9 days in Helsinki Region & 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.

Kids will enjoy Katajanokka and Sea Fortress Suomenlinna. You'll discover tucked-away gems like Natural History Museum (Luonnontieteellinen Museo) and The National Museum of Finland. When in Helsinki, make a side trip to see Heureka in Vantaa, approximately Vantaa away. And it doesn't end there: explore the world behind art at Kansallisgalleria, take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, and admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church.

To see photos, ratings, other places to visit, and tourist information, use the Helsinki sightseeing planner.

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. Plan for cooler temperatures traveling from Los Angeles in December, with highs in Helsinki at 37°F and lows at 27°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 29th (Sun) so you can travel to Rovaniemi.

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

Museum-lovers will get to explore Christmas House Santa and Arktikum. Attractions like SantaPark - the Home Cavern of Santa Claus and Rovaniemi Local History Museum make great kid-friendly stops. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Rovaniemi: Ranua Zoo (in Ranua) and Salla Museum of War & Reconstruction (in Salla). There's much more to do: see the interesting displays at Santa's House of Snowmobiles, try your luck at Feel Vegas - Club Rovaniemi, find something for the whole family at Moomin Snowcastle, and see Santa Claus Office.

To find reviews, maps, photos, and other tourist information, go to the Rovaniemi trip builder website.

Traveling by flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Traveling from Helsinki in December, expect Rovaniemi to be little chillier, temps between 22°F and 11°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 2nd (Thu) to allow enough time to travel back home.