9 days in Rovaniemi & Helsinki Region Itinerary

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

You'll explore and learn at Arktikum and Pilke Science Centre. Shop till you drop at Marttiini Store Old Factory and Your Piece Of Finland. Step out of Rovaniemi with an excursion to Amethyst Mine Lapland in Luosto--about 1h 35 min away. The adventure continues: take an exotic tour of a safari tour, admire the sheer force of Auttikongas, make a trip to Lordi's Square, and take in the architecture and atmosphere at Rovaniemi Church.

For photos, where to stay, traveler tips, and other tourist information, go to the Rovaniemi trip builder website.

New York City, USA to Rovaniemi is an approximately 16-hour flight. The time zone changes from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Eastern European Standard Time (EET), which is usually a 7 hour difference. Traveling from New York City in December, things will get colder in Rovaniemi: highs are around 22°F and lows about 11°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 23rd (Sun) to allow enough time to travel to Helsinki.

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.

Take a break from the city and head to Aurinkolahti Beach and Hietaranta Beach. Head to Old Market Hall and Marimekkofor plenty of shopping. Take a break from Helsinki with a short trip to Nuuksio National Park in Espoo, about 48 minutes away. There's still lots to do: explore the historical opulence of Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, admire the masterpieces at Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, and take in the spiritual surroundings of Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali).

To find where to stay, maps, ratings, and tourist information, read Helsinki day trip planning tool.

Traveling by flight from Rovaniemi to Helsinki takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Expect somewhat warmer temperatures when traveling from Rovaniemi in December; daily highs in Helsinki reach 37°F and lows reach 27°F. On the 27th (Thu), you'll have the morning to explore before heading back home.