7 days in Helsinki & 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.

Helsinki is known for historic sites, shopping, and museums. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: explore the historical opulence of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, get to know the fascinating history of The Esplanadi Park, hunt for treasures at Market Square Kauppatori, and learn about wildlife with up-close encounters at Korkeasaaren Elaintarha.

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

Bristol, UK to Helsinki is an approximately 8.5-hour combination of train and flight. You can also do a combination of car and train; or do a combination of car and ferry. Traveling from Bristol to Helsinki, you'll lose 2 hours due to the time zone difference. In January, daily temperatures in Helsinki can reach -3°C, while at night they dip to -9°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 18th (Mon) so you can travel to Rovaniemi.

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

Go for a jaunt from Rovaniemi to Ylitornio to see Tatuka Reindeerfarm about 38 minutes away. And it doesn't end there: make a trip to Santa Claus Village, examine the collection at Santa's House of Snowmobiles, find something for the whole family at Moomin Snowcastle, and stop by LAURI Handicraft Shop & Atelier.

To find where to stay, more things to do, maps, and other tourist information, read our Rovaniemi trip maker tool.

Traveling by flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. In January, Rovaniemi is slightly colder than Helsinki - with highs of -10°C and lows of -17°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 21st (Thu) early enough to travel back home.