12 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 17th (Mon) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. The adventure continues: learn about all things military at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, get to know the fascinating history of The Esplanadi Park, make a trip to Senate Square, and admire the masterpieces at Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma.

For ratings, traveler tips, where to stay, and tourist information, use the Helsinki online trip itinerary builder.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Helsinki is an approximately 16.5- hour flight. You can also do a combination of flight and ferry; or do a combination of bus and flight. The time zone changes from Malaysia Time to Eastern European Standard Time, which is usually a -6 hour difference. In December, Helsinki is cooler than Kuala Lumpur - with highs of 3°C and lows of -3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 21st (Fri) to allow time to travel to Ivalo.

Ivalo is a village in the municipality of Inari, Lapland, Finland, located on the Ivalo River 20km south of Lake Inari. To see maps, ratings, where to stay, and other tourist information, refer to the Ivalo trip planner.

Getting from Helsinki to Ivalo by flight takes about 3.5 hours. Other options: do a combination of train and bus; or drive. Traveling from Helsinki in December, you will find days in Ivalo are slightly colder (-7°C), and nights are cooler (-17°C). You'll set off for Levi on the 21st (Fri).

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

Start off your visit on the 22nd (Sat): don't miss a visit to Lapland Hotels SnowVillage, bet on your favorite at Icekarting Levi, then take in the exciting artwork at LUVATTUMAA - Levi Ice Gallery, and finally hit the slopes at Kids' Land. On your second day here, get all the equipment you need at Levi Ski Resort.

To see photos, other places to visit, ratings, and tourist information, you can read our Levi online tour planner.

You can do a combination of flight and taxi from Ivalo to Levi in 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of bus and car. Expect a daytime high around -6°C in December, and nighttime lows around -15°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Sun) to allow enough time to drive to Rovaniemi.

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

On the 24th (Mon), see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, see Santa Claus Office, then make a trip to Santa Claus Village, and finally get some fabulous bargains at Marttiini Store Old Factory. Here are some ideas for day two: make a trip to Lordi's Square, get engrossed in the history at Arktikum, and then get in on the family fun at SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus.

To find traveler tips, where to stay, more things to do, and more tourist information, read Rovaniemi itinerary planner.

You can drive from Levi to Rovaniemi in 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. In December in Rovaniemi, expect temperatures between -6°C during the day and -13°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 25th (Tue) early enough to travel back home.