Levi: Day Trip to Santa Claus Village with Lunch
This trip whisks you away from Levi’s snowy streets to the enchanting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland, for about 8 hours of festive fun, snow adventures, and Arctic scenery. For $407 per person, you get a chance to meet the man himself, explore the charming village, try mini snowmobiling, and visit Snowman World—all with the comfort of guided transportation and a delicious buffet lunch.
What we really love about this experience is how it balances classic Christmas magic with authentic Arctic landscapes. First, the scenery on the drive—snow-covered forests and frozen lakes—sets a magical tone before you even arrive. Second, the opportunity to visit Snowman World and experience the Ice World is wonderfully photogenic and offers some playful snow activities.
A possible consideration is the price, which some might find steep compared to the value of included activities. Also, the visit to Santa Claus Village doesn’t include free photo opportunities—those cost extra—which could be disappointing if your main goal is to snap candid shots with Santa.
This tour suits families, Christmas lovers, and travelers who want a hassle-free, guided day to see Santa and enjoy winter activities without the stress of planning transportation. If you’re looking for a full-day experience with a mix of scenery, festive spirit, and fun, this tour could be just right.
Key Points
- Convenient transportation from Levi with pickup and drop-off included.
- Balanced itinerary with Santa Claus, Snowman World, and scenic drive.
- Activities tailored for children like mini snowmobiling and playful snow fun.
- Authentic Arctic scenery enhances the Christmas experience.
- Limited free time for exploration, with most activities pre-arranged.
- Additional costs for photos and souvenirs at Santa Claus Village.
A Closer Look at the Experience
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The Journey to Rovaniemi
From Levi, the trip begins with a scenic drive through Finland’s winter landscape. We loved the way the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, with snow-covered pines and frozen lakes stretching out on either side. The guide, whose name isn’t mentioned, is there to keep the atmosphere friendly and informative. The drive lasts about an hour, making it a comfortable travel time that builds anticipation for the day ahead.
Santa Claus Village: Where Christmas Comes to Life
Once at Santa Claus Village, you’re given free time to soak in the holiday atmosphere. It’s a place bustling with cheerful vendors, colorful Christmas shops, and the iconic Santa Post Office. You’ll get to cross the Arctic Circle, which is always exciting, and take photos in front of Santa’s Office—though, as one reviewer laments, “you are not allowed to take photos yourself” inside Santa’s official meeting spot, and photos are sold afterwards. Be prepared for this if you want a candid shot of Santa himself.
Santa Meet-and-Greet and Gift Shopping
Meeting Santa Claus is a highlight for many, and it’s a chance for children and adults alike to share their wishes. The timing and availability depend on the day, but the real charm lies in the festive setting. Plus, the village has plenty of shopping options—perfect for picking up unique Finnish souvenirs or Christmas gifts.
More Great Tours NearbySnowman World and Ice Activities
Snowman World is the star attraction, featuring a stunning Ice World where everything—from sculptures to slides—is made of ice and snow. Visit after December 6th, when the entrance fee is included, and enjoy the chance to participate in snow fun activities. Kids can try mini snowmobiling on a private track—an experience that some reviews describe as “fantastic.”
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The Snowmobiling Experience
The tour includes a 10-minute mini snowmobiling ride for children aged 4-12, which adds a fun, hands-on element to the day. For many little ones, this is a memorable highlight. The snowmobiling is on a private track, giving kids a safe way to enjoy the thrill of riding.
Lunch and Practicalities
A buffet lunch is served within Santa Claus Village, giving travelers a chance to warm up and refuel. While some reviews mention the lunch as “meager,” it’s generally considered satisfying enough for a full day out in cold weather. The tour includes entrance fees to Snowman World (after December 6th), which makes the overall cost more reasonable.
The Return to Levi
After a day packed with sights and activities, a comfortable transfer takes you back to your Levi accommodation. Pickup times are scheduled in advance, and it’s important to be ready early—missed pickups mean missing the tour, as no refunds are offered for late arrivals.
What the Reviews Say
Authentic experiences and guides make a difference. One reviewer, Lisa, praised the “brilliant guide and driver,” highlighting that good guidance and smooth transportation set the tone for a memorable day. Others mention the stunning views and festive atmosphere as the trip’s biggest draws.
However, not all reviews are glowing. Linda felt it was “a lot of money for what you get,” noting the limited free time and the additional cost for Santa photos. She also mentioned the “meager lunch”, which might be worth considering if you’re expecting a substantial meal.
These insights reveal that while the tour offers plenty of festive magic, the value depends heavily on personal expectations—particularly around photo opportunities and meals.
Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
This trip is especially appealing if you want a relaxed, guided day to visit Santa and experience the Arctic scenery. It’s well-suited for families with children, thanks to activities like mini snowmobiling and snow play. The scenic drive, combined with a visit to Snowman World, offers a good balance of sightseeing and fun.
If you’re a Christmas enthusiast, the entire atmosphere of Santa Claus Village—the Christmas shops, the Arctic Circle crossing, and meeting Santa himself—is a memorable highlight. But if you’re more budget-conscious or prefer a more flexible, self-guided visit, you might find the extra costs for photos or souvenirs less appealing.
The Bottom Line
This tour provides a charming introduction to Lapland’s holiday magic, wrapped in the comfort of guided transportation and organized activities. It’s a solid choice for families or those wanting a stress-free way to meet Santa and enjoy snowy adventures in the Arctic.
While the price might seem high relative to what’s included, the convenience, scenic journey, and special activities like Snowman World and mini snowmobiling help justify the cost for many travelers. Keep in mind the extra costs for photos and souvenirs, and consider whether the limited free exploration time aligns with your expectations.
Overall, if you’re seeking a well-rounded, festive day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and Arctic charm, this trip offers good value. For those craving a deeper, more flexible experience, you might want to explore other options or add extra time in Santa’s village.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from certain locations in Levi, including Olo Resort, Reindeer Manor, Arctic Nook, and others.
What should I bring?
Bring your ID card or a copy, especially since it’s a border-crossing into the Arctic Circle. Dressing warmly is essential for comfort.
How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, activities, and free time at Santa Claus Village.
Can children participate in snowmobiling?
Yes, children aged 4-12 can try mini snowmobiling on a private track for about 10 minutes.
Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included during the day. Some reviews mention it as modest but adequate.
What are the entrance fees?
Entrance to Snowman World is included after December 6th, making this part of the experience more accessible.
Is there free time at Santa Claus Village?
Yes, you get free time to explore, shop, take photos, and visit the post office. However, photo opportunities with Santa inside his house are paid.
What should I expect at Snowman World?
A spectacular Ice World with sculptures and snow activities—perfect for photos and fun, especially if visiting after December 6th.
Would this trip suit solo travelers or couples?
While it’s great for families, the guided nature and scenic drive make it suitable for anyone wanting a relaxed, organized day of Christmas magic.
This trip offers a delightful mix of scenic travel, festive cheer, and Arctic adventures. It’s designed for those who want a stress-free way to meet Santa, see snowy landscapes, and enjoy some playful activities—an outing that leaves many with cherished holiday memories.
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