9 days in Helsinki & Rovaniemi 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.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and Maritime Centre Vellamo. Get out of town with these interesting Helsinki side-trips: Sapokka Water Garden (in Kotka), Nuuksio National Park (in Espoo) and Porvoo (Porvoo Old Town, Cathedral of Porvoo, &more). The adventure continues: stroll around Kaivopuisto, step into the grandiose world of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, take a stroll through Katajanokka, and take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral.

To see where to stay, traveler tips, ratings, and more tourist information, use the Helsinki road trip planning app.

Milan, Italy to Helsinki is an approximately 7-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train, bus, and ferry. You'll lose 1 hour traveling from Milan to Helsinki due to the time zone difference. In July, Helsinki is a bit cooler than Milan - with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 26th (Fri) to allow time to travel to Rovaniemi.

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

On the 27th (Sat), make a trip to Santa Claus Village, explore the fascinating underground world of Syvasenvaara Fell, then take an in-depth tour of Rovaniemi Local History Museum, and finally revel in the low prices at Marttiini Store Old Factory. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 28th (Sun): surround yourself with nature on a nature and wildlife tour.

To see other places to visit, photos, reviews, and more tourist information, go to the Rovaniemi trip planning site.

Getting from Helsinki to Rovaniemi by flight takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: take a train; or drive. In July in Rovaniemi, expect temperatures between 22°C during the day and 13°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Sun) to allow time to travel back home.