15 days in Lappeenranta, Koli National Park & Rovaniemi Itinerary

On the shores of the country's largest lake system, Lappeenrata serves as the economic and cultural center of southeast Finland.

Step out of the city life by going to Lammassaari Island and Kummakivi Boulder. Explore hidden gems such as Church of the Intercession of the Mother of God and Viewing Platform in Puumala. Change things up with these side-trips from Lappeenranta: Mikkeli (Mikkeli Rural Parish Church, Naisvuori Observation Tower, &more), Ruokolahti (Ruokolahden Kirkko & Ruokolahden Kellotapuli) and Imatra (Tainionkosken Church & Church of St. Nicholas). Next up on the itinerary: take an in-depth tour of Wolkoff House Museum, admire the striking features of Lappeen Marian kirkko, stroll around Riverside Park, and get outside with Atreenalin Seikkailupuistot.

For traveler tips, where to stay, maps, and more tourist information, go to the Lappeenranta attractions planning tool.

Pisa, Italy to Lappeenranta is an approximately 14-hour flight. You can also drive. The time zone changes from Central European Standard Time to Eastern European Standard Time, which is usually a 1 hour difference. Expect a bit cooler temperatures when traveling from Pisa in August; daily highs in Lappeenranta reach 23°C and lows reach 13°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 10th (Mon) early enough to travel to Koli National Park.

Although many Koli National Park tours revolve around the majestic natural landscape, there are still plenty of things to see and do for those pursuing culture and heritage.

Step out of the city life by going to Pielinen and Neitikoski Rapids. You'll discover tucked-away gems like Paateri and Herajarvi Hiking Trail. Step out of Koli National Park to go to Juuka and see Paalasmaan Surukivi, which is approximately 38 minutes away. There's much more to do: hike along Paha-Koli Hill, stroll through Makravaara Hill, see the interesting displays at Pielisen Museum, and delve into the lush surroundings at Patvinsuon Kansallispuisto.

To find photos, ratings, more things to do, and other tourist information, read our Koli National Park vacation app.

Drive from Lappeenranta to Koli National Park in 4 hours. Expect a daytime high around 22°C in August, and nighttime lows around 13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 15th (Sat) early enough to travel to Rovaniemi.

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

Get in touch with nature at Korouoma Canyon and Auttikongas. Explore hidden gems such as Syvasenvaara Fell and Luosto. Change things up with these side-trips from Rovaniemi: Sodankyla (Museum - Gallery Alariesto & Church of Sodankyla). There's lots more to do: explore the different monuments and memorials at German Soldier s Cemetery, examine the collection at Santa's House of Snowmobiles, explore the striking landscape at Hiidenkirnut, and have fun at Angry Birds Park.

To find maps, ratings, and other tourist information, you can read our Rovaniemi day trip planning site.

Traveling by car from Koli National Park to Rovaniemi takes 6.5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of car and flight. In August, plan for daily highs up to 20°C, and evening lows to 11°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 19th (Wed) to allow time for travel back home.