12 days in Helsinki, Levi & 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.

Kids will enjoy Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Temppeliaukio Church. Pack the 22nd (Sat) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. There's lots more to do: pause for some serene contemplation at Helsinki Cathedral, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kamppi Chapel of Silence, visit Ullanlinna, and walk around The Esplanadi Park.

To find photos, traveler tips, where to stay, and more tourist information, refer to the Helsinki trip planner.

Paris, France to Helsinki is an approximately 7-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train, bus, and ferry. Traveling from Paris to Helsinki, you'll lose 1 hour due to the time zone difference. Expect a bit cooler temperatures when traveling from Paris in December; daily highs in Helsinki reach 3°C and lows reach -3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 25th (Tue) early enough to travel to Levi.

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

Bring the kids along to Levi Ski Resort and Icekarting Levi. Get out of town with these interesting Levi side-trips: Muonio (Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park & Keimiotunturi Fell) and Seven Fells Up (in Akaslompolo). The adventure continues: identify plant and animal life at Santa"s Cottage & Pet Farm.

Find out how to plan Levi trip without stress by asking Inspirock to help create an itinerary.

Fly from Helsinki to Levi in 5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of train and bus. Plan for a bit cooler temperatures traveling from Helsinki in December, with highs in Levi at -6°C and lows at -15°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 28th (Fri) so you can drive to Rovaniemi.

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

On the 29th (Sat), see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, get your game on at Snowman World Igloo Hotel, then have fun at Santa Claus Office, and finally make a trip to Santa Claus Village. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: make a trip to Lordi's Square, then get engrossed in the history at Arktikum, then get curious at Pilke Science Centre, and finally catch a live event at Lappi Areena.

For maps, other places to visit, more things to do, and more tourist information, use the Rovaniemi tour builder tool.

You can drive from Levi to Rovaniemi in 2.5 hours. Another option is to take a bus. In December, daily temperatures in Rovaniemi can reach -6°C, while at night they dip to -13°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 30th (Sun) early enough to travel back home.