finland tour map

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Ultimate 7 Day Finland Itinerary for Winter

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 22 Comments

If you’re looking for the perfect winter wonderland destination, look no further than Finland.

We’ve had some incredible trips to Finland in winter. It was the first place I saw the Northern Lights , the snowy landscapes are spectacular, and there are loads of fantastic winter activities to choose from.

Finland is a fairly big country though, so you might be wondering how best to spend your time here when visiting in winter. Well, wonder no more. With our detailed 1 week Finland itinerary we’ve got you covered.

This itinerary will have you visiting many of the highlights of Finland, including Finnish Lapland and the capital city of Helsinki. It will take you deep into the Arctic Circle, give you the chance to sleep in a glass igloo, and even have you meeting Santa himself.

We’ve also put this itinerary together to offer you flexible transport options. Whilst we generally prefer to hire a car and self-drive, we appreciate not everyone will be comfortable driving in Finland in winter. So this itinerary can be done with or without a car.

In terms of time, we’ve put this guide together for around a week in Finland. We think this is a good length of time to visit Finland in winter.

Of course, you can visit for as long or short a time as you want, but if you are hoping to experience phenomenon like the Northern Lights, giving yourself a bit of extra time will significantly increase the chances of experiencing them.

Ok, that’s enough preamble. Let’s take a look at our detailed day by day itinerary for visiting Finland in winter.

Finland Itinerary for Winter

This itinerary covers a range of activities and sights in Finland. Obviously everyone’s interests will vary, so do please adjust it to suit your personal preferences.

Also, don’t forget that it can be very cold in Finland in winter, with temperatures likely to be well below freezing throughout your visit. We have a detailed guide to what to pack for Finland in winter , which we recommend taking a look at so you are prepared for your trip.

Day 1: Helsinki

We recommend that you spend your first couple of days in Helsinki, the capital city of Finland. There’s a huge amount to do in the city, which has a great many museums, restaurants, a historical sea fortress, and other attractions.

On your first day in Helsinki, we’d suggest getting acquainted with the city center and visiting some of the attractions. The city center of Helsinki is fairly compact, and you can get pretty much anywhere with public transportation and walking.

A great starting point is the Helsinki City Museum . Here, you will learn all about the history and development of the city. It’s free, and open every day.

Just near to the city museum is Helsinki Cathedral . This large white building is one of the more recognizable landmarks of Helsinki. It’s spectacular to view from the outside, but you can also go inside too of course. It’s open every day, and free to visit.

If you want a more in-depth overview of the history, culture and people of Finland, then we can recommend a visit to the National Museum of Finland . This covers a huge time period, from prehistoric times to the present day, and is an excellent way to learn a lot about the whole country. It’s open Tuesday – Sundays, and there’s an entry fee.

We could go on listing museums in Helsinki, as the city has a huge number to choose from, catering for almost every interest. From design , to contemporary art , to photography , to architecture , there’s really an incredible choice. There’s even a museum about hotels !

You won’t have time to visit all of these of course, but we can definitely recommend visiting a few during your time in the city. There are lots of choices, so you can just choose a few that appeal to you.

If you do plan on visiting a number of the museums or other attractions in Helsinki, consider investing in either a museum card or the Helsinki Card (buy the latter here ).

These cover a range of attractions, and the Helsinki card also includes transport around the city, which will save you walking around in the cold. The Helsinki card can be great value for money – see our full review of the Helsinki card to see if it’s worth investing in for your trip.

Of course, there’s also more to do in Helsinki than visit museums. We can suggest taking some time to go Christmas shopping (even if it’s after Christmas, you can stock up for the next one!).

If you do visit in December before Christmas, then you will also definitely want to check out the Helsinki Christmas market and try some traditional Christmas foods and drinks. These include Glögi (a type of mulled wine) and star-shaped Christmas pastries.

Kankurin Tupa would be our recommended destination for Christmas shopping in Helsinki. This is a department store which specialises in Finnish items, and has a whole section dedicated to Christmas.

We can also recommend getting coffee and cake at one of Finland’s best known cafes, Ekberg 1852 . This has been in Helsinki since, you guessed it, 1852, and they have an excellent selection of Finnish delicacies which obviously include baked goods.

Finally, find somewhere for a delicious evening meal, and retire, having gotten your first day of sight-seeing in Finland under your belt.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

We have stayed at a number of accommodation options in Helsinki, including apartment rentals and hotels.

Some options we suggest you take a look at include:

Hostel Diana Park
Hellsten Helsinki Senate
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel
Hotel Katajanokka .

You can also see listings for Helsinki on Vrbo here .

Day 2: Helsinki

For your second day in Helsinki our suggestion is to head out to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress .

This is a UNESCO world heritage site, and in our opinion is a must-do attraction when visiting Helsinki.

There is a huge amount to see and do on the island, and you could easily spend from half a day to a full day here, depending on what you want to see and do.

First, you can explore the six islands that the fortress spans on foot, admiring the impressive fortress construction. As you’re visiting in winter, you will of course want to wrap up warmly and have good footwear. Be wary of icy ground which can make for slippery conditions.

There are also five museums on the island, although not all of these are open year-round. The ones that are open in winter are the Suomenlinna Museum and the Military Museum. I would definitely encourage you to visit the former at least, as this details the history of the fortress and the island.

Both of these museums have an entry fee, and they are also both included on the Helsinki Card . Holders of this card also get ferry transport to and from Suomenlinna Fortress, which otherwise costs €5. Ferries run every day, and you can see the schedule here .

After Suomenlinna Fortress, you might still have time to fit in a few more sights. Some other attractions in Helsinki we would suggest which are near the ferry point from the island include the Helsinki Skywheel for great views across the city, Uspenski Cathedral and the Old Market Hall for food.

Finally, a really popular activity that you must try while you are in Finland is to take a sauna. This is one of the most traditional Finnish experiences you can have.

There are a few options when it comes having a sauna in Finland. Most hotels and even some apartments will come with a sauna, which will often be the easiest way. There are also public saunas in Helsinki.

You can also take a tour which includes a sauna. From Helsinki for example, take a look at this tour , which includes a traditional smoke sauna and the chance to do a cold icy plunge – if you’re feeling brave!

And that wraps up your second day in Finland and your last day in Helsinki. If you’d like some more ideas for what to do in the city, see our guide to things to do in Helsinki , which has many more ideas.

How to Get to Rovaniemi from Helsinki

Your next destination is Rovaniemi. You have a few options for getting from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. The fastest option will be to fly. There are a number of airlines offering flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, with the flight time being around an hour. Flights are relatively inexpensive and there are multiple departures a day.

If you fly, you can either depart on the evening of day 2 or early in the morning of day 3. You can check flight times and prices, and book online here .

You can also take the overnight sleeper train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. This route is known as the Santa Claus Express, and the journey takes around 12 hours. If you choose to do this, you will need to leave on the evening on day 2. You can see timetables and book this train online here .

It’s also possible to take a bus from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. This takes around 13 hours. Just note that taking the bus will eat up quite a bit of your day so is the least time efficient option. Check bus times and prices, and book tickets here .

You can also drive to Helsinki to Rovaniemi. This is around a 9.5 hour drive of 500 miles / 800km. Again, this is a long journey and we’d advise against this as well as it will be a tiring journey that will use up your holiday. However, if you want to do this, you can compare car rental prices across a range of suppliers on Discover Cars here .

If you are planning your own trip and booking your own transport, our recommendation for getting from Helsinki to Rovaniemi would be to either fly or take the overnight train.

If you’d rather not have to worry about planning your own transport, you might also consider taking a guided tour. These will generally cover your transport and accommodation as well as some meals and activities, leaving you to focus on just enjoying yourself.

There are a few tours we suggest that have similar itineraries and activities to our itinerary, and include Helsinki, Rovaniemi and the Arctic Circle. Note that most tours from Helsinki use the overnight train service, and focus on activities in and around Rovaniemi.

this 6 day tour which includes Helsinki and Rovaniemi, and a number of activities
this 5 day tour which includes Helsinki and Rovaniemi
this 7 day tour which also includes Helsinki and Rovaniemi

If you take one of these tours, they will arrange all your transport and connections for you during your trip, which is definitely an option to think about.

Day 3: Rovaniemi

Welcome to Lapland! Rovaniemi sits right on the edge of the Arctic Circle, the most northerly of the lines of latitude. Above this line you can experience the Midnight Sun in summer, as well as days in winter when the sun never rises at all!

Rovaniemi makes an excellent base for a wide range of winter activities in Finland . These includes Northern Lights viewing, ice karting, snowmobiling, husky sledding, reindeer sledding, sleeping in a snow hotel, ice fishing – the list goes on!

For this itinerary, which I’ve put together on the basis that you don’t need a car, the plan is to base yourself in Rovaniemi for three days and to do a number of winter activities from the city. There are also several attractions in and around Rovaniemi to visit.

This itinerary will of course also work perfectly well with a car. I’ve visited Rovaniemi in winter with and without a car on my two visits. If you plan to rent a car, you can arrange to pick up a rental car either at the airport or in the town center once you arrive. The only consideration if you do hire a car is to ensure that your accommodation includes free parking.

Now, on with the itinerary. Note that many of the museums and attractions in Rovaniemi are not open every day, with Monday being a popular day for them to close. So depending on your timings you might want to juggle this itinerary around a little bit.

First, I’m going to suggest you head to the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. This is around a 10-minute drive outside the city. If you’re arriving from the airport, it’s between the airport and Rovaniemi, so makes for a logical first stop if you arrive in the morning.

You can get to Santa Claus Village by driving, taking the S anta’s Express bus , a local bus, or by taxi.

There’s a lot to do at the Santa Claus village, and it’s a great place to check off a few of your winter activities. First though, you’re going to want to actually meet the man himself.

Yep, as the name suggests, the Santa Claus village is actually home to Santa Claus himself. He lives here year round with his elves, planning for the big day, and sorting and reading all the mail he receives.

It’s free to visit Santa, although if you want a photo or video with him there’s a fee for that.

As well as visiting Santa, you can also visit Santa’s post office. A fun thing you can do here is mail a Christmas card that will be kept and posted at Christmas time. So even if you visit Rovaniemi in January, you can get all your Christmas cards mailed!

Beyond Santa, there’s plenty more to see and do at Santa’s Village. You can take a photo of you standing on the Arctic Circle marker, and can also arrange other activities such as a reindeer sled ride, a husky ride, or a snowmobile ride.

Of these, we’d suggest that a husky ride would be a great option. Bear Hill husky is our favourite husky operator in this region, and I actually took a two day husky safari with them. They operate a number of tours with pickup from Santa’s village, including this one .

You can also book an experience like this which includes your visit to Santa Claus and a snowmobile ride to a reindeer farm.

You can also do a longer 7 hour tour if you want a more complete experience.

Assuming you take the shorter tour, our suggestion for the rest of your day is to visit Rovaniemi and familiarise yourself with the town. There’s plenty to do here. We’d particularly recommend a visit to Arktikum .

This museum and science center is perfect for learning all about the people, history and culture of the area. There are a number of permanent exhibits here, with the content on life in the arctic being my favourite.

Once you have explored some of the highlights of Rovaniemi, you will likely want to have your evening meal.

If you’re still feeling adventurous, we can highly recommend scheduling some time to try and spot the Northern Lights. You can do this yourself by finding somewhere away from the city lights. If you don’t have a car, the area by Arktikum is a popular spot.

Alternatively, you can take a dedicated Northern Lights tour. Some of these also include other activities like snowmobiling or a traditional Finnish sauna. These are a good option because the Northern Lights are definitely not guaranteed, so doing another activity will ensure you are occupied and having fun, with seeing the Northern Lights as a bonus!

Some options to consider for seeing the Northern Lights from Rovaniemi are:

This 5 hour tour where you look for the Northern Lights whilst having a traditional firewood sauna experience
This photography-focused Northern Lights tour
There are lots more Northern Lights tours from Rovaniemi to choose from, which you can see here .

If you want to get photos of the Northern Lights, you will need to read up a little in advance as they can be quite challenging to photograph. I have a complete guide to how to photograph the Northern Lights , which I can definitely suggest you take a look at so you are prepared.

I also recommend you download an app for your smartphone that will notify you of aurora activity. I have tried a few of these, and have settled on My Aurora Forecast Pro.

I have found it to be the most reliable app that doesn’t drain my phone battery, but has always reliably alerted me to aurora activity. This is available for both Android and iOS , and is available in both free (ad-supported) and paid versions.

We think that’s enough for your third day in Finland! Of course, you can schedule a Northern Lights tour for any of your days in Rovaniemi, but we recommend popping out every evening if you can to at least try and see them yourself, as they can be fickle. If you have a car, driving a little out of the city will afford you the best viewing experience.

