11 days in Rovaniemi, Saariselka & Helsinki Itinerary

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

Kids will enjoy Santa Claus Village and SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus. There's lots more to do: take an in-depth tour of Arktikum, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Rovaniemi Church, experience rural life at Napapiirin Porofarmi, and see Santa Claus Office.

Take the guesswork out of planning a Rovaniemi vacation by using our trip itinerary maker.

Mumbai, India to Rovaniemi is an approximately 18-hour flight. The time zone changes from India Standard Time to Eastern European Standard Time, which is usually a -3.5 hour difference. Traveling from Mumbai in December, things will get colder in Rovaniemi: highs are around -6°C and lows about -13°C. On the 23rd (Mon), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can drive 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 24th (Tue), see the interesting displays at Gold Prospector Museum, then get in on the family fun at Angry Birds Activity Park, then pause for some serene contemplation at Saariselka S:t Paulus Chapel, and finally stop by Hippupuoti Gift Shop. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 25th (Wed): fly down the slopes at Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort.

For more things to do, other places to visit, where to stay, and more tourist information, read Saariselka vacation maker website.

Getting from Rovaniemi to Saariselka by car takes about 3.5 hours. Other options: take a bus. Expect slightly colder evenings in Saariselka when traveling from Rovaniemi in December, with lows around -17°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 25th (Wed) so you can travel to Helsinki.

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.

Family-friendly places like Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Senate Square will thrill your kids. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Helsinki: Heureka (in Vantaa) and Ahvenisto (in Hameenlinna). Pack the 27th (Fri) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. The adventure continues: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kamppi Chapel of Silence, meet the residents at Korkeasaaren Elaintarha, and take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral.

To find traveler tips, maps, reviews, and tourist information, you can read our Helsinki travel route planner.

You can fly from Saariselka to Helsinki in 5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of bus and train; or drive. Traveling from Saariselka in December, expect nights in Helsinki to be warmer, around -3°C, while days are a bit warmer, around 3°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 29th (Sun) so you can travel back home.