Best landmarks inRovaniemi.

We explored the walking trails around Ounasvaara, winding through snow-covered pine forest under bright blue skies. Having free snow play and walking close to our chalet gave the whole family a welcome break between booked activities.

We saw green and purple Northern Lights above the snowy trees from our accommodation, without taking a tour. Being able to step outside briefly and return to the warm chalet worked particularly well with a young child, although sightings are never guaranteed.

Santa Claus Village sits on the Arctic Circle and mixes free public areas with optional paid attractions. We crossed the official line, met Santa at Christmas House, visited the post office and browsed the shops at our own pace.

We took a slow reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forest at Pahtaja. The quiet trail made it feel distinct from the busier attractions around Santa Claus Village, and the gentle pace suited our family.

We drove across the Finnish-Swedish border to board the Polar Explorer icebreaker at Båtskärsnäs. Walking on the frozen Baltic Sea beside the ship and seeing the ice-floating experience made this one of the trip's most distinctive days.

We did a husky safari near Santa Claus Village. The sled ride through the snowy forest was faster and noisier than the reindeer experience, then gingerbread and warm glögi gave us a welcome chance to slow down.

We explored Rovaniemi city centre in the evening, walking past the festively lit Sokos department store, browsing the Christmas market stalls, and admiring the colourful pom-pom tree street art. The city has a cosy, compact feel that is easy to explore on foot.