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: step into the grandiose world of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, admire the striking features of Helsinki Central Railway Station, pause for some serene contemplation at Helsinki Cathedral, and don't miss a visit to Senate Square.

To see where to stay, traveler tips, other places to visit, and other tourist information, you can read our Helsinki route maker tool.

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. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 2 hours traveling from Bristol to Helsinki. January in Helsinki sees daily highs of -3°C and lows of -9°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 18th (Mon) early enough to fly 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 3 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.