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 Katajanokka. 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). And it doesn't end there: get engrossed in the history at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum, steep yourself in history at The Aalto House, and contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kamppi Chapel of Silence.

For where to stay, traveler tips, photos, and tourist information, go to the Helsinki holiday builder tool.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Helsinki is an approximately 19-hour flight. The time zone difference when traveling from Rio de Janeiro to Helsinki is 5 hours. Plan for colder temperatures traveling from Rio de Janeiro in October, with highs in Helsinki at 10°C and lows at 1°C. You will have some time to spend on the 26th (Mon) before leaving for 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 3°C and lows are around -2°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 3°C in October, and nighttime lows around -1°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Wed) to allow time to travel back home.