Rovaniemi with Kids: Practical Winter Guide for Families
Planning a winter trip to Rovaniemi with children? Here is a practical guide to what families really need on the ground: where to buy baby items and medicines, how to rent proper winter clothing, child-friendly places to eat, transfers with child seats and the best ways to keep everyone warm and happy between activities. You can find most essentials in town, and many providers cater for families with short, gentle schedules and warm places to rest.
Quick facts for families
Supermarkets and pharmacies stock baby food, nappies, children’s medicines, vitamins and warm accessories.
Winter clothing rental is easy and cost-effective for short stays.
Most restaurants have kids’ menus and high chairs; book in peak weeks.
Family rooms and play corners are common in hotels and holiday villages.
Rovaniemi Airport has simple taxi and bus links; child seats are available by request.
Pack snacks and water for outings outside town, where shops are limited.
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and public spaces.
Where to buy essentials in winter
Rovaniemi has full-size supermarkets and pharmacies, so you can travel lighter. You will find baby food, nappies, wipes, barrier creams, children’s pain relief, vitamins and common cold remedies. Winter accessories such as hats, mittens, neck warmers and wool socks are widely sold. If your child relies on a specific brand, pack it, but expect to find good local alternatives in town.
Renting proper winter clothing
For short trips it often makes sense to rent. Local rental shops provide insulated overalls, winter boots, mittens and balaclavas in children’s sizes. Many will fit you on arrival and allow swaps if sizes feel off after the first day. Renting saves luggage space and ensures the right level of warmth for Arctic conditions. Bring your own base layers and mid-layer fleeces; rentals cover the outer shell.
Eating with children
Most restaurants in Rovaniemi welcome families. Expect kids’ menus, high chairs and simple dishes that work for younger eaters. Some places have play corners or colouring. In the busiest weeks before Christmas and during February half-term, make a reservation, especially if you need space for a buggy or a quiet corner. If you have allergies, tell staff in advance; Nordic kitchens handle this every day.
Family-friendly accommodation
Hotels and holiday villages in Rovaniemi often offer family rooms, kitchenettes or adjoining rooms. Many have a small play area, games or a children’s corner near reception. Check whether cots, kettles and microwaves are available. Some properties list babysitting or supervised play at certain times. If you plan early mornings, ask about breakfast start times and take-away options.
Getting from the airport and around town
Rovaniemi Airport is close to the city. Taxis and buses connect quickly to the centre and resort areas. If you book a private transfer, ask for child seats at the time of booking and confirm the ages and heights of your children. In winter, allow a little extra time for road conditions. Walking in town can be icy, so use pram-friendly routes or a carrier for toddlers.
Warmth and comfort between activities
Winter days work best when you build in regular warm-up breaks. Many activity areas have a heated hut nearby so you can take short rests, drink something hot and adjust layers. Keep a small backpack with snacks, water, tissues, spare gloves and handwarmers. Teach children to speak up if fingers or toes feel cold. If someone gets tired, pause in the warmth and restart when they feel ready.
Childcare and a quiet evening out
Some accommodations and tour providers offer babysitting or supervised play, which can give parents a short evening window for dinner. Check availability in advance, especially in peak weeks. If formal babysitting is not available, consider an early sitting at a nearby restaurant or a simple room picnic after a full day in the snow.
Simple packing list for winter in town
Bring thermal base layers, a mid-layer fleece, warm socks, waterproof gloves and a hat that covers ears. Add lip balm, a rich moisturiser and high-factor sunscreen for bright days. For prams, a footmuff and rain cover help. Footwear should be insulated and grippy. If you plan to rent outerwear, you still need your own base and mid layers.
Eating well during activities
Hot drinks are common on winter outings and many providers can arrange simple, child-friendly meals. If you have dietary needs, give notice. Families often appreciate hearty local options such as soups, potatoes and mild flavours that suit younger palates. Keep a few familiar snacks on hand for quick energy between stops
Remote spots and planning ahead
Rovaniemi town has everything you need, but remote forest areas and scenic stops do not. When you head out of town, carry water, snacks, wipes and any medicines you might need for the next few hours. Mobile coverage is generally good, yet it is wise to download maps and save key phone numbers before you go.
Internet and staying connected
Most hotels, cafés and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi. Speeds are generally reliable for booking confirmations, messaging and weather checks. Save offline copies of tickets and boarding passes in case your phone battery dips in the cold.
Example winter day that works with children
Keep it simple. Plan one structured activity in the morning, a long warm lunch, then a lighter option in the afternoon. For example, start with a short husky meet near a warm hut, rest and eat, then choose gentle sledding close to facilities. If the sky is clear and children are rested, consider a short aurora outing early in the evening. Early nights help everyone enjoy the next day.
FAQs
Do we need to bring full winter outfits for the children?
Not necessarily. You can rent overalls, boots, mittens and hats in Rovaniemi; still bring base layers and a fleece.
Are child seats available for transfers from the airport?
Yes. Request them when you book and confirm ages and heights so the right seats are fitted.
Can we buy baby items and children’s medicines in town?
Yes. Supermarkets and pharmacies stock baby food, nappies and common children’s remedies in winter.
Do restaurants accommodate families in peak weeks?
They do, but book ahead in December and February. Most offer kids’ menus and high chairs.
Is Wi-Fi reliable for planning and tickets?
Most hotels and public places provide free Wi-Fi that is fine for confirmations and messaging.