8 days in Helsinki & Lapland 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.

Step off the beaten path and head to Turku Castle and The Aalto House. Appreciate the collections at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Mannerheim Museum. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Helsinki: Nuuksio National Park (in Espoo) and Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova (in Turku). There's much more to do: wander the streets of Katajanokka, take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence, and steep yourself in history at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum.

To see traveler tips, other places to visit, more things to do, and tourist information, read our Helsinki trip planner.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Helsinki is an approximately 19-hour flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 5 hours traveling from Rio de Janeiro to Helsinki. Prepare for much colder weather when traveling from Rio de Janeiro in October: high temperatures in Helsinki hover around °C and lows are around °C. You'll have a few hours on the 26th (Mon) to wrap things up before traveling to Inari.

Inari is Finland's largest, most sparsely populated municipality, with four official languages, more than any other in the country. Kick off your visit on the 26th (Mon): pause for some serene contemplation at Pielpajarvi Wilderness Church.

To see photos, other places to visit, where to stay, and tourist information, use the Inari online day trip planner.

Fly from Helsinki to Inari in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of train and bus. Prepare for slightly colder weather when traveling from Helsinki in October: high temperatures in Inari hover around °C and lows are around °C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 27th (Tue) early enough to go by car to Rovaniemi.

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

Start off your visit on the 28th (Wed): see what you can catch with a fishing tour, get some fabulous bargains at Marttiini Store Old Factory, and then get engrossed in the history at Arktikum.

To find photos, reviews, traveler tips, and other tourist information, you can read our Rovaniemi attractions planner.

Getting from Inari to Rovaniemi by car takes about 4 hours. Other options: take a bus; or do a combination of flight and bus. Expect a daytime high around °C in October, and nighttime lows around °C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Wed) to allow time to travel back home.