How to Get to Rovaniemi, Finland: Flights, Trains and Everything You Need to Know
Rovaniemi is easier to reach than you think. Here is your complete, simple guide to getting to the Arctic Circle from anywhere in Europe.
Getting to the Arctic Circle: Easier Than You Think
Rovaniemi is not on the way to anywhere else. It sits on the Arctic Circle in the far north of Finland, 800 kilometers above Helsinki. And yet, millions of people travel there every year — many from countries far across the world. The reason is simple: the transport connections are excellent, and the journey itself can be part of the experience.
Here is everything you need to know about getting to Rovaniemi.
Option 1: Fly Direct to Rovaniemi
Flying is the fastest and most popular way to reach Rovaniemi. Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) sits 10 kilometers north of the city center and is connected to many European cities, especially during the winter season.
Direct flights from Europe (winter season 2026–2027)
During the winter season, Rovaniemi has over 30 direct flight connections from European cities. Airlines operating routes to Rovaniemi include Finnair, Norwegian, Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, Air France, Transavia, Vueling, Edelweiss, and SAS.
Direct routes in recent seasons have included flights from London (Gatwick, Stansted, Luton), Manchester, Liverpool, Paris (CDG and Orly), Amsterdam, Milan (Bergamo), Munich, Zurich, Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, Berlin, and many others. Routes and schedules change each season, so check the Visit Rovaniemi website and flight booking platforms for current options.
Via Helsinki
Finnair and Norwegian both operate multiple daily flights from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) to Rovaniemi Airport (RVN). The flight takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you cannot find a direct route from your city, flying via Helsinki is a reliable and comfortable option. Helsinki is well connected to most major cities in Europe and from many cities in Asia and North America.
Ryanair also operates year-round flights from Milan Bergamo (BGY) to Rovaniemi, making it the only airline with a non-seasonal direct route from continental Europe.
From the airport to the city
Rovaniemi Airport is 10 kilometers from the city center. Taxis and rideshares are available outside arrivals. Bus number 8 connects the airport to the city center and continues to Santa Claus Village. Many hotels and tour operators also offer airport transfer services — check when booking your accommodation.
Option 2: The Overnight Train from Helsinki
The overnight train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is one of the great railway journeys in Scandinavia. The train departs Helsinki Central Station in the early evening and arrives in Rovaniemi the next morning — allowing you to sleep through the 800 kilometers between the two cities and wake up in Lapland.
The Santa Claus Express
Finnish railway company VR operates daily trains between Helsinki and Rovaniemi, with overnight services departing around 18:00–19:00 and arriving between 06:00 and 08:00. The overnight train is famously nicknamed the Santa Claus Express.
The train offers sleeping compartments (private cabins for 1, 2, or 3 people), couchette berths, and standard seats. Sleeping compartments are the most popular option — you arrive in Rovaniemi well rested and ready for your first full day of activities. Prices vary depending on how far in advance you book, and cabins sell out early in December and January.
You can also take your car on the night train, which is useful if you plan to explore Lapland independently.
Day trains
VR also operates day trains between Helsinki and Rovaniemi, taking around 8 to 12 hours depending on the service. These are comfortable, with dining service and Wi-Fi, and allow you to enjoy Finland’s changing landscape as you travel north. Tickets are available on the VR website (vr.fi).
Option 3: Long-Distance Bus
Several bus operators — including Matkahuolto and OnniBus — run routes between Helsinki and Rovaniemi. The journey takes around 11 to 14 hours and is the most affordable option, with tickets sometimes available from as little as 45€. Buses are comfortable and modern, with Wi-Fi, power sockets, and reclining seats. Overnight buses let you sleep and arrive in the morning, saving a night’s accommodation cost.
Buses arrive at Rovaniemi Bus Station, which is a short walk from the city center.
Option 4: Drive to Rovaniemi
Driving from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is approximately 800 kilometers — about 8 to 10 hours without long stops. Finnish roads are well maintained year-round. In winter, snow tyres are mandatory by law and all rental cars come with them fitted. The route north passes through beautiful Finnish forest and lake landscapes. Reindeer are common on roads in Lapland — drive carefully, especially at dawn and dusk.
Having your own car in Rovaniemi gives you the freedom to explore the wider Lapland region at your own pace.
Getting Around Rovaniemi Once You Arrive
- City center: small and walkable. Most attractions are within 15 minutes on foot.
- Bus number 8: connects the city center, the airport, and Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle. Runs regularly throughout the day.
- Taxis: available throughout the city but expensive. Book via the Lähitaksi or Menevä apps.
- Tour operator transfers: most activity providers offer hotel pick-up services. Confirm when booking.
- Car rental: available at the airport if you want flexibility to explore the wider Lapland region.
Answers to some of the most common questions
Is there a direct flight from London to Rovaniemi?
Yes. In the 2026–2027 winter season, several airlines operate direct flights from London airports (Gatwick, Stansted, Luton) to Rovaniemi, including Norwegian, easyJet, and Ryanair. Routes run from approximately late October or November through to March or April. Check current schedules on airline websites or the Visit Rovaniemi flights page.
How long does it take to fly to Rovaniemi from Helsinki?
The flight from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) to Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Finnair and Norwegian both operate multiple daily flights on this route year-round.
Is the overnight train to Rovaniemi worth it?
Absolutely. The overnight train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is a genuinely enjoyable experience. You board in the evening, sleep in a comfortable private cabin, and wake up in Lapland in the morning. It is more expensive than the bus but cheaper than flying for two people sharing a cabin. Book as early as possible, as sleeping compartments sell out fast in December and January.
How far is Rovaniemi from Helsinki?
Rovaniemi is approximately 800 kilometers north of Helsinki by road. By plane, the journey takes 1 hour 15 minutes. By overnight train, it takes around 8 to 12 hours. By bus, 11 to 14 hours. By car, approximately 8 to 10 hours.
What is Rovaniemi Airport’s code?
Rovaniemi Airport’s IATA code is RVN. It is located 10 kilometers north of the city center, directly in the direction of Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle.
Visit Rovaniemi