14 days in Lapland & Helsinki Region Itinerary

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

Venture out of the city with trips to Pyha-Luosto National Park (in Pyhatunturi), Korouoma Canyon (in Posio) and Luosto (Luosto Adventures & Kopara Reindeer Park). Next up on the itinerary: make a trip to Santa Claus Village, get in on the family fun at Moomin Snowcastle, have some family-friendly fun at Snowman World Igloo Hotel, and Head underground at Syvasenvaara Fell.

To see where to stay, maps, reviews, and tourist information, refer to the Rovaniemi tour planning site.

Lisbon, Portugal to Rovaniemi is an approximately 10.5-hour flight. You can also drive. The time zone changes from Western European Standard Time to Eastern European Standard Time, which is usually a 2 hour difference. Expect colder weather when traveling from Lisbon in August: highs in Rovaniemi hover around 20°C, while lows dip to 11°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 3rd (Thu) 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.

Start off your visit on the 4th (Fri): shop like a local with Elan Ski Shop & Rental and then explore the wealth of natural beauty at Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park. On the next day, tour the pleasant surroundings at Santa"s Cottage & Pet Farm, then get your game on at G2 ICEKARTING, and then take a memorable tour with Levi Ski Resort.

To see photos, reviews, more things to do, and other tourist information, read our Levi journey maker app.

Getting from Rovaniemi to Levi by car takes about 2.5 hours. Other options: take a bus. In September, daytime highs in Levi are 13°C, while nighttime lows are 5°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 5th (Sat) 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.

You'll find plenty of places to visit near Saariselka: Inari (Nature & Wildlife Tours, Juutua Nature Trail, &more). There's much more to do: fly down the slopes at Urho Kekkonen National Park, find something for the whole family at Angry Birds Activity Park, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Saariselka S:t Paulus Chapel, and look for gifts at Hippupuoti Gift Shop.

For more things to do, where to stay, ratings, and other tourist information, use the Saariselka trip itinerary site.

Traveling by flight from Levi to Saariselka takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. In September, plan for daily highs up to 13°C, and evening lows to 4°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 8th (Tue) so you can 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.

Go for a jaunt from Helsinki to Espoo to see Nuuksio National Park about 48 minutes away. And it doesn't end there: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, take in the spiritual surroundings of Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), don't miss a visit to Senate Square, and step into the grandiose world of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna.

To find traveler tips, other places to visit, ratings, and other tourist information, read Helsinki trip planner.

Fly from Saariselka to Helsinki in 5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of bus and train; or drive. Prepare for a bit warmer weather when traveling from Saariselka in September: high temperatures in Helsinki hover around 19°C and lows are around 8°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 12th (Sat) early enough to travel back home.