Every Christmas, tens of thousands of visitors travel to this magical place: Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. What makes this little town in one of the coldest places in the world such a popular destination?

Little tip: Children from all over the world send their wish lists there.

Besides romantic husky sled rides and the Northern Lights, Rovaniemi is famous for one thing: Santa Claus! You can even visit him here, because Rovaniemi is the official residence of Santa Claus. 

He lives in his own village north of the city. Visitors can meet forest gnomes, cross the Arctic Circle, ride a reindeer sleigh and, of course, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. The village is also home to the famous Christmas post office. A total of 600,000 letters are received here every year. 

Rovaniemi at Christmas time is especially magical, of course, but it's actually worth visiting all year round.

The city with just 16,000 inhabitants is located directly on the Arctic Circle. Yet Rovaniemi is about three times the size of the country of Luxembourg. In terms of area, it is one of the largest cities in the world and a visit promises truly unique experiences.

The aurora borealis are visible in Rovaniemi all winter from the end of August to the beginning of April. Go by snowmobile, husky or reindeer sled to the most beautiful places where you can experience the dancing lights in the sky. It is a natural phenomenon that you must see with your own eyes at least once in your life!

Rovaniemi also offers a wide range of accommodation in different price categories and styles: In the city center, in a glass igloo in the wilderness or next door from Santa Claus - there is something for everyone.