Arctic Magic: Inside Santa’s Secret World

Rovaniemi is the capital of Rovaniemi, Finland's northernmost province, and is also the birthplace of Santa Claus. The city also offers unrivaled access to the Arctic Circle (Rovaniemi is only 6.4 kilometers south of the line) and all of the region's unique attractions. In the summer, it's a popular destination for fishermen and hikers, but Rovaniemi shines brightest in the winter, despite the shorter daylight hours. See the things to do and places to visit in Rovaniemi, from staying up late to see the aurora borealis' colorful waves to taking sightseeing day trips out into the wilderness of Finnish Lapland. Overall, Rovaniemi is a fantastic place to call home. The city is small but large enough that you won't know everyone in your block of flats and you'll have access to all of the essential services (restaurants, shopping malls, etc.) Capital: Rovaniemi International Airport: Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) Population: 63,618 Currency: the Euro Time: UTC +3 Driving side: Right Main Electricity: 230 V Official Language: Finnish Religion: Christianity

If the prospect of meeting Old St. Nick has you (or your children) giggling with delight, a trip to the Santa Claus Village will not disappoint - after all, Rovaniemi is Santa Claus' official home in Lapland. The indigenous Sami people of Rovaniemi have a long and intimate relationship with these gentle beasts, so there is roughly a one-to-one ratio of residents to reindeer. The Korundi House of Culture, which houses the Chamber Orchestra of Rovaniemi and the Rovaniemi Art Museum and is located on the outskirts of Rovaniemi's downtown core, is one of the best places to visit in Rovaniemi to learn about the local culture and history. Rovaniemi is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" and serves as a great starting point for all of the winter outdoor activities that this unique part of the world has to offer.