10 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.

Take a break from the city and head to Bellevue Beach and Kallahdenniemi Beach. Change things up with these side-trips from Helsinki: Tulliniemi Nature Path (in Hanko) and Fagervik Church (in Raseborg). There's still lots to do: admire the striking features of Temppeliaukio Church, take an in-depth tour of The National Museum of Finland, kick back and relax at Aurinkolahti Beach, and contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali).

To see where to stay, ratings, more things to do, and tourist information, use the Helsinki trip planner.

Dublin, Ireland to Helsinki is an approximately 6.5-hour flight. You can also fly; or do a combination of bus, train, and ferry; or do a combination of bus and ferry. The time zone difference when traveling from Dublin to Helsinki is 2 hours. Expect little chillier temperatures when traveling from Dublin in November; daily highs in Helsinki reach 5°C and lows reach 0°C. You will leave for Rovaniemi on the 5th (Sat).

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

Escape the urban bustle at Ranua Zoo and Happy Fox. There's much more to do: make a trip to Santa Claus Village, tour the pleasant surroundings at Ounasvaaran Hiihtokeskus Oy, examine the collection at Christmas House Santa, and take an in-depth tour of Arktikum.

For maps, where to stay, and other tourist information, go to the Rovaniemi road trip planning website.

Fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Expect slightly colder temperatures when traveling from Helsinki in December; daily highs in Rovaniemi reach -6°C and lows reach -13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Wed) early enough to travel back home.