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Welcome to Santa Claus Village & the Arctic Circle!

Experience the magic of Christmas every day of the year!

Santa Claus Village is located in Rovaniemi, Finland, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Santa Claus has made Lapland in Northern Finland his home for centuries, and the Arctic Circle is close to his heart because many Christmas secrets are rooted in this magical place. Santa Claus Village is a family destination with plenty to see and do for all ages. Here’s wishing you an unforgettable visit!

Greetings, the Santa Claus Village family

Meet Santa Claus 

You can meet Santa Claus every day of the year at Santa Claus Village. Meeting Santa is a unique experience, no matter what time of year you visit us. Santa’s gift sack is always filled with good cheer, warmth, and friendship. He reminds us of a world of fairy tales and stories where everyone is welcome, not just the children. 

Cross the magical Arctic Circle 

Did you know that the Arctic Circle runs right through the Santa Claus Village? As the Arctic Circle line is marked in Santa Claus Village’s central square, you can experience something uniquely exciting here – you get to cross the magical Arctic Circle! You can hop, step, jump or even do a cartwheel!

Experience the wonder of the Northern Lights 

The colourful Northern Lights playing in the sky are one of the most beautiful phenomena in nature. The geographical location of Santa Claus Village and the surrounding area makes it a suitable area to encounter the Northern Lights. It’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon. This means that while there’s no guarantee you’ll see them, the search will be even more exciting!

Be enchanted by Lapland’s nature 

Every season is different in Rovaniemi. In this Arctic nature wonderland, you can breathe in the silence of snow-covered forests, experience the magic of the midnight sun in summer, and admire the famously colourful autumnal hues of “Ruska” in Lapland. Explore the enchanting natural sites and landscapes of Santa Claus Village.

Outstanding flavours of the North

Santa´s Pizza & Burger

Santa’s Pizza & Burger is a traditional fast food restaurant at the Arctic Circle in Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi.

Café Ensilumi in Snowman World

Café Ensilumi is a warm, peaceful, cozy and spacious café located next to the reception of Snowman World, right next to Santa Claus Village’ Main Square.

Scanburger Erottaja

In Rovaniemi city-center, 8 km from Santa Claus Village, you can find the fast-food restaurant Scanburger Erottaja. It is easy to drop in and fill your stomach with tasty burgers or kebabs. Also smaller snacks & daily lunch menu. 

Atmospheric accommodation

BestPark Arctic Circle Rovaniemi

A safe caravan park for camper vans and trailers next to Santa’s Village. All facilities needed included to the low parking fee; electricity, water, toilet, shower, waste disposal, terrace, barbecue area, sauna, etc..

Arctic Aurora HideAway

Premium lakefront villa only 15 min drive from Santa Claus Village. Families & groups of traveling friends are welcome. Up to 6 adults. We also offer activities and excursions at additional cost.

Santa Claus Holiday Village

Everything for a dream holiday in Santa Claus Village! Experience the wonder of the midnight sun or winter wonderland in our cozy red cabins or modern suite apartments.

Delightful souvenirs

Marttiini Shop

Founded in Rovaniemi in 1928, Marttiini has been making knives to meet the demanding needs of the North for nearly a century.

Iittala & co Napapiiri / Arctic Circle

In Iittala & co in the Arctic Circle you can find Iittala, Arabia, Fiskars and Hackman products, included Moomin products.

Maahisenkolo

Handcrafted Lapland drums, Viking jewelry, and other gift items from the store.

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Plan your stay

How to get to the Santa Claus Village? What should you know before visiting? We’ve put together some useful tips for you!

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Choose your Santa’s Lapland experience

Both of our lapland holiday packages include a reindeer ride, sledging with huskies, tobogganing, lots of snowy activities like snow hockey and mini skidoos, and a private visit with santa., on our santa’s aurora package, your activity centre is exclusive to our santa’s aurora families and you’ll have an additional wilderness dinner, a visit to santa's elves workshop, a longer husky ride and a snowmobile safari..

• SANTA s MAGIC Your choice of four hotels with everything you've dreamed of for a magical Lapland adventure. Explore Santa’s Magic

• Believe your eyes, this is an experience your family will cherish forever. From £1169 per adult See what's included
• SANTA S AURORA Enjoy the ultimate Christmas in Lapland with a little extra Aurora magic sprinkled on top. Explore Santa's Aurora

• The ultimate Lapland experience for your family, even the elves get jealous. From £1549 per adult See what’s included

Get Inspired

Santa and his elves can't wait for your arrival, but before your trip begins, get inspired! Unlock the magic of Lapland with our Santa's Chronicles, learn how to wrap up warm in Lapland or call our Christmas helpers to book your magical getaway.

Don't Miss Out On This Limited-Time Magic

Tick-tock. The magic's on the clock. We're giving the gift of incredible savings with HALF PRICE child places on our  Santa’s Magic package for selected dates in November and December 2024 & 2025.

No one knows how to make Christmas more magical

Flights, transfers, half-board accommodation, a fun-filled activity trip and snowsuits are all included.

A remote spot in the far north of Finland, 200km above the Arctic Circle among the snowy trees of Saariselkä.

If you are yet to book, and you find your Santa’s Lapland holiday cheaper elsewhere, we’ll price match it.

Everything about the holiday was magical. Amazing staff, hotel, organisation of the search for Santa day, the support of the company in the lead up to the trip. Can't recommend this trip and company enough. SANTA'S HOTEL TUNTURI - CHRISTOPHER December 2022

Amazing holiday. Reps were amazing. Programme was well thought through. I loved it as much as the kids. STAR ARCTIC HOTEL - REBECCA January 2022

A once in lifetime trip, magical and full of fun for children and adults. Accomodation practical with everything you needed, staff attentive and organised and the food suited everyone's needs. The adventures were unforgettable and breathtaking! SANTA'S HOTEL TUNTURI - MARY December 2022

We had a truly magical experience enhanced by the enthusiasm of the staff. Our boys 6 and 7 were taken aback by the whole experience and Santa was the icing on the cake. A family trip and memories that we will treasure forever! SANTA'S HOLIDAY CLUB - ALISON December 2021

Fancy more snow fun?

Keep the magic going with an extra day for adventure - the choice is yours. sledding on the toboggan run, the thrill of husky sledding, cruising through the snow by snowmobile or hunting for the northern lights..

• An extra day for family time in the snow. Husky and reindeer rides, thrilling snowmobiles, a spot of skiing, or a hunt for the Northern Lights. The choice is yours. Optional Adventures

• Explore a little more, make magical memories in this other-worldly wilderness. You're spoilt for choice. See for yourself

WAYS TO BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY TO LAPLAND

It's time to book your trip to Lapland and we can't wait for your arrival. Whether you're booking online or giving our Christmas helpers a call on 01483 791 945 , we're just as excited as you are for your magical journey to begin!

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Visit Santa Claus in Lapland

You are here.

Have you ever dreamed of visiting the magical homeland of Santa Claus and his helpers in the North Pole? Lapland trips to see Santa are bucket list journeys of thousands of adults and children around the world. Let’s find out more about the magical experience.

Trips to see Santa in Lapland

Located in the city of Rovaniemi , Finland, the official Santa Claus Residence is open all year round and annually welcomes hundreds of guests who travel to Lapland to see Santa.

​Of course, Christmas Santa trips at the end of December are the most popular time of the year to go there with the highest demand. For this reason, in order to avoid little or no availability or sky-rocket prices during this season, it is recommended to book trips to visit Santa as early in advance as possible.

​​The Santa Village boasts a large territory and is made up of numerous buildings and areas. The holiday spirit is all around, starting from Santa’s office, where you can meet the honoree.

There’s also a husky park offering sled rides onsite, a couple of restaurants, a snowmobile park, the legendary icy Snowman World, several unique hotels, as well as the popular Santa post office, from which you can send a letter or postcard back home or to your friends from the North Pole.

Of course, holidays to Lapland to meet Santa don't stop at that as here you can also meet his charming reindeer, a character that we can't imagine a proper winter fairytale without.

​Those who prefer to stay right by the village sometimes choose several one-of-a-kind nearby options, for instance, glass igloos with panoramic roofs for watching Northern Lights or the unique Treehouse hotel.

​And as for getting there, one of the most popular ways to reach the destination apart from flights is taking the Santa Claus Express train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. The train itself isn't themed but carries the name due to its scenic route from the capital city all the way above the Arctic Circle.

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Santa Claus Village

Santa claus village is open every day of the year meet santa claus at santa claus office, cross the arctic circle line or just enjoy the christmas spirit – all year round.

You can meet Santa Claus and cross the magical Arctic Circle every day at the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. Show more

There are many souvenir shops as well as Santa’s Main Post Office, programme service companies and cafes and restaurants in the Santa Claus Village. And of course, Santa is there too, in his chamber every day of the year.