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi

You’re obviously going to need somewhere to stay for your time in Rovaniemi. We’ve tried a few different accommodation options, and have shortlisted the following as our favourites.

Hostel Cafe Koti – a well rated hostel with a good restaurant on site
Guesthouse Borealis – convenient for the train station and great value
Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus – centrally located well rated 3* hotel
Arctic Light Hotel – boutique hotel in the centre of Rovaniemi
Arctic Treehouse Hotel – unique accommodation just outside Santa Claus village

We can also recommend checking out the options for Rovaniemi on Vrbo here .

Day 4: Rovaniemi

We’re going to suggest a full day trip today out of Rovaniemi and down to the town of Kemi on the coast.

Here, you’re going to take a truly unique trip – a ride on an icebreaker boat!

Launched in 1961, the Sampo is a genuine icebreaker built for serious arctic conditions. She had a long and distinguished career in the Gulf of Bothnia, where for thirty years she kept the shipping lanes clear of ice.

In 1987, the town of Kemi bought the Sampo, and since 1988 she has been operating as a tourist attraction from the town port.

This was one of the most fun experiences that I had in Finland in winter. Riding an ice breaker across a frozen sea is a really amazing adventure that is quite unique. The sound of the breaking as the ship ploughs through it is incredible, and I could have just watched the ice breaking and the bow and the frozen sea stretching off to the horizon all day.

However, there’s more to a trip on the Sampo than just watching the ship do her thing. You can also don a full dry suit, and go for a swim in the frozen sea! The ship creates a hole in the ice, and the passengers then take it in turns to don full dry suits and bob around.

This was a lot of fun, although it was definitely less like swimming and more like floating. During this time, it was also possible to take a walk on the snow covered ice, which was also a unique experience.

All in all, I can highly recommend the trip on the Sampo icebreaker. The ship is also very comfortable, and there’s a restaurant on board. Depending on the ticket you choose, there’s an option which includes a buffet meal on board as well.

It’s worth checking the dates and times for the icebreaker well in advance of your trip as it doesn’t sail every day, so if this is something you want to do you will need to plan your trip around it. It also often sells out in advance. You can see times and prices here .

If you are driving, it’s around 90 minutes each way from Rovaniemi to Kemi. If you want to travel by train you can take the train from Rovaniemi to Kemi, and select shuttle pick-up from the Kemi train station to the harbor.

Or you can book a day tour which includes your round-trip transport directly from Rovaniemi to the ice breaker.

Day 5: Rovaniemi

For your last full day in Rovaniemi I’m going to suggest you have a full day of winter activities. After all, you came to Finland in winter to have a winter adventure!

There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to winter adventures, so I’ll just provide some options and let you decide what you might enjoy the most. Some of these activities are shorter, so you could do more than one if you wanted, whilst others are full day trips.

Hiking / Snowshoeing

One of the best way to experience winter in Finland is to get out into the countryside and take a walk!

Of course, walking in snow can be a bit challenging, as we tend to sink in. The solution? Snowshoes! These are large and wide devices which clip onto your shoes, and spread your weight out on the snow. This lets you walk without sinking in.

If you want to explore on your own, you can either buy a pair of snowshoes or rent them.

Another option is to take a tour. For example, this tour has you snowshoeing through the snow covered forests near Rovaniemi, before trying your hand at another popular Finnish winter activity – ice fishing!

There are some other great hiking tours you can take from Rovaniemi. I’d particularly recommend going hiking in the Korouoma National Park. This is found 160km from Rovaniemi, so will take a couple of hours to drive to. However, in winter the park is famed for its frozen waterfalls, of which there 14.

The best way to see these is to take a hike in the park. You can either drive yourself, or you can take a tour from Rovaniemi which should include an experienced guide and the correct outerwear and footwear.

We’d recommend either this half day hike or this full day hike .

Ice Fishing

A really popular activity amongst Finnish people in winter is ice fishing. This sport has you drilling a hole into the ice on a frozen lake or river, and then using special ice fishing equipment to try and catch a fish.

We have tried ice fishing a few times, and to be honest, we have never caught a fish.

That said, other people on the tours we’ve taken have caught fish, as has our guide, so it is definitely possible!

Even though we’ve never caught a fish, we’ve always had a lot of fun ice fishing. It’s a wonderful way to get out into the outdoors, and most tours include some kind of food or at least hot drinks cooked over a fire.

The best way to go ice fishing is definitely to take a tour. Whilst you could hire your own equipment and go yourself, it is definitely a lot safer to accompany a local expert when heading out onto frozen lakes and rivers!

There are a number of ice fishing tours that depart from Rovaniemi, including the following.

A 2.5 hour tour which focuses on ice fishing – great if you just want to get an idea of what it’s all about without committing to a longer trip.
This 4 hour tour includes both snowshoeing and ice fishing
A 7 hour full day tour that includes ice fishing, a traditional Finnish sauna experience as well as a BBQ lunch – which will include your fish if you catch any!

You can also pair up an ice fishing experience with snowmobiling. For example, this is a 5 hour snowmobile and ice fishing day, whilst this is a half day tour with snowmobiling and ice fishing .

Snowmobiling

I love snowmobiling, and every time we’ve visited Finland I’ve done my best to go snowmobiling at least once.

Snowmobiling is, in my opinion, a huge amount of fun. It’s also a great activity to pair with other activities, such as watching the Northern Lights or going ice fishing. You use the snowmobile to get to where you are going, do the activity, and then ride the snowmobile back.

Of course, you can also have a “pure” snowmobiling experience too, where you just ride the vehicle.

Snowmobiles are nearly all for two people, so when you go on a snowmobile tour there will usually always be one person driving, and one person as the passenger. On all the tours I’ve been on the guides have always ensured that people swap so both can have the experience of driving if they want. Additionally, it’s usually possible to pay a supplement to ride on your own if you prefer.

If you are visiting Finland with children, you should be aware that most snowmobiles can’t be operated by children under 15 years of age.

Some children can ride as passengers, but this isn’t universal, so you will want to check the tour details and contact the company to be sure before booking. For example, this is a family friendly snowmobile tour.

Some snowmobiling tours from Rovaniemi to consider include the following.

This tour which just has you snowmobiling and is a good way to get a feel for riding these machines.
This half day tour which includes snowmobiling, a visit to a reindeer farm, and a husky and reindeer sled ride. If you want to experience a number of activities in one tour, this is a great option.
This half day tour which includes snowmobiling, ice fishing, campfire, and lunch.
This evening snowmobile tour to see the Northern Lights which also includes a traditional Lappish BBQ. This tour is family friendly, and would make a great evening out after doing other activities in the daytime. Plus you might catch the Northern Lights!

Hopefully this gives you plenty of ideas for the types of snowmobiling tours you can do from Rovaniemi.

Husky Sledding

If you prefer your snow transport to be bit more traditional but still lots of fun, then husky sledding is likely going to be something you’ll enjoy a great deal.

As the name suggests, husky sledding involves a team of huskies, and a sled. Huskies are a special breed of dog which are well adapted to long periods of intense activity as well as cold conditions. Put more simply, they love running in the snow.

Husky sledding has you harnessing a team of husky dogs to a sled. There are usually between six and eight dogs, and each sled will generally have a driver and a passenger. The driver will stand at the back of the sled to steer and brake, whilst the passenger relaxes and enjoys the view.

Husky sledding is a really popular activity when visiting Finland in winter, and one we highly recommend. I’ve written a whole post outlining my experience dog sledding in Lapland , which you should find useful.

Like most of the other activities on our list, there are lots of operators running husky sledding tours in Rovaniemi. We recommend and have used Bear Hill Husky, they really care about their dogs, and they have a range of sledding experience to suit everyone. Some examples to consider are as follows.

The offer shorter tours which usually include 45 minutes of actual dog sledding over a 2.5 hour visit. As well as the sledding, you also get the opportunity to learn about and meet the dogs – and get plenty of photos. For example, see this morning tour .
If you want a more immersive and complete experience, they also offer a longer full day tour which includes around seven hours of husky sledding as you cover a distance of 30-40km. This also includes a campfire lunch, hot juice, and cookies.

We think one of these options would be great for anyone looking for a wonderful husky sledding experience in Lapland.

Visiting an Amethyst mine

The final option we have on our list of things you could do on your last day in Rovaniemi is to visit an Amethyst mine .

There’s one working amethyst mine in Finland, and it’s found on the top of a hill in the Pyha-Luosto National Park .

This national park is home to the remnants of a mountain chain which is over two billion years old. It’s a popular place for a range of outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, hiking and skiing.

However, it’s the amethyst mine that I think you should visit. This is found in Lampivaara, and here you can learn all about amethyst mining, as well as having a go at mining for amethyst yourself!

If you have your own vehicle it’s around a 90 minute ride from Rovaniemi to Lampivaara. Here, there’s a tracked vehicle which ferries people up to the top of the mountain to visit the mine. This experience needs to be booked in advance, which you can do here .

Of course, there’s lots more to do be in Rovaniemi and surrounds beyond everything we’ve listed here, which is why we think it makes for a great base to explore. For more inspiration, see our guide to things to do in Rovaniemi .

Days 6 & 7: Head North

From Rovaniemi, my suggestion is to head further north into Lapland. This will give you even more chances to see the Northern Lights, as well as stay at some really unique and more remote locations.

You’ll also have more chances to do lots of winter activities including dog sledding, ice fishing, ice karting, seeing Santa, staying in ice hotels, spending time in a Finnish sauna, snowmobiling, and skiing.

As always, you have choices for where you decide to go! Here are our three suggested options for you to choose from, depending on your interests. Of course, if you are driving yourself, you can visit more than one of these options.

The first option you have is to head north to Saariselka. This is found 250km / 155mi north of the arctic circle, making this an excellent place to see the Northern Lights.

You can reach Saariselka by car or public bus from Rovaniemi. There’s also Ivalo airport , 25km to the north of the city, which has services to Helsinki and other European destinations.

When we visited Saariselka, we stayed in the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort . This is one of the most popular places to stay in a glass igloo in Finland, and was where the concept of glass igloos first originated.

I stayed in a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen, and it was a night I will never forget.

Naturally there’s more to Kakslauttanen than glass igloos. The resort has a wide range of accommodation options, depending on what you are interested in. I can definitely recommend staying in a glass igloo for one night on your trip just for the experience. There’s also a range of winter activities available here.

You can see our full review of Kakslauttanen here .

Where to stay in Saariselka

Whilst we very much enjoyed our stay at Kakslauttanen, it’s not the only option in Saariselka. You might consider one of the following options:

Wilderness Hotel Muotka & Igloos – A well reviewed and popular option with cottages featuring glass domed ceilings and a private sauna
Log House Kuukkeli – if you’d prefer to stay in a more traditional property, this guesthouse is built in the traditional log cabin style and offers great value accommodation
Northern Lights Village – features glass roofed cabins with private bathrooms and its own reindeer paddock.
Saariselkä Kuukkeli Inn – a well reviewed more budget oriented option. Rooms have free-wifi, and shared bathrooms

During your time visiting Saariselka you’ll find plenty to do to keep you occupied. If there are any winter activities you want to take part in, you can of course do them, including snowmobiling, ice fishing, husky sledding, snowshoeing and more. Naturally, you’ll also want to spend time searching for the Northern Lights!

Most accommodation providers will be able to arrange these activities for you directly.

Another popular area you can visit from Saariselka, either as a day trip or overnight, is Inari. This is a little further north, and is in fact home to Finland’s northernmost holiday resort.

This is a very sparsely populated region, and is a focal point of the Sámi culture. You can learn about this culture and people at Siida , home to the Sámi Museum and the Northern Lapland Nature Centre. This is open throughout the winter on every day except Monday, and there’s a fee to visit.

Another option is to visit the Kittilä region. This is a particularly good option if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, as it’s home to Levi , Finland’s largest ski resort.

So if you want to get some skiing or snowboarding in on your trip to Finland, this would be the best place to do just that.

There’s lots more to do in the Kittilä area than skiing though.

The area is popular for a range of winter activities, with hiking and cross-country skiing in Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park being a popular option. You can also go snowshoeing, ice fishing , ice karting, husky sledding and snowmobiling of course!

In Lanio, you’ll find the Lapland Hotels SnowVillage . This village is made every year from thousands of tonnes of ice and snow, and features a hotel, restaurant, bar, and even a chapel. There are also log cabins on site. You can stay here overnight or just visit for the day. The theme varies each year, with 2018-19 having a Game of Thrones focus.

Another excellent attraction that we enjoyed visiting in Kittilä was Samiland . This is found at Levi Summit, which you can reach by taking a lift from the ski resort.

