7 days in Rovaniemi & Helsinki Region Itinerary

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

Do your shopping at Marttiini Store Old Factory and Your Piece Of Finland. Get some cultural insight at Arktikum and Christmas House Santa. The adventure continues: see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Rovaniemi Church, make a trip to Lordi's Square, and have some family-friendly fun at Snowman World Igloo Hotel.

To see maps, where to stay, other places to visit, and more tourist information, read our Rovaniemi vacation maker tool.

New York City, USA to Rovaniemi is an approximately 16-hour flight. The time zone difference when traveling from New York City to Rovaniemi is 7 hours. Traveling from New York City in December, things will get much colder in Rovaniemi: highs are around 22°F and lows about 11°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 24th (Mon) so you can travel to Helsinki.

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.

Deepen your sense of the past at sights like Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Kamppi Chapel of Silence. Shop till you drop at Old Market Hall and Flamingo Entertainment Center. Step out of Helsinki with an excursion to Nuuksio National Park in Espoo--about 48 minutes away. And it doesn't end there: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, enjoy the sand and surf at Hietaranta Beach, stroll through Aurinkolahti Beach, and stop by Marimekko Oyj.

To see more things to do, reviews, photos, and tourist information, go to the Helsinki trip maker website.

You can fly from Rovaniemi to Helsinki in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. In December, Helsinki is a bit warmer than Rovaniemi - with highs of 37°F and lows of 27°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 27th (Thu) so you can travel back home.