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.

Kids will appreciate attractions like Helsinki Cathedral and Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali). There's more to do: admire the striking features of Helsinki Central Railway Station and admire nature's wide array of creatures at Korkeasaaren Elaintarha.

To see maps, other places to visit, and tourist information, read Helsinki travel planner.

Doha, Qatar to Helsinki is an approximately 9.5-hour flight. You can also drive. The time zone difference when traveling from Doha to Helsinki is minus 1 hour. Traveling from Doha in December, expect Helsinki to be colder, temps between 3°C and -3°C. On the 21st (Sat), you'll travel to Rovaniemi.

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

Attractions like Arktikum and Photography Tours make great kid-friendly stops. And it doesn't end there: get your game on at Snowman World Igloo Hotel, see the interesting displays at Santa's House of Snowmobiles, get curious at Pilke Science Centre, and admire the sheer force of Auttikongas.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, photos, and more tourist information, use the Rovaniemi travel route tool.

You can do a combination of flight and train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi in 6.5 hours. Other options are to fly; or take a train; or drive. Prepare for little chillier weather when traveling from Helsinki in December: high temperatures in Rovaniemi hover around -6°C and lows are around -13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 24th (Tue) early enough to travel back home.