Rovaniemi’s 8 Top Workshops & Classes (With Prices)

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The 8 Best Workshops & Classes in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi isn’t just about chasing the Northern Lights or visiting Santa’s village—it’s also a place where you can get your hands dirty and learn something authentic. Whether you want to master a Lappish dish, create a unique piece of art, or meet Sami artisans, Rovaniemi offers engaging workshops that bring you closer to local culture. We particularly enjoy the Lappish Cooking Master Class for its delicious hands-on experience, and the Aurora painting workshop for its creative take on Lapland’s famous night sky. These classes offer more than just fun—they’re memorable ways to connect with the region’s traditions.

If you’re curious about Lapland’s heritage, or want a break from outdoor activities, these workshops give you a taste of local life, from Sami craftsmanship to holiday cheer. They’re perfect for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and enjoy authentic experiences. Here’s a quick overview of the best workshops and classes in Rovaniemi, with details that can help you pick the right fit.

1. Lappish Cooking Master Class

Rating: 5.0/5 (6 reviews)
Price: $156.12 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Rovaniemi, Finland

At number 1, the Lappish Cooking Master Class brings you into the heart of Finnish culinary tradition just a 30-minute drive outside Rovaniemi. During this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to make lohikeitto, a classic Finnish salmon soup that’s creamy, healthy, and packed with flavor. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the experience includes pickup from your hotel. The instructor is passionate about sharing local recipes, and the atmosphere in a cozy cabin by Lake Tahtamalmapi makes it memorable.

Guests love how easy it is to learn this popular dish—some say it’s “like a diamond of Finnish cuisine,” and that they can’t wait to try the recipe at home. The tasting at the end of the session is a highlight, giving you a real sense of Finnish hospitality. This class is perfect for food lovers wanting a taste of Lapland’s culinary culture in an intimate setting.

Bottom Line: A fun, authentic way to learn a traditional Finnish dish with a personal touch, great for foodies and families alike.

2. Rovaniemi: PAINT & SIP Private Painting Workshop

Rating: 5/5 (4 reviews)
Price: $90 per person
Duration: 2.5 hours
Location: Lapland, Finland

Number 2 on our list is the Paint & Sip workshop, where you can unleash your creativity in a relaxed environment. Led by talented local artists, this private painting class offers step-by-step guidance, perfect for beginners. The highlight? Painting an Aurora Borealis scene inspired by Rovaniemi’s famous skies—an ideal souvenir of your trip. All supplies are included, so just bring your enthusiasm.

The reviews emphasize how welcoming and supportive the instructor is, making it easy even for first-timers to create something beautiful. Plus, the opportunity to “live like a local” adds a memorable touch, and the workshop often includes a bonus of playing with a cute Bengal cat named Simba. This class balances fun and creativity, making it a great option for solo travelers or couples.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those who want to try something artistic without prior experience, plus a lovely memento of Lapland.

3. Candle Workshop

Rating: 5.0/5 (2 reviews)
Price: $183.91 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Rovaniemi, Finland

At number 3, the Candle Workshop invites you to explore the connection between scent, memory, and the magic of Rovaniemi’s landscape. Over two hours, you’ll sample scents from a curated library, then guide yourself through creating a personalized soy candle to take home. It’s a sensory experience that captures the essence of Lapland’s natural beauty and your holiday memories.

What makes this workshop stand out is its focus on aroma, allowing you to craft a meaningful souvenir. The instructor will teach you the basics of candle making, and you’ll leave with a unique, scented candle that reminds you of your trip. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a relaxing activity with a creative twist, and the small-group setting ensures a personal experience.

Bottom Line: A perfect activity for those who love perfumes, relaxing crafts, or want a keepsake that smells like Lapland.

4. Aurora Painting Workshop

Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $127.99 per person
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Rovaniemi, Finland

Number 4 is the Aurora painting workshop, where you learn to recreate the Northern Lights on canvas. Held in your instructor’s traditional Lappish home, this experience is suited for creative travelers of all skill levels. You’ll learn techniques to depict the night sky, vibrant colors, and the swirling aurora borealis. No prior art experience is necessary—just a desire to express yourself.

Participants rave about the quality of their artworks and the warm atmosphere created by the instructor, who shares insights about local culture through art. The workshop includes all supplies, plus snacks and hot drinks for a cozy creative session. Taking home a painting of Lapland’s most iconic natural wonder makes this workshop a memorable souvenir.

Bottom Line: A relaxing, culturally rich activity that’s ideal for anyone interested in art or capturing the beauty of the Aurora Borealis.

