10 days in Rovaniemi & Helsinki Itinerary

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

Take a break from the city and head to Safaris and Pyha-Luosto National Park. Get out of town with these interesting Rovaniemi side-trips: Pyhatunturi (in Pelkosenniemi), Korouoma Canyon (in Posio) and Kopara Reindeer Park (in Luosto). There's much more to do: Head underground at Syvasenvaara Fell, get engrossed in the history at Arktikum, take in the dramatic scenery at Auttikongas, and hit the slopes at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy.

To find other places to visit, reviews, maps, and other tourist information, refer to the Rovaniemi trip planner.

Barcelona, Spain to Rovaniemi is an approximately 9.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of car and train. Traveling from Barcelona to Rovaniemi, you'll lose 1 hour due to the time zone difference. Expect much colder temperatures when traveling from Barcelona in May; daily highs in Rovaniemi reach °C and lows reach °C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 4th (Sat) early enough to travel to Helsinki.

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.

Your inner history buff will appreciate Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Helsinki Cathedral. Get a sense of the local culture at Temppeliaukio Church and Kamppi Chapel of Silence. Change things up with these side-trips from Helsinki: Sipoonkorven Kansallispuisto (in Vantaa), Teijo National Park (in Pernio) and Nuuksio National Park (in Espoo). And it doesn't end there: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), visit Ullanlinna, trek along Pornaistenniemi Nature Trail, and tour the pleasant surroundings at The Esplanadi Park.

To see other places to visit, maps, photos, and more tourist information, you can read our Helsinki road trip tool.

Traveling by flight from Rovaniemi to Helsinki takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. In May, Helsinki is a bit warmer than Rovaniemi - with highs of °C and lows of °C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Thu) early enough to travel back home.