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.

Explore hidden gems such as Katajanokka and Room Escape Games. Take a break from the city and head to Bellevue Beach and Nuuksio National Park. There's lots more to do: relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas, admire the masterpieces at Kansallisgalleria, and get engrossed in the history at Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum.

For more things to do, other places to visit, maps, and other tourist information, read Helsinki travel route planning tool.

Los Angeles, USA to Helsinki is an approximately 15-hour flight. The time zone difference moving from Pacific Standard Time (PST) to Eastern European Standard Time (EET) is 10 hours. Traveling from Los Angeles in December, things will get cooler in Helsinki: highs are around 37°F and lows about 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): fly down the slopes at Saariselka Ski & Sport Resort. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 25th (Wed): pause for some serene contemplation at Saariselka S:t Paulus Chapel, stop by Shamaan Design - Lappi Shop, then examine the collection at Siida - Sami Museum and Nature Center, and finally join in the after-dark buzz at Saariselka Bowling.

To find traveler tips, where to stay, other places to visit, and tourist information, you can read our Saariselka road trip planning app.

Fly from Helsinki to Saariselka in 5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of train and bus; or drive. Traveling from Helsinki in December, expect nights in Saariselka to be cooler, around 6°F, while days are slightly colder, around 21°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 25th (Wed) 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.

Start off your visit on the 26th (Thu): identify plant and animal life at Santa"s Cottage & Pet Farm, then join the crowd at Icekarting Levi, and then ski along the peaceful trails at Levi Ski Resort.

To see photos, traveler tips, more things to do, and other tourist information, refer to the Levi route planner.

You can fly from Saariselka to Levi in 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can 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 enough time to travel back home.