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.

Appreciate the collections at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and The National Museum of Finland. Family-friendly places like Temppeliaukio Church and Helsinki Cathedral will thrill your kids. The adventure continues: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), stroll through The Esplanadi Park, explore the world behind art at Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, and admire the striking features of Helsinki Central Railway Station.

To find out how to plan a trip to Helsinki, use our trip itinerary maker.

Lisbon, Portugal to Helsinki is an approximately 8-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of car and ferry. The time zone changes from Western European Standard Time (WET) to Eastern European Standard Time (EET), which is usually a 2 hour difference. While traveling from Lisbon, expect cooler days and slightly colder nights in Helsinki, ranging from highs of 3°C to lows of -3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 20th (Sun) to allow time 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.

Escape the urban bustle at Levi Ski Resort and Elan Ski Shop & Rental. Attractions like Kids' Land and Yllas Ski Resort make great kid-friendly stops. Step out of Levi to go to Kolari and see Powerun Adventures, which is approximately 54 minutes away. The adventure continues: join the crowd at Icekarting Levi, don't miss a visit to Giewont Husky Adventures, and identify plant and animal life at Santa"s Cottage & Pet Farm.

For ratings, other places to visit, traveler tips, and tourist information, read our Levi trip website.

Fly from Helsinki to Levi in 5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of train and bus. In December, Levi is little chillier than Helsinki - with highs of -6°C and lows of -15°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Wed) so you can drive to Rovaniemi.

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

Bring the kids along to Santa Claus Village and Napapiirin Porofarmi. Step out of the city life by going to Ranua Zoo and Tatuka Reindeerfarm. And it doesn't end there: get engrossed in the history at Arktikum, fly down the slopes at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy, make a trip to Lordi's Square, and look for gifts at LAURI Handicraft Shop & Atelier.

Plan a trip to Rovaniemi easily and quickly by telling Inspirock to suggest an itinerary.

Getting from Levi to Rovaniemi by car takes about 2.5 hours. Other options: take a bus. Expect a daytime high around -6°C in December, and nighttime lows around -13°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 26th (Sat) early enough to travel back home.