Arctic floating, go on a thrilling husky safari, or glide through the wintry wilderness on a snowmobile, there is no shortage of unforgettable experiences to choose from.
Where | Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
Cost | Starting around €450,- a night
Go for | A refined Arctic retreat where nature, comfort, and Nordic elegance come together
The best hotels in Rovaniemi | The essentials
The best things to do in Rovaniemi, Lapland
As one of the most popular destinations in Lapland, basing yourself in Rovaniemi provides ease of access to the region’s most iconic experiences.
From thrilling husky safaris to chasing the Northern Lights, and from cold plunges in frozen lakes to snowmobile adventures through snow-covered woodlands, Rovaniemi is the ideal gateway to all your Arctic adventures.
Add to that the option to sleep in an iconic igloo with a glass dome, leisurely walks along scenic winter trails, and the joy of savouring authentic Lappish cuisine, and Rovaniemi becomes the perfect mix of adventure and leisure.
If reading the above makes you keen to explore everything this Arctic destination has to offer, be sure to check out my in-depth guide to ‘the best things to do in Lapland’.
The best time to visit Lapland
Since Lapland’s unrivalled magic truly comes to life in cold conditions, the best time to visit is during the snow-filled winter months of early December to late March.
During the Arctic winter, temperatures can drop as low as -30 degrees, and with plenty of snowfall, Lapland transforms into the winter wonderland travellers seek.
Snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and long Arctic nights set the tone for an unforgettable winter adventure, while cosy stays, outstanding dining experiences, and traditional wood-fired saunas comfortably balance out the cold.
What’s more, Christmas, of course!
You see, most travellers’ dream is to visit Lapland during the festive season, when the magic of the region reaches a whole new level.
While truly enchanting, visiting in December comes at a price, not to mention that you need to book at least a season in advance, something worth keeping in mind if you intend to visit during the Christmas festivities.
I’ve visited Lapland in March, which, from a photographer’s standpoint, was absolutely perfect.
March is typically considered one of the best months to experience the Northern Lights, while the milder temperatures make it far easier to spend prolonged periods of time outdoors.
How to get to Lapland
Finnish Lapland has rapidly become one of the most sought-after winter destinations in Europe, with Rovaniemi being the primary gateway to the Arctic wilderness.
No matter the itinerary, travellers often enter the region by air via the Rovaniemi Airport, before setting out on their Lapland adventures.
Since most resorts are located within the vast Arctic wilderness, outside of the main towns, you do well to arrange either a private transfer, a taxi or, depending on your travel plans, rent your own set of wheels.
First, there are private transfers, which can be easily arranged through your hotel in advance, so you can go straight to your hotel after your journey. This is the option I chose, and I’d highly recommend that anyone do the same.
Secondly, if you’re planning a more thorough Lapland itinerary, I’d suggest renting a car so you can move freely where and whenever you want. For car rental in Finland, I’d advise DiscoverCars, as they provide exceptional service & support, additional insurance options, and a wide selection of cars to choose from.
Additionally, you could also opt for a regular taxi or Uber, especially if you prefer to travel on a whim. However, it is also good to mention that these options are a little more costly.
Lapland essentials | What to pack for Lapland
Since travelling to the Arctic comes with a unique set of challenges, a trip here requires a well-thought-out strategic approach, one where staying warm and secure is at the heart of it all.
With lots of time outdoors in extreme conditions, your packing list and preparations have never been more important – minus 30, is that you?
To relieve you from the initial planning stress I had figuring out my packing list, I’d highly recommend packing the following items:
Thermal base layers | No trip to Lapland should be made without at least two sets of proper thermal base layers to help regulate your body temperature during long days out. I personally opted for one set from Dilling and Danish Endurance, both of which were made from Merino Wool, providing comfort and warmth.
A high-quality winter jacket | When travelling to the Arctic, investing in a high-quality winter jacket should be your top priority. I decided to invest in the Fjallraven Expedition Down Lite Jacket M, a stunning jacket that was actually created to conquer the Arctic. Given it’s not just keeping you warm, but also comfortable while looking stylish, I couldn’t be more pleased with it.
Ski pants or insulated trousers | Another essential piece is either ski pants or high-quality insulated trousers that keep you both warm and dry. After doing quite some research, I chose the Fjallraven Barents Pro Winter Trousers, a reliable insulated pair of trousers that is both sturdy and warm. It’s also easy to layer with your baselayers.
Beanie | Both functional and stylish, a beanie is an absolute must. While necessary to keep your head warm, it’s one of the easiest ways to elevate your outfits too, hence I packed three, each a different colour.
Buff | Often overlooked, a buff is a great piece of gear to keep your face and neck warm, especially needed when visiting in the midst of winter, or when you plan to do a snowmobile ride.
Gloves | This one may sound a tad obvious, but keeping your hands warm with a pair of well-insulated gloves is, simply put, non-negotiable.
A camera | As one of the most scenic places on earth, and with a high chance to witness the Northern Lights, it is almost criminal to leave your camera gear at home. Curious to see what’s in my camera bag, see it here.
Leave no footprints | Lapland’s pristine wilderness is part of what makes it so special, so make sure you’re always mindful of your surroundings, respect nature, and take your waste with you.
To get a better understanding of what is needed to visit the cold Arctic climate of Lapland, make sure you look into my in-depth guide on ‘What to pack for Lapland’ (coming soon).
Safety in Lapland | Travel insurance
When travelling this big, wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and with Lapland being all about outdoor adventures, I advise anyone travelling here to do the same.
While we’d rather not think of the things that could go wrong, something unfortunate could happen at any given time, whether it’s an injury, a broken camera, or an unexpected cancellation.
SafetyWing | A great insurance option for flexible travellers, SafetyWing offers great coverage for longer trips and digital nomads. With the option to purchase while already abroad, clear pricing, and reliable medical coverage, it’s the ideal choice for those constantly on the move.
Heymondo | For travel insurance, I personally use Heymondo, as they cover unlimited medical expenses, theft and damage, while also providing a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance.
Make sure you check it out; readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy.
Cheers!
I’ve been on this travel blogging journey since 2019.
If you appreciate what I do here, these are some ways you can support me.
Plan your Lapland adventures with these essential guides