Samiland features an indoor and outdoor exhibit space dedicated to the Sami people, and covers the history, culture and mythology of the people, as well as their traditional building and mythology. There’s a small entry fee which is well worth it.

You can reach Kittilä by car or bus from Rovaniemi. The distance is 150km / 93mi. Kittilä airport serves Kittila/Levi, with flights from Helsinki and a number of destinations across Europe.

Where to stay in Kittilä

There are a range of accommodation options in Kittilä. Some options to consider are as follows.

Design Hotel Levi – perfect for those of you wanting to be able to ski from your door, this hotel is found right at the foot of the Levi resort ski lifts
Lapland Hotels SnowVillage – if you want to live out your dream of sleeping in a snow hotel while in Finland, this is the place to come!
Hotel Kittilä – 15 minutes from the Levi Ski resort, this is a great value option
Guesthouse Golden Goose – found in the centre of Kittilä village, this is a well rated guesthouse with an on-site sauna
Levi Northern Lights Huts – found on an old reindeer farm, this is the place to stay in Levi if you want the glass roof experience

Wherever you choose to go from Rovaniemi, we think that spending your last couple of days deep inside the arctic circle, chasing the Northern Lights and taking part in more winter activities, would be the perfect way to end your trip in Finland.

Then, you can return to Rovaniemi, drop off your hire car if you have one, and fly home. Alternatively, there are flights available from Kittilä or Ivalo airports.

That’s it for our winter itinerary of Finland! Now we want to share some practical advice to help you plan your trip.

Map of 7 Day Finland Winter Itinerary

To help you visualise this itinerary we’ve put together a map, which you can also see on Google Maps here .

Finland Itinerary Overview

Here’s an overview of this itinerary for quick reference:

Day 1: Helsinki – Helsinki City Museum, Helsinki Cathedral, National Museum of Finland
Day 2: Helsinki – Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Helsinki Skywheel, Uspenski Cathedral, Old Market Hall
Day 3: Rovaniemi – Santa Claus Village, Husky Tour, Arktikum
Day 4: Rovaniemi – Day trip on Sampo ice breaker, Northern Lights
Day 5: Rovaniemi – Snowshoeing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, husky sledding, amethyst mine
Day 6 & 7: North Finland – Saariselka, Kittilä

How to Get Around Finland in Winter

You might be wondering what the best way to get around Finland in winter is.

Well, you have a number of options.

For longer distances, such as the trip between Helsinki and Rovaniemi, we would recommend either taking the train or flying.

Flying will be the fastest option, and is likely to be the cheapest as well if you book well in advance. You can check flight times and prices, and book online here . For the train, you can see timetables and book online here .

For shorter distances, such as exploring around Rovaniemi and getting between the sights on our itinerary, you have a couple of options.

First, you can rent a car and drive. We prefer to self-drive when we travel where possible as it gives us more flexibility with what we stop to see, where we go and when we leave.

Car rental in Finland is comparable to other parts of Europe. In winter, cars will come with studded tyres, and the roads are well maintained.

If you want to drive in Finland using this itinerary, we’d recommend hiring a car in Rovaniemi for pickup from the airport. You can compare car rental prices and book online here .

Of course, we appreciate that driving in the extreme winter conditions that Finland experiences is not going to be for everyone. With this in mind we have set this itinerary up so you don’t have to drive if you don’t want to.

By combining public transport and a variety of tours which include transport, you can absolutely experience Finland in winter without needing to hire a car or worry about driving.

Tours of Finland in Winter

If you love the sound of the trip I’ve put together, but don’t like the thought of planning it all out, booking activities, hotels and transport, then you might consider taking a tour instead.

There are of many tour options to consider, which we have summarised as follow.

this selection of tours which includes a number of options in Lapland

Hopefully one of these works out for you if you choose to take a tour of Finland in winter.

You can see more tour options for Finland on TourRadar here , they list tours from a wide range of operators at various price points, so you can find the one you want. We have used TourRadar to book tours in destinations around the world and always had a good experience.

There are 22 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Cyndi Puah says

8th March 2024 at 3:22 pm

may i know itinerary and the cost of the package

Laurence Norah says

8th March 2024 at 3:52 pm

The itinerary is laid out in the guide above, and it’s designed for people to follow themselves, it’s not a guided experience. If you’d like a guided tour of Finland, I can recommend checking out the options on TourRadar for Finland here , they have lots of tours at different prices from many operators, so you can choose one that suits your needs.

Have a great time in Finland!

19th June 2023 at 3:36 pm

Do you have any suggestions on extending this to Northern Norway. Perhaps a 10-14 day trip?

19th June 2023 at 4:13 pm

You absolutely could extend this trip to Northern Norway and that would make for a wonderful adventure. However as we’ve only visited southern Norway, we don’t have any specific advice for you. We hope you have a great trip though!

17th December 2022 at 2:10 pm

hi, thanks for the detailed blog. do you have any contacts for local private driver that we can engaged to bring us around or see northern lights?

18th December 2022 at 11:51 am

We don’t have any personal contacts for drivers, however, there are plenty of operators who can drive you to see the northern lights. Here is a list of some examples. So this is definitely a service you can book! If you wanted a longer tour, over multiple days, I’d suggest checking on sites like Viator or TourRadar to see what is available.

Pearlyn says

29th September 2022 at 6:00 am

Hi Laurence, this is really a great post that summarises what I need ! I’m planning to head to rovaniemi and lapland for 8 days ,would you recommend signing up tours from websites like nordic visitor etc? Do you have a recommended tour that covers both rovaniemi and lapland ? if the transport is included then that will really make it a lot more fuss free Thank you !

1st October 2022 at 5:47 pm

Hi Pearlyn!

Thanks very much! So I’ve not used Nordic Visitor before but I am aware of them and they get good reviews I believe, so that should be fine. What I would suggest is taking a look at the Finland tours on TourRadar here – they list tours from most of the companies who run tours, and you can filter by duration and price. So that should help you narrow down your options. For example, a tour like this might be an option, but there are quite a few to choose from 🙂

Have a great trip!

Shelly says

30th August 2022 at 1:56 am

Hi, So I’m really interested in the ice breaker tour but if I go in Dec. would the tour be mostly be in the dark? Would we be able to see the ice and things around us?

30th August 2022 at 11:14 am

Great question. So daylight hours in December are definitely limited. A great website is this one , where you can plug in a location and it will show you the sunrise and sunset times, as well as the dawk/dusk times (civil twilight).

For December it shows that you are looking at sunrise between 10am and 10.45 (depending on when in December), and sunset between 2.17pm and 2.50pm. Dawn and dusk add just under two hours to that, so it won’t be totally dark, but it will be definitely be darker.

So yes, you should be able to see the ice around you, and you will also get either a sunrise or sunset from the boat, depending on which cruise you take.

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Shelly Mcintosh says

30th August 2022 at 12:19 pm

Thank you so much! In your opinion what is the best time to go? What gives me the best chance to see the northern lights and also do all the wonderful winter activities. I was planning a trip in Nov but I see the ice breaker doesn’t start till dec and I see Dec has Limited daylight. By the way this was by far the best blog I have come across! So useful and informative.

30th August 2022 at 1:01 pm

My pleasure Shelly, and thanks! So we have visited Finland in December and the days are definitely quite short, especially in the northern areas. My favourite time is February, there is more guarantee of snow, the days are already a lot longer and there is still a good chance of seeing the northern lights. My best Northern lights experience was actually in February. So if that’s an option that would be my preference.

Have a wonderful trip, and feel free to ask any more questions as you plan!

20th April 2022 at 2:57 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica,

This is amazing blog I have never come across. It’s so detailed and to the extend you’d brought me into Finland while reading. Phenomenal!

I am planning to make a December family trip with 3 children from age 11 to 15. Your itinerary definitely suit to my plan. I am wondering how easy of the public transportation like bus from point to point as you’ve mentioned? It’s unlike other EU countries where we can get train easily.

20th April 2022 at 4:36 pm

Thanks very much, we’re glad you found it helpful 🙂 So the public transport is pretty easy to use in Finland. You will just want to check schedules for where you plan on going. If you are following this itinerary, then the easiest option is to take the train (or fly) from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. If you plan on going further north, you’ll need to take a bus. We’ve taken a few long distance buses in Finland and they have all been fine. Let me know if you have any more questions!

Samir Patrawala says

12th October 2021 at 1:20 am

Dear Laurence,

I am Sameer from Explorus Travel, India. Just read your detailed itinerary for Finland in Winter. It’s a kind of encyclopaedia for me. Amazing!

I have a question: Most of the photos on this page are clicked in daylight (they are bright, sunny pics). But what I read is that Sun almost doesn’t rise at all in Dec / Jan in Rovaniemi. So how can one get an opportunity to click such sunny and bright photos in absence of sun light / day light? Isn’t the stay experience in Dec boring and dull in absence of light? I mean how much can one enjoy darkness without good photos? Or are your photos clicked during those two hours when there’s little day light?

Many thanks in advance.

Kind regards

12th October 2021 at 10:53 am

Great to hear from you! So these photos are from a few different visits, some in January and some in February. The experience of how much light there is will vary depending on where you are in Finland. In Rovaniemi, the darkest day of the year is the 22nd December, where there’s only 2.5 hours of sunlight. However, there is still sunlight. If you visit in mid-February, you get 8.5 hours between sunrise and sunset. So there is plenty of light. I would generally suggest not visiting over the very darkest days in December, but it quickly changes and the days get longer if you visit in February or even late January.

Hope this helps!

Sameer Patrawala says

12th October 2021 at 11:35 am

Thank you so much for your prompt and satisfactory response.

Would you recommend Northern Norway for Northern Lights in December last week or Rovaniemi Finland? I am asking in terms of maximum available day-light.

Kind regards Sameer Patrawala Explorus

12th October 2021 at 12:25 pm

My pleasure 🙂

So Northern Norway is way inside the Arctic Circle. In the last week of December, or in December at all in fact, you won’t get any sunlight. You can see sunrise and sunset times for a place like Tromso in Northern Norway here: https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/norway/tromso?month=12&year=2021

Rovaniemi is on the edge of the Arctic circle, which is why you don’t get the permanent darkness. If you are looking for the northern lights, then usually the further north you go the better your chances. However, I have seen incredible displays from southern Finland too, so it’s all just a question of luck really. If you want some sunlight though, northern Norway in December might not be the best option!

Trizzy says

26th September 2021 at 6:50 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica, First off, amazing and detailed itinerary! This is the type of blog I love to read when researching- keep it up! 🙂 Also, would you say early November is a good time to visit Finland and see the northern lights?

Many thanks again!

26th September 2021 at 10:36 am

Thank you very much Trizzy! So yes, November would be a fine month to see the northern lights. The only thing to bear in mind is that there might not be snow everywhere in early November (this changes each year of course), so if you wanted snowy landscapes as well as the northern lights, it’s something to keep in mind. Of course, there could also be lots of snow! But it’s not guaranteed.

I hope this helps!

Jessica says

9th April 2020 at 5:27 pm

I am following your travel blog for a while now. Love your content and photos. I am actually planing to visit Finland later this year as soon as this quarantine is over and I have one question. Do you recommend visiting smaller cities in Finland? For example this town Sastamala – I have friend there and don’t know what to expect as it is small town and there isn’t as much information online.

9th April 2020 at 6:50 pm

Hi Jessica!

Thanks very much. So the smaller cities in Finland are worth visiting, we have been to places like Oulu, Rauma and so on. There is usually something of interest in each town or city, and if you have a friend there they should be able to give you some advice as to what there is to do and see 🙂 So I would check with them and see what they say!

have a great trip when you get to go, and stay well!

14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Finland

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Finland has had a turbulent history. Occupied by the Swedes and later the Russians, the country was finally granted independence in 1917. A number of hallmarks of this colorful past remain scattered throughout the country, in the form of captivating ruins, meandering cobblestone streets, and towering fortresses.

However, Finland is most famed for its incredible natural beauty. Crystal clear lakes, stunning island archipelagos, and towards the north, pristine winter wonderlands dominate the landscape. Meanwhile, modern cities and towns stay in tune with the times by offering world-class dining and accommodation options. Here’s a look at the top tourist attractions in Finland:

14. Old Rauma

The small city of Rauma was founded in the 1300’s, making it one of the most ancient towns in Finland. The old section of the township is characterized by colorful, historical buildings and winding, cobblestone streets. Many cafes and restaurants line the recently restored Market Square in the old town.

The area is well-known for its traditional bobbin lace making trade, and there is an annual Lace Week to celebrate this traditional local skill. In addition to these points of interest, a number of churches with celebrated frescos dating back to the Middle Ages and beyond are well worth taking some time to explore.