Santa Claus Village map as PDF

Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle is like a real village offering dreamy services and amenities

Touring around the village is magical simply for the charming curb appeal of the accommodations. Take a walk on these magical little paths and village roads and end up on the central square surrounded by boutiques, where all the magic culminates to the crossing of the Arctic Circle. There are so many things on top of meeting Santa Claus in Santa Claus Office you can do in Santa Claus Village:

• choose form a variety of magical accommodations
• enjoy arctic delicacies at local restaurants and cafes
• join the daily activities
• visit the Santa Claus’ Main Post office
• be amazed by Snowman World Winter Zone
• visit the charming red Christmas Cottage of Mrs. Santa Claus’
• get to know the historical Roosevelt Cottage

The Village is a home to many cute animals

• Santa’s Pets
• Arctic Circle Husky Park
• Santa Claus Reindeer

Santa Claus Village offers many activity companies providing Lapland experiences and fun for the whole family

• Santa Claus Holiday Village activities
• Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park
• Santa’s Motor Park
• Wild Nordic Finland
• Sunny Safari
• Bearhill Husky
• Aurora Horses

Santa Claus Village is full of shopping opportunities

• boutiques filled with Finnish design and handicrafts
• many factory shops and boutiques offering Marttiini,  Marimekko, Iittala, Pentik desing products and local handicrafts
• Christmas House Shop

The Santa Claus Village accommodation offering is simply magical

• Santa Claus Holiday Village
• Glass Resort
• Santa´s Igloos Arctic Circle
• Nova Skyland Hotel
• Santa’s Luxury Boutique Villa

The Santa Claus Village is home of Arctic cuisine

• Lapland Restaurant Kotahovi
• Three Elves Restaurant
• Santa’s Cuisine
• Santa´s Pizza & Burger
• Restaurant Gallis
• Nova Skyland restaurant
• Christmas House Restaurant & Coffee Bar
• Snowman World  Snow Restaurant and Ice Bar (Snowy season)

There is no entrance fee to the Santa Claus Village.

Availability

How to get here.

Santa Claus Village is situated 8 km to the north of Rovaniemi direction Ivalo along highway number 4. You can reach the Arctic Circle also easily by local bus 8 or Santa Claus Bus :

Local bus number 8: (timetable 16.10.2023-2.6.2024)

Opening hours

Santa Claus Village is open every day of the year!

Opening hours for companies in Santa Claus Village you can find here: www.santaclausvillage.info/opening-hours-days/

Provided by:

The Ultimate Guide to visiting Santa Claus village Rovaniemi

What better way to celebrate Christmas than visiting Santa in his office at Santa Claus village Rovaniemi. Lapland in winter is the ultimate Christmas destination.

The small city of Rovaniemi – located on the edge of the Arctic Circle – is the official home of Santa Claus, it is one of the most magical places in the world.

For young and old this is a must when you are visiting Lapland. We were worried that we would be only 30 year old’s walking around without any kids, but we were definitely not alone. It is definitely a place for everyone, no matter your age.

Santa’s Village is full of hot chocolate, fairy lights, Christmas decorations, Christmas trees, snow and plenty of Christmas cheer.

So, if you’re planning your next Christmas destination why not head to Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi, Finland.

Are you planning a trip to Lapland? Check out this posts to help you plan your trip

The Dreamiest Hotel in the World: Arctic Treehouse Hotel Rovaniemi The Ultimate Guide to visiting Fi nnish Lapland in Winter Taking the Santa Claus Express Train to Lapland Arctic Fox Igloos: A night in luxury under the stars

Hey There……there is a very good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Winter in Rovaniemi

Whilst winter in Rovaniemi is a dream come to true and the ultimate Christmas destination you need to be prepared for two things! Number one, it is very cold. When we met Santa I mentioned how cold it was (it was minus 8 degrees) and he said it wasn’t cold. Santa things between minus 20 and minus 40 is cold.

Number 2, the day light hours are very limited. Sunrise is at about 10 am and sunset is about 2pm. Luckily, in Lapland, sunrise and sunset last longer than in other countries. We found that it was light from about 8:30 am until 3:30-4pm.

It gets very cold outside and inside it is very warm! I suggest packing lots of layers. Make sure you have a very warm jacket and some sturdy snow boots. Of course, don’t forget your beanie, scarf and gloves!!

Make sure you get some good travel insurance

Part of the excitement of visiting Lapland is participating in snow activities and these can come with some dangers. If you’re me, even just walking around on the ice and snow is a dangerous activity.

So while I would always recommend purchasing some good travel insurance, it is extra important when snow and ice are involved.

Before our four month trip around Europe we purchased travel insurance as soon as we started booking our trip.

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

Where is Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi

Although the rumours are that Santa Claus lives at the North Pole, he actually lives in his village in Lapland, Finland.

Lapland is located in Northern Finland and the village is located in the business capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi.

To be exact, Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi is located right on the arctic circle.

How to get to Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi

The train between Helsinki and Lapland depart several times a day and takes about 11 hours. I suggest taking the overnight train , you board the train just before bed time and you wake up in a winter wonderland. That is of course, if you are travelling in winter!!

Little fun fact, the train from Helsinki to Lapland is called the Santa Claus Express.  You can read more about the Santa Claus Express here.

Matkahuolto  and  Onnibus  are the two main bus services in Finland. They are a great option for reaching Lapland from Helsinki but also for travelling around Lapland from town to town.

Rovaniemi is easily accessed by car. If you don’t have your own car you can  hire a car .

When driving in Lapland be aware of changing weather conditions, especially in winter and the long distances you need to drive.

The drive from Helsinki to The Arctic Treehouse Hotel Rovaniemi is about 10 hours.

Of course, you can also fly to Rovaniemi. Flights between Helsinki and Lapland go daily, flights between London and Lapland depart on Wednesdays and Sunday’s, and flights between Istanbul and Lapland depart Tuesdays, Thursday and Sundays.

To Santa Claus Village

If you arrive by train, you are staying at the Arctic Treehouse Hotel or you are in city center of Rovaniemi you can board the Santa Claus Express bus. Tickets are 3€ per person.

Unfortunately, if you land at the airport there is no public transport to the Santa Claus Village, however, you can easily catch a taxi.

Things to do at Santa Claus Village

Santa Claus village is full of excitement, Christmas cheer and it just seems to be constantly buzzing.

On first glance, it appears as though it is one big shopping area, and yes, there are plenty of shops (we will come to that in a moment) but if you look a little harder there is actually so much to do.

Santa Claus’ Post Office

On of the things we found most exciting at Santa Claus Village is visiting Santa’s Post Office. The post office is filled with elves but is still a real working post office.

The cool thing about the post office is that you can see the hundreds of letters that are mailed to Santa from all around the world

Can you see your home country?

Post a letter to yourself for next Christmas

When visiting the post office you have to send yourself a post card. All mail sent from the post office are marked with a special Arctic Circle stamp.

You can also purchase a postcard and put it in a mail box and it will be sent to you next year in time for Christmas.

Buy a few a postcards to surprise your friends and family at Christmas next year.

Visit Santa in his office

You can’t have a Christmas getaway to Lapland without visiting Santa himself. Santa is the real deal, he has his Finnish slippers, the most epic beard I have ever seen and he is so tall. I felt like such a child and sat in awe staring at Santa.

It was such a cool experience, he took the time to chat to us and to ask about our holiday and even wished our country well we were in the midst of horrific bush fire season.

You can visit Santa Claus for free but you will need to pay if you want photos or a video. We paid 40€ an digital copy of our photos and the video of our meeting with Santa.

Cross the Arctic Circle

Ever since I heard that crossing the arctic circle was a thing it has been on my bucket list. I thought to cross the Arctic Circle you would have to go to some remote part of the world.

But, how cool is it that the line of the Arctic Circle runs straight through Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi. The Arctic Circle is marked with a row of lanterns and blue lights.

Snowmobiling

Santa Claus Village also has some bigger activities that you can do such as snowmobiling . There really is something for everyone.

Experience the thrill of speeding through Arctic Circle on a snowmobile. Snowmobile rides start at 55€ for thirty minutes. There are also rides available for children – kids can ride a mini snowmobile for 20€ for 10 minutes.

Husky Safari

A trip to Lapland would not be complete without a visit to the Husky park . If taking a Husky Safari is not your thing you can just take some to play with the adorable Huskies.

However, if you are feeling adventurous you can speed through the arctic forest behind a pack of Siberian huskies. You have the choice of a 500 meter Husky ride or an 8km safari.

Reindeer Safari

It is said that there are more Reindeer in Lapland than there are people. Reindeers are really part of Lappish culture and they have been for years. To be me, Reindeers can only be seen on the front of Santa’s sleigh, so of course I had to take the chance to meet some real life Reindeer.

From the middle of Santa’s Village Rovaniemi you can go on a reindeer safari.

If you’re up for a bit of shopping or you’re wanting to pick up some souvenirs then you have plenty of options. There many shops where you can buy Christmas decorations, t-shirts, souvenirs, postcards, chocolate and traditional Lappish items.

Where to stay at Santa Claus Village

If you are after the ultimate Christmas experience you can stay right at Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi at the Santa Claus Holiday Village . There are plenty of accommodation types including cabins including a Sauna, glass igloos and treehouse cabins.

The Arctic Treehouse hotel is located 2 km down the snowy road and is the definition of luxury. We stayed one night at the Arctic Treehouse Hotel and I cannot recommend it enough.

If you are looking for a more budget option – to have a little more money to spend on experiences – I suggest booking a the Arctic Treehouse hotel or Santa Claus village for one night and then a local Airbnb for the rest of your trip.

Is a trip to Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi worth it?

If you love Christmas and are looking for an amazing winter wonderland Christmas experience then you can’t go passed Santa Claus Village. It is a magical way to spend the day.

I would recommend to anyone, young or old, to visit Lapland and Santa Claus Village at least once in your life.

Have you been to Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi? Let me know in the comments below

Read Next: The Dreamiest Hotel in the World: Arctic Treehouse Hotel Rovaniemi

I'm Fiona, the Australian blogger behind Travelling Thirties. Travel has always been my passion since 2007. I created this site to help inspire you to travel the world. In 2010 I moved from Australia to Scotland with $500 and a one way ticket, no one thought I'd last 5 minutes but I lasted 5 years. I share everything from one day itineraries to travel tips and tricks from Australia to Europe that will inspire you to get out and travel. Some of my favourite countries I have been to are France, Finland, Denmark, and England.

