16 days in Helsinki, Porvoo & Rovaniemi 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.

Visiting Aurinkolahti Beach and Nuuksio National Park will get you outdoors. Get some cultural insight at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and The Esplanadi Park. Pack the 17th (Mon) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. There's still lots to do: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), and make a trip to Senate Square.

To find maps, where to stay, more things to do, and tourist information, go to the Helsinki trip planner.

Kaunas, Lithuania to Helsinki is an approximately 7.5-hour flight. You can also do a combination of bus and ferry; or drive. In December in Helsinki, expect temperatures between 3°C during the day and -3°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 18th (Tue) early enough to drive to Porvoo.

Porvoo, one of Finland's oldest and prettiest towns, boasts cobbled streets, famous red-brick warehouses, and a charming river.

Step out of the city life by going to Lehman and Santalahti Nature Trail. Explore Porvoo's surroundings by going to Valkmusa National Park (in Siltakyla), Repovesi National Park (in Kouvola) and Stromforsin Ruukki (in Ruotsinpyhtaa). There's still lots to do: make a trip to Porvoo Old Town and admire the natural beauty at Sapokka Water Garden.

To find where to stay, more things to do, traveler tips, and other tourist information, refer to the Porvoo road trip planning tool.

Traveling by car from Helsinki to Porvoo takes an hour. Alternatively, you can take a bus; or take a train. December in Porvoo sees daily highs of 1°C and lows of -4°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 22nd (Sat) so you can travel to Rovaniemi.

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

Rovaniemi is known for wildlife, museums, and fun & games. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, revel in the low prices at Marttiini Store Old Factory, catch a live event at Lappi Areena, and don't miss a visit to Santa Claus Village.

To find ratings, more things to do, traveler tips, and more tourist information, read our Rovaniemi day trip planner.

Getting from Porvoo to Rovaniemi by flight takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: drive; or do a combination of bus and train. Traveling from Porvoo in December, expect Rovaniemi to be a bit cooler, temps between -6°C and -13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 25th (Tue) to allow enough time to travel back home.