13. Turku Castle

This magnificent castle has been standing since the late 13th century. Along with Turku Cathedral, which was built at the same time, it is the oldest occupied building in Finland. The impressive structure overlooks the Aura River and has become Turku’s most iconic building. Originally constructed as a military fortress, it changed hands many times throughout medieval era. Today, Turku Castle is one of the most visited museums in Finland and renowned for its grandeur.

During the summer months, there are daily tours of the castle. If visitors are exploring on their own, they will need at least half a day to truly make the most of this amazing spot, as the castle is filled to the brim with twisting passages, period furniture, multiple exhibits and outdoor courtyards.

12. Helsinki Cathedral

The capital city of Helsinki is home to a magnificent church: the Helsinki Cathedral. However, it is not your classically envisioned church, it celebrates a unique, neo-classical style of architecture. Construction began on the cathedral in 1830, and it finally opened its doors in 1852 as a Finnish Evangelical Lutheran church.

Twelve statues of Jesus’ apostles stand guard on the roof outside the cathedral, which overlooks the city and its harbor. After visiting, most tourists head over to Market Square, which is lined with various food stalls and restaurants featuring heated patios, making it the ideal place for a bite to eat.

11. Sami Culture in Inari

The Sami people are the only officially recognized aboriginal people living within the European Union. Many have maintained their traditional livelihoods, which consist of hunting and gathering, small-scale farming, and reindeer herding, although they have recently made a shift towards tourism and handicrafts.

Inari is the focal point for the Sami people. It is the place to go to learn about their fascinating culture and traditions. It is here in Inari that the Sami parliament lives, which governs over their linguistic and cultural operations. Inari is also home to the Sami Museum, Sami Cultural Centre, and welcomes visitors to traditional reindeer farms. Outside of the municipality lie multiple, sprawling wilderness parks.

10. Lake Saimaa

Lake Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland, and home to well over ten thousand islands. The area has been aptly nicknamed Lakeland. Made up of winding waterways, lush green islands and dense forests, it is extremely popular with Finnish cottagers, and visiting tourists; with kayaking and trekking being the area’s most popular activities.

The region has a rich history with steamboats, which were used as transport before cars became widely available. However, these days the area is all about slowing down and simply enjoying the pristine landscapes surrounding Lake Saimaa.

9. Suomenlinna Fortress

During the Swedish reign in Finland, the Swedes built Suomenlinna Fortress upon six islands. It was designed as a military fortress and is strategically located at the entrance of Helsinki Harbor. Construction started in the 18th century, and the fortress was ruled over by the Swedes, Russians, and Finnish.

After the Finnish were granted independence in 1917 they renamed the fortress Suomenlinna Fortress, which translates to the Fortress of Finland. Today, over 800 inhabitants live in Suomenlinna, mostly operating within the tourism industry.

8. Urho Kekkonen National Park

This national park is the second largest in Finland. It is very diverse and attracts hikers, trekkers, and skiers. There are still some indigenous Sami people who practice traditional reindeer herding within the area. As such, reindeer, and husky safaris can be enjoyed here.

Reaching all the way to the Russian border in the north, Korvatunturi or Ear Fell, is famous among the Finnish as the home of Santa Claus. Clear streams, deep gorges and rolling hills make up the stunning natural landscape, which changes dramatically from season to season, transitioning from verdant green to sparkling white.

7. Skiing in Levi

Visitors come to Levi for its incredible skiing. The world-class slopes are nearly empty most of the year, lines for the chair lifts are non-existent, and the area generates regular snowfall. Facilities in Levi are modern and clean.

There are a number of dining and nightlife options that cater to the skiers at Levi Resort, and even if skiing is not your cup of tea, there are many other snow-related activities in the vicinity, including snowmobiling, husky and reindeer safaris, and snow shoeing. Visitors should not miss visiting Levin Iglut Resort while in the area, famous for its glass-roofed igloos.

6. Olavinlinna Castle

Sitting on an island overlooking Lake Saimaa, Olvinlinna Castle is truly magnificent. Built to strategically protect the Savo Region, it became an important fortification against attacks from the Russians in the east.

Every year since 1912, the castle holds its Annual Opera Festival, which attracts guests from around the world. The castle is open to the public daily and offers an impressive guided tour, which divulges all the secrets hiding within the castle walls.

5. Old Porvoo

The riverside town of Porvoo is Finland’s second oldest. It has become iconic for the ruby red wooden houses that line the Porvoonjoki River on the edge of town. The river flows out into the Gulf of Finland, connecting Porvoo to Helsinki, and during the summertime a charming steamboat transports visitors between the two places.

Cobblestone streets and quaint wooden houses are the standard here, along with many trendy shops and restaurants with open-air patios. The town boasts idyllic parks, an open market square, and picturesque landmark buildings. This is a great place for a weekend getaway, a day trip from the capital, or even a relaxing, longer holiday.

4. Experience a Finnish Sauna

Finnish houses are unique in the sense that almost every home has a sauna. This is truly a national tradition. In fact, the Finns invented the concept. Saunas are a wooden room, attached or apart from the home, heated by steam from hot rocks.

The classic experience includes shedding your clothes, entering the steamy room, and jumping in a lake or river afterwards. It is polite to have a shower before entering the sauna. Even if you don’t know any locals to join with, many resorts offer this classic Finnish experience for guests.

3. Aland Islands

This tiny region of Finland contains the nation’s only Swedes speaking majority. The archipelago is located in the Baltic sea south of mainland Finland. The well-developed roads and ferry system make island hopping easy. The most popular activities in the area include visiting the capital of Mariehamn, exploring abandoned medieval ruins, or adventuring around deserted islands.

The capital has a cosmopolitan dining and accommodation scene. Outside of the city, visitors can enjoy the gorgeous seascapes, or have a go at kayaking, hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities.

2. Snow Castle of Kemi

Each year Kemi welcomes visitors to the world’s largest fort made of ice. In the spring it melts, and each winter they rebuild the wonderland with slightly new architectural designs. The area includes a hotel, restaurant (with ice mugs!), art gallery, and even a chapel.

The hotel rooms can be viewed during the day, and visitors come from around the world to be married or christened in the chapel. The Snow Castle is open from January to April, when temperatures are at their coldest, but there are now plans to build a Snow Castle in 2019 that will last year-round.

1. Northern Lights in Lapland

The Northern Lights should be experienced by everyone at least once in their lives, and Lapland offers the full glory of this natural spectacle up close and personal. On a clear and starry night in winter, visitors have an extremely high chance of witnessing this magical phenomenon.

The evanescent hues of green, blue, yellow, purple and red dancing across the sky will make you feel like you are in a fairytale.

Map of Things to Do in Finland

Share this post:

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

10 Most Beautiful Lakes in Finland

10 Best Places to Visit in Finland

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Europe

6 Most Beautiful Regions in Finland

27 Top Tourist Attractions in Helsinki

17 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

15 Best Cities to Visit in Finland

10 Most Beautiful National Parks Finland

22 Top Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Glittering Open Skies

What did Finland have in store for Tour Manager Kristen?

Have you ever wanted to lead a team of huskies through the snow? Listen to our Tour Manager Kristen recount her sled dog adventure in Finland, and find out how her furry new friends made sure her snowy trip through the forests of Lapland was one she’d never forget.

Destination Must-See's

The best way to see this city on the Baltic Sea is with a local guide. Hip Helsinki is on the cutting edge of fashion and has a flourishing culinary scene. At the same time, it also has a rich history and amazing architecture that still shines through its modern edge. You’ll find touches of art nouveau and neoclassical and an array of intriguing museums.

Senate Square

Explore the heart of Helsinki – Senate Square. It is home to the oldest stone building in the city and is dominated by four impressive neoclassical buildings including its impressive cathedral. Fun fact: every day at 5:49 a modern version of the European Glockenspiel plays and you can hear it make its way around the square, from one building to the next. Today, it is one of the city’s main tourist attractions and host to an array of special events.

Lapland Region

Discover the northern region of Finland, the vast and peaceful Lapland – only 3% of the country’s total population resides here. The winter is simply magical, and it is the perfect place to go in search of the northern lights, witness reindeer roaming free and meet Santa Claus. Spend 3 nights in this enchanting land of endless open land, big skies, fresh air and welcoming people.

The Northern Lights of Finland

Venture out into the dark to see the magical but elusive northern lights. This natural phenomenon is the product of collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the earth's atmosphere; the results are spectacular! Streaks of colorful light appear across the sky. This light show is truly dazzling and worth the pursuit.

Destination Must-Do's

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

Located at nearly the most northern tip of Europe, you’ll find this luxurious resort surrounded by wilderness. Visitors can take advantage of its many amenities and stay in a variety of unique accommodations including cozy log cabins and glass igloos, giving guests an unobstructed view of the night sky. Set away from the lights and activity of the main resort are rows of glass igloos that look like something out of a sci-fi movie. Enjoy a magical night at this igloo hotel. Gaze at the night sky and wait for the northern lights to reveal themselves.

Husky Safari

Visit a local husky farm to meet these cute canines. You will soon find out just how much they love their jobs! Become acquainted with these friendly dogs, the commands and the equipment before embarking on a snow-covered adventure. With you as their leader, be whisked through the wilderness by these eager dogs that love to run.

Reindeer Safari

Set out for remote areas of Kakslauttanen on a relaxing reindeer safari that takes you deep into nature with local reindeer herders. Take some time to chat with the local Sami people on your one-of-a-kind adventure on a sleigh led by Finnish reindeer!

Santa's Home

Feel like a kid again as you travel deep into the forest to visit Santa’s home. Just as you have always imagined, a giant red chalet covered with snow and adorned with white lights appears atop a hill as you make your way along a long wooden walkway to the front door, where you will be greeted by Santa himself!

Expert Advice

Featured Tours to Finland

Brochures that feature our finland tours, find a travel agency.

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Finland Itinerary (Winter or Summer)

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a perfect 5 to 7 days in Finland itinerary is a great experience if you’re searching for a European destination off the beaten path from traditional tourist-heavy routes. In unique proximity to Scandinavia, Russia, and the Baltics, Finland is saturated with rich history and culture and “the happiest people” in the world.

From cosmopolitan and sustainable Helsinki to the country’s oldest city, Turku, Finland is a country waiting to be explored with open arms. This itinerary will help you plan an ideal trip to Finland, exploring both cities and nature while discovering unique corners in between.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Finland?

Many potential visitors wonder how many days to spend in Finland in order to do this beautiful Nordic nation justice.

Finland is one of the largest countries in Europe, and with that being considered, there’s a great amount to visit. With that being said, I recommend a minimum of 5 days in Finland; this way you can visit and wander around Helsinki, but also manage to get to another city/town or two.

On top of that, I believe that the ideal length of time to spend in Finland is around 1 week. With 7 full days in Finland, you’ll experience all that you can in 5 days, but also be able to go beyond.

You’ll truly be able to do the country justice, explore a few different regions of the country and go beyond major cities to further off regions, such as Finnish Lapland to perhaps visit a reindeer farm, go dog sledding or see the Northern Lights.

Getting To & Around Finland

Getting to finland.

Regarding this particular itinerary, the best and most convenient option will be to first fly into the capital city of Helsinki.

Helsinki Vantaa Airport is the fourth largest Nordic airport by passenger numbers and has frequent routes year-round connecting Finland mainly to Europe but also intercontinental.

Due to the large airport and frequent flights, the Finnish capital is also typically a fairly affordable destination to fly into. You can get from the Helsinki airport to the city center by bus, train or private transfer.

Another unique option for those visiting Finland from neighboring Tallinn, Estonia or Stockholm, Sweden , is to reach Finland by ferry.

There are frequent ferry routes to/from each city and depending on your chosen journey, they can also be more affordable than flight transportation. You can browse ferry schedules here.

Getting Around Finland

When organising your transportation plans for getting around Finland, it’s important to keep in mind the time of year. This itinerary is best suited for the winter months, so unless you’re someone with at least some experience driving in wintery/snowy conditions, I’d recommend against driving.

For those that will be driving, the country is well-prepared for winter weather with cars equipped with the right winter tires so you don’t need to worry about anything out of the ordinary.

If you decide to opt-in to rent a car, I’d suggest only renting it for the time in Rovaniemi. Like most European and Nordic cities in particular, you’ll have an excellent public transportation system at hand to get around with and no necessity to rent a car whilst in the capital city. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices on car hire.

Helsinki is also an incredibly walkable city, with most sights and points of interest in close distance, you’ll find it a joy to walk around the pleasant capital Finnish city.

Furthermore, the other destinations outside of Rovaniemi are easily accessible to Helsinki by bus and train. The last two days of the itinerary are in Finnish Lapland and with such a long drive from southern/central Finland (~10 hours), it would take a day out of your trip to drive.