Travel Expertise: Europe Travel, France Travel, Christmas Markets, travel planning, itineraries and travel tips

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Santa Claus Village opened just outside Rovaniemi, Finland, in 1985.

Visit Santa's 'real' village on the Arctic Circle

In 1927, Finland claimed to discover Santa's workshop.

Everyone knows the basics about Santa, the jolly man in a red suit that delivers gifts at Christmas. How a small town near the Arctic Circle in Finland became known as his “official hometown” proves a less familiar twist to the story.

Santa was a marketing gimmick, based on a third-century, ancient bishop from Turkey known for secretly giving away his large inheritance. His random acts of kindness didn’t go unnoticed, earning sainthood and global celebration on the date of his death, December 6. This story of Saint Nicolas then traveled with Dutch immigrants to the US, where "Sinterklaas" was moulded into the visual image of Santa we all recognize today. Without much of a backstory to Santa Claus, an illustration in Harpers magazine from 1866 is credited with establishing the legend of his home at the “North Pole.” [ Read more about the history of Santa Claus. ]

In 1927, Markus Rautio –a Finnish radio broadcaster known as “Uncle Marcus”–claimed on-air that Santa's workshop was discovered in in Rovaniemi, Finland. The government of the province, Lapland, declared itself “Santa Claus Land” decades later to boost tourism. Santa Claus Village opened just outside Rovaniemi in 1985.

Of course there are other places that lay claim to a Santa or Saint Nick association: Korvatunturi, Finland, claims to be his real home and that Rovaniemi was just created for tourists. The Church of Saint Nicolas in Demre, Turkey, contains his sarcophagus but not his bones. There's a multitude of pop-ups around the world, but the Santa in Rovaniemi differs in that the man is marketed as the original, and tourists can visit him throughout the year.

Santa is available for photos–for a cost.

Christmas lasts all year around in Rovaniemi, a place of anticipation. Even the hardcore cynic will be moved by the "Christmas Spirit." After visiting Santa, families can dine in the snowglobe atmosphere of the Ice Restaurant and Ice Bar in Snowman World . Leaving from the Elf's Yard, kids can cross the Arctic Circle with traditional Lappish wooden skis. The region forms part of the natural habitat for roaming reindeer–unlike the North Pole.

Santa Claus’s Main Post Office, with a special Arctic Circle stamp, received about half a million letters last year. In reality, this figure is much higher since post offices around the world have their own systems of dealing with letters addressed to Santa. Santa in Rovaniemi received 18 million letters from 199 different countries to date, and at Christmastime, can receive 32,000 letters per day, with the most letters arriving from China.

An official reply from Santa Claus will set people back more than 10 dollars (8.90 euros). It is free to see him, but tourists can't take photos or videos, although you can buy the official one. In high season (November through March), prices reach more than 50 dollars (45 euros).

There are no detailed statistics on how many people visit Santa Claus, however, during the busiest days he meets thousands of people. Last year, 520,000 people visited Santa Claus Village. Many tour operators offer seasonal charter flights to Rovaniemi, mainly during the Christmas and winter season.

Santa in Lapland is heavily marketed and protected. The overall image of Santa retained the goodness that Saint Nicolas was known for, but there are other qualities that perpetuate his continued growth. "We live in a commercial world based on consumption. Santa is a representation, or signifier, of that. We might indeed say he is the apotheosis of consumption, a true figure of the 21st century," says Michael Pretes , a professor of geography at the University of North Alabama.

He is something to latch on to, even during difficult times, Pretes continues: "Santa Claus is a stable figure—he never changes. He is jolly and generous. He doesn’t seem to have any bad qualities that we know of. This is all part of his universal appeal. What’s not to like about Santa Claus?"

Brand expert Eric Schulz believes it is also down to nostalgia. "Santa is a strong brand due to the positive emotions he evokes. We all crave happiness in our lives, and Santa is a reminder of that time in our own lives when we believed in the magic of the holiday season and Santa bringing us gifts. This is a timeless tradition that has been handed down generation to generation and will last forever."

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Santa Claus Village Lapland: Activities & Things to Do

Meeting the "man in the red suit" is a magical moment of whimsical fun that makes for enduring childhood memories. This is why, for children and adults alike, visiting Santa Claus Village in Lapland is a magical experience.

Whether you’re planning an adventurous trip or a family getaway to Lapland, read on to learn more about Santa Claus Village activities and highlights. We’ve put together this short guide to give you some inspiration and helpful information to plan your visit to Santa.

• Browse vacation packages to Santa’s Village, Lapland
• Related:  Lapland for grown-ups: Why Lapland isn’t just for kids

What is the Santa Claus Village?

Santa Claus Village is known as Father Christmas’ official residence in the Arctic Circle. It’s the place to visit to meet him, Mrs Claus, the elves and the reindeer. Expect plenty of fun activities and Christmas spirit!

Where is the Santa Claus Village?

The North Pole, of course!

Okay, you don’t have to go quite so far to visit the official residence of Santa Claus. You only have to travel to the north of Finland, to a region called Lapland. The village is located just inside the Arctic Circle, around 8 kilometres (5 miles) from Rovaniemi.

Rovaniemi is the capital of Finnish Lapland and considered to be the official hometown of Santa.

When is the best time to visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi?

The village is open all year round, so you could visit whenever suits you best. For the ultimate winter getaway, we recommend a Lapland trip in December , January , February or March . At this time, you can expect a blanket of snow over the stunning landscape.

Visit in the weeks leading up to Christmas to get in the festive spirit. Or how about bringing your children to meet Santa Claus on that special day of the year? It’ll make for a Christmas to remember, that’s for sure!

• Look up Christmas tour packages in Lapland
• Related:  7 reasons to visit Lapland in winter

What to do in Santa Claus Village?

First, meet the "big man in red" himself either at the Santa Claus Office or the Christmas House. Make sure to check the opening hours before your visit so you don’t miss him.

Then, pop by Santa’s Post Office to send postcards home to friends and family. The cards will even have the special Arctic Circle postmark. From here, you can also request a letter from Santa to be sent on time for Christmas.

Visit Mrs Claus at her Christmas Cottage where you can meet elves and hear stories about Lapland and Christmas traditions.  Finally, you could also do some shopping for souvenirs or tasty treats and handicraft from local artisans. 

• Check these trips to Rovaniemi  or   Kemi tours in Lapland .
• Related: Chrsitmas in Lapland – Your complete guide

Outdoor activities

As well as these Christmassy activities, there’s plenty of other things to dig your teeth into at the Santa Claus Holiday Village. Not just literally at the many restaurants, cafés and bars, but with fun Arctic rides.

Visit the Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park to take on a snowmobiling excursion in the Lappish wilderness. These are guided tours so you can take in the scenery from a different perspective.

Then why not try reindeer and husky rides? Dog sledding is a traditional mode of winter transport in Lapland, so this is a must-do. Meet the huskies at the kennel and get a brief lesson before trying mushing with your own sled.

If you opt for a reindeer ride, you’ll learn more about reindeer herding and Sami culture before travelling through the snowy woods.

• Browse these Lapland tours with dog sledding
• Enjoy a variety of thrilling outdoor activities as part of a Lapland holiday package

Other fun things to do in Lapland

If you’re staying in Rovaniemi or the nearby town of Kemi, there is a range of other exciting activities to experience. Add one or more of the following to your itinerary to make the most of your Arctic adventure:

• Explore the Ranua Wildlife Park
• Go hunting for the northern lights
• Visit the Arktikum Museum
• Take a tour or stay at the Arctic SnowHotel
• Warm up in a Finnish sauna
• Explore the ice and snow hotel packages in Lapland
• Related: Best ice hotels in Finland

You can cancel your Christmas plans at home and start planning a top winter getaway to Lapland instead with these Santa Claus Village holidays .

Our Finnish Lapland tour packages are partially guided, meaning you’ll have some booked activities as well as time to explore on your own. This is a good balance to make the most of your adventure.

When you book a trip with Nordic Visitor, you can rest assured you’re in good hands. Your dedicated travel expert will take care of all the details for you, from arranging your accommodation to booking your activities. They’ll make sure your itinerary suits you personally.

During your time in Lapland, you also benefit from our 24/7 helpline. Should you need support, you have the peace of mind that we’re only a call away.

Get in touch with our Scandinavian experts to start planning your trip to Lapland. Finland awaits!

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

BEST OF LAPLAND EXPRESS - ROVANIEMI

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Related posts, best time and place to see the northern lights in finland.

Blogs , Nordic , Lapland , Finland , Guides , Things to Do

Finland in Winter: What to Do & Where to Go

Lapland for grown-ups: why lapland isn’t just for kids, 7 reasons to visit lapland in winter.

Santa Claus visit in Rovaniemi

Visit Santa Claus in Rovaniemi

Santa Claus is without a doubt the most famous inhabitant of Lapland! Santa Claus village is located 9 km from Rovaniemi, on the Arctic Circle. You can visit Father Christmas any day of the year.

The Santa Claus village is located just 9 km from Rovaniemi, right on the Arctic Circle. Here you can visit Father Christmas any day of the year. Whatever time of the year you choose to visit, you will find Santa in his office and have a chance to surprise your loved ones with a special Christmas greeting to be delivered from Santa's very own post office, just in time for next Christmas. Depending on the season we can reach him by snowmobile, car or a traditional reindeer pulled sleigh. 

Note! Santa Claus programs available all around the year only in Rovaniemi and Luosto in winter seasons.

Choose the season when you'd like to visit Santa Claus in Rovaniemi

Travelers' choice 2023.

