12 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.

On the 10th (Thu), make a trip to Senate Square, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), look for gifts at Liopro Finland - Handmade Souvenir, then browse the eclectic array of goods at Market Square Kauppatori, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Temppeliaukio Church, and finally take an in-depth tour of Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum. On the 11th (Fri), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence, admire the striking features of Helsinki Central Railway Station, then take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, then stroll around The Esplanadi Park, and finally explore the historical opulence of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna.

For other places to visit, reviews, more things to do, and more tourist information, you can read our Helsinki trip itinerary website.

Tel Aviv, Israel to Helsinki is an approximately 8-hour flight. Plan for cooler temperatures traveling from Tel Aviv in October, with highs in Helsinki at 10°C and lows at 1°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 11th (Fri) so you can travel to Rovaniemi.

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

Change things up with these side-trips from Rovaniemi: Korouoma Canyon (in Posio) and Pyha-Luosto National Park (in Pyhatunturi). There's lots more to do: make a trip to Santa Claus Village, get engrossed in the history at Arktikum, see Santa Claus Office, and take an exotic tour of a safari tour.

To see maps, more things to do, and more tourist information, read our Rovaniemi trip itinerary planner.

Getting from Helsinki to Rovaniemi by flight takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: take a train; or drive. Expect a bit cooler temperatures when traveling from Helsinki in October; daily highs in Rovaniemi reach 3°C and lows reach -1°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 19th (Sat) to allow time to travel to Helsinki.

Start off your visit on the 19th (Sat): admire the masterpieces at Kansallisgalleria, test your team's savvy at popular escape rooms, then take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland, and finally admire the masterpieces at Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma. On your second day here, find something for the whole family at Linnanmaki Amusement Park and then stroll around Sibelius Monument.

To see where to stay, more things to do, maps, and tourist information, read Helsinki trip planner.

You can fly from Rovaniemi to Helsinki in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. While traveling from Rovaniemi, expect a bit warmer days and about the same nights in Helsinki, ranging from highs of 10°C to lows of 1°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 20th (Sun) early enough to travel back home.