13 days in Finland 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.

Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Helsinki Cathedral are good opportunities to explore the local culture. Visit Temppeliaukio Church and Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali) for their historical value. Next up on the itinerary: don't miss a visit to Old Market Hall, stop by Katajanokka, look for gifts at Liopro Finland - Handmade Souvenir, and take in the exciting artwork at Okra.

To find ratings, more things to do, photos, and other tourist information, go to the Helsinki trip itinerary maker site.

Kampala, Uganda to Helsinki is an approximately 17- hour flight. You can also do a combination of flight and ferry. The time zone changes from East Africa Time to Eastern European Standard Time, which is usually a -1 hour difference. Traveling from Kampala in March, things will get cooler in Helsinki: highs are around 3°C and lows about -5°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 8th (Thu) so you can drive to Turku.

Sitting at the mouth of the Aura River, Turku is one of Finland's quaintest and most historically rich towns.

Kick off your visit on the 8th (Thu): step into the grandiose world of Turku Castle, soothe aching muscles at Ispoinen Beach and Sauna, then admire the striking features of Kuusisto Manor, and finally take in the spiritual surroundings of Turku Cathedral. On the 9th (Fri), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: examine the collection at Luostarinmaen Kasityolaismuseo, make a trip to ArtBank, then take an in-depth tour of Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova, and finally browse the collection at Turku City Library.

Before you visit Turku, use our trip planner to discover what you can do and see there.

Drive from Helsinki to Turku in 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In March, daytime highs in Turku are 3°C, while nighttime lows are -5°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 10th (Sat) so you can catch the train to Tampere.

Finland's third largest city, Tampere boasts an array of cultural offerings and a lively music scene.

On the 10th (Sat), stop by Alko, enjoy the sand and surf at Suolijarvi Beach, and then see a show at Tampere Hall.

For maps, where to stay, more things to do, and tourist information, read our Tampere trip itinerary planner.

Traveling by train from Turku to Tampere takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. In March, daily temperatures in Tampere can reach 3°C, while at night they dip to -7°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 11th (Sun) early enough to go by car to Tavastia Proper.

Tavastia Proper is a region of Finland. Start off your visit on the 11th (Sun): see the interesting displays at Jokioinen Museum Railway and then step into the grandiose world of Hame Castle. Here are some ideas for day two: take in the architecture and atmosphere at Holy Cross Church, then admire the local landmark of Musical Fountain, and then take a stroll around Sibelius Hall.

To find ratings, traveler tips, where to stay, and tourist information, you can read our Tavastia Proper holiday planner.

Getting from Tampere to Tavastia Proper by car takes about 1.5 hours. Other options: do a combination of train and bus; or take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 1°C in March, and nighttime lows around -8°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 12th (Mon) so you can travel back home.