12 days in Rovaniemi & Helsinki Itinerary

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

You'll visit kid-friendly attractions like Santa Claus Village and SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus. You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Feelapland and Pyha-Luosto National Park. Step out of Rovaniemi to go to Tornio and see Duudsonit Activity Park - TornioHaparanda, which is approximately 1h 50 min away. And it doesn't end there: explore the fascinating underground world of Syvasenvaara Fell, enjoy some diversion at Santa Claus Office, admire the sheer force of Auttikongas, and snap pictures at Lumberjack's Candle Bridge.

To see photos, reviews, more things to do, and other tourist information, use the Rovaniemi day trip app .

Guadalajara, Mexico to Rovaniemi is an approximately 21-hour flight. You can also do a combination of flight, taxi, and bus; or do a combination of flight and train. The time zone changes from Central Standard Time to Eastern European Time, which is usually an 8 hour difference. Traveling from Guadalajara in December, expect Rovaniemi to be cooler, temps between -6°C and -13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 21st (Fri) to allow time to 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.

Explore hidden gems such as Room Escape Games and Porvoo Old Town. Family-friendly places like Linnanmaki Amusement Park and Heureka, the Finnish Science Centre will thrill your kids. When in Helsinki, make a side trip to see Teijo national park in Pernio, approximately 1h 50 min away. There's lots more to do: pause for some serene contemplation at Rock Church, stop by Taiga Colors, admire the masterpieces at Kansallisgalleria, and have some family-friendly fun at True VR.

To find where to stay, reviews, photos, and tourist information, go to the Helsinki trip maker website .

You can fly from Rovaniemi to Helsinki in 4 hours. Other options are to do a combination of train and flight; or drive. Expect somewhat warmer temperatures when traveling from Rovaniemi in December; daily highs in Helsinki reach 3°C and lows reach -3°C. On the 27th (Thu), you'll have the morning to explore before heading back home.