Flight to Rovaniemi (RVN) starting at €39.99*

Rovaniemi, Finland is perhaps best-known as a tourist destination for its Santa village because this far north, Lapland at Christmas will often mean seeing Santa. However, there is much more to the capital of Lapland than its festive association. With a population of over 63,000 inhabitants, it may not be the biggest city, but it is certainly a large enough place to explore, given its proximity to the Arctic Circle.

In fact, Rovaniemi is Finland's sixth biggest city and one that is geared up for tourism. In a typical year, well over 400,000 people will visit this corner of Lapland, many of them seeking out one of the world's great natural sights – the Northern Lights. Caused by solar flares hitting the Earth's atmosphere, the Northern Lights make huge and often spectacular displays across the night's sky. Nevertheless, there is more to the city than its impressive record with the Northern Lights.

Rovaniemi is also a university city which means there is a vibrant nightlife, especially during term time. One of the architectural delights of Rovaniemi is the Arktikum Science Museum which occupies a prominent site on the banks of the majestic Ounasjoki River. It is also home to the Provincial Museum of Lapland where attendees will gain many insights into the local history and culture of Northern Finland. If you are seeking some more culture from your time spent in the city, then Lappia Hall should also be on your itinerary. This grand hall serves as the city's concert venue and theatre, all rolled into one. Ticket prices are modest, and the hall is also a convention centre and a public library.

If you are looking for other forms of entertainment, then note that Rovaniemen Palloseura, who play in the Finnish premier league, is the local football team. However, many locals prefer ice hockey. Rovaniemen Kiekko is the side most inhabitants of Rovaniemi support. This team plays at the Lappi Arena, which has a capacity of 3,500 fans on a matchday when the atmosphere can often be electric. Finally, it is worth mentioning how Rovaniemi's reputation as a centre of cuisine has developed in recent times. Seasonal food markets and some specialist game restaurants have made the city one that many foodies find is worth seeking out.

Have your children ever asked you, 'Where does Father Christmas live?' If so, there are few better answers you can give than Rovaniemi, Finland. The Santa Village just outside of the city centre is considered by many to be a magical place where children can visit Santa and truly get into the Christmas spirit. In fact, the magic of seeing Santa is not just for children because this part of the world is what Rovaniemi is known for. You'll get swept up in the excitement of going to Lapland for Christmas, largely because there is nothing quite like it.

By November, the city is covered in white snow with daily temperatures that never get above freezing. This alone puts many people in the festive spirit, even before they head to the main Father Christmas-themed attractions of Santa Claus Village and the underground grotto of SantaPark. Because it runs Christmas-themed activities, including the chance to see Santa, throughout the summer as well as the winter, you can visit any time of the year. Seeing Santa at his office is high on the must-do list for many visitors, but you can also meet his elvish helpers at the village's official Father Christmas post office. Of course, there are plenty of other festive things to do and explore in this part of Lapland, including the Christmas exhibition, which explains different cultural aspects of the holiday season around the world. Younger children will enjoy a visit to Mrs Claus where, in her cottage supported by joyful elves, children can craft their own souvenir of their visit from traditional Lappish materials and tools.

The Santa Claus Village also has a Snowman World Winter Zone, which is geared up for energetic children and teenagers – as well as the young at heart. Ice skating, tobogganing and other fun outdoor activities are on offer. Animal lovers will also find that the Arctic Circle Husky Park is a great place to explore. You can find out more about these amazing creatures and get close to them under supervision. Here, visitors can enjoy one of the most Christmassy things of all, a traditional sleigh ride in the snow! Both on-demand rides, as well as organised excursions, are on offer. For an absolutely unforgettable experience, book a flight to Rovaniemi with Eurowings today.