Rovaniemi faces overtourism crisis like major cities in Europe

Rovaniemi, Finland, has recently experienced significant growth in tourism, particularly evident during the holiday season when the Santa Claus Village theme park draws in over 600,000 visitors annually. In 2023, the city recorded a staggering 1.2 million overnight visitors, marking a nearly 30 percent increase from the previous year when travel restrictions were in place due to the pandemic. This surge in numbers has generated excitement among local business owners and government officials because of the economic benefits associated with increased tourism. However, the rapid influx of tourists has raised serious concerns among residents regarding the sustainability of such growth. Local residents express their worries over the challenges brought by mass tourism, which has resulted in significant strain on the town's infrastructure. Antti Pakkanen, a local photographer and housing network member, highlighted that tourism has become overwhelmingly unmanageable, especially during the Christmas season when the number of visitors greatly surpasses the town's resident population. He mentioned that this over-tourism phenomenon is not isolated to Rovaniemi; many cities across Europe, such as Barcelona and Amsterdam, have experienced similar issues, prompting local protests against the adverse impact of excessive tourist traffic. The situation is further complicated by the proliferation of short-term rental accommodations, which local critics argue have diminished the availability of housing for long-time residents. As properties are converted into temporary stays, prices for rentals have surged, making it more challenging for locals to find affordable living options in their own community. This has led to a transformation of the city center into what some are calling a ‘transient space’ dominated by tourists rather than a vibrant residential area. Mayor Ulla-Kirsikka Vainio acknowledged that while some local property owners profit from short-term rentals, there remains a pressing need to assess and enforce regulations governing these practices. Despite the community's concerns, projections indicate that mass tourism is unlikely to decline in the foreseeable future. The appeal of unique experiences in Nordic countries, including opportunities to see the Northern Lights and enjoy winter activities, continues to resonate strongly with travelers. The local tourism board has noted the establishment of thirteen new flight routes to Rovaniemi Airport from various European cities, underscoring the attractiveness of Rovaniemi as a holiday destination. Visitors remain eager to explore this winter wonderland, signaling that tourism will continue to grow, creating an ongoing challenge for the balance between economic benefits and maintaining quality of life for locals.