15 things to do in Rovaniemi in summer (2025)
You probably know Rovaniemi for its white fairy-tale landscapes, its many snow activities, its Northern lights, or maybe just because of Santa Claus. But did you know that Rovaniemi is also a summer destination? Yep, you’ll be probably surprised by how much fun the capital town of the Finnish Lapland has to offer! We have listed here for you our 15 recommended activities and things to do when visiting Rovaniemi in summer!
SUMMARY
1. Experience the Midnight Sun
2. Take an e-fatbike trip out of town
3. Go on a canoe trip
4. Learn about local cultures
5. Pet the huskies
6. Try bear-watching
7. Relax in a Finnish sauna
8. Explore Finnish forests
9. Hike on a tunturi
10. Ride your horse
11. Meet Santa Claus and cross the Arctic Circle
12. Visit an authentic reindeer farm
13. Fish like a local
14. Visit Ranua Wildlife park
15. Go for a road trip in Lapland
1. EXPERIENCE THE MIDNIGHT SUN
You’re probably wondering: what is the midnight sun? Well, it’s a natural phenomenon that occurs north of the Arctic Circle, at 66°33′N, during the summer months: beyond this latitude, the sun never completely sets below the horizon. Why? Because the Earth rotates on an axis tilted relative to the sun, and in summer, the North Pole is oriented towards the sun, meaning the further north you go, the higher the sun is in the sky at “night”.
Rovaniemi is ideally located on the Arctic Circle, making it a prime location for observing the midnight sun. In 2025, the midnight sun in Rovaniemi will be visible from June 6 to July 7.
The yellow-orange evening light will mesmerize you, like an endless sunset… It’s truly the perfect time to enjoy the landscapes under new colours. You can go canoeing, hiking under the midnight sun, or even an e-fatbike ride with the added bonus of magnificent views. If you prefer a relaxing evening, we have a nature sauna located outside Rovaniemi, where you can enjoy the midnight sun in complete privacy (SUPs are also available).
To learn more about the different ways to enjoy the midnight sun, you can also read our blog post dedicated to this phenomenon.
2. TAKE AN E-FATBIKE RIDE OUT OF TOWN
A bike tour is definitely one of the top things to do in Rovaniemi in the summer! The best way to explore Rovaniemi is with e-fatbikes: these are sturdy, fat-wheeled bikes designed for adventure on any terrain. They offer exceptional grip and powerful electric assistance, allowing you to explore the city of Rovaniemi and its surroundings even more easily and comfortably!
Various routes are possible, whether along a river, through the magnificent forests around Rovaniemi, or even to Santa Claus Village. All our tours are tailored to the rider’s level and preferences, so beginners are welcome!
You can choose from these different guided excursions:
– An electric fatbike tour to the reindeer farm
– A cultural tour by electric fatbike
– An e-fatbike tour with stunning viewpoints to observe the midnight sun
If you want to explore Rovaniemi independently and at your own pace, you can also rent classic fatbikes and electric fatbikes for 3 hours, the whole day, or longer!
3. CANOEING ON LAKES AND RIVERS IN ROVANIEMI
What would a summer vacation in Finland, the Land of a Thousand Lakes (which boasts many more: no fewer than 188,000 lakes!) be without a water activity like canoeing?
Canoeing is an excellent way to explore the natural landscapes of the Far North. Paddling to off-the-beaten-track locations, you’ll feel the tranquility of the surrounding nature and understand why so many people have decided to settle here, so far from everything! Interested? We have different options to suit all skill levels! A half-day canoe adventure is a great start to exploring the rivers and lakes of Lapland. This tour is also available to enjoy the midnight sun: the perfect combination to admire the beautiful Arctic lights. Worried about your travel time being too short? Then our full-day canoe adventure will give you plenty of time to explore even more remote locations. For the more adventurous, we offer an overnight canoe trip that will give you the unique opportunity to completely disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
Our canoes are also available for rental from our canoe base camp located near the Artikum Museum. If you’re looking for something new, don’t hesitate to rent a stand-up paddleboard to challenge yourself in the most beautiful surroundings possible!