5. Lappish Workshop

Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $255.98 per person
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Rovaniemi, Finland

Number 5 offers a rare chance to meet a Sami family and learn about their handicrafts and cultural traditions. The Lappish workshop involves making traditional items like kuksa wooden cups, Sami drums, jewelry, or knives. It’s a deep dive into Sami craftsmanship and a fantastic cultural exchange.

This activity is especially suitable for families or those curious about indigenous traditions. The hosts are authentic artisans, eager to share their skills and stories. The workshop provides a meaningful connection to Lapland’s heritage, and you’ll walk away with a handmade souvenir. The price reflects the personalized experience and cultural depth.

Bottom Line: An immersive experience for those interested in Sami culture and authentic craftsmanship, especially suitable for families and craft lovers.

6. Lapland Cooking Workshop

Rating: 4.2/5 (reviews)
Price: $230 per person
Duration: 4 hours
Location: Lapland, Finland

Number 6 is a cooking adventure focusing on traditional Lappish dishes in a guided setting. Led by professional chefs, you’ll learn how to prepare local favorites such as reindeer meat and salmon soup, using ingredients sourced from the pristine Arctic landscape. This hands-on workshop lasts around four hours, making it a more in-depth culinary experience.

What makes this class stand out is the emphasis on sustainability and local ingredients, giving you practical skills to recreate the flavors of Lapland at home. Guests note the value in learning authentic recipes directly from chefs, and the class is well-suited for foodies who want a meaningful cultural experience. However, it’s slightly longer and more intensive than other options.

Bottom Line: For those passionate about culinary traditions and sustainable food, this is a practical, memorable class.

7. Magical Private Santa Visit, Reindeer Ride & Elf Workshops

Rating: N/A
Price: $375 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Lapland, Finland

Number 7 is a fairy-tale experience wrapped into one: a private Santa visit, a reindeer sleigh ride, and elf workshops. This tour is perfect for families wanting a full Christmas experience. The sleigh ride takes you through a snow-covered forest, while elves teach you how to make gingerbread or craft Christmas cards.

The highlight is the private meeting with Santa, making it especially suited for children or anyone wanting a personalized holiday memory. The tour includes transportation and all the festive activities, making it a seamless, magical adventure. The experience is highly customizable, allowing you to enjoy Lapland’s yuletide spirit at its best.

Bottom Line: An enchanting, family-friendly tour that combines reindeer rides, elf fun, and a personal Santa encounter—perfect for Christmas fans and kids.

8. Rovaniemi: Lappish Cooking Master Class

Rating: 4.6/5 (reviews)
Price: $142 per person
Duration: 2.5 hours
Location: Lapland, Finland

Finally, the Lappish Cooking Master Class offers a focused session on a beloved Finnish dish—salmon soup—highlighted as a “diamond of Finnish cuisine.” Known for being quick and easy to prepare, this class is perfect if you want a practical, tasty skill. The class’s intimate size allows for personal interaction, and you’ll learn to make the soup from scratch, then enjoy it together.

This experience is especially great for travelers on a tight schedule who want a taste of Finnish comfort food without a lengthy commitment. The emphasis on bright flavors and simplicity makes it accessible for all cooking levels.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers seeking a quick, authentic culinary experience and a delicious Finnish soup recipe.

How to Choose the Right Workshop in Rovaniemi

Picking the right workshop depends on your interests and schedule. If you love cooking and food, the Lappish Cooking Master Class or the Lapland Cooking Workshop offer immersive culinary experiences. For a creative outlet, the Aurora painting or Paint & Sip are excellent options.

Those interested in culture should consider the Lappish workshop, which provides a hands-on look at Sami crafts, or the festive Santa & elf experience. Budget-wise, the Paint & Sip offers a more affordable yet memorable creative outing, while the Santa experience is perfect for families seeking holiday magic.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak holiday seasons, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.

Final Thoughts

Rovaniemi offers a range of workshops that make your trip more meaningful and memorable. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or a family with kids, there’s something special waiting for you. For a taste of local cuisine, the Lappish Cooking Master Class is hard to beat, while the Aurora painting brings the magic of Lapland’s skies into your home. For families, the Santa, reindeer, and elf tour guarantees festive fun.

Whatever you choose, these hands-on experiences deepen your connection to Lapland’s culture and make your trip truly unforgettable. Be sure to book early, especially during the busy winter months, and enjoy creating your own piece of Lapland magic.