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. The adventure continues: explore the galleries of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, browse the eclectic array of goods at Old Market Hall, don't miss a visit to Senate Square, and take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence.

To find where to stay, other places to visit, ratings, and other tourist information, read our Helsinki tour planning website.

Raleigh, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 16.5-hour flight. The time zone difference moving from Eastern Standard Time to Eastern European Standard Time is 7 hours. Traveling from Raleigh in January, you will find days in Helsinki are cooler (26°F), and nights are slightly colder (17°F). Cap off your sightseeing on the 8th (Wed) early enough 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.

Start off your visit on the 8th (Wed): hit the slopes at Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort. Keep things going the next day: look for gifts at Shamaan Design - Lappi Shop, fly down the slopes at Urho Kekkonen National Park, and then find something for the whole family at Angry Birds Activity Park.

To see traveler tips, other places to visit, maps, and tourist information, refer to the Saariselka trip maker site.

Traveling by flight from Helsinki to Saariselka takes 5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of train and bus; or drive. In January, Saariselka is a bit cooler than Helsinki - with highs of 15°F and lows of 1°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 10th (Fri) to allow time to travel to Helsinki.

On the 10th (Fri), get engrossed in the history at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and then browse the eclectic array of goods at Hakaniemi Market.

To find photos, other places to visit, more things to do, and tourist information, you can read our Helsinki sightseeing planner.

You can fly from Saariselka to Helsinki in 5 hours. Other options are to do a combination of bus and train; or drive. Traveling from Saariselka in January, expect Helsinki to be somewhat warmer, temps between 26°F and 17°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 10th (Fri) so you can travel back home.