4. LEARN ABOUT THE LOCAL CULTURES
As the capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi is also the ideal place to learn more about local cultures through museums and cultural tours. There are several interesting museums in Rovaniemi: Korundi, the local contemporary art museum; the Pilke Science Center, with its exhibitions on Nordic forests and resource management; and the famous Arktikum Museum. Housed in the remarkable building designed by world-renowned architect Alvar Aalto, the Arktikum Museum brings together culture, nature, and science, as well as the history of the Far North. In summer, from early June to late September, the Rovaniemi Heritage Museum opens its doors: you’ll discover some treasures from the past!
Like the locals, we also love spending summer outdoors! So why not combine culture and the outdoors? For example, take an e-fatbike tour and follow your passionate guide through Rovaniemi’s most interesting cultural sites. You’ll be able to learn more about Finnish culture while admiring the magnificent landscapes of Lapland.
If you’re looking for an authentic summer activity in Rovaniemi, we also recommend the Myths and Legends of Finland tour. In a traditional teepee and around a fire, you’ll discover Finland from a completely different perspective as you listen to these unique stories!
5. PET THE HUSKIES
Are you visiting Lapland in the summer and worried about missing out on the sled dogs? Don’t panic! While it’s not possible to go dog sledding during the summer (it’s too hot for the dogs to get that much exercise!), most tourist agencies in Rovaniemi still offer tours of a husky farm.
You can meet the huskies (and their puppies!), take photos, get lots of cuddles, and learn from the mushers the training methods used to pull the sleds. We offer a reindeer/husky combo where you can spend time with these typical Arctic animals in the same day, visiting ethical, family-run farms.
Some kennels also offer a one-hour walk with the huskies.
In autumn, you can participate in training the dogs for the winter season. You can drive your own husky-pulled kart and venture into the forests!
6. EXPERIENCE A BEAR-WATCHING OVERNIGHT
Watching bears in the wild is an unforgettable experience. This popular activity allows you to observe bears in their natural habitat. It usually involves guided tours led by specialised rangers in areas where bears are known to live or are present. Bears can be observed from May to October (i.e., outside of their hibernation period). However, the best time to observe them is generally during their mating season (late spring) or during the salmon run (late summer). It’s also a great choice during the Midnight Sun season, when you’ll have the opportunity to watch mothers and cubs bathe all night long.
Nestled in a cabin in the middle of a national park, this is an opportunity to be fully immersed in Finnish nature. It’s important to note that bear watching should always be accompanied by experienced professionals, as bears are wild animals that can be dangerous if approached carelessly. Furthermore, it’s important to preserve the bears’ natural habitat and not disturb them in their daily activities.
We recommend a two-day excursion to discover Arctic wildlife! This guided tour combines bear watching with a visit to an authentic reindeer farm, a husky kennel, and the Ranua Wildlife Park!
7. RELAX IN FINNISH SAUNA
What could be more Finnish than a sauna? Saunas are an essential part of the local culture and a must-do during a stay in Lapland. This practice is deeply rooted in Finnish culture, and no trip to Lapland is complete without experiencing it.
The traditional Finnish sauna involves entering a hot, dry room and sweating intensely for a short period, before cooling off in cold water. Saunas have become a pastime for many locals and are renowned for their beneficial effects on the skin and immune system. Enjoy an evening in a traditional nature sauna located outside of Rovaniemi (transportation is included), which offers complete privacy. You can dive into the fresh water directly from the sauna pontoon and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. It’s possible to extend the experience and go stand-up paddleboarding under the midnight sun.
You can also complement your sauna session with a visit to an authentic reindeer farm and thus enjoy two unique activities in Lapland at once.