Rovaniemi is the most “wild” part of the itinerary and having a car would be an advantage (especially if you’re determined to spot the Northern Lights), but it isn’t completely necessary. There are several car rental companies in Rovaniemi, both in the city and at the airport if you’re keen to drive during your time in Lapland.

5 to 7-Day Finland Itinerary

Regardless of how long you have, you’ll find spending time in Finland to be a Nordic treasure. If you have 5 days, you’ll get to know Finland through its capital city, Helsinki, along with other authentic towns and major cities.

For those continuing onwards to a 7-day itinerary, you’ll make your way north to the wild Arctic Lapland region and its capital city of Rovaniemi where you can enjoy either incredible winter activities or, in the summer months, basque in the midnight sun.

Day 1 – Arrive in Helsinki

The first 3 nights of this itinerary are spent in the capital city of Helsinki. Once arriving, you’ll likely first notice the beautiful and diverse architecture and styles painting the capital city.

The city is a unique blend of Finnish, Swedish, and Russian architecture – reflecting the deep history and heritage not just of Helsinki but also of Finland itself.

Helsinki is a fairly small and compact city, which makes it convenient to see most of the main sights during day 1 of your time in Finland. Begin at the Senate Square in the center of the city (Kruununhaka neighborhood) to marvel at the stunning white Helsinki Cathedral along with the National Library of Finland.

A short walk brings you to one of the most unique churches you’ll probably ever visit, the Temppeliaukio Church. Built within a solid rock, the church is a must-visit in Helsinki and for that reason, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Helsinki.

For a taste of some of the best Finnish cuisine in the city along with affordable options, make sure to visit Helsinki Market Square & Old Market Hall. The market square is particularly special if you’re visiting Helsinki during the winter , where you’ll find a joyful Christmas market full of independent stands and vendors.

The Old Market Hall is the oldest market in Finland as well as the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional meal.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Bob W Kluuvi – This hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors. They have a great, central location for exploring the city along with plenty of great rooms to choose from and breakfast available in the mornings.

Hotel Mestari – This luxury hotel is perfect for those looking for a plush stay in the Finnish capital. They have a number of wonderful rooms to choose from, great amenities for guests to enjoy and a fantastic location for seeing all Helsinki has to offer.

The Yard Hostel – Those visiting Finland on a budget will love this cool hostel in the center of Helsinki. They have both private rooms and dorms to choose from along with good self-catering facilities and common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Helsinki hotels!

Day 2 – Helsinki

After a wonderful first day exploring Helsinki and getting acquainted with Finland, a great way to continue your trip is by making a day trip to the Suomenlinna Fortress. This sea fortress also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Suomenlinna Fortress is situated on a group of 8 islands off of Helsinki and demonstrates key elements of Finnish history and independence from both Sweden and Russia.

Suomenlinna is easily reached by a short 15-minute ferry ride (tickets are included within the Helsinki transport system) from Helsinki Market Square.

Finland has a wonderful fashion scene, with both local and high-street shops with a big influence on sustainability. Pohjoisesplanadi, the main shopping street in the heart of Helsinki is about a kilometer long and is the perfect place to take a look at Finnish trends and maybe find a souvenir to bring home.

Day 3 – Porvoo

On day 3, I suggested making a day trip to the nearby middle-aged town of Porvoo . Porvoo is best reached from Helsinki by bus, with just around an hour’s journey. I recommend booking with Omnibus, as buses are frequent (around every 10 minutes) and the system is reliable. Schedules can be found here. You can also book a guided tour .

Porvoo is a lovely little town giving a completely different feel to Finland than big-city Helsinki. The town is the second oldest in Finland and wandering through the old streets can’t be any more idyllic; especially in the snow during a Finland winter itinerary.

I recommend warming up with a hot chocolate at Petris Chocolate in the town center before heading back to Helsinki.

Day 4 – Turku

After spending 3 nights in Helsinki, make your way to the charming Finnish archipelago city of Turku. Turku is easily reached by train from Helsinki in just under 2 hours and train schedules and booking can be found here .

The city of Turku was founded almost 800 years ago and is a unique must-visit on any visit to Finland. With the Aura River meeting the archipelago as the centerpiece for Turku, you’ll find the city to be an exciting destination full of soul and history as it was once Finland’s capital city before Helsinki.

Stop by the 13th-century Turku Castle to get a better insight into Finnish Heritage in its oldest town as well as the Turku Cathedral, which also happens to be the seat of the Archbishop of Finland.

If you’re visiting in the summer, a great way to enjoy Finland’s bountiful nature is to take a ferry to the Turku Archipelago. Spending the day in the long daylight is best spent wandering the trails, taking a dip in the water, and discovering the archipelago’s 40,000 tiny islands by bicycle.

For a meal with a nice ambiance, the riverside area has wonderful restaurants with gorgeous views no matter the time of the year that you visit.

Where to Stay in Turku

Centro Hotel Turku – This hotel in central Turku is an excellent choice for those after a mid-range option in this Finnish city. They have myriad great rooms to choose from and a lovely breakfast available in the mornings.

Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone – Located in the center of Turku, this hotel is a great choice for those who want something a bit more high-end while visiting Finland. They have a range of rooms to choose from, fantastic amenities and an on-site restaurant/bar.

Forenom Aparthotel Turku – This aparthotel is great for those who want their own flat but don’t want to sacrifice the convenience of a traditional hotel. There are a range of apartments on offer and they also have a great, central location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Turku hotels!

Day 5 – Tampere

On your 5th day in Finland, a quick hour-and-a-half train from Turku will bring you on a day trip to the quirky city of Tampere. Tampere is the second biggest city in Finland with a lot to offer but is regularly missed by tourists, making it a great destination for any trip to Finland off the beaten path.

Tampere is the sauna capital of Finland, with over 50 public Finnish saunas waiting for you to relax and rejuvenate in the Finnish style. If you’re looking to tick visiting Finland’s oldest sauna off of your travel list, head to Rajaportti Sauna to experience a sauna heated by wood in the most traditional method.

The city is full of unique and exciting museums such as the Moomin Museum, the quintessential destination for any lover of the Moomin cartoon world. Another great museum option in Tampere for a particular perspective on Finnish culture and social history is Werstas – The Finnish Labour Museum

During your time in Tampere, make sure not to miss the largest Market Hall in all of the Nordics , Tampere Market Hall. This is the perfect destination to sample quintessential Finnish delicacies in a pleasant spot with friendly locals and authentic Finnish food.

If you’re spending just 5 days on you trip, this is the last day of your Finland trip. There is an airport in Tampere with a handful of European connections, making it a convenient ending if you can leave from Tampere. Otherwise, take the train back to Helsinki to continue onward.

For those continuing onward to the city of Rovaniemi in Lapland, the best transportation options from Tampere are to either return to Helsinki to fly to Rovaniemi or take an overnight train/bus from Tampere.

Day 6 – Rovaniemi, Lapland

The last two days of your Finland travel itinerary will be spent in Finland’s largest region, enchanting and magical Lapland.

While also an ideal destination for the summer months because of the incredible nature and lush boreal forests of the northern Finnish region, it’s hard to find any travel destination more perfect in winter than Lapland.

When planning accommodation, the costs of Lapland nature-surrounded hotels are much higher than in the center of Rovaniemi, it enhances the fairytale Lapland experience if you can afford the cost.

The city of Rovaniemi is quite small in comparison to most other Nordic and Finnish cities, but it feels like an entirely different world in itself. To learn more about Arctic and Lappish culture, science, and history, head to the Arktikum Museum for a perfect taster to educate you for the rest of your time in Lapland.

Rovaniemi is the main hub for most activities in the area and they’re plentiful. Whether you’re interested in taking a cosy reindeer sleigh ride in the Arctic forest or an Aurora Borealis expedition with a cup of hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone.

The majority of tour and activity groups leave from Rovaniemi with pick-up from surrounding hotels, making it an effortless trip if you decide not to rent a car to explore Rovaniemi, Lapland.

If you’re visiting Lapland and following this itinerary in the summertime, it’s a completely different atmosphere but still incredibly special in its own right. From long days spent exploring Lapland’s wildly deep nature and forests to midnight-sun bonfire nights, summer in Lapland is truly special as well.

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi

Arctic Light Hotel – This modern hotel in Rovaniemi, this is a great base for exploring Lapland. There are several chic rooms to choose from, an airport shuttle, free parking and a superb breakfast.

Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle – The perfect arctic escape, the glass igloos located outside of Rovaniemi are excellent for a unique visit. They have several different pods on offer, a great restaurant, room service and other amenities.

Hostel Cafe Koti – A good budget option in Rovaniemi, this hip hostel has both dorms and private rooms, a bar and cafe on site, a sauna and good self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Rovaniemi hotels!

Day 7 – Santa Claus Village

One of the most popular attractions when visiting Rovaniemi, Lapland is the magnificent world of Santa Claus Village.

Santa Claus Village is just about a 10-minute drive (or 20-minute bus ride) outside of Rovaniemi city center and is a must-visit magical stop while in Rovaniemi, for both adults and children. You can also take a guided tour from Rovaniemi.

The village is a large wonderland, full of activities from ice skating and sledding to visits at the husky park and postcards and a meeting with Santa at Santa’s workshop. You’ll find conveniently placed fire pits throughout the village and the village’s forest area to warm up if you decide to walk among the snow-dressed Arctic trees.

The official boundaries of the Arctic Circle run through Santa’s Village and even though it’s just a line, it’s truly thrilling to pass back and forth through the Arctic Circle!

Food options are plentiful in the village no matter your budget or preferences; from cafeteria-style food to classic Lappish food (I recommend the open-fire cooked salmon!) in a traditional hut.

With so much joy and winter wonderland from just around every corner, it’s easy to spend a long day at Santa’s Village. It’s also safe to say that there’s no better send-off from a trip to Finland than heading to the snowy paradise of your childhood dreams.

If you’re visiting in the winter, you may be able to find a return flight from Rovaniemi depending on the city, but otherwise, return to Helsinki to wrap up a marvelous week in Finland.

Have More Time?

In the case that you are drawn to the Lapland region and would like to explore further, I highly suggest heading further north to experience the region on a deeper level in the resort town of Levi.

In Levi, you can hit the slopes and ski on Finland’s biggest ski slopes, search further for the Northern Lights with a higher chance of seeing them, and find yourself in further bewilderment by Finland’s stunning natural beauty.

On top of that, if you want to continue your trip and are looking to go beyond Finland, Swedish Lapland is just over the border with more outdoor adventures waiting for you.

Finnish Lapland is a lot more “developed” and touristy in comparison with Swedish Lapland, so if you’re interested in experiencing more of a local experience in Lapland, Swedish Lapland is a great way to continue your trip.

A Finland trip undoubtedly has something for all kinds of travelers, whether you’re a city-seeker or someone happiest among nature. With this Finland itinerary, you’ll see all aspects of Finland, giving the perfect representation of this dynamically beautiful, and kind country.

Are you planning a trip to Finland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Helsinki vs Stockholm: Which Nordic Capital to Visit?

Is Finland Expensive? A Finland Trip Cost Guide

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Helsinki Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Hi, Olivia: Thank you so much for sharing! It does make my coming Finland travel plan clearly. I am wondering how about Levi in Summer, and do you have any suggestions about summer in Rovaniemi?

With many thanks Sherry

Love the very informative initinery. Will certainly follow it. Planning to go in November 2023. Bravo!

Very very informative, thanks Olivia

Very very helpful review. We hope to have a family trip to Finland and these suggestions were terrific.

Finland Road Trip Itinerary – Things to See in Finland in 2 Weeks

view-ukko-koli-finland-national-park-pielinen

Sharing is caring!

2 Weeks Finland Itinerary

For a trip covering the whole of Finland, you will need at least two weeks. It is the minimum amount of time to cover such a huge country. The north-south extent of the country is 1100 km. This itinerary covers most of the best cities and several spectacular natural landmarks and national parks . If you prefer to spend an extended time in Lapland, read this itinerary for a detailed Finland trip.

So let’s get back to one of the most stunning road trips we ever had!

The post may contain affiliate links.

Finland Road Trip Itinerary and Map

If you are planning a trip to Finland, you came to a good place. Here you will find the most popular cities, best national parks, and some hidden gems that need to be on your self-drive itinerary.

Two weeks in Finland is enough to see most of the top sights, but one week in Finland lets you explore part of this route. You can focus either on the northern or the southern part. For extra tips, other practical advice, read our Finland Travel Guide .

Road Trip Finland

The easiest and cheapest way to explore Finland is by car. Rent your car from the airport directly to save time and money.

Car rentals are available in most Finnish airports. We recommend the following: Hertz | SiXT | Europcar

Let’s start your Finland self-drive tour!