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Lapland Santa Holidays

Make dreams come true with a trip to Lapland, where you can meet Santa Claus in his homeland. Experience Christmas wonders with your loved ones on a Santa holiday in Lapland, organised by the regional travel experts at Nordic Visitor.

Visit Santa in Lapland

Looking for Santa trips to Lapland? We can help!

Head to the home of Santa Claus for an unforgettable trip to this winter wonderland. Expect magical experiences galore when you visit Lapland in winter . As well as meeting Father Christmas, you can marvel at stunning white scenery, chase the northern lights, and enjoy fun excursions like dog sledding.

Choose between visiting Swedish or Finnish Lapland for your Santa tour. Read on to find out more about each region and see which one would suit you best.

When you book a trip to Lapland with Nordic Visitor, you get handpicked accommodation, airport transfers, access to our 24/7 helpline, and many other benefits. You also enjoy personal service from your own dedicated travel consultant.

Get in touch via our contact form, live chat or toll-free numbers and we'll gladly plan your Lapland getaway.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• All bookings protected by our package travel insurance
• Accommodation, activities, transfers & breakfasts included
• Professional service from Scandinavian-based travel experts
• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options

Santa Trips to Lapland

Meet Santa in Lapland with one of these expert-curated tours. Your package includes accommodation, excursions, return airport transfers, and daily breakfast.

Best of Lapland Complete - Rovaniemi

Winter getaway at the arctic snowhotel, winter adventure at the arctic snowhotel, new year's in rovaniemi, huskies, santas & arctic snowhotel, best of rovaniemi - classic, santa claus village & dog sledding, best of lapland classic - rovaniemi, best of lapland express - rovaniemi, lapland travel experts.

As a travel agency based in the Scandinavia region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Lapland. Choose from a variety of tours that include the must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights, all handpicked by our own Scandinavian travel experts. 

To ensure a stress-free Lapland trip, Nordic Visitor handles all the local details for you: accommodation, activities, airport transfers and other services.

Oh, and we can customise your itinerary! For example, you might decide you want to add extra nights at a certain location. In that case, your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be happy to make suggestions and modify your itinerary.

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Camilla Thom, Spain

Icehotel winter adventure, january 2017, i will never forget this experience.

The tour guides were excellent. Especially Emile and Maurice. This was a huge adventure for us both, starting with the dog sled picking us up , going to the Ice Hotel and then the fabulous evening on the snowmobile. Even though we weren't lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, it was still wonderful. What good cooks all the guides were too! I will never forget this experience.

George, United States

Best of lapland classic - rovaniemi, march 2017, experience of a lifetime.

Everything was wonderful. It was the experience of a lifetime. My daughter and I had a blast!

Nilima, India

Lapland - land of the midnight sun, june 2015, lapland is beautiful.

Day tours were excellent, guide and service was excellent

Lapland is beautiful.  We were able to see the midnight sun because of nordic visitor they have planned our tour very well and the local guides were very co operative.

Vandana, United States

Classic lapland adventure & icehotel, february 2015, everything went smoothly.

Cicci Erikson customized our trip exactly the way we wanted, every thing went smoothly, the employees at Kiruna tours were very friendly and cordial, I would recommend Nordic Visitor to my friends and will use them in the future.

Arkadiusz, Singapore

Classic lapland adventure & icehotel, december 2014, worked perfectly well without any glitches.

My Travel Consultant, Cecilia, was extremely helpful and professional in all aspects of dealing with the customer. Her invaluable assistance allowed me to choose, modify, and combine the existing tours to fulfill all my needs. The hotel locations were excellent and the arrangements made by Cecilia ensured that everything worked perfectly well without any glitches. I would strongly recommend such excellent services to anyone who would like to have an unforgettably pleasant holiday.

Christy, United States

Icehotel winter adventure, january 2015, overall a great experience.

Overall a great experience. Cecilia was very helpful and responsive.

Mariana, Hong Kong, SAR

Classic lapland adventure & icehotel, january 2017, excellent time in kiruna.

My daughter and I had an excellent time in Kiruna during the Chinese New Year. I would like to thank Sofia Sundkvist who assisted us throughout the trip. She is very responsive and accomodating. We slightly changed our plans and she always quickly responded to me by email and helped us with what we needed.  Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to meet her in person, but all the people (from Nordic Visitor) whom we met throughout this trip are excellent people. They always carry a smile, happy with what they are doing, experienced and knowledgeable.  

Carla, United States

Lapland - land of the midnight sun, june 2017, outstanding in every way.

Your company is outstanding in every way. The booking agents were responsive when we had questions. The information provided was excellent. The tour guides and the company's you contracted with are without exception outstanding. I would recommend your company to anyone who is planning a Scandinavian trip

Olga, Israel

Husky tour in the wilderness of lapland, march 2015, beyond my expectations.

Thank you so much for being there and helping people to discover those incredible places around the Scandinavia. I've met so many great people and had such a splendid time, that I will never forget. My main purpose was to see the Northen Lights, but I've got so much more and everything was just beyond my expectations!  I would like to thank our Nordic Visitor agent Jennie Elofsson for a great assistance, she's been very helpful and super quick giving us all the answers we need.  Also I would like to thank our amazing guides, who made our tour so very special and intimate: Emil and Jenny.

Lapland Adventure - Aurora Sky Station, February 2015

Made every experience unforgettable.

Genuinely - one of the best trips we have ever undertaken. We received a great welcome in Kiruna, our guides were excellent - and made every experience unforgettable! The Aurora... was glorious!

Sue, Australia

Classic lapland adventure & icehotel, january 2014, suggestions were all great for limited time.

Jennie, our agent, was fantastic. She sorted everything out in the limited time we had in Kiruna and her suggestions to fit in as much as we did in three days were all great.

Hwee Hwee, Singapore

Best of lapland classic - rovaniemi, january 2017, enjoyable beyond our expectations.

Our experience with Nordic Visitor is absolutely delightful! We are very impressed by the professionalism of the staff and the seamless organisation of the tour. Our holiday was enjoyable beyond our expectations! 

Gianguido and Romana

Service was impeccable under all aspects.

A long sought after vacation resulted in a fascinating experience, and this result must also be credited to the careful preparation and to the friendly professional assistance of your consultants. On site, the service was impeccable under all aspects. 

Cold, silence and nature conjure in suggesting me to summarize what we have lived through with words from Sweden’s national anthem. "TYSTA, GLÄDJERIKA, SKÖNA".

Annette, Australia

Custom booking, march 2015, i am very glad to have chosen nordic visitor.

Everything went very smoothly and with great ease! Being greeted by the chauffer and shiny black Mercedes in Copenhagen and driven to the Scandic Palace Hotel right in the city centre was a real treat. Thank you. I am very glad to have chosen Nordic Visitor because you are based in these wonderful Nordic Countries and I wanted to experience local culture. Many thanks to Cecilia for helping us to achieve this.

Icehotel Winter Adventure, February 2015

One of the most amazing trips I've ever done and one of the best in regards of organization.

Geoff and Maria, Australia

Icehotel winter adventure, december 2013, a must for something completely different.

The Ice Hotel was AMAZING, what a concept. The dogsled from the airport was a fun experience. The Scandic Ferrum for the rest of the stay was fantastic. The staff at both places were exceptional. The snowmobile tour, although eventful, was just a hoot. The most fun we have had in ages. All the meals in all locations were just great and good value. Kiruna is a lovely town and the people are terrific. There aren't enough adjectives to describe it all. Just a load of fun. A must for something completely different. Everything was organised beyond expectation. Just do it!!!

Icehotel Winter Adventure, December 2016

Exceeded our expectations.

The overall experience exceeded our expectations and was a truly wonderful experience. The husky sled transfer from the airport was amazing. Every trip we did had helpful, happy and informative staff. 

Irene and Sarah

Lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel, january 2013, a more beautiful place would be hard to find.

We have just got back home after probably the best holiday we have ever had! Everything was superbly planned and the guys at Kiruna Guidetur were fantastic. In fact everyone we met was friendly and so helpful. The hotels were excellent and the food really great - especially at the Abisko Tourist Station and when we went up to the Aurora Sky Station the girl who did the dinner there was world class, especially when she had to prepare the meal in such cramped conditions,

The activities were wonderful - the snowmobiles, the husky sleds, the horse and sleigh ride, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. The Ice Hotel was fantastic too. It is such a magical place - the snow, the clear air - all absolutely wonderful. A more beautiful place would be hard to find. Thank you so much for organising the holiday for us. I have been on the phone this morning urging all my friends to go there!

Adam, Italy

Would definitely recommend nordic visitor.

Everything was great. The tour guides and employees were extremely friendly and professional. They accommodated us as best they could whenever we needed something. I would definitely recommend Nordic Visitor and this package to anyone. Dress warm! 

Once in a lifetime experience! Thank you! It couldn't have gone better.

Paddy, New Zealand

Lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel, january 2015, inside the artic circle at kiruna.

We booked through Nordic Visitor and they organised the activities with Kiruna Tourism and we had an amazing trip, meet at the airport -23 C, deck out in clothing which we kept for the 4 days, transported around, good hotel and had great guides who were welcoming, knowledgeable and communicative. Couldn't ask for anything more, Went snow walking, dog sledding, visited Abisko viewing station, Ice hotel and Sami Village.

C S, Australia

Icehotel winter adventure, february 2013, friendly efficient and very helpful.

We would like to say that our consultant Cecilia was fantastic, we travel widely and she is the best consultant we have dealt with, friendly efficient and very helpful.

