Rovaniemi

The main square, Arktikum, is a modern, glass-and-steel affair, but it’s surrounded by charming wooden buildings that date back to the city’s early days as a trading post. The Arktikum is also home to the excellent Rovaniemi Museum, which tells the story of the city and its people. There’s also a great art gallery, the Ounasvaara Ski Museum and a replica of Santa’s workshop. In the summer, the city comes alive with festivals, including the world-famous Midnight Sun Film Festival. And, of course, there are plenty of opportunities to meet Father Christmas himself.