Travel Resources

There is nothing better than a relaxed holiday. To ensure your rest, make sure you reserve and book your accommodation and transportation in advance of your trip.

Don’t forget to insure yourself during your travels: SafetyWing . Check out their policies HERE . It also covers several virus-related expenses.
Look for the best prices on flight tickets, hotels, and car rentals: Expedia
Car rental: SIXt
Accommodation: Booking.com , Agoda or Hostelworld if you travel on a budget. Don’t forget that you can search for Apartments also on Booking.
Activities: GetYourGuide
Opinions on hotels and restaurants: TripAdvisor
Was your flight canceled or delayed? Get up to 600€ back with the help of Compansair!

Sign Up NOW – it is FREE

Must-try Finnish Food List

Signup for our Finnish Food Checklist

Please check your email to confirm your subcribtion.

1-2. Days: 2 Days Helsinki

Your trip to Finland will very likely start in Helsinki, the capital of Finland. It is a rather small city and easy to cover the best sights in 2 days. It’s a perfect starting point for your trip to Finland.

The 13 Best Hotels in Helsinki, Finland, For Every Budget

1. Day in Helsinki:

The Esplanadi park (Esplanadinpuisto) is a popular starting point as the tourist information is also located there (corner of Pohjoisesplanadi and Unioninkatu). Follow the park towards the sea and turn north along Unioninkatu to reach the Senate Square (Senaatintori) at the eastern end of the park . The Lutheran Cathedral will be just in front of you. Then follow Aleksanterinkatu to the east turn south to Mariankatu. After one block, you will see the Eastern Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral .

Then follow Pohjoisesplanadi street to reach Market Square (Kauppatori) . The best time to visit is during opening hours. During the afternoon, head (or take a tram) to the Church in the Rock (Temppeliaukion kirkko) , as the name suggests, it’s a church indeed in a rock! The Sibelius Monument (and Organ) is nearby, and so does my personal favorite. A small cafe with the free tram museum is just a couple of minutes’ walk from here. If you fancy a drink from the top of a tower, visit Hotel Torni and its bar on the top floor to have a panoramic view of Helsinki. For the night, stay in one of the best hotels in Helsinki .

2. Day in Helsinki:

You can’t leave Helsinki without checking the Suomenlinna fortress . Go to Market Square (Kauppatori) to find the ferry to the island. Helsinki public transport tickets are also valid for the ferry. The islands have pricey restaurants and cafes, but a picnic is also a good choice in good weather. In the afternoon, visit the newly opened public sauna, the Löyly , to make your experience full.

We also enjoyed visiting the abandoned villas of Helsinki . If you are up to an adventure, it’s a nice program in a green area for the summer.

Don’t forget to read our guide to unique and must-see places in Helsinki . 🙂

3. Day: Day Trip to Porvoo

Porvoo is a small town an hour away from Helsinki. You can reach it by public bus too (10-15€).

Porvoo is the second oldest town in Finland and is well-known for its historic Old Town and colorful riverside warehouses. The 15th-century Cathedral and the 18th century Town Hall are just a few of the decorative buildings you will see. The colorful warehouses were built to protect fruits, wines, coffee, tobacco, wood, spices, and other goods shipped along the river. They were painted with red ochre in the 18th century to honor a visit by Swedish King Gustav. Porvoo also gave a home to Finland’s national poet, Johan Ludvig Runeberg , whose home is a little museum today.

Spend the night in Helsinki.

4-5. Days: 2 Days in Turku & the Archipelago

Drive to Turku in the morning (2 hours). Turku is the oldest city in Finland (founded in the 13th century) and used to be a capital for a shorter time during the 19th century.

The best time to visit the city is during the summer, but the cultural sights are worth a brief visit during the winter.

Must-see places in Turku in one day

Turku Castle Archangel Michael’s Church ( Mikaelin Kirkko)
Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Turku Main Library (Turun Kaupunginkirjasto),
Turku Cathedral (Turun Tuomiokirkko)
Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum
Panimoravintola Koulu
Turku Art Museum (Turun Taidemuseo)

On your second day, take a boat trip (summertime!) to the Archipelago and head to Tampere in the evening.

6. Day: Tampere

Tampere’s cultural and architectural heritage is based on the city’s industrial past as it was the center of heavy industry.

The city has a unique geographical location too. Tampere lies on a narrow isthmus between Lake Näsijärvi, which reaches far to the north, and Lake Pyhäjärvi in the south. Moreover, there are 200 lakes and ponds in Tampere!

Must-See in Tampere

Tammerkoski rapids (currently runs in a canal) and several hydroelectric dams in the downtown
Beautiful historic buildings dating back to the late 19th century in the Downtown area: the Finlayson historic factory complex ( north side of the downtown, west side of Tammerkoski rapids ) and the Tampella historic factory complex (n orth side of downtown, east side of Tammerkoski rapids )
Pyynikki ridge , the 85-meter-high narrow isthmus between the two lakes
Pyynikki observation tower
Nekala area is famous for its old wooden houses and cultural landscape
Tampere City Library ( Metso )

7. Day: Jyväskylä

Drive to Jyväskylä. It’s currently a popular university city and well-known for the famous architect Alvar Aalto’s work. Several famous buildings are connected to his name, such as the Town Theater ( kaupunginteatteri ), some buildings in the university’s main campus, and the Alvar Aalto Museum .

The Water Tower ( Vesilinna ) is a building on top of the ridge ( Harju ) that acts as an observation tower, restaurant, and Natural History Museum and dispensing water to the town. You will have a great view of the city and its lakes from the top.

Near Jyvaskyla, the Leivonmäki National Park is a family-friendly place. The trails between the lakes and mires are easy, and there was even one accessible (wheelchair friendly) trail we could explore by stroller.

8. Day: Driving and a Stop in Kuopio (Version A)

You spend the day driving from Jyväskylä to Joensuu (3.5-4 hours) via Kuopio. The Old Town Center and the Puijo Panorama Tower are worth checking out. A couple of times a year (also in summer!), ski jumping competitions are organized in Puijo.

After the brief visit and stretching your legs, head to Joensuu in the afternoon.

8. Day: Driving and a Stop in Savonlinna (Version B)

The best medieval castle in Finland. Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna

How about visiting the most northern medieval castle in Europe? Olavinlinna, the St. Olaf’s Castle is worth a bit longer driving. Instead of Kuopio, drive to Savonlinna to the east and walk around Finland’s best-preserved castle and some of the little museums.

The total driving time for the day is about 4.5-5 hours.

9.Day: Joensuu & Koli National Park

In Joensuu, the Carelicum Museum offers an insight into the region’s history, culture, and life. You can also take a short walk in the center: the town hall and the old wooden buildings are the most interesting sites around. During summer, make sure you check out the Bunker Museum in Marjala.

In the afternoon, head to Koli National Park and explore the countrywide famous landscape during a short hike to Ukko Koli’s peak. If you want to stay longer in North Karelia, read our guide for the best sights .

10. Day: Driving to North and Ranua Wildlife Park (Version A)

Early morning start driving to the north. You will have about 5-6 hours of a drive ahead of you before you reach Ranua. Visit the Arctic Zoo and head to Rovaniemi for the night.

10. Day: Visit Oulu (Version B)

This bronze police statue is the symbol of Oulu. It is surrounded by well-preserved wooden buildings and the picturesque Market Hall (on the right). The city is full of green areas that pleasant, especially during spring to fall.

If you have more time, you can visit Hailuoto Island or the Koitelinkoski Rapids at Kiiminki as well.

In winter, make sure you stop by the ice castle in Kemi on your way from Oulu to Rovaniemi.

11-12. Days: Rovaniemi, Lapland

1. Day in Rovaniemi:

The next stop on your road tri pin Finland is Rovaniemi, the city of Santa Claus 🙂 On your first day, spend most of your time in Santa Claus Village (or with smaller kids in SantaPark ), visit a husky farm, and ride a snowmobile.

Hand prints of the band at Lordi Square Rovaniemi, Finland

2. Day in Rovaniemi:

Visit the Arktikum Museum and explore the city center. Check out the Lordi’s square and the Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge ( Jätkänkynttilä ). If you would like to know more about Rovaniemi’s other activities, check out our city guide (winter edition) or (summer edition) !

Read our guide to the best hotels or the most spectacular glass igloos in the area!

12-13. Days: Levi and/or Pallas-Ylläs National Park

Riding a snowmobile around Levi, Finland

Levi is a short drive away (in the Lappish scale) from Rovaniemi. About 1-1.5 hours. Skiing, ice fishing, and more skiing. Levi is a popular destination for Finns during the winter season. We had our best snowmobile adventure in Levi !

Winter hiking and snowshoeing are also a must-try. Pallastunturi is a better location, but Levi offers trips too. The never-ending snowy fells (tunturit) in the national park have a variety of trails for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The National Park has two skiing centers for snowboarding and downhill skiing. Choose based on your preference. Here are some ideas for winter activities.

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, Lapland, Finland: cross country skiing

Make sure you don’t miss out on the snow village near Kittilä in your drive during the winter. We got married there 😉

In summer, visit the top of Levi fell , and then drive to the national park to look for reindeer in the wild and have a hike or walk based on your fitness. Levi is very quiet during the summer.

14. Day: Ivalo and Return by Flight to Helsinki

Drive up to the north of Lapland to enjoy your last day, learning more about the Sami culture. Visit the Siida, the Sámi Museum, in Inari, and Northern Lapland Nature Centre and later fly back to Helsinki. In winter, you can try most of the winter activities offered in Rovaniemi or Levi.

Road Trip in Lapland

If you have extra time or prefer nature over the southern cities, check out our Lapland road trip itinerary for other places to visit in the north! It is the best location to observe the mesmerizing northern lights in Finland .

Finland Itinerary with Kids

We love traveling in Finland with our family. We went on our first weekend-trip when our son was only 2 months old, and we keep exploring it. Finland is an easy country to travel to with kids . If you have a baby, you will find useful the changing rooms and feeding rooms. We prefer traveling by car, but long-distance trains have children with a little playground to entertain the little ones. There are also many attractions aimed at families: enough mentioning Santa Claus and Angry Birds .

Some places that you must visit with kids:

Ranua Wildlife Park
Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Some of the Angry Birds Puisto (Playgrounds) – in most cities have them!
Moomin Valley in Naantali

In wintertime, make sure you dress your kids and yourselves warm enough. Check our tips on what to wear in winter .

Car Seat for Kids

Remember to rent a car seat or booster for children under 135 cm height. It’s compulsory in Finland.

Driving and Speed Limits in Finland in Winter

You have to prepare for around half a year of snow, and driving conditions can be challenging from time to time. Most cars have studded tires and engine heaters. Also, in winter, the speed limits are lower to ensure bigger safety.

When is the Best Time to Visit Finland

There is no simple answer to which is the best time to travel to Finland. Winter is nonetheless the most popular (yet the coldest) time of the year to visit Finland. Driving conditions can be hard due to the amount of snow, and the days are rather short (or non-existent in the north). It is still possible to visit cultural sights and hunt for northern lights . February and March, and sometimes even April in Lapland, still count as winter in Finland, and those months we can highly recommend for winter road trips if you are eager to see (or hike across) snowy landscapes.

Spring and summer, however, are charming for road trips. The days are long, bright, and warm(er), and after April, the amount of snow is minimal even in Lapland. In late June, the midsummer celebrations (in Finnish Juhannus) are an interesting event all across Finland. If you can, make sure you include those dates into your itinerary.

Finland Road Trip Itinerary - Things to See in Finland in 2 Weeks | best things to see in Finland in 14 days | Highlights of Lapland and Finland | Finland by car | Self drive itinerary | Accommodation options | Attractions #roadtrip #finland #car #itinerary Travel Guide

For more inspiration, check our other Finland travel blog posts out!

About the Author

Katalin Katalin is a Lapland-based outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking, road-tripping, and traveling with her family. She spends her free time far away from civilization in one of the national parks around the world, explores off-the-beaten-path places, or hops on a road trip with her kids in an RV. Read more about her adventures and the blog .

4 thoughts on “Finland Road Trip Itinerary – Things to See in Finland in 2 Weeks”

2 pax. Coming from Singapore. estimated dates 6th June 2020 to 17th June Helsinki start and finish Compact car 3/4 star hotel ensuite Want to cover as much as possible so stay in one place two days Could you provide estimate cost for above leaving out airfares, lunch and dinners

You should count around 150€ per day at least. 3-4 star hotels: 80-150€ per night Car, fuel, and parking: around 50€ per day (but it really depends on driving distances)

Really nice blog and beautiful pictures would love to visit that places once.