Getting to Lapland

Nordic Visitor tours of Lapland begin in either Kiruna, for Sweden itineraries, or Kemi or Rovaniemi for Finland trips. You can find some direct flights from airports across Europe.

Otherwise, you can reach Lapland with connecting flights from Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, or Helsinki, the capital of Finland. Another option is to fly to Copenhagen in Denmark and travel to Lapland from there.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the main gateway for international air travel in Sweden. From Stockholm, you can fly to Kiruna with SAS or Norwegian. The journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is Finland’s main air travel hub. From here, you’ll be able to take a direct flight to either Kemi or Rovaniemi with Finnair or Norwegian. Both journeys take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

We recommend checking airline websites directly for flight availability and timetables. You can also use an airfare search engine, such as Skyscanner, Dohop or Kayak, for example.

Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages. However, all of our itineraries can be customised with extra nights in your arrival city if you’d like to rest up after your flight.

Different ways you can experience Lapland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Lapland below.

ICE & SNOW HOTELS

Santa claus, snowmobile adventures, culture & history, reindeer & sami culture, winter tours, frequently asked questions about lapland santa holidays.

Live out your childhood dream by visiting Santa in Lapland, his North Pole residence. Not only will you meet the “man in red” and his cheerful elves, but you’ll also soak up Lapland’s beautiful, snow-blanketed scenery.

Whether you’re coming with the family, your other half, or friends, Father Christmas won’t be the only highlight of your trip. Spend your Lapland holiday enjoying activities in the snow, learning about the native Sámi culture, and cosying up by the fireplace.

Read on to find the answers to frequently asked questions about Lapland Santa breaks and start planning your trip.

WHERE IS SANTA’S LAPLAND?

Lapland is situated in the far north of Sweden and Finland, within the Arctic Circle. It is a region characterised by beautiful forests, lakes and rivers. Here the dark night skies of winter light up with the shimmering colours of the aurora borealis.

If you’re looking for Santa’s hometown, you’ll find it in Rovaniemi, Finland. Head to Santa Claus Village, just outside town, to meet Father Christmas, send a postcard from the Santa Claus Post Office, and learn about Finnish Christmas traditions.

• Visit Santa Claus Village in Finland to meet Father Christmas in his hometown
• Discover fun activities and things to do at Santa Claus Village

ARE THERE ANY SWEDISH LAPLAND SANTA HOLIDAYS?

Yes, you can see Father Christmas in Swedish Lapland. Although Santa Claus Village is located in Finland, that doesn’t mean that the “man in red” never visits Sweden!

On a winter break to Kiruna, you could have a Christmas-themed day to experience local festive customs. Bake delicious cookies, decorate the tree, and savour a traditional “Julbord” – a special Christmas buffet. The highlight, of course, will be visiting Santa Claus at his secret cabin in the forest.

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO VISIT SANTA IN LAPLAND?

Take your pick from visiting Swedish or Finnish Lapland for your Santa short break. If you want to explore his official hometown, head to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland.

Santa Claus Village is a Christmas-themed hub with plenty of fun activities to try, hearty festive food to tuck into, and elves to hang out with. Of course, it’s also where you’ll find Santa’s workshop. This is a great place to visit with kids, as you can all enjoy a private family meeting with Father Christmas.

Alternatively, travel to Kiruna in Swedish Lapland if you’d like to meet him in a peaceful setting. As part of a Christmas-themed experience, you’d be whisked off to a secret cabin in the woods. Here you’d get to chat with Santa Claus and spend the day enjoying Swedish Christmas traditions.

IS SANTA IN LAPLAND ALL YEAR ROUND?

You can meet Father Christmas at any time of year in Lapland! But if you come between December and March, you’ll get to soak up the enchanting festive atmosphere.

During this period the whole region is covered in glistening snow, so you can enjoy exciting outdoor activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Winter is also the best time to hunt for the northern lights in Lapland .

• Learn more about visiting Lapland in December or January
• Check out Lapland tours in February or March

CAN I CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS OR NEW YEAR IN LAPLAND?

Absolutely! Spend Christmas in Lapland and you could attend a festive gala dinner on Christmas Eve, accompanied by Santa’s elves. Join in the fun and help to decorate the Christmas tree before you tuck into the big feast.

You could then have the ultimate Christmas Day in Santa’s homeland. Whizz through the snow in a reindeer sleigh, meet Santa in his workshop, and taste delicious Christmas food. Think freshly baked gingerbread biscuits and a warm glass of glögg (mulled wine).

Or visit Lapland at New Year for a celebration to remember. You could attend a New Year’s Eve party in a wooden hut in the middle of a Finnish forest, experiencing local customs and cuisine. And, of course, you’d get to watch a spectacular fireworks display at the stroke of midnight.

• Explore these Lapland winter trips
• Discover 7 reasons to visit Lapland in winter

WHAT ARE THE TOP THINGS TO DO IN LAPLAND?

Aside from visiting Santa’s workshop, there’s so much more fun to be had in Lapland. The region offers opportunities for adventure and indulgence in equal measure. This means that you can be as active or relaxed as you wish on your winter trip!

Here are the top things to do on Lapland holidays :

• Meet Santa Claus in his homeland
• Go mushing through the snow on a dog sled
• Marvel at the otherworldly northern lights
• Explore the countryside by snowmobile
• Sleep in an ice room or a glass igloo
• Enjoy reindeer sleigh rides in the snow
• Experience local Sámi customs and cuisine
• Celebrate Christmas or New Year’s Eve
• See Arctic animals in their native habitat
• Warm up in a traditional Finnish sauna

When you book a Lapland tour with Nordic Visitor, you can add optional activities and day trips to your itinerary. We recommend that you reserve any extras in advance to guarantee availability.

Speak to your personal travel consultant at Nordic Visitor about the excursions you’d like to incorporate into your Lapland itinerary. They will organise everything on your behalf, while you relax and look forward to your winter escape.

• Browse these classic Lapland holidays to start planning your trip
• If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our Lapland travel experts

WHERE ARE THE TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN LAPLAND?

Where you go in Lapland will largely depend on the activities and sights you want to enjoy. You can read Nordic Visitor’s Lapland travel guide to learn more about each area, which will help you decide where to visit.

Here are the best places to go in Finnish Lapland :

• Santa Claus Village
• Kemi  

These are the top places to visit in Swedish Lapland :

• Abisko National Park
• Aurora Sky Station

WHAT DO YOU SUGGEST FOR A FINNISH LAPLAND SANTA ITINERARY?  

Day 1 - Arrival in Rovaniemi & snowmobile safari Upon arrival, a driver will meet you at Rovaniemi Airport for your transfer to your accommodation. You could rest after your journey or head into town to explore a little before your first Lapland adventure.

Come evening, it’s time to embark on a snowmobile safari and hunt for the northern lights. Enjoy an exhilarating ride through the snow, looking for the aurora borealis, as an expert guide leads you along the trails.

Round off your excursion with a hot drink and snack beside the campfire, then return to your hotel for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Spend the night in Rovaniemi.

Day 2 - Dog sledding and Finnish sauna Head into the snow-draped scenery outside Rovaniemi today with a guided dog sled excursion. Learn about this traditional mode of transport in Lapland, starting with a brief lesson at the kennel. Then mush through the woods with your own sled.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in Rovaniemi. You could indulge in a sauna session, the typical way to relax and unwind here in Finland.

Day 3 - Reindeer farm and Santa Claus Village This morning, hop on a snowmobile and make your way to a traditional reindeer farm. Here you can learn about the culture of Lapland’s native people, the Sami, and go on a sleigh ride.

Next, prepare to meet the “man in red” with a visit to Santa Claus Village, just outside Rovaniemi.

Revel in the festive atmosphere of this Christmassy haven, which is open year-round. Enjoy a private meeting with Santa with the elves on hand, and send a postcard from the Santa Claus Post Office. Then why not browse for souvenirs at the craft shops?

Day 4 - Day at leisure and visit to the Arctic SnowHotel Learn more about the local history, nature and culture in Rovaniemi this morning by paying a visit to the Arktikum Museum. Here you can explore the intriguing exhibits about Finnish Lapland and the Arctic region.

Come evening, head to the Arctic SnowHotel in Lehtojärvi, just outside Rovaniemi. Take a guided tour of this fascinating frozen hotel, which is created anew each year. Check out the rooms, restaurant and bar, all sculpted from ice and snow.

After your tour sit down for a delicious 3-course meal at Restaurant Kota, inspired by traditional Sami architecture. Then, you’ll either return to your accommodation in Rovaniemi, or overnight in the Arctic SnowHotel for an unforgettable stay. Choose from sleeping in an ice room or a glass igloo.

Spend the night in Rovaniemi or the Arctic SnowHotel.

Day 5 - Departure Today you’ll be transferred back to Rovaniemi Airport where you’ll fly home from your Lapland holiday.

• Visit Finland in winter with one of these Rovaniemi tours or Kemi packages
• Read this guide to Finland in winter for more inspiration

WHAT DO YOU SUGGEST FOR A SWEDISH LAPLAND SANTA ITINERARY?  

Day 1 - Arrival in Kiruna and dog sledding After touching down at Kiruna Airport, a driver will meet you and take you to your hotel. Enjoy some free time to yourself, perhaps getting to know the town or simply relaxing before you head out later.

At dusk you’ll get to enjoy one of the most special activities and traditions in Lapland: husky sledding.

Head out onto the trails on a dog sled driven by an expert guide. Glide through the woods and across snowy plains, looking for the northern lights as you go. Afterwards, fuel up with a hot drink and a snack by the campfire.

Spend the night in Kiruna.

