Experience in Rovaniemi, Finland by Eleonora

What is it like to live in Rovaniemi? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

The city is known as a Hometown of Santa Claus. Also it is situated on the Arctic Circle, and you can enjoy Northern Lights here. So basically Rovaniemi is all about Christmas, Arctic and Northern lights.

The city is very small but I found it comfortable for living. A lot of international students come to study here. Also it has some magic! Because everyone who once have been here usually are coming here back!

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What is the student lifestyle like in Rovaniemi?

There are two universities: University of Lapland and University of Applied Sciences. Usually all international exchange students live in one (Kuntotie) and it is a lot of fun of living there: parties, parties and parties.

Students go to uni by bikes. It takes about 15 min. from Kuntotie (it is the name of the street).

How much does it cost to live in Rovaniemi?

It depends of course how much do you spend usually in your home countries. Here food/drinks are expensive, more expensive than in other European countries. Students accommodation are around 130-250 euro per month.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Rovaniemi? Is there any advice you can give?

For exchange students accommodation is guaranteed by housing company, so no worries about that.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is quite normal, the only strange thing is that Finns can easily mix salty with sweet stuff, for example sweet sauces with meat. Their favourite dish is salmon. It is often served at the university cafe. Yeah, and for students it is only 2. 60 euro!

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What places would you recommend visiting in Rovaniemi?

Santa Claus village and Arctic Circle, Rauna Zoo, Ounasvaara Ski Resort, Husky farm, Lapland Safari, etc.

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Is it good to eat out in Rovaniemi? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Cafe-bar 21. They served awesome waffles.

Is the nightlife good in Rovaniemi? Where is good to go?

There is a new disco bar which opened recently: Sfarr.

What advice would you give future students heading to Rovaniemi?

Take more warm clothes and be prepared to spend the most extraordinary time of your life! You will never forget Rovaniemi!