I am planning to go to Finland this year. I will remember your guide 🙂

Discovering Finland

photo © Discovering Finland

Travel Guide to Finland

Best things to do when visiting finland.

Finland has it all. From the incredible scattering of islands in Europe’s largest archipelago, to the hilly countryside of Finnish Lapland , the landscape of Finland is a pristine paradise for nature lovers. With midnight sun in the summer, and the ephemeral allure of the Northern Lights in the winter, Finland possesses a wealth of rare beauty, a truly distinctive ambience. Modern Finland combines the natural gifts bestowed upon the land with modern technologies allowing it to be easily discovered. An ideal tourist destination for travellers looking for something different, the rewards for Discovering Finland are endless. Explore our site and find our the best things to do when you visit Finland.

Where to go

Helsinki Region

Southern finland and archipelago, finnish lapland, åland archipelago, unique things to do in helsinki, lapland – the northernmost region of finland, family vacation, blog articles to plan your visit in finland, feast helsinki – a food festival to savour, ylläs in summer & autumn: active relaxation and engaging experiences, experience lapland’s untamed beauty in summer & autumn: harriniva hotels & safaris, nuuksio national park: your gateway to wilderness retreat, discover suomenlinna: sea fortress in the helsinki archipelago, exploring helsinki’s natural wonders: finnish museum of natural history luomus, ateneum art museum: a must-see cultural destination in helsinki, travel through the baltic sea – discover the charm of helsinki, stockholm and tallinn, experience lapland’s summer midnight sun and autumn wonders with santa’s hotels, exploring finland’s cultural delights: four must-visit destinations, exploring art museums in finland: top 10 picks for 2024, the best cafés in helsinki – guide to coffee culture in the capital, north lapland road trip, polar lights tours – authentic family owned farm in finnish lapland, original lapland – twice the magic, a weekend break cruising from helsinki to stockholm, travel destinations in finland, kittilä – levi, lake tuusula, recommended tourism destinations & activities in finland.

Privacy Overview
Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

The 9 Best Finland Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable!

Posted on Last updated: March 27, 2024

Categories Tours , Europe , Finland

The 9 Best Finland Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable!

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Finland is the happiest country in the world, at least according to the World Happiness Report. But you don’t need anyone to tell you that when you’re wrapped up in warm layers, sitting by a campfire – or sleeping in a glass igloo – gazing upward, spellbound by the sky ablaze in ethereal light.

The Aurora borealis or Northern Lights is on many travelers’ bucket lists not only because it is a natural spectacle of epic proportions, but also because it can be elusive. The universe has to, quite literally, conspire for this dazzling sky show to appear, which is why it can only be seen in certain places at certain times of the year under very specific conditions. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth planning for.

And because you’ll want it to be perfect, you would want to work with industry experts who know when and where to take you to increase your chances of seeing the spectacular light show. You just might miss it by one night and not get another chance for a long time. Because it’s a rare natural phenomenon, the Northern Lights are best experienced under the care and guidance of experienced tour providers.

best tour operators in Finland - best Finland tour package - best tours in Finland - best tour companies in Finland - best Finland tours

On the ground, Finland lures active adventurers into its myriad playgrounds, whether blanketed in thick powdery snow, dotted with inlets and islands, or blessed with hundreds of placid emerald lakes. Whizz past wintry forests while riding a wooden sled powered by a motor or pulled by pack animals.

Ride on a wooden sled pulled by reindeer through snowcapped woodlands and breathe in the crisp winter air. Soak up the stillness of a wintry world that seems to be at the very ends of the earth, and let that dancing curtain of eerie green glow speak to you at a primal level. Maybe then you’ll understand why the Finns are one of the happiest peoples on Earth (and science backs them up).

Let experts on the ground arrange these expeditions for you and take the hassle out of packing gear. You won’t need to bring skis or snowshoes or bicycles as they can be supplied onsite by well-equipped tour operators. All you need to pack is your personal effects and travel documents. And, of course, a yearning for adventure.

Below the Arctic Circle, Finland beckons with vast waters stretching east to the Russian border in a region known as Lakeland. Well-connected to Helsinki by rail, Lappeenranta is the gateway to cruises on Lake Saimaa, the country’s largest. Enjoy a dinner cruise as the ship navigates narrow channels, quiet beach coves, forested islands and boreal woodlands.

To the southwest lies the jagged coast of Finland extending into the Baltic Sea. It is strewn with inlets and islands linked by ferry service. At its heart lies Turku, once the Finnish capital, now a thriving university town with a trove of historical riches. Gear up with a helmet and fill your panniers. The gravel roads and narrow lanes beg slow travel.

And then there’s Helsinki and the capital region, with hints of Scandinavian influence in its design aesthetic, and obvious Russian influence in its Neoclassical brick buildings. It has kept its heritage well-preserved in dozens of museums and UNESCO sites.

Helsinki is well connected internationally, but so are Turku and Rovaniemi. So where to? Let these tours help you decide where to go. Wherever you end up, you’ll likely find a sauna to soak in.

Page Contents

Finland Northern Lights Tour

Small-group helsinki and south karelia, aurora borealis & glass igloo, finland family adventure – 5 days, off the trails – snowshoeing tour, finland – arctic adventure with northern lights & glass igloo , the northern lights of finland, finnish wilderness week, agate travel.

Location: Lapland

Itinerary: Saariselka

Group Size: 4

Age Range: 2 to 80

Physical Activity:

Operator: Agate Travel

Length: 4 Days

What to Expect

Short, small-group taster tour that combines Aurora hunting with sleigh rides and Sami cultural immersion.

Northern Lights
Sleigh ride
Snowmobile safari
Glass Igloo

What the Experience is Like

Zip through the wintry landscape on a snowmobile safari to meet a Sami host on a reindeer farm. Learn about reindeer farming, sledding and their traditional way of life. Hop on a night bus to chase the Auroras and witness, by the campfire, how they magically light up the sky if the conditions are right.

(Would you like to learn more about the Sami, Lapland’s indigenous people? Sign up for this 4-day Aurora-hunting tour and get it straight right from a reindeer farmer’s mouth.)

Continue on to Muotka Wilderness for a husky safari and a range of other optional activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Spend a warm night under a glass igloo, with the enchanting auroras dancing overhead. Explore Muotka at your own pace before transferring to Ivalo Airport.

Inclusions are three nights in a standard hotel, including an Aurora glass cabin, with three breakfasts.

This tour is run by Agate Travel who’s been in the business for 25 years providing guided tour service, and flights and train booking. They focus on offering tailor-made tours to ensure their clients realize their dream holidays regardless of budget, group size or travel style.

In a nutshell

More than just an Aurora-hunting trip, this 4-Day Finland Northern Lights Tour combines cultural interaction and active holidays in one short and nifty package.

Click Tours

Location: Lakeland

Itinerary: Helsinki – Lappeenranta

Group Size: 15

Age Range: 4 to 99

Physical Activity: Low to Medium

Operator: Click Tours

Length: 5 Days

Fully guided, small group taster tour of Helsinki and the Lakeland region in eastern Finland.

Helsinki highlights
Dinner Cruise
Rail journey

Discover the headline attractions of the Finnish capital – Senate Square, Church-on-the-Rock, and Sibelius Monument – on arrival and on the second day of your tour. Arrange an optional ferry trip to the Suomenlinna Fortress to see this 18th-century fortification up close.

(Do you love rail journeys? And maybe a dinner cruise? This 5-day tour package from Helsinki to Lake Saimaa hits both.)

Board a train bound for Lappeenranta to explore this lakeside town, gateway to Lake Saimaa and the Saimaa Canal. Hop on board a ship to enjoy a dinner cruise. Before boarding the afternoon train back to Helsinki, explore the local museum exhibiting the history of the (Russian) border region and fill up with slow-cooked Karelian meat stew of beef, pork and lamb.

Enjoy centrally located 4-star hotel accommodation with 4 buffet breakfasts. Economy-class express train tickets are included. Operated in English and German in Helsinki.

This small group tour is run by Click Tours and offers an exhaustive menu of tour packages and tailor-made trips that suit all travel types, age groups and group sizes so anyone can “travel.discover.enjoy.”

This 5-Day Small Group Helsinki and South Karelia tour hits headline attractions to whet your appetite for more.

Small-Group Helsinki and South Karelia Click Tours - best tour operators in Finland

V.O.S – Vision of Scandinavia

Itinerary: Rovaniemi

Group Size: 30

Age Range: 12 to 80

Physical Activity: Medium

Operator: Vision of Scandinavia DMC

This partially guided explorer tour into the capital of Lapland brings you to Santa’s doorstep and under a glass dome for a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Husky sleigh ride
Santa meet and greet

Cross the Arctic Circle, meet and greet Santa Claus in his hometown, and saddle up for a reindeer sleigh ride. Visit a husky farm, go on a short husky safari led by a musher, and see elk, Arctic fox, wolverines and bears in their wilderness environment in Ranua.

Round out the tour with free time in Rovaniemi to learn about the Sami, indigenous people of Lapland. Explore the town at your own pace and sleep in the warmth of a glass igloo with the enchanting Northern Lights overhead.

(Book this 5-day Rovaniemi tour with an overnight stay in a glass igloo if you want the beguiling Aurora borealis to put you to sleep.)

Standard hotel and heated glass igloo accommodation are included. Breakfasts are daily, with one farewell dinner.

This big-group tour is run by Vision of Scandinavia, a Copenhagen-based destination management company (DMC) with 25 years of experience providing tours to individuals and groups, with an eye for customized and luxury packages.

So maybe you want the Northern Lights to come to you instead of you chasing them? Then this 5-Day Aurora Borealis & Glass Igloo tour would be perfect for you.

Aurora Borealis & Glass Igloo Vision of Scandinavia DMC - best tour operators in Finland

On The Go Tours

Itinerary: Kittila

Age Range: 5 to 99

Physical Activity: Medium to Active

Operator: On The Go Tours

A short fully-guided Arctic adventure packed with sleigh rides for the whole family to enjoy.

Husky sledding
Reindeer sledding
Aurora hunting

Transfer to hotel in Yllasjarvi on arrival at Kittila Airport. Head outside tonight and scout the skies for the ethereal Northern Lights. After learning the basics of husky sledding, take turns in the driving position as you follow the guide through snow-covered forests and tracks.

Sit behind a caravan of reindeer and zoom through forests heavy with snow after meeting the animals on a farm. Venture out on an optional snowmobile safari through the Arctic wilderness in your free time. Enjoy well-earned hot drinks after the rides.

Enjoy 4 nights’ accommodation at a 3-star hotel with four breakfasts (vegan/vegetarian options available).

Award-winning On The Go tours specializes in offering group tours to the most popular sites and destinations where passengers enjoy authentic experiences. On The Go, Tours guarantees departures on group tours when minimum passenger numbers are met.

Take the kids on this Finland Family Adventure – for 5 Days and they will come away with memorable animal encounters and have lots of fun with you.

Finland Family Adventure - 5 Days On The Go Tours - best tour operators in Finland

Itinerary: Hossa National Park

Group Size: 12

Age Range: 14 to 75

Physical Activity: Active to Adventurous

Operator: Upitrek

Length: 7 Days

Small group, weeklong snowshoeing trek from one wilderness cabin to another, encountering sites of historical and archaeological importance along the way.

Stay in wilderness cabins
Lots of picnics around an open fire
Ancient rock paintings
Places of historic significance

Settle in at your lakeshore accommodation in the heart of Hossa National Park, which will be your base for the first three nights. Learn the necessary snowshoeing skills and start venturing out. Warm up in the lakeside sauna and if you can brave it, take a dip in the icy waters.

Venture into Colour Rock to see the 4000-year-old rock paintings. Proceed on snowshoe to the next wilderness cabin until you reach the last cabin, which will house you until the end of the trek. Trek through snow-laden birch, pine and spruce forests, along ridges and on frozen lakes. Enjoy a picnic lunch by an open fire as you go along.

Head back to the Hossa National Park visitor center to soothe aching muscles in the sauna and enjoy a well-deserved farewell dinner. Leave for Kuusamo airport after breakfast.

(Does trekking on icy wilderness appeal to you? This week-long tour in Lapland’s taiga lets you experience nature at its purest.)

Expect to share accommodation in 2-4 person and dormitory-type log cabins. Meals include 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches (4 outdoor), 5 dinners and snacks on arrival night. Vegetarian food is available on request. Five evening saunas and 3 ice swimming are included in the package. Sleeping bags, mummy liners, bed linen and bath towels are supplied on some nights.

Upitrek specializes in offering un-motorized small-group activity holidays in the Kainuu area of Eastern Finland. These include summer and winter multi-activities, snowshoeing treks, hikes, cross-country skiing and husky sledding. Their snowshoeing treks are guaranteed departures.