Day 2 - Experience a traditional Swedish Christmas Today is the day to enjoy some Santa magic, with a Christmas-themed experience to get you in the festive mood.

You’ll be whisked off to a secret cabin in the woods, where you’ll meet Santa. Here, children will receive little gifts from the “man in red” – if they’ve been good!.

Enjoy Swedish customs in this enchanting setting. Bake gingerbread biscuits, decorate the Christmas tree, and sample delicious Swedish specialities during a traditional Christmas lunch (“Julbord”).

The rest of your afternoon and evening can be spent at leisure.

Day 3 - Visit the ICEHOTEL This morning, discover the famous ICEHOTEL, situated in the village of Jukkasjärvi just outside Kiruna. This was the original ice hotel that set a trend for the many others that now exist around the world.

Begin with a guided tour of this extraordinary hotel, learning how artists build it using ice from the Torne River nearby. You’ll also get to explore the ICEHOTEL 365, a year-round structure that stays cold in the summer thanks to solar energy.

Spend the rest of the day at leisure. You could opt to enjoy more activities, including snowmobile safaris and visits to a Sámi reindeer farm.

Day 4 - Departure Today you’ll take a transfer to Kiruna Airport where you’ll fly home from your Lapland holiday.

• Explore these Kiruna tour packages to experience Swedish Lapland
• Find out the top 10 reasons to take a winter break in Kiruna, Sweden

WHAT TO PACK FOR LAPLAND TRIPS IN WINTER?

You’ll need to prepare for Lapland’s winter weather by packing plenty of warm clothing. We advise that you wear thermal layers and protective boots with good grip.

Outerwear is provided on outdoor excursions, but do bring an extra coat just in case you want another layer.

Check this recommended packing list for your Lapland trip :

• Thick woollen socks
• Thermal base layers
• Warm woollen jumpers
• Waterproof trousers
• Snowproof jacket or coat
• Thin wool or fleece gloves (ideal as a base layer under snowmobile gloves)
• Thick gloves, scarf and hat
• Small rucksack
• Heat pads for hands and feet
• Power adaptors with two round prongs (Europlug Type C and F)
• Find out about spending 5 days or 6 days in Lapland
• Take a look at these 3-day and 4-day Lapland tours

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About Nordic Visitor Tours

Nordic Visitor is a Lapland tour operator and has been creating incredible travel experiences for customers in the region since 2010. Our Scandinavian travel experts know Lapland inside out, and will use their knowledge to craft your perfect itinerary.

With your Nordic Visitor package, you can expect personal service from your own designated travel consultant and a tailor-made itinerary with quality travel documents. Furthermore, we have long-standing professional relationships with trusted local partners, which are carefully selected by our staff for their high standards of service.

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Visiting Santa Claus Village in Lapland

Santa Claus Village, the town of Santa Claus , is located 10 kilometres from Rovaniemi . It is the perfect tourist destination for families and for anyone who continues to enjoy the spirit of Christmas. It receives thousands of visits each year, which makes it by far the most visited place in Finnish Lapland .

There, you can meet Santa Claus and his house, participate in snowmobile, reindeer and husky safaris, enjoy the winter scenery, look for the Northern Lights and visit the different shops that offer products and souvenirs from the place and Finland in general.

How to get to Santa’s house from Rovaniemi

Santa Claus Village is located about 10 kilometres from the city centre of Rovaniemi. It is, therefore, very easy to get to town and there are several ways to do it.

Using public transport

Two public transport alternatives will take you to your destination. The first, the public bus number 8, connects the different points of the city and the town of Santa Claus is no exception. The trip costs about 5 euros and children can access with a discount.

The second option is prepared specifically for tourists. The Santa’s Express is a tourist bus that connects the most important places in Rovaniemi: the airport, the train station, various points in the city centre, some hotels and the house of Santa Claus. This bus runs more frequently than ordinary public transport and the price is very similar.

Travelling by taxi

The taxi, as we have already mentioned on other occasions, is an option to avoid in Finland due to its excessive price. It may be a more convenient alternative, but the difference in cost is too great to offset that advantage. Travelling by taxi will cost you between 30 and 60 euros, depending on the pick-up location, the number of people or the time of day, among others.

Driving to Santa Claus Village

An alternative with a good relationship between comfort and cost is the car, both your own and for rent. Having a car is of great help if you plan to visit other cities or national parks near Rovaniemi or Lapland.

Santa Claus Village opening hours

The town of Santa Claus is open every day of the year and at all hours, but the attractions, activities and shops have different hours between them and depending on the time of year. All open between 10:00 and 12:00 in the morning, and close between 17:00 and 19:00 in the afternoons. Besides, during summer they usually close everything earlier, while in winter the stores remain open longer. On this page , you have the exact opening hours of each place.

Santa’s Office opening hours

Below we show you a table with the visiting hours of the Santa Claus office throughout the year since, although it is open every day of the year, the hours vary.

When to go to Santa’s house

The enclosure can be visited every day of the year, as well as its attractions and shops. Therefore, the only differences are found in the opening hours of the establishments, the absence of certain activities and, obviously, the climate that will accompany us during the visit.

Santa Claus Village in summer

The town is not only a winter attraction, but you can also walk and visit Santa Claus during the summer (you can see the schedules in the previous section). As we have already said, the opening hours are shorter and due to the lack of snow the number of activities available is less, but it is still a special visit if you are in Rovaniemi in summer.

Visiting the village during winter

Santa Claus Village is full of Christmas-themed shops and activities. You can find safaris on snowmobiles, reindeer and huskies, playgrounds for children and Santa’s office, among others. If you decide to visit during winter, you will enjoy the real Christmas feeling and you will find the place covered in snow.

What to do in Santa Claus Village

The enclosure has numerous activities and attractions that you cannot miss. Here we will talk about some of them.

Santa Claus’ reindeer farm

Santa’s reindeer farm is located in the middle of town. They offer different rides, both long and short, as well as reindeer safaris in Rovaniemi. The prices of the activity start at 15 euros. This activity is offered since the first snow of the year falls, which usually happens in the middle of November. The sleigh is pulled by a single reindeer, so the speed reached is not very high.

Husky dog safari

In addition to the reindeer, you will also find husky dogs in Santa Claus Village. The husky dog safari is another of the most popular activities in the area. During the walk, you will be seated in a sledge and a guide will be in charge of leading the dogs. The price of the safari starts at 40 euros, while an encounter with huskies costs around 10 euros.

Santa Claus office

It is the main attraction of the venue. Admission is free, so it is a mandatory stop during your visit. Upon entering the building, the elves will greet you and guide you through Santa’s wooden mansion until you reach the office.

There, Santa Claus is sitting in his chair and greets all the visitors. You can talk to him and take a photo, although it will be taken by an employee because it is forbidden to take photos with your own camera. When you leave, you will be able to acquire the photo that they have taken of you at the office, both in printed and electronic format. Depending on the format chosen, the image will cost you between 30 and 60 euros. Besides, there is a shop where you can buy souvenirs from your visit to the office.

If you visit the town of Santa Claus during the high tourist season, it is recommended that you go to the office to book your visit, instead of waiting in line and take advantage of the waiting time visiting other places.

Crossing the Arctic Circle

The Arctic Circle runs through Santa Claus Village and you can find a mark on the ground that indicates the exact point it passes through. You can even acquire a certificate of having crossed it.

Santa’s Post Office

This is the second attraction that you should not miss during your visit. It is a minute walk from Santa’s office, so it is very easy to get there. There you will find many Christmas and winter-themed postcards , but you can also discover many others. These postcards cost about 5 euros.

You will receive a special stamp and then you can send your cards and postcards. You will find two mailboxes: the first is a normal mailbox where your letter will be sent the same day you send it. The second mailbox is special, since the postcards that are sent there are delivered during the following Christmases, so it is a great idea to surprise a family member or even yourself.

Snowmobile safari

There is a possibility for children over 5 years old to drive a small snowmobile on a closed track. Adults, on the other hand, can take part in a complete snowmobile safari .

Northern Lights Search

You can book this activity in the town of Santa Claus if you have not organized it before on your own. The tour desk will help you to do so. In this activity they will not be able to assure you that you are going to see the northern lights but, if there is that day, the probability of seeing them is higher since you will be accompanied by guides who know the area and know the best places to see them.

Would you like to visit the town of Santa Claus? Tell us in the comments and, if the article has helped you, we encourage you to share it on social networks using the icons that you will find just below.

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Choose the best Santa Claus in Lapland experience for your family. Enjoy your stay in one of Lapland’s traditional log cabins and some of the best cuisine that Finland has to offer. All our Lapland holiday packages include full room and board, a choice between English and Spanish tour guides, and exciting winter activities. Your family can go on reindeer rides, sledding with huskies, snowmobiling, tobogganing, play snow hockey, ride mini skidoos, and of course, your own private visit with Santa. We offer the ultimate Lapland trip from America for a magical family Christmas. Spend 5 or 6 nights in Santa’s Lappish homeland. We are the experts in Lapland for over 15 years!

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Santa Claus in Lapland has options for every type of traveler. From exciting winter adventures to the magic of Santa Claus, discover one of the last natural beauties of Europe.

Choose your departure location to start the process to one of the best vacations you will ever have. Enjoy the calm and silence that can be found in this beautiful Scandinavian country…

Either a beautiful spring, the Midnight Sun of summer, the colors of fall or the extreme winter cold. Any time of year you decide will be filled with beautiful scenery and plenty of things to do. 

LOCATIONS 

We have several locations available to choose from, each with its own unique charm. Look for the best program and location which will help you experience this beautiful Scandinavian country.

