Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna is one of the best-known hotels in central Rovaniemi, at Koskikatu 4, close to the Kemijoki river and the shops, and within walking distance of Ounasvaara. It has 159 rooms in a range of types, from Standard Twin and Queen to Superior rooms, a 51 square metre suite for up to five guests and four themed Arctic Circle and Christmas rooms. The hotel has two restaurants, Frans and Chérie, with French-style dishes and Lappish flavours, and Amarillo, serving Tex-Mex. A sauna on the first floor is open in the evening, and breakfast is served early each day. It is a reliable choice for anyone who wants a central base with lots of choice.
Location and getting around: Vaakuna is in the heart of the city, so most restaurants, shops and the riverside are within a short walk. Arktikum and Korundi are further along the river and reachable by bus or taxi, and the Santa Express bus line runs to Santa Claus Village and SantaPark. Many tour operators pick up at central hotels, so check pickup points when you book a tour. A bike loan is available for guests, which is useful in the shoulder seasons.
Rooms and atmosphere: room types include Standard Twin and Queen, Superior Twin, Queen and King and the large suite, with extra beds in several categories, which makes it a flexible family option. The themed Arctic Circle and Christmas rooms add a bit of fun for children. The hotel describes a Lapland-inspired character in its materials and furnishings, and it holds Green Key certification. Wi-Fi is free, check-in is from 15:00 and check-out by 12:00, and a gym can be used for a fee at a nearby partner.
Who it suits and good to know: it is a good fit for families, couples and groups who want a central base, a choice of restaurants and a sauna. The hotel warns that a nightclub in the building, Doris, is open and sound can carry into rooms, so ask for a room on a quieter side or higher floor if you are a light sleeper. The sauna is open in the evening, and guests bring their own towel from the room. Parking and car charging are available, so check the details when booking. Special booking terms apply for some winter dates, so read your rate conditions.
Why stay here
- ✓159 rooms including a five-guest suite
- ✓Themed Arctic Circle and Christmas rooms
- ✓Frans and Chérie restaurant
- ✓Amarillo Tex-Mex restaurant
- ✓Hotel sauna
- ✓Daily breakfast
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Green Key certified
Good questions
Where is Sokos Hotel Vaakuna?+
It is at Koskikatu 4 in central Rovaniemi, near the Kemijoki river and the shops. Santa Claus Village is reached by bus or taxi.
Is the hotel noisy?+
The hotel notes that a nightclub in the building can be heard in some rooms. Ask for a quieter room when you book.
Does it have a sauna and restaurants?+
Yes, there is a sauna on the first floor and two restaurants on site. Check opening times for your dates.