Rovaniemi in March: What It’s Really Like, Weather & Seasonal Tips
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Thinking of visiting Rovaniemi in March and wondering what to expect?
March is one of the best months to experience the magical winter wonderland in Finnish Lapland. Winter is still in full swing, but the days are getting longer, making it a great time for both Arctic activities and the Northern Lights.
We recently traveled to Rovaniemi in early March. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know including weather conditions, daylight hours, Northern Lights, what to pack, and the best things to do.
Rovaniemi in March – Overview:
Weather in Rovaniemi in March
March in Rovaniemi is still very much winter, but temperatures start to rise compared to the deep freeze of January and February. Expect daytime highs between -10°C (14°F) and 0°C (32°F), though it can occasionally dip lower or rise slightly above freezing. Nights are colder, and sudden temperature drops can still happen.
Our experience: When we visited Rovaniemi in early March, daytime temperatures hovered around -2°C to 1°C, but we also had a morning as cold as -17°C, warming up to -5°C later in the day. Over five days, we saw everything from snowfall to grey skies to beautiful sunshine – sometimes all in one day.
One thing we noticed is that weather forecasts change constantly and are rarely accurate more than a day or two in advance (even with the best weather apps, including those from the Finnish Meteorological Institute and our favorite Norwegian weather app yr.no). You’ll get a general idea of the temperature range, but beyond that, it’s unpredictable. So don’t stress about the forecast a week in advance – just come prepared!
Snow Certainty
Snow is typically guaranteed in Rovaniemi throughout March. The region usually has plenty of accumulated snow that lasts well into April, making it an ideal time for winter activities like husky sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing.
That said, the year we visited, Lapland had an unusually low snowfall. To make matters worse, a week before our trip, Rovaniemi had an unexpected warm spell with rain that melted much of the city’s snow. But even then, there was still plenty of snow in the forests and surrounding areas, and nearly all activities continued as usual. By the time we arrived, fresh snow had fallen, and all our worries were for nothing.
So if there’s one piece of advice I can give you about the weather and snow – don’t stress! March is still a winter wonderland, and you’ll have an amazing time.
Good to know: In March, the lakes are typically still frozen, with an ice layer thick enough for activities like walking, ice fishing, and even snowmobiling. However, it’s always wise to check with locals about specific conditions and avoid walking on or near rivers for safety.
Are Winter Activities Still Running?
Yes, all winter activities in Rovaniemi are still available throughout March, including husky and reindeer sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and more. It’s also a great time for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing – there’s still plenty of snow, but the temperatures are more comfortable than in mid-winter.
Santa Claus Village remains open year-round, so you can meet Santa no matter when you visit.
PRO TIP: Early March is still a peak tourist season, so be sure to book your accommodations well in advance. I also highly recommend reserving all activities or you risk missing out.
Good to know: Winter tours start winding down by late March and most stop completely by April. If you’re visiting at the end of the month or in early April, your options will be more limited.
TIP: If you’re traveling in late March or early April, consider heading further north to destinations like Levi – Sirkka or Saariselkä, where snow conditions remain more reliable for winter activities. On the other hand, many places close for the season because there is not enough demand, even if there is still plenty of snow. So you have to do some extra research to see what’s still available.
READ ALSO: Where to Go Husky Sledding in Rovaniemi
What to Wear in Rovaniemi in March
Even though March isn’t as brutally cold as January or February, proper winter clothing is still essential for staying warm and comfortable. Here’s a short overview on what to wear:
- Base layer: Moisture-wicking thermal underwear (top and bottom).
- Mid-layer: Fleece or wool sweaters.
- Outer layer: Insulated, windproof, and waterproof winter jacket and pants (ski clothing works well in March).
- Footwear: Insulated winter boots with good traction. I highly recommend packing ice cleats as well.
- Accessories: Warm, waterproof gloves, thin inner gloves, a buff or scarf, a winter hat, and wool socks. We also recommend packing (rechargeable) hand warmers.
Good to know: If you’re joining organized tours, most operators provide thermal overalls. It’s also possible to rent winter clothing in Rovaniemi, so you don’t need to invest in expensive Arctic clothing. In addition, some resorts also provide winter gear for their guests. For example, Apukka Resort, where we stayed for a few nights, provides everything from wool socks and boots to winter overalls and warm mittens for the entire duration of your stay.
Is There Enough Daylight?
Yes! One of the biggest advantages of visiting Rovaniemi in March is the increasing daylight hours. At the start of the month, you get around 10–11 hours of daylight, and it extends daily.
Good to know: In early March, sunrise is around 7:30 AM, and sunset is around 5:30 PM. By mid-March, the sun rises an hour earlier at 6:30 AM and sets an hour later at 6:30 PM.
This gives you plenty of time for outdoor activities while still having dark skies for Northern Lights viewing at night. This brings us to the next point – auroras.
Northern Lights in March
March is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi. The nights are still dark enough, and around the spring equinox, geomagnetic activity tends to be stronger, increasing the chances of brighter and more intense aurora displays.
While it’s possible to see the Northern Lights from Rovaniemi, light pollution from the city can make them less visible. For the best experience, head to dark, open areas away from artificial lights. Popular spots include frozen lakes, forests, and hilltops outside the city. That said, do not walk on frozen rivers or on the lakes close to rivers as it can be really dangerous.
Good to know: Many tour operators offer guided Northern Lights excursions by minibus, snowmobile, or even reindeer sled. These tours take you to the best viewing locations and often include photos and/or expert photography tips to help you capture the aurora at its best.
PRO TIP: When booking a Northern Lights tour, check the details to ensure it’s a true aurora hunt, where guides drive to find clear skies. Many tours simply take you to scenic spots, which is great – if the weather cooperates. But on cloudy nights, they won’t improve your chances. For the best odds, look for tours offering “guaranteed sightings” or a money-back guarantee.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Visiting Rovaniemi in March
Here is an overview of the main advantages and disadvantages of visiting Rovaniemi in March:
Advantages:
- Longer daylight hours. More time for activities without sacrificing Northern Lights viewing.
- Milder temperatures. Still cold but more comfortable than the extreme cold of January or February.
- Fewer crowds. Not as busy as December, making tours and accommodations easier to book. That said, early March is still a peak season since many European countries have school breaks.
- All winter activities are still available. You can enjoy a full range of Arctic experiences.
- Lower prices. Less demand means cheaper flights and – possibly – also discounts on accommodations.
Disadvantages:
- Unpredictable temperatures. While it’s usually cold, occasional warm spells can push temperatures above freezing and bring slushy conditions, which isn’t ideal for a winter trip.
- Variable snow quality. Depending on the weather, snow may become compacted or start melting, though it’s usually still good for most activities.
- Icy roads and pavements. Snowmelt that refreezes overnight can make roads and walkways very slippery, so good footwear – and ice cleats – are essential.
Final Thoughts
March in Rovaniemi is a fantastic time to experience Lapland’s winter magic without the extreme cold or peak-season crowds. With a perfect balance of winter conditions and longer daylight hours, you can enjoy the best winter activities while also maximizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
However, it’s still important to pack warmly and prepare for Arctic conditions. Also, be sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re visiting in the first half of March, and reserve accommodations and top activities well in advance.
TIP: Visiting Lapland in winter and not sure how to plan your trip? Check out our Rovaniemi winter trip itinerary – exactly as we did it in March. It’s packed with the most amazing winter activities and our experience-based tips to help you make the most of your trip.
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