10 reasons to travel to Lapland

There are many more reasons to visit but we thought that these top 10 would be enough to convince you to plan a trip and discover this beautiful and magical place. A true winter paradise!

AURORA BOREALIS

The thrill of witnessing the Northern Lights is a once in a lifetime experience. Finnish Lapland is one of the best places on Earth to observe the Northern Lights since they are visible more than 200 nights a year.

WINTER WONDERLAND

This incredible land of contrasts has breathtaking landscapes that showcase one of the most spectacular winter sceneries in Europe. The majority our destinations are 100% guaranteed to have snow from mid-November to the end of April.

ARCTIC ACTIVITIES

Our groups are always coordinated by professional guides who speak either English or Spanish. They are there to help throughout all the exciting activities, from driving snowmobiles, husky and reindeer sledding, or ice fishing.

VISIT TO SANTA CLAUS

Santa Claus only visits your house once a year, but he welcomes anyone who wants to visit him in his secret cabin. As you know, Santa Claus – the only one – resides in Finland. Do not miss the opportunity to meet him in person.

MEET THE SAMI PEOPLE

The last indigenous people of Europe, the  Sámi are an arctic tribe that have lived in Lapland for thousands of years . According to Sámi mythology everything has a soul, all living and inert things have their own history. The rocks, the trees…

ARCTIC NATURE

One of the most astonishing feelings a person can experience is being surrounded by nature and connecting with everything around you. This kind of peace and spiritual experience cannot be described, it can only be seen and felt. Truly amazing…

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You can choose from the best Lappish resorts that offer spectacular accommodation in amazing hotels, luxury cabins or glass igloos, with large windows typical of Scandinavian architecture. Enjoy the wonderful environment…

FINNISH SAUNA

The Finnish word sauna can be found in multiple different languages. To many it is considered a luxury but for the Finns it is part of their culture and history. During winter, a trip to the sauna is often paired with a nice ice bath or dip in the snow…

LEARN ARCTIC SKILLS

Our guides who are passionate about nature will be happy to share their skills and knowledge to survive in the Arctic. You will return from your vacation as one of the Sami people. An unforgettable experience. #Lapland

INFINITE FORESTS

Lapland has forests and mountains as far as the eye can see. It is a place where wild nature predominates and in winter is dyed white with a blanket of snow that covers all. Where rivers and lakes become solid ground. Lapland: Enjoy the silence…

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How to Write a Letter to Santa Claus

Sending a letter to Santa is a great way to express your Christmas wishes or just say hi! Here’s his address, so you can send a letter or even visit him in person.

As the days get shorter, and the holidays begin lining up like toy soldiers, there’s a question that we hear more than once. “ How can I write a letter to Santa Claus? ” You don’t need any help with the content, you just want to know: where do I mail my letter so Santa is sure to get it?

Santa’s Address

It’s not exactly a secret that Santa lives in Finnish Lapland. His secret workshop is under the quiet Mt. Korvatunturi in the east, and he keeps office hours every day of the year at Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle .

If you want to mail him a letter, send it to:

Santa Claus Santa Claus’ Main Post Office Tähtikuja 1 96930 Arctic Circle Finland

It’s as easy as that.

What happens next?

During the Christmas season, the Big Guy gets a lot of letters at the Santa Claus Main Post Office in Rovaniemi. Around 30,000. Every. Single. Day! It keeps his Posti elves pretty busy, sorting and preparing the letters for the Big Guy. He gets letters of all lengths, sizes, sorts and languages. They come from every corner of the world!

Santa gets letters from children, adults, families, schools, businesses, politicians and pop stars. And his very favorite letters are kept at the National Archives of Finland .

Want to get a letter from Santa? The Finnish Post Office can help with that!

Deliver your letter in person

Of course, any time of year, you can visit the Santa Claus Village . Here you can meet Santa’s reindeer, his capering elves, and deliver your Christmas wishes and greetings in person. He’s always happy to see you, whether it’s July or Christmas Eve.

Here’s a great video from Santatelevision of Father Christmas displaying some of his most beautiful letters from around the world.

Looking for more Christmas fun?

• Home of Santa Claus
• Winter Wonderland
• Santa & Snowmen – Your Lapland Christmas Bucket List

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59 European Places You NEED To Visit In Your Lifetime

Posted: December 15, 2023 | Last updated: December 15, 2023

Europe's unmissable sights

For such a small continent, Europe certainly punches above its weight. There are countless things to see, do, eat, learn and admire here – from historic neighborhoods to natural wonders. Read on to discover 59 European places you should definitely add to your bucket list.

Go on a polar adventure in Svalbard, Norway

Svalbard is the final frontier before the North Pole and one of the world's northernmost inhabited areas. A place of dramatic landscapes, it’s perfect for observing the mesmerizing Northern Lights throughout winter, while summers bring perennial sunlight. As one of Europe’s last true wildernesses, it’s also great for spotting Arctic foxes and polar bears.

Visit Santa Claus Village in Lapland, Finland

Located in Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle, the Santa Claus Village is the “official residence” of Santa and his helpers. Visit the post office and write your wishlist, or stop by the Santa Claus office to meet the mythical man himself. With its Christmassy shops, snow hotel and a year-round festive atmosphere, even adults will believe in the magic.

See the chateaux of the Loire, France

More than 300 castles are dotted throughout the Loire Valley, and many of them are open to the public. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the most exquisite: the 16th-century Chateau de Chenonceau. If you come to this picturesque region during the summer, you'll catch the captivating sound-and-light shows put on at many of the chateaux.

Hike in England’s Lake District, UK

Lace up your hiking boots and discover how the beauty of the Lake District – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – inspired William Wordsworth to write his sublime poetry. Follow in the footsteps of Alfred Wainwright, the intrepid hiker whose Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells is still required reading more than 70 years after he first started writing it. Whether you walk his signature routes or blaze your own trail, the majesty of the Cumbrian countryside won't fail to blow you away. Don't miss Bassenthwaite, Wastwater and Derwentwater, some of the prettiest lakes in the national park.

Climb the Three Towers in San Marino

Looming high above one of Europe’s smallest countries, the Three Towers are located on a trio of Monte Titano's peaks and used to serve as fortification during medieval times. Today only two towers are open to the public; when you reach the top of the highest tower, the Guaita fortress, you’ll be enchanted by sweeping views in all directions. San Marino is surrounded entirely by Italy and doesn't have its own airport or train station, so the Italian city of Rimini is your gateway to this elusive microstate.

Take a road trip in Iceland

For an unforgettable road trip, tackle some or part of the 828 miles that make up Iceland’s Ring Road. Leave at least 10 days to get to know some of the country’s most scenic spots. You'll go right past the huge blue-and-white expanse of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, as well as the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, whose thundering cascade you can walk behind – just remember to pack your waterproofs.

Explore Andalucia's white villages, Spain

For a break from the beach crowds along the Costa del Sol, head into the mountainous countryside of Andalucia. Take a tour of the interior’s white villages, called pueblos blancos. One of the prettiest is Zahara de la Sierra, which overlooks a giant reservoir and features the remains of a Moorish fortress clinging to the mountainside.

Get musical in ABBA the Museum, Stockholm, Sweden

Fans of Sweden’s most famous musical exports can find out how Agnetha, Anni-Frid, Bjorn and Benny rose to fame in this fun museum. Listen to the fab foursome's memories of how they put Swedish pop music on the map, and see how you would look in their fantastically spangly costumes. Singing and dancing aren’t obligatory, but hard to avoid.

Hit the slopes in Grandvalira, Andorra

Feast on khinkali in Tbilisi, Georgia

Originating from the Caucasus mountain regions, khinkali are filled dumplings that you’ll find in every traditional Georgian kitchen. Most commonly they’re filled with a mix of spiced beef and pork mince with fried onions, but the fillings can range from mushrooms to various combinations of different vegetables. You'll find some of the best in Georgia's capital Tbilisi, at joints like Cafe Daphna and Amo Rame Bani. Eat the khinkali with your hands and try to slurp up the hearty broth inside without spilling a drop.

Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens of Paris, France

Pull up a green chair and chill out in one of Paris ’ most elegant green spaces. Kids will love racing toy boats on the ornamental pond in front of the 17th-century Luxembourg Palace. Stroll through woods and past elaborate fountains and elegant statues. Play a round of tennis if you're feeling active – if not, exercise the brain with a game of chess.

Visit Lisbon’s Bairro Alto, Portugal

Portugal’s capital has an enchanting old town, filled with cobbled streets and vintage trams that trundle through its historic quarter. Lisbon ’s layout harks back to its Moorish past, with narrow lanes and twisting alleyways. The old town is one of the liveliest parts of the city, with plenty of restaurants and bars where you can listen to the haunting sounds of fado, Portugal's Unesco-inscribed traditional music.

Hike along the Princes’ Way, Liechtenstein

Visit Rome's Pantheon, Italy

Rome is full of ruins, but the wondrous construction that is the Pantheon has been standing intact since AD 128. You can’t help but marvel at the coffered dome and its oculus that lets the light (and rain) in. It's one of Rome's most beautiful buildings, having started life as a Roman temple before becoming a Catholic basilica. As of July 2023, you have to pay for a ticket to peek inside – look out for the tombs of two Italian kings, Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.

Explore Bergen, Norway

Norway’s second-largest city is in a breathtaking location surrounded by seven towering mountains and impossibly deep fjords. Stroll along Bergen's old wharf past brightly colored wooden houses, and hop on a ferry for a tour of the fjords. A visit to the fish market will whet your appetite for fresh seafood in the city's waterside restaurants.

