13 days in Lapland & Helsinki Itinerary

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

Kick off your visit on the 15th (Sat): see Santa Claus Office, then see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, and then get in on the family fun at SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus. Here are some ideas for day two: fly down the slopes at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy, get engrossed in the history at Forestry Museum of Lapland, and then take in the architecture and atmosphere at Rovaniemi Church.

For where to stay, traveler tips, other places to visit, and other tourist information, you can read our Rovaniemi trip builder website.

Singapore, Singapore to Rovaniemi is an approximately 18.5-hour flight. The time zone difference when traveling from Singapore to Rovaniemi is minus 6 hours. Traveling from Singapore in December, things will get much colder in Rovaniemi: highs are around -6°C and lows about -13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 16th (Sun) early enough to drive to Akaslompolo.

Start off your visit on the 17th (Mon): tour the pleasant surroundings at Yllas Ski Resort and then stop by Akaslompolo Sportshop.

To plan Akaslompolo vacation without wasting time, ask Inspirock to design an itinerary.

You can drive from Rovaniemi to Akaslompolo in 2.5 hours. Another option is to take a bus. In December, plan for daily highs up to -5°C, and evening lows to -15°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 17th (Mon) early enough to drive to Levi.

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

On the 18th (Tue), grab your bike and head to Levi Ski Resort. On the 19th (Wed), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: make a trip to Lapland Hotels SnowVillage, bet on your favorite at Icekarting Levi, then view the masterpieces at LUVATTUMAA - Levi Ice Gallery, and finally hit the slopes at Kids' Land.

To find other places to visit, ratings, and tourist information, refer to the Levi online trip planner.

You can drive from Akaslompolo to Levi in an hour. Another option is to take a bus. In December, daytime highs in Levi are -6°C, while nighttime lows are -15°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 19th (Wed) early enough to travel to Saariselka.

Outdoor pursuits--ranging from cross-country skiing and snowmobiling to reindeer safaris and chasing Northern Lights--draw the largest number of tourists to Saariselka.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort and Siida - Sami Museum and Nature Center. Saint Tryphon Pechenga Orthodox Church and Pielpajarvi Wilderness Church will appeal to history buffs. Step out of Saariselka with an excursion to The Sami Cultural Centre Sajos in Inari--about 1 hour away. The adventure continues: pause for some serene contemplation at Saariselka S:t Paulus Chapel.

To find more things to do, photos, traveler tips, and more tourist information, refer to the Saariselka tour planner.

You can fly from Levi to Saariselka in 3.5 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a bus. In December in Saariselka, expect temperatures between -7°C during the day and -17°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 22nd (Sat) to allow enough 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.

You'll discover tucked-away gems like Mannerheim Museum and Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum. Visit Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Helsinki Cathedral for their historical value. There's much more to do: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, look for gifts at Marimekko, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), and enjoy the sand and surf at Hietaranta Beach.

To see where to stay, ratings, reviews, and other tourist information, use the Helsinki trip planner.

Traveling by flight from Saariselka to Helsinki takes 5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of bus and train; or drive. Traveling from Saariselka in December, you will find days in Helsinki are somewhat warmer (3°C), and nights are warmer (-3°C). Cap off your sightseeing on the 25th (Tue) early enough to travel back home.