8. EXPLORE FINNISH FORESTS
When we think of Finland and Lapland, we imagine its lakes but also its immense forests. Finland is indeed the most forested country in Europe (along with Sweden). Finnish forests are characterized by the presence of tall trees, unique wildlife such as reindeer, moose, and bears, as well as unspoiled lakes and rivers.
Lappish nature evokes unspoiled land and tranquility. Hiking in the forests of Lapland is a fantastic experience that offers visitors a unique and peaceful opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. Finland has an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails that go through countryside, forests, and national parks, allowing hikers easy access to nature.
You can choose to enjoy the nature around Rovaniemi independently, renting camping equipment if necessary.
Hiking in Lapland is particularly enjoyable in summer and autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscape transforms into a veritable palette of colors. Embark on an adventure in the Lappish forest with our Arctic guides and learn all the tricks of survival. Learn how to make a fire and identify various plant species during our Arctic wilderness hike. Another must-do hike from Rovaniemi, whether in winter or summer, is the Korouoma Canyon hike.
For locals, forests are the perfect place to breathe fresh air, recharge, and pick berries. In summer and autumn, the forests around Rovaniemi are covered with blueberries, lingonberries, and what is known as Lapland’s gold: cloudberries! Why not have fun picking them during a hike with one of our experienced guides who will share their knowledge of Finnish nature with you?
9. HIKE ON A TUNTURI FROM ROVANIEMI
Tunturi is a Finnish word for a mountain formation found in Finnish Lapland. Tunturis are characterized by rounded peaks, sparse vegetation, and rocky terrain, offering magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Take the opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty of this landscape.
To prepare for the hike, check the weather conditions and prepare accordingly. Tunturis can be difficult to navigate in bad weather, so make sure to choose a day with favorable conditions. Wear appropriate clothing and equipment: hiking in tunturis requires sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, and waterproof clothing. It’s also recommended to bring a map, a compass, plenty of water, and snacks. Don’t worry if you didn’t remember to bring some of your own equipment. You can easily rent all your hiking and camping gear from our agency!
When hiking, remember to follow the marked trails. Tunturis are generally protected areas, and it’s important to stay on designated hiking trails to avoid damaging the ecosystem. It’s also important to respect wildlife: these magnificent landscapes are home to a wide variety of wild animals, including reindeer and a multitude of birds. Respect their habitat and observe them from a distance.
The closest tunturi to Rovaniemi is Pyhä-Luosto, a 1.5-hour drive away. The national park offers an excellent opportunity for a hike accessible to most hikers, including beginners.
We also recommend visiting the Luosto Amethyst Mine in summer from Rovaniemi: hike in the heart of a magnificent Finnish national park, find your own amethyst to take home, and learn more about the geology and nature around you.
- And for even more adventure, discover the tunturis of Ylläs National Park from our travel base.
10. GO HORSERIDING IN ROVANIEMI
If you’re an animal lover, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Lappish nature on a horseback ride! This horseback riding tour from Rovaniemi, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, will allow you to discover the region from a new perspective: you can ride your horse independently, with a guide holding the rope, or, if you don’t want to ride yourself, in a horse-drawn cart.
The horses live in a family-run, ethical stable with passionate staff. The horses are treated with care and respect, and are never overridden to preserve their health. Irish Cob horses have a calm temperament and are hardy and well-adapted to Finland’s cold temperatures.
Click here if you want to discover magnificent forest trails during an afternoon or evening on horseback, in complete peace of mind!
11. MEET SANTA CLAUS AND CROSS THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
Rovaniemi is known worldwide as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Its most famous resident welcomes visitors all year round, including… in the summer!
You’ll no doubt be captivated by the Christmas carols playing over the loudspeakers and the eternal Christmas spirit, carefully maintained throughout the year by the shops and hotels. But even without the snow, Santa Claus Village is worth a visit.
