10 days in Helsinki & Rovaniemi Itinerary

Finland's largest and most populated metropolis, the maritime town of Helsinki boasts varied architecture, a lively cafe culture, and plethora of picturesque natural delights.

Take a break from Helsinki with a short trip to Nuuksio National Park in Espoo, about 46 minutes away. Pack the 7th (Tue) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. There's still lots to do: brush up on your military savvy at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence, browse the eclectic array of goods at Market Square Kauppatori, and get engrossed in the history at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum.

To see where to stay, ratings, reviews, and tourist information, go to the Helsinki sightseeing planner.

If you are flying in from Italy, the closest major airport is Helsinki Vantaa Airport. In May, plan for daily highs up to 18°C, and evening lows to 7°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 11th (Sat) so you can travel to Rovaniemi.

An urban center set amongst the great Arctic wilderness, Rovaniemi serves as the capital of Lapland province.

Safaris has been added to your itinerary. Start off your visit on the 12th (Sun): snap pictures at Lumberjack's Candle Bridge, then find something for the whole family at Santa Claus Village, then see Santa Claus Office, and finally look for all kinds of wild species at Wildlife Areas. On the next day, see the interesting displays at Santa's House of Snowmobiles, then Head underground at Syvasenvaara Fell, and then find something for the whole family at SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus.

For other places to visit, traveler tips, maps, and tourist information, you can read our Rovaniemi trip maker tool .

Traveling by flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi takes 4 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of flight and train; or drive. Traveling from Helsinki in May, expect Rovaniemi to be slightly colder, temps between 12°C and 3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 14th (Tue) to allow enough time to travel back home.