10 Best Things to Do in Rovaniemi in Spring: March and April

You may have seen them online, heard about them, and they’re probably on your bucket list… the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi!March is one of the best months for Northern Lights viewing in Rovaniemi. Sightings remain possible during early April, but the rapidly brightening nights gradually shorten the viewing window. However, this natural phenomenon depends on several factors, the most important being the weather.

Believe it or not, aurora hunters don’t like snowfall! Clear or partly clear skies, along with dry conditions, offer the best chances to witness the Northern Lights. Weather in Lapland can change very quickly, so be prepared to venture outside Rovaniemi to reach the most promising viewing spots.

Discover our Northern Lights experiences in Rovaniemi:
- Aurora Pass: Book 3 nights or more at a discounted rate and increase your chances of seeing the auroras. This pass allows you to try again if needed, explore different locations each evening, and take advantage of the best weather conditions.
- Family Tour (3h): A gentle experience, perfectly suited for children
- Private Tour (3h30): A vehicle and guide exclusively for you
- Premium Tour (6h): A private experience, with optional dinner (salmon soup)

Hiking is a must in Rovaniemi, even in spring. As the snow melts, vegetation gradually emerges and rivers begin to flow, creating ever-changing landscapes with shifting light.

Depending on conditions, hikes can be done on foot, with crampons, or on snowshoes. Choosing a guided tour allows you to learn about local flora and fauna, discover unique spots, and fully enjoy the long late-winter days.

For a more challenging adventure, explore the famous Korouoma Canyon, accessible from Rovaniemi and still quite snowy in spring. At this time of the year, the hiking trail is particularly icy, so sturdy crampons are essential to safely traverse some sections and admire the waterfalls. They are normally at their most impressive in March and may remain partly frozen in early April, depending on temperatures. The route is approximately 5 km and finishes with a cosy lunch by the fire.

You can’t visit Finland without trying a sauna! The sauna is much more than a moment of relaxation: it’s a way of life. In Finland, people go to recharge, reflect, or even make important decisions. So why not start your Rovaniemi trip with a sauna to plan the rest of your itinerary?

The traditional wood-heated Finnish sauna combines intense heat with plunges into cold water. Cooling off may involve fresh air, a shower or, where conditions are safe, a brief cold-water dip. Cold-water immersion is optional and may be unsuitable for people with certain health conditions. Even if it’s your first time, don’t worry: your guide will explain each step and accompany you through this unique experience.

From Rovaniemi, we offer an intimate nature sauna experience in an exceptional setting:

Outdoor nature sauna session: Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of a sauna deep in the forest. If the weather is favourable in the evening, you may even see the Northern Lights dancing above the lake.

The experience takes place in a genuine traditional wooden sauna by the lakeside, with a dock for the brave who want to try the cold water plunge. A moment of complete disconnection, far from everything, right in the heart of Lapland.

Looking for adventure and a way to explore the area around Rovaniemi? As temperatures rise later in April, some snowmobile routes may close or operate differently according to snow conditions. E-fatbiking provides an enjoyable alternative where suitable trails are open.

Try an electric fatbike ride, just as adventurous, for discovering the region and its surrounding landscapes. Wide or studded tyres can improve stability on snow and ice, but spring conditions may still be slippery, soft or uneven. Choose a route appropriate for your experience and check current trail conditions before departure.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, there’s an experience suited to your level. Options include Arctic forest rides that lead to scenic viewpoints. Independent travellers can also rent e-fatbikes at very reasonable prices.

Check out our recommended trails around Rovaniemi and enjoy the region in an active, exciting way!

Overcast days are perfect for museum visits! The Arktikum Museum, located on the banks of the Ounasjoki River, is a must-see in Rovaniemi, whether it’s snowy or not. You’ll likely be amazed by the museum’s richness and diversity, covering the broad theme of “life in the Arctic”: Sámi culture, Arctic fauna and flora, Finnish history, the Northern Lights, and climate change.

If you enjoy museums, consider purchasing the cultural pass, which gives access to two of Rovaniemi’s cultural attractions: Arktikum Science Centre and Museum and Korundi House of Culture (Contemporary Art). 

Alternatively, immerse yourself in local traditions with our unique Finnish Legends Evening by the Fire. Around a crackling fire, ancient tales transport you through time, revealing the essence of Nordic culture, traditions, and Northern life. Enjoy pancakes cooked over an open fire while listening to the captivating stories shared by your guide.