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.

Get some cultural insight at Rock Church and Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali). Get in touch with nature at Nuuksio National Park and Pihlajasaari Recreational Park. Step out of Helsinki with an excursion to Valkmusa National Park in Siltakyla--about 1h 50 min away. Pack the 15th (Thu) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. Next up on the itinerary: browse the exhibits of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, enjoy the sand and surf at Aurinkolahti Beach, pause for some serene contemplation at Helsinki Cathedral, and stroll through The Esplanadi Park.

To find other places to visit, traveler tips, and other tourist information, go to the Helsinki holiday planner .

If you are flying in from United States, the closest major airport is Helsinki Vantaa Airport. August in Helsinki sees daily highs of 69°F and lows of 53°F at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 21st (Wed) to allow enough time to travel back home.

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

On the 22nd (Thu), browse the different shops at Arctic Circle Mall, explore the fascinating underground world of Syvasenvaara Fell, then see Santa Claus Office, and finally get in on the family fun at Santa Claus Village. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: get in on the family fun at SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus, take an in-depth tour of Arktikum, then make a trip to Lordi's Square, and finally look for gifts at Your Piece Of Finland.

For reviews, maps, ratings, and more tourist information, use the Rovaniemi trip itinerary maker site .

Fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi in 4 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of flight and train; or drive. Traveling from Helsinki in August, expect nights in Rovaniemi to be about the same, around 49°F, while days are slightly colder, around 63°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 24th (Sat) to allow time for travel back home.