11 days in Helsinki & Rovaniemi 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.

Popular historic sites such as Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum are in your itinerary. Get outdoors at Bellevue Beach and Nuuksio National Park. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Helsinki: Loviisan kirkko (in Loviisa), Porvoo Old Town (in Porvoo) and Arboretum Mustila (in Elimaki). There's lots more to do: explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, and get curious at Heureka.

To find photos, other places to visit, maps, and more tourist information, refer to the Helsinki trip itinerary planner.

If you are flying in from Canada, the closest major aiports are Helsinki Vantaa Airport, Turku Airport and Tampere-Pirkkala Airport. In January, plan for daily highs up to -3°C, and evening lows to -9°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 3rd (Sun) to allow time to travel 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 4th (Mon): see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, stroll the grounds of German Soldier s Cemetery, and then take an in-depth tour of Arktikum. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 5th (Tue): fly down the slopes at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy, then see Santa Claus Office, and then don't miss a visit to Santa Claus Village.

To see more things to do, traveler tips, maps, and tourist information, read Rovaniemi online vacation planner.

You can fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi in 4.5 hours. Other options are to take a train; or drive. In February, Rovaniemi is little chillier than Helsinki - with highs of -6°C and lows of -11°C. On the 6th (Wed), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can travel back home.