Why drive in Rovaniemi?
Limited public transportation
Rovaniemi has limited public transportation options. Buses do operate in the city, but infrequently, which makes scheduling challenging. Renting a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace without being constrained by bus timetables. Unfortunately, public transportation does not reach our location.
Well-maintained roads
The roads in Rovaniemi are well-maintained and safe, even during the winter months. Major highways and secondary roads are regularly plowed and salted to ensure safe driving conditions.In winter, there are also winter road restrictions that enhance road safety.
Signage is clear and in multiple languages, making navigation straightforward even for visitors.
Convenient and reliable rental cars:
Rental cars in Rovaniemi are readily available and well-maintained. Major car rental companies have offices at Rovaniemi Airport and in the city center, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs. Whether you need a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle, you’ll find a suitable option. Rental cars are equipped with winter tires, ensuring your safety on snowy and icy roads.
What is driving like in Rovaniemi?
Driving in Rovaniemi is very easy and relaxing. The roads are well-maintained, but it’s important to drive cautiously due to potential snow and ice. Rental cars are equipped with winter tires, and many also have additional safety features such as ABS brakes and traction control. Modern GPS systems make navigation straightforward, and many rental cars come with them.
In winter conditions, driving requires slower speeds and more time for braking and turning, but with these precautions, it is manageable and rewarding. Traffic in Rovaniemi is light and calm, so you can drive with peace of mind.
Driving provides access to unique experiences that might otherwise be difficult to reach. For example, visiting Santa Claus Village just outside the city or exploring the Arctic Circle, driving gives you the freedom to create your own schedule and discover hidden gems in more remote areas.
All of our cabins offer free parking. If you want to explore the city center, we recommend downloading the EasyPark app, which makes it easy to park your car in town.
Parking in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi city center has around 6,100 parking spaces. Most of them are paid parking areas. There is only one parking fee zone in the city, and the price is 2.20 € per hour.
Parking hours in Rovaniemi
- Monday to Friday: 8:00–18:00
- Saturday: 8:00–16:00
Parking is free outside of these hours and on Sundays.There are no parking fees in Raanujärvi, all parking spaces here are free of charge.
How to pay parking in Rovaniemi?
You can pay for parking using mobile apps such as:
- Easypark
- Parkman
You can also pay at parking machines in some areas. If using a machine, place the printed ticket inside your car’s front window so it’s clearly visible from outside.
Please note: The regular city parking fee does not apply to all areas. For example, special areas like the gravel lot on Korkalonkatu (across from Santa Claus Hotel), or the airport and train station parking, have their own systems. Always check the signs or app for the correct zone number before paying.