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.

Your inner history buff will appreciate Mannerheim Museum and Sea Fortress Suomenlinna. You'll discover tucked-away gems like Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and The Aalto House. Next up on the itinerary: take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, take in the spiritual surroundings of Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria, and examine the collection at Design Museum.

For photos, traveler tips, where to stay, and tourist information, use the Helsinki road trip tool.

Tallinn, Estonia to Helsinki is an approximately 2- hour ferry ride. You can also fly. In January, daytime highs in Helsinki are -3°C, while nighttime lows are -9°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 6th (Sun) 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.

Step out of the city life by going to Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort and Urho Kekkonen National Park. Visit Pielpajarvi Wilderness Church and Saint Tryphon Pechenga Orthodox Church for their historical value. Take a break from Saariselka with a short trip to Siida - Sami Museum and Nature Center in Inari, about 1 hour away. The adventure continues: examine the collection at Gold Prospector Museum, stop by Hippupuoti Gift Shop, and pause for some serene contemplation at Saariselka S:t Paulus Chapel.

For where to stay, ratings, maps, and other tourist information, read Saariselka trip planner.

Getting from Helsinki to Saariselka by combination of flight and bus takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: do a combination of flight and car; or drive. Traveling from Helsinki in January, expect Saariselka to be a bit cooler, temps between -11°C and -20°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Wed) to allow time to travel to Levi.

Finland's largest and most popular ski resort, the fell of Levi provides excellent slopes and lively nightlife in an enchanting setting.

On the 10th (Thu), hit the slopes at Levi Ski Resort. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 11th (Fri): stroll through Santa"s Cottage & Pet Farm, then bet on your favorite at Icekarting Levi, and then fly down the slopes at Kids' Land.

To find maps, ratings, where to stay, and tourist information, read Levi day trip website.

Getting from Saariselka to Levi by combination of bus and flight takes about 3 hours. Other options: drive; or take a bus. January in Levi sees daily highs of -11°C and lows of -21°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 11th (Fri) early enough to drive to Rovaniemi.

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

Kick off your visit on the 12th (Sat): take in the architecture and atmosphere at Rovaniemi Church, then identify plant and animal life at Wildlife Areas, then engage your brain at Pilke Science Centre, and finally get engrossed in the history at Arktikum. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 13th (Sun): stop by Your Piece Of Finland and then fly down the slopes at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy.

For other places to visit, traveler tips, ratings, and tourist information, read Rovaniemi online attractions planner.

Traveling by car from Levi to Rovaniemi takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. Traveling from Levi in January, plan for somewhat warmer nights in Rovaniemi, with lows around -17°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 13th (Sun) early enough to travel back home.