38 days in Helsinki, Imatra & Savonlinna 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.

Escape the urban bustle at Nuuksio National Park and Arboretum Mustila. You'll discover tucked-away gems like Room Escape Games and Kansallisgalleria. Get out of town with these interesting Helsinki side-trips: Pyhan Katarinan kirkko (in Karjaa), Hanko (Bellevue Beach & Tulliniemi Nature Path) and Teijo National Park (in Pernio). Spend the 30th (Wed) exploring nature at Ekenas Archipelago National Park. Spend the 31st (Thu) exploring nature at Valkmusa National Park. Next up on the itinerary: identify plant and animal life at Paavolan Tammi, don't miss a visit to Senate Square, pause for some serene contemplation at Helsinki Cathedral, and walk around Hagen - Ramsholmen - Hogholmen.

To find traveler tips, ratings, reviews, and other tourist information, use the Helsinki route planner.

Los Angeles, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 15-hour flight. Traveling from Los Angeles to Helsinki, you'll lose 10 hours due to the time zone difference. In January, Helsinki is much colder than Los Angeles - with highs of 26°F and lows of 17°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 9th (Sat) so you can go by car to Imatra.

Although predominately an industrial town, Imatra boasts a long and impressive history of tourism, largely owing to its fierce rapids, considered to have been Finland's first ever tourist attraction.

Explore hidden gems such as Imatra Waterfall and Lempukka Beach. Take a break from the city and head to Mielakka Ski Center and Atreenalin Seikkailupuistot. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Imatra: Lappeenranta (Saimaa Canal, Nuijamaa Church, &more), Puumala (Viewing Platform in Puumala, Lietvesi Scenic Road, &more) and Kouvola (Repovesi National Park, Niivermaki Nature Conservation Area, &more). There's lots more to do: step off the mainland to explore Malonsaari, examine the collection at Salpa Line Museum, hike along Salpa Line Hiking Trail, and admire the landmark architecture of Hamina Town Hall.

To find photos, where to stay, maps, and tourist information, read Imatra attractions planner.

Traveling by car from Helsinki to Imatra takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In February in Imatra, expect temperatures between 30°F during the day and 22°F at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 21st (Thu) so you can drive to Savonlinna.

The picturesque town of Savonlinna sits on two islands surrounded by shimmering lakes and lush greenery.

Get in touch with nature at Lykynlampi Outdoor Centre and Linnansaari National Park. You'll discover tucked-away gems like Olavinlinna Castle and Orinoro Gorge. Venture out of the city with trips to Heinaveden kirkko (in Heinavesi), Joensuu (Honkaniemi Beach, Kauppakeskus Iso Myy, &more) and Parikkala (Siikalahti Wetland & The Parikkala Sculpture Park). And it doesn't end there: take in the dramatic natural features at Punkaharju Ridge, look for gifts at Taito Shop Savonlinna, get your bearings at Riihisaari, and don't miss a visit to Pikkukirkko.

To see more things to do, other places to visit, and more tourist information, use the Savonlinna tour itinerary planning website.

Getting from Imatra to Savonlinna by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: take a train; or take a bus. In February, daytime highs in Savonlinna are 27°F, while nighttime lows are 18°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 1st (Fri) so you can travel back home.