11 days in Finland 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.

Get a sense of the local culture at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Rock Church. Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Hakaniemi Market and Nuuksio National Park. Next up on the itinerary: explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria, look for gifts at Artisaani, wander the streets of Katajanokka, and take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral.

For photos, reviews, and other tourist information, read our Helsinki day trip planning site .

El Paso, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 25-hour flight. You'll lose 9 hours traveling from El Paso to Helsinki due to the time zone difference. When traveling from El Paso in January, plan for colder days in Helsinki, with highs around 26°F, while nights are slightly colder with lows around 17°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 17th (Thu) to allow time to travel to Saariselka.

Outdoor pursuits--ranging from cross-country skiing and snowmobiling to reindeer safaris and chasing Northern Lights--draw the largest number of tourists to Saariselka.

On the 18th (Fri), fly down the slopes at Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort. On the 19th (Sat), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: explore the wealth of natural beauty at Urho Kekkonen National Park and then see the interesting displays at Gold Prospector Museum.

For ratings, reviews, and tourist information, go to the Saariselka trip itinerary site .

You can do a combination of flight and bus from Helsinki to Saariselka in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of train and bus; or drive. Plan for slightly colder temperatures traveling from Helsinki in January, with highs in Saariselka at 15°F and lows at 1°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 19th (Sat) so you can drive to Rovaniemi.

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

Start off your visit on the 20th (Sun): tour the pleasant surroundings at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy and then get in on the family fun at Santa Claus Village. On your second day here, see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, stop by LAURI, then take an in-depth tour of Arktikum, and finally take in the views from Lumberjack's Candle Bridge.

For traveler tips, maps, ratings, and other tourist information, use the Rovaniemi travel route app .

Drive from Saariselka to Rovaniemi in 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 16°F in January, and nighttime lows around 6°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 22nd (Tue) to allow time for travel back home.