Listen to live music in Galway, Ireland

Take a ride in Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens, Denmark

Flop on western Algarve beaches, Portugal

You’ll find some of Portugal’s best beaches along this western strip of the Atlantic coast. Look out for Praia do Martinhal, one of the region’s most appealing beaches. It's one of the gentlest, as it's sheltered from the full force of the Atlantic's waves by the promontory at Sagres. It's only 90 minutes from the nearest airport at Faro, but it's a world away from the busier resorts of the eastern Algarve.

Ride a pedal boat through Amsterdam, Netherlands

Take the train from Koblenz to Mainz, Germany

Taste the tapas of San Sebastian, Spain

This northern Spanish city is famed for its delicious tapas – known as pintxos in the local Basque language. Take a slow bar crawl through the old town, nibbling these morsels of ham, seafood, cheese or olives along the way. They're either on bits of bread or on toothpicks, which you then tot up to find out how much to pay. Don't miss the Playa de la Concha, one of the loveliest city beaches in Europe.

Visit Bruges’ offbeat museums, Belgium

Three of Belgium’s most prized products – fries, chocolate and beer – get their own museum. At the Bruges Beer Experience, reward yourself with a craft brew in the museum's taproom after taking a tour. At Choco-Story, you'll discover the fascinating history of chocolate and see how it's made. And as you wander through the Frietmuseum, the smell of fried potatoes will eventually lead your nose to the museum's cafe.

See Berlin’s East Side Gallery, Germany

There isn’t much left of the Berlin Wall, but there’s a stretch in old East Berlin that's become the longest open-air gallery in the world and shouldn’t be missed. Check out the graffiti and street art mocking just about everything from politics to industrialisation. It's right on the edge of Kreuzberg, still one of Berlin's hippest districts after all these years.

Catch the best view of Venice, Italy

Leave the crowds of Piazza San Marco behind and hop on a vaporetto (water bus) to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. The church’s bell tower (currently closed for maintenance) typically allows you to see the best views of Venice – and there’s even a lift to the top. Elsewhere, use the vaporetto to explore some of Venice's lesser-known districts, including Giudecca and the studenty part of Dorsoduro.

Go shopping in Monte Carlo’s Carre d’Or, Monaco

Watch Prague’s astronomical clock, Czechia

For more than 600 years, this mechanical marvel by Prague’s Old Town Hall has been putting on a performance every hour. Watch the procession of Apostles and statues as they mark each hour in mesmerizing style. You can catch it every hour on the hour from 9am until 11pm. While you're there, don't miss a visit to the dazzling interior of the Old Town Hall, a complex of several Gothic buildings.

Visit Riga’s old town, Latvia

Latvia’s capital is a pleasure to explore, particularly Riga’s old town on the Daugava River’s eastern side. Walk along cobbled streets admiring the magnificent medieval and Baroque architecture before taking in the views from the top of St Peter’s Church tower. Because the tower soars to 425 feet, you'll have splendid vistas of the old town's crenelated roofs, the historic zeppelin hangars that now house Riga Central Market and the uber-modern National Library of Latvia across the water.

Soak in Budapest’s spas, Hungary

Explore Kazimierz Jewish Quarter in Krakow, Poland

Go hiking in the Tatra Mountains, Slovakia

The Tatra Mountains form a natural border between Slovakia and Poland, and feature more than 90 lakes and 35 valleys. Keen hikers can join a hut-to-hut guided tour and keep an eye out for wildlife, including lynx and bears. The town of Poprad is a handy starting point for guided or self-guided walks, as it's right by Tatry-Poprad airport.

See the art in London's National Gallery, England, UK

It’s one of the world’s finest art galleries – and as it’s free, it’s one of London ’s best bargains. The National Gallery’s huge collection covers everything from 13th-century paintings to works from the early 20th century. Among the 2,300-odd artworks are some of the world's best-known paintings, including Van Gogh's Sunflowers and Van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait.

Stop for a coffee in Vienna’s coffeehouses, Austria

Visit the Acropolis in Athens, Greece

Enjoy Ljubljana’s riverside cafes, Slovenia

Slovenia’s capital is one of the most visually appealing in Europe; a harmonious blend of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture – not to mention an attractive string of cafes and bars along the Ljubljanica River. Some of the bars suit certain times of the day: for example, the ones along Petkovskovo nabrezje are the buzziest at happy hour. On hot summer days, head south to the large grassy area of Spica.

Eat oysters in Mali Ston, Croatia

Take a boat ride on Loch Lomond, Scotland, UK

Get the best view of Loch Lomond from the vantage point of a boat – anything as simple as a pedal boat to a large speedboat with its own skipper. Stop for a walk on a lake island or a lochside village. Loch Lomond forms part of the Trossachs National Park, the place to "bag some Munros" – walk up a Scottish mountain that's higher than 3,000 feet. You've got 21 here to choose from. Alternatively, explore Scotland by cruise ship – its coastline and islands make for an epic seafaring adventure.

Visit Kotor, Montenegro

Visit the old town of Vilnius, Lithuania

Allow plenty of time to explore the fascinating old town of Vilnius – it’s one of the largest intact medieval old towns in Europe, an enchanting mishmash of all sorts of architectural styles, from Gothic to Neoclassical. But Baroque is the king here, including the imposing 17th-century St Casimir's Church. For superb views, climb the 193 wooden steps to the top of St John's Church bell tower.

Lose yourself in Sarajevo’s Ottoman Quarter, Bosnia-Herzegovina

The Ottomans founded Sarajevo in the 15th century, and you can still see the strong Turkish legacy in the Bosnian capital’s old Bascarsija quarter. It’s like a mini Istanbul, with souk-like stalls squeezed in among cafes and silversmiths and coppersmiths working their metals in tiny workshops. You'll spot their little coffee pots in cafes, whose Turkish coffee – called bosanska kava – will keep you going for hours.

Ride a boat through Gothenburg’s waterways, Sweden

Visit Beyoglu in Istanbul, Turkey

Once you’ve seen Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Istanbul’s other landmarks in Sultanahmet, head across the Golden Horn to Beyoglu. The district's Istiklal Street is one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan in the city. Check out the little side alleyways where jazz clubs lurk in spaces hardly larger than cubbyholes.

Come to Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia's Lake Bled really does look like something out of a fairy tale. There’s even a medieval castle perched atop the lakeside cliffs. Rising from an islet in the centre of the lake is the Baroque-style Church of the Assumption and its striking bell tower. Once you ride to the island on a wooden boat called a pletna, tradition has it that you should climb the 99 stone steps to the top of the church tower and ring the bell yourself.

Visit Symi, Greece

It’s hard to choose among Greece’s 227 inhabited islands, but if you have to pick one, go for Symi. This small Dodecanese island has one of the prettiest ports, a riot of colorful houses tumbling to the water’s edge – not to mention excellent beaches. On the days when it's too hot to hike to the beach, just take a water taxi from Symi harbor.

Explore Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Cyprus

Join the party on Belgrade’s floating nightclubs, Serbia

Explore Gozo's Ggantija Temples, Malta

Visit Zermatt and the Matterhorn, Switzerland

Explore Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Walk across the Stari Most of Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Wander through Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands

Prepare to be dazzled by the extraordinary Keukenhof. More than seven million tulips and other brightly colored flowers spread across this sprawling garden that’s only about an hour from Amsterdam. But you'll have to time your visit carefully – because it's a celebration of spring flowers, the park is open only from March to May. 

Discover Ohrid, North Macedonia

Head to Snowdonia, Wales, UK

The biggest mountain in Wales and England stands at a whopping 3,650 feet, but there are many ways of exploring Snowdonia National Park without hardcore hiking. Its footpaths suit all levels – or you can just take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit. But it's not just mountains here – the park includes nearly 200 miles of seashore, with sandy beaches and sheltered coves.

Explore Berat, Albania

Wander through Tallinn’s old town, Estonia

Stroll along Varna’s Black Sea waterfront, Bulgaria

Urbane Varna stands out from Bulgaria’s Black Sea beach towns as it’s a port city and naval base as well as a resort. There’s plenty of room along its waterfront promenade for sunbathing, as well as a large selection of bars and restaurants. Afterwards, you can cool off in the lushness of the 19th-century Primorski Park.

Walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls, Croatia

Allow at least two hours for a wander around the medieval and Renaissance fortifications circling Dubrovnik’s cookie-colored old town. Get a snapshot of Dubrovnik life as you walk past courtyard gardens, laundry-lined balconies and terracotta rooftops. The walls are extremely popular with cruise-ship crowds that descend in their thousands, so try to time your visit for as early in the morning or as late in the afternoon as possible. A ticket for the city walls will also grant you access to Fort Lovrijenac, across the bay from the historic centre.

Spend a weekend in Dresden, Germany

Located near the German border with Czechia, Dresden has collected its fair share of nicknames over the years, including Florence on the Elbe and the Jewel Box. The world almost lost it forever during the Second World War, when it was bombed into near-oblivion. But this dazzling Saxon city has since been reborn and is full of world-class museums, lavish palaces, onion-domed churches and arty hotspots ready to welcome discerning visitors.

Get back to nature in the Faroe Islands, Denmark

Learn Belfast’s nautical history, Northern Ireland, UK

The story of the Northern Irish capital is inextricably linked to that of the world’s most tragic ocean liner. Built on Belfast’s slipways, the RMS Titanic began life here before sailing into Southampton for that ill-fated maiden voyage. Today, the waterfront Titanic Quarter of the city exists to further connect the dots of this maritime history, featuring unmissable maritime-themed attractions like the immersive Titanic Belfast museum.

Now discover the story of Titanic's lesser-known sister ship

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