Airport Transfers: RVN, KTT, IVL & OUL
Lapland's airports are small, but they're often far from the resorts. Here's exactly how to cross that "last mile" without overspending — with every bus schedule, taxi number, and transfer option you need.
Quick Reference: Where Are You Going?
| Destination | Fly Into | Time | Best Option | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rovaniemi (City) | RVN | 15-20 min | Airport Bus | €8 |
| Santa Claus Village | RVN | 5-10 min | Walk or Bus | Free / €8 |
| Levi | KTT | 15-20 min | Airport Bus | €9 |
| Ylläs (Both sides) | KTT | 45-65 min | Airport Bus | €17 |
| Saariselkä | IVL | 20-30 min | Airport Bus | €10 |
| Kilpisjärvi | KTT | 2.5-3 hours (in good summer weather conditions) | Rental Car | ~€60/day |
| Pallas | KTT | 45-60 min | Shuttle / Taxi | €30-45 (Shuttle) |
| Ruka | OUL | 2.5-3 hours (in good summer weather conditions) | Rental Car / Bus | ~€60/day |
Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)
The main gateway to Lapland. Small, efficient, easy to navigate. Limited facilities — no lounges, basic cafe only.
Airport Details
- CODE: RVN
- AIRLINES: Finnair, Norwegian
- DISTANCE: 8km to center
Facilities
Small cafe, ATM, Car rentals, Free WiFi
RVN → Rovaniemi City Center
| Option | Price | Booking | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Bus | €8 | None needed | Meets all flights. Stops at center + hotels. |
| Taxi | €25-35 | App or Call | Fixed prices via Menevä. Stand outside. |
Airport Bus Details
- Operator: Linkkari (+358 600 300 03)
- Route: Airport → Santa Claus Village → Train Station → City Center.
- Tickets: Buy on the bus with card or via linkkari.fi.
RVN → Santa Claus Village
The easiest transfer in Lapland. Santa Claus Village is practically at the airport.
- Walk: 20-25 min on a signposted path. Fine with light luggage in good weather.
- Hotel Shuttle: Most village hotels (Nova Skyland, etc.) offer free transfers. Confirm when booking.
Kittilä Airport (KTT)
The busiest resort airport in Lapland. Serves Levi, Ylläs, and surrounding fells.
KTT → Levi
The most reliable resort transfer. Airport bus meets every scheduled flight.
KTT → Ylläs (Äkäslompolo & Ylläsjärvi)
⚠️ Warning: Limited Service
The airport bus to Ylläs does NOT meet every flight. If arriving late or on a charter, you MUST pre-book a taxi or private transfer.
Lapland Taxi: +358 20 071 800 (24h)
Jounin Taksi: +358 400 563 264
Ivalo Airport (IVL)
The northernmost airport in the EU. Serves Saariselkä and Inari.
Saariselkä Transfer: The Gold Standard
The Ivalo airport bus waits for delayed flights. If your plane is late, the bus will still be there. No need to stress about connections.
Oulu Airport (OUL)
A proper regional airport. Main gateway for Ruka and eastern Lapland.
OUL → Ruka
The longest transfer to any major resort (2.5 - 3 hours in good weather conditions). Rental car is strongly recommended here.
- SkiBus (Seasonal): €35-45. Only runs Dec-April and doesn't meet all flights.
- Rental Car: Scenic drive, well-maintained roads. Generally the best value for families.
Private Transfers & Minivans
For families or groups of 4+, private transfers are often the smart choice — sometimes barely more expensive than individual bus tickets.
When to Book Private
- ✓ Group of 4+ people
- ✓ Flight arrives outside bus schedule
- ✓ Late night arrivals
- ✓ Families with lots of luggage
How to Book
Option 1: Ask your hotel (most have partnerships).
Option 2: Contact polartransfer.fi for all-Lapland coverage.
Should You Rent a Car?
Rent a Car If:
- → Going to Ruka or Kilpisjärvi
- → Staying 4+ days
- → Visiting multiple resorts
Skip the Car If:
- × Uncomfortable with winter driving
- × Levi or Saariselkä (easy buses)
- × Short city-only trip
All Booking Links & Contacts
Taxi Services by Area
Rate: 2,50 € + 0,25 € / 10 s + local/mobile network charge.
Taxis are on duty 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
24/7 service. 1,80 €/call + 0,90 €/min + local network charge.
Local taxi and airport transfers.
Taxi services in the Pyhä-Luosto area.
Transport services in the Kilpisjärvi and arctic wilderness area.