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.

Get in touch with nature at Nuuksio National Park and Bellevue Beach. Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Katajanokka and Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum. The adventure continues: indulge in some personalized pampering at some of the best spas, test your problem-solving skills at popular escape rooms, explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria, and take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland.

Plan my trip to Helsinki with suggested itineraries provided by Inspirock.

Los Angeles, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 16.5-hour flight. You can also do a combination of train and flight; or do a combination of bus and flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 10 hours traveling from Los Angeles to Helsinki. Expect cooler temperatures when traveling from Los Angeles in December; daily highs in Helsinki reach 37°F and lows reach 27°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Mon) so you can travel to Saariselka.

Outdoor pursuits--ranging from cross-country skiing and snowmobiling to reindeer safaris and chasing Northern Lights--draw the largest number of tourists to Saariselka.

Kick off your visit on the 24th (Tue): have fun at Action Park and then gear up at Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: take in the architecture and atmosphere at Saariselka S:t Paulus Chapel, look for gifts at Shamaan Design - Lappi Shop, then examine the collection at Siida - Sami Museum and Nature Center, and finally enjoy some friendly competition at Saariselka Bowling.

To find photos, where to stay, reviews, and other tourist information, you can read our Saariselka travel itinerary planner .

Traveling by flight from Helsinki to Saariselka takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of flight and bus; or drive. Traveling from Helsinki in December, you will find days in Saariselka are slightly colder (21°F), and nights are cooler (6°F). Finish your sightseeing early on the 25th (Wed) to allow enough 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.

Start off your visit on the 26th (Thu): relax in the rural setting at Santa"s Cottage & Pet Farm, then bet on your favorite at Icekarting Levi, and then glide through natural beauty at Levi Ski Resort.

To find ratings, reviews, traveler tips, and other tourist information, you can read our Levi trip planner.

Getting from Saariselka to Levi by flight takes about 3 hours. Other options: drive; or take a bus. In December in Levi, expect temperatures between 22°F during the day and 8°F at night. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 27th (Fri) to allow time for travel back home.