For lappish situation it is in Rovaniemi (35 000 pop.) lively. Economic, trade, tourism and administration are concentrated here. The city is planned and built like a reindeer. Rovaniemis main attraction is its location on the Arctic Circle, where Santa Claus lives. Visitors make a polar baptism.

Napapiirin Porofarmi The reindeer in the lapp village is the scene of the Arctic Circle baptism; a funny matter and in the end you get a document. 10 km northwest

Ounasvaara From the hills to the east, you have a good view over the city and the confluence of Kemijoki (Finland's longest river) and Ounasjoki. There is also a summer toboggan run and for winter sports slalom slopes, lifts and jumps, about 100 km cross country.

Santa Claus Village (Joulupukin Pajakyla) Even those who are not (more) interested in Santa, should take a tour schedule. Because there is beside a lot of trash useful or valuable handicraft and souvenirs (including wood products) as well as the post office of Santa Claus. (directly on the Arctic Circle, 8 km north on the road No. 4, Jan.-May, Sept.-Nov. 10am-5pm daily, June to August., Dec. 9am-7pm.) A little further is Santa Park, a theme park around the Christmas theme.

food                                                                                                                                                                           Café Walentina The cozy cafe in the city with a large range of sweet things. Rovakatu 21                                                         Monte Rosa Finnish specialties in a rustic restaurant in the city hotel, such as river crabs, morels, salmon. Pekankatu 9                  Oppipoika Permanent soil country kitchen at moderate prices. Korkalonkatu 33

where to stay                                                                                                                                                              Guesthouse Borealis Inn with a family atmosphere and good quality near the center, some rooms with kitchenettes. 17 rooms. Asemieskatu 1                                                                                                                                                               Sky Ounasvaara Well-equipped house in a beautiful location, many rooms with private sauna. 71 rooms. Ounasvaara

Kemi In the city by the sea (120 km road No. 4) with a beautiful harbor is now since ten years every winter a snow castle with chapel, sauna (!), restaurant and hotel built, elaborately decorated with ice sculptures, lighting and sound effects.