In addition to meeting Santa Claus, you can cross the Arctic Circle, send letters bearing the exclusive Arctic Circle postmark from the official Santa Claus post office (and receive them for Christmas!), and find numerous restaurants and souvenir shops. Santa Claus Village is easily accessible by public transport, but there are also lovely walking and cycling trails connecting it to Rovaniemi city center that are well worth exploring!
What if, instead of using public transport, you travel to Santa Claus Village by bike? You have the option of renting an e-fatbike or joining a cultural tour with one of our experienced guides who will also introduce you to lesser-known corners related to the cultural, architectural, and historical aspects of Rovaniemi.
12. VISIT AN AUTHENTIC REINDEER FARM
Did you know that Lapland has more reindeer than people? Reindeer are arguably the region’s most iconic animal. In summer, they can be found everywhere, along the roadsides or in the forests near Rovaniemi.
Visiting a reindeer farm is an experience worth experiencing during your summer vacation in Lapland. The local reindeer herders will be happy to share their way of life with you, and you can feed the reindeer directly from your hands. Summer is also the time when the calves grow, and the males develop their powerful antlers!
There are several reindeer farms around Rovaniemi, which you can reach by car or, even better, by bike! But before you go, make sure you choose an authentic, long-established farm and not a tourist trap. If in doubt, you can always ask us first!
To gain a deeper understanding of the local way of life and get closer to Finnish culture, we recommend combining a visit to a reindeer farm with a traditional sauna experience. And if reindeer pique your interest in Arctic wildlife, we recommend a visit to the reindeer farm with a visit to Ranua Wildlife Park.
13. FISH LIKE A LOCAL
In Lapland, fishing is a must-do activity for locals and anyone visiting the region. With over 188,000 lakes and 79,000 km of rivers and streams, Lapland offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the world. The main fish species found in Lappish waters are trout, grayling, whitefish, pike, perch, and Arctic char.
To fish in Lapland, you will need a fishing license. These licenses can be purchased online or at local tourist offices. Permits are generally valid for specific periods and areas, so be sure to check before purchasing one.
It is also possible to combine fishing in Lapland with other outdoor activities such as hiking or boating. It’s a unique way to discover the beauty of Lappish nature and catch your own fish.
If you prefer a guided tour, we recommend trying fishing from a boat, which will allow you to admire beautiful scenery while enjoying one of the locals’ favorite leisure activities! The guide will provide you with fishing equipment and help you catch your meal!
14. VISIT RANUA WILDLIFE PARK
Located an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi, Ranua Wildlife Park is the northernmost wildlife park in the world. It is home to approximately 50 species of wild animals and 200 individuals. Within the park, you can see polar bears, brown bears, reindeer, wolves, wolverines, lynx, predatory birds, otters, and many other species. Most of them are almost impossible to observe in their natural habitat, so this is your chance to meet them!
This park is Lapland’s main tourist attraction for families and groups with children. In summer, most of the animals are easy to spot because they can’t hide under the snow. Your guide will share their extensive knowledge of Arctic flora and fauna. This is also a great opportunity for children to ask any questions they may have!
You can also combine a visit to Ranua Wildlife Park with a morning visit to an authentic reindeer farm. If you’d like to learn more, join our Arctic Animals trip from Rovaniemi by adding bear watching to your itinerary.
15. ROAD TRIP IN LAPLAND
Still unsure what to choose? The good news is, you don’t have to! Thanks to its many amenities and strategic location, Rovaniemi is the perfect base camp if you want to explore northern Lapland. You’ll enjoy all the activities mentioned above and have the chance to discover the unique nature of different parts of the region with a personal guide! This multi-day trip combines the highlights of summer in Lapland into one itinerary. Contact us at info@nordicodyssey.net to discuss your dream itinerary in Finnish Lapland!
That’s it! We hope you enjoyed reading this blogpost.
If you have any question, feel free to contact us!
We will be very glad to help you plan your trip to Rovaniemi!
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