9 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.

Go for a jaunt from Helsinki to Espoo to see Nuuksio National Park about 48 minutes away. There's lots more to do: learn about all things military at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kamppi Chapel of Silence, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, and admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church.

To find more things to do, photos, other places to visit, and tourist information, use the Helsinki trip maker website .

Zurich, Switzerland to Helsinki is an approximately 6.5-hour flight. You can also do a combination of flight and ferry; or drive. The time zone difference moving from Central European Time to Eastern European Time is 1 hour. In December, plan for daily highs up to 3°C, and evening lows to -3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 29th (Sun) early enough to travel to Levi.

Finland's largest and most popular ski resort, the fell of Levi provides excellent slopes and lively nightlife in an enchanting setting.

You'll find plenty of places to visit near Levi: Safaris (in Akaslompolo) and Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park (in Muonio). There's lots more to do: ski along the peaceful trails at Levi Ski Resort, stroll through Yllas Ski Resort, look for all kinds of wild species at Santa"s Cottage & Pet Farm, and make a trip to Giewont Husky Adventures.

To find ratings, reviews, other places to visit, and tourist information, you can read our Levi trip itinerary site .

You can fly from Helsinki to Levi in 4.5 hours. Other options are to do a combination of flight and bus; or drive. In December, Levi is little chillier than Helsinki - with highs of -6°C and lows of -15°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 1st (Wed) to allow time to drive 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 2nd (Thu): see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, don't miss a visit to Santa Claus Village, then see Santa Claus Office, and finally stop by LAURI Handicraft Shop & Atelier. Here are some ideas for day two: examine the collection at Santa's House of Snowmobiles, Head underground at Syvasenvaara Fell, and then get engrossed in the history at Arktikum.

To find traveler tips, where to stay, ratings, and more tourist information, read our Rovaniemi itinerary planning tool .

You can drive from Levi to Rovaniemi in 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. Traveling from Levi in January, Rovaniemi is somewhat warmer at night with lows of -17°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 3rd (Fri) to allow time to travel back home.