11 days in Helsinki & Lapland 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.

Pack the 6th (Mon) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. There's lots more to do: learn about all things military at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, take in the spiritual surroundings of Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), get engrossed in the history at National Museum of Finland, and admire the masterpieces at Kansallisgalleria.

For more things to do, maps, where to stay, and more tourist information, use the Helsinki tour itinerary planner.

Raleigh, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 17-hour flight. You can also do a combination of bus, taxi, and flight; or do a combination of bus and flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 7 hours traveling from Raleigh to Helsinki. Traveling from Raleigh in January, expect nights in Helsinki to be slightly colder, around 17°F, while days are colder, around 26°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 8th (Wed) early enough to travel to Saariselka.

On the 8th (Wed), hit the slopes at Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: look for gifts at Shamaan Design - Lappi Shop, explore the striking landscape of Urho Kekkonen National Park, and then get in on the family fun at Angry Birds Activity Park.

Plan my day in Saariselka using traveler tips and tourist information provided by Inspirock.

You can fly from Helsinki to Saariselka in 4.5 hours. Other options are to do a combination of flight and bus; or drive. Expect a bit cooler temperatures when traveling from Helsinki in January; daily highs in Saariselka reach 15°F and lows reach 1°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 10th (Fri) early enough to travel to Helsinki.

Kick off your visit on the 10th (Fri): steep yourself in history at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum, then soothe aching muscles at some of the top local wellness centers, and then hunt for treasures at Hakaniemi Market.

For photos, traveler tips, maps, and other tourist information, you can read our Helsinki sightseeing planning site .

Getting from Saariselka to Helsinki by flight takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: do a combination of bus and flight; or drive. In January, Helsinki is a bit warmer than Saariselka - with highs of 26°F and lows of 17°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 10th (Fri) to allow time to travel back home.