If you’d like to experience the Arctic wilderness on foot on a weeklong journey from hut to hut with plenty of picnics and saunas in between, book this 7-Day Off The Trails – Snowshoeing tour for a Lapland adventure you will long remember.

Bucket List Group Travel

Itinerary: Rovaniemi – Luosto – Inari

Age Range: 18 to 60

Physical Activity: Active

Operator: Bucket List Group Travel

Partially guided Aurora hunting tour with a good measure of active diversions, wildlife (and Santa Claus) encounters and sleigh rides along the way.

Chasing the Northern Lights
Arctic wildlife
Amethyst mine
Meet and greet Santa Claus
Reindeer sleigh ride
Snowshoeing and snow castle

Enjoy a welcome dinner by the campfire before going out to chase auroras. See Arctic animals in their natural environment. Soak in a traditional sauna and brave swimming in the ice. Buckle up on a snowmobile to chase Auroras while enjoying BBQ by the campfire.

(Do you love to hunt for something elusive? Go on and spend six nights in Lapland chasing Auroras in this weeklong Arctic adventure.)

Daytimes are spent digging up for your own amethyst at a mine, visiting museums to learn about Lapland and the native Sami, meeting with Santa Claus at his hometown, and seeing reindeer in their farms. Expect snowshoeing excursions into the Arctic forest and sleigh rides.

Night times are mostly spent chasing the Northern Lights. A visit to a snow castle caps off your Lapland adventure.

Accommodation for 5 nights is in a forest cottage, glass igloo or 4-star hotel with 6 breakfasts (vegetarian/vegan food options available on request). Winter clothes are supplied.

Like what it says on the label, Bucket List Group Travel offers several travel themes designed around bucket list interests. Their group tours are usually small and solo-travel friendly, which means no mandatory single supplements on most of their trips.

If Aurora hunting is at the top of your bucket list and you also want to enjoy winter activities on the side, this 7-Day Finland – Arctic Adventure with Northern Lights & Glass Igloo tour is for you.

Location: Helsinki – Lapland

Itinerary: Helsinki – Kakslauttanen

Group Size: 44

Physical Activity: Active

Operator: Collette

Length: 8 Days

Big group, the weeklong nightly pursuit of the Northern Lights with active daytime diversions like safaris and sleigh rides, and in-depth cultural interactions. Fully guided.

Nightly Aurora-hunting
Safaris and sleigh rides
Santa Claus meet and greet

Explore Helsinki at your own pace on Day 2 after an overnight flight and meet new friends during the welcome dinner. Discover the capital city highlights on Day 3 with a local guide. Fly to Ivalo (included) for a trek toward Inari in pursuit of the Northern Lights. Meet and greet Santa Claus at his home. Saddle up for a reindeer safari through the Arctic wilderness to hunt for auroras.

Lead a team of huskies on a safari after learning the necessary skills. Sleep in warmth under a glass igloo with the Northern Lights flaming overhead. Fly back to Helsinki for an afternoon of free time before regrouping for a farewell dinner downtown.

(Want to increase your odds of seeing the Northern Lights? Nightly outings on this 8-Day Northern Lights of Finland might just do the trick.)

Expect six nights’ accommodation in a 4-star and a 5-star hotel with six breakfasts and five dinners. A covid-19 vaccination certificate printed on paper is required for international travelers to join the tours.

Collette is a multi-awarded family-owned travel company headquartered in the United States with 100 years of experience in the travel industry. Given its lengthy existence, it offers an exhaustive list of land tours, river cruises, rail journeys and more for all types of travelers of any group size or age.

Sign up for this 8-Day Northern Lights of Finland tour for a nightly search of the Northern Lights with sleigh rides, cultural immersion, and a touch of luxury.

The Northern Lights of Finland Collette - best tour operators in Finland

Exodus Travels

Itinerary: Rovaniemi – Oulanka National Park

Group Size: 16

Age Range: 16 to 99

Operator: Exodus Travels

Daily expeditions to the surrounding trails on snowshoes, skis, and husky sleds.

Winter sports
Lots of saunas

Settle in at Basecamp in the heart of Oulanka National Park in northeastern Finland. Learn the basics of cross-country skiing, wilderness survival, and quinzee-making.

Explore the snow-laden wilderness trails, glide through fresh powder, or chase the Northern Lights on skis, snowshoes and husky sleds. Soak in a sauna in your free time. Enjoy a farewell dinner before flying back to Rovaniemi.

(Can’t decide which winter sport suits you best? Go out and try your hand at several this Finnish Wilderness Week .)

Twin-room sharing, sometimes with a member of a different Exodus tour. Seven breakfasts, five lunches and seven evening meals will be served using locally sourced ingredients that may include the wild game. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. All specialist and Arctic winter equipment and clothing are provided.

National Geographic’s pick for Best Tour Operator of 2021, Exodus Travels specializes in offering activity and adventure holidays, which they began 45 years ago. As they are pioneers in this type of travel, Exodus champions travel that is eco-friendly and beneficial to local communities.

In a nutshell, if you’d like to get away from it all but still want to have full meals and warm shelter, this Finnish Wilderness Week package is perfect for you.

Finnish Wilderness Week Exodus Travels - best tour operators in Finland

If none of these tours work for you in Finland, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.

Take a look at all the group tours in Finland now , which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.

Finland Tour

Your cart is empty

Finlandtour.fi offers Finland tour packages and activities to interested travellers. As a local Finnish tour company, we have expertise in organising customised as well as group Finland tour packages. We have contracted prices for hotels, our own car fleets, and vendor tie-ups to make your Finland tour hassle free and perfect. If you book your Finland tour with finlandtour.fi, you will get the best prices, expertise, knowledge, and personalised services.

We are your Local Finnish tour Company

Filter price, explore nordic scandinavia destinations.

10 nights 11 days Northern lights hunt in Finland

9 nights 10 days Helsinki and Finnish Lapland Exploration

Polar Explorer ice breaker cruise cutting through icy waters

8 nights 9 days Helsinki and Lapland with Ice breaker cruise

Cartoon illustration of Santa Claus village in Rovaniemi, Finland

7 nights 8 days Finland with Santa Claus village visit

Transfer from Rovaniemi airport to Rovaniemi city

Transfer from Rovaniemi city to Rovaniemi airport

Husky sled in snowy landscape at Santa Claus Village tour with 500 meters husky ride.

Santa Claus Village tour with 500-meter Husky ride and Lunch

Cab transfers from Rovaniemi to Kakkslauttanen arctic resort

Book your finland tour and activities with us.

We are a Finnish tour company offering the best Finland tour packages to travellers around the world.
Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique charm of Finland.
Explore the magical Northern Lights and the tranquility of Finnish lakelands, along with Santa Claus Village.
Choose from a diverse range of expertly crafted tour packages tailored to every traveler’s interests and preferences.
Whether you seek thrilling outdoor adventures or a peaceful retreat in nature, we have the perfect itinerary for you.
Our knowledgeable guides, handpicked accommodations, and seamless itineraries ensure an unparalleled experience.
Start planning your dream Finnish getaway today with FinlandTour.fi.

Data Analysis of Finland tours in recent years

Get finland tour updates on email.

We will send Finland tour updates on your email if you subscribe with us!

Select User Type

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

Work With Me

Sierra Leone
South Africa
United States
New Zealand
Falkland Islands
Netherlands
Accommodation
Electrical Gear
Essential Gear
Working Abroad
Blogging Resources

Europe , FINLAND , Western Europe

Ultimate 1 week finland itinerary.

So you’re looking to travel to Finland, but don’t know where in the country to spend your time?

Well you’ve come to the right place!

Following my fabulous trip to this country, I’m now bringing you my ultimate Finland itinerary with all the info you need to have an amazing week in this country.

From where to go, what to see and do while you’re there, through to how to travel between destinations and where to stay, this is the full lowdown on the ideal 1 week Finland itinerary…

What Is It Like Staying in a Glass Igloo?
15 Things to Know Before You Travel Finland
How to Plan the Best Christmas Trip to Lapland

Intro to this Finland Itinerary

Needless to say, you could easily spend a lot longer in Finland than a week and, with so much to see in this country, there’s no question you’d have a wonderful time doing just that.

However given the price of travelling in Finland, which it must be said is not unsubstantial! – you can learn more in this post I wrote about the costs of a week-long trip here – there’s not many travellers that tend to spend much longer in this country… even if they’d like to.

For a week really is a great time to get a wonderful flavour for Finland and to balance this against the costs of travelling here.

A week is also enough if visiting Finland as part of a longer Scandinavian trip – because there’s so much to see in this gorgeous region of Europe, that spending longer in one part will deny you the chance to see other amazing areas.

And so, once again it’s a question of balance.

With all this in mind, I thought a 1 week itinerary would be the best timeframe for a destination guide to this amazing country, although I have made suggestions for if you have longer too.

And on that note, here’s the ultimate 1 week Finland itinerary…

It’s arrival day, the day when you fly into Helsinki, so depending what time you get there will depend how much of the city you can see on day 1.

When it comes to arriving into Helsinki you’re probably going to get there by flying – arriving into the international airport (IATA code: HEL), which is a short distance from the capital’s centre.

Both Finnair, British Airways and a host of other airlines arrive into HEL and you can get the best prices by checking Skyscanner .

Once you arrive into Helsinki airport, it’s easy to catch public transport into the city centre and your accommodation.

Check out my list of the top 10 Helsinki Airbnbs if you want some self-catering accommodation, otherwise Hotel F6 , Hotel Helka or Scandic Helsinki Hub are great choices in this city.

Once again, depending what time you arrive, it might be nice to stroll around the area near your accommodation, before cracking on with a full day of sightseeing the next day.

Otherwise, with a longer amount of your time up your sleeve, you can begin ticking some of the top Helsinki attractions off your list – head to my day 2 tips to see what these are…

This is the day to tick some major sightseeing in Finland’s capital, Helsinki, off your list.

Thankfully, Helsinki has a very small city centre (home to just over half a million people) and is easy to navigate and enjoy on foot as part of a long jampacked day.

When it comes to museums, the top ones to see in this city are the National Museum, the Design Museum, the HAM Art Museum and the Amos Rex.

Following this, you should certainly head to see some of Helsinki’s iconic buildings including the Finlandia Hall, the National Theatre, the Central Library, the Government building and the Senate Square.

Many of these you can enter and explore, or else you can carry on to explore some of the city’s religious buildings including the Rock Church, the Chapel of Silence, the Helsinki Cathedral, the impressive St John’s and the Russian-influenced Uspenski Cathedral.

Don’t miss the statues of Havis Amanda and Marshal Mannerheim too while you’re at it!

For a refresher and some different after all the sightseeing, why not head to one of Helsinki’s main shopping streets, including Aleksanterinkatu, where you can visit the classic Finnish café, Fazer, and enjoy an elegant coffee and lots of chocolate!

Or, if you want something more substantial, then the Green Hippo group of cafes are a great veggie / vegan friendly option in Helsinki, as well as Fafa’s – something of a Finnish healthy-eating institution.

In the afternoon, it’s then all about heading out on a ferry into the bay of Helsinki to explore the UNESCO-listed fortress on the island of Suomenlinna .

On your way to the ferry (you can buy tickets there or use your public transport card), wander through the lovely Market Square and marvel at the bathers dipping in the ice-cold water (during winter at least) at Allas Sea Pool.

Then spend the rest of the day exploring the island of Suomenlinna, including the 2km walking trail around the island, which gives some stunning coastal views.

Head back to Helsinki and the trendy district of Punavuori for a casual dinner at local favourite Skiffer , followed by some drinks.

On day 3 of your Finland itinerary, it’s time to take a day trip out of the capital to see some of the beautiful areas around Helsinki.

And top of this day trip list is to Porvoo.

Thought to be the oldest town in Finland, dating back to the Medieval times, it’s the painted traditional buildings which are most famous here.

A fairytale spot, with old houses, cobbled streets, a historic cathedral and some charming small museums, taking a walking tour is a great way to explore this quintessential destination.

Otherwise, Porvoo offers some adventures in the natural world too.

With forests, rivers, parks, the sea and a number of islands all easily accessible from Porvoo, there’s loads of nature trails, not to mention kayaking opps, cycling possibilities and river cruises to enjoy in and around the town too.

From Helsinki, it takes around an hour to get to Porvoo either via the bus or by driving.

Alternatively, you can also take a guided tour here, which is probably the easiest and least stress-free option. Check out this half-day activity , which includes a full tour of the Old Town there.

More Time for Helsinki?

Why not extend this Finland itinerary by exploring more parts of the capital, including the local districts of Kallio and Vallila (home to some gorgeous and historic painted wooden houses), which both lie just outside the centre of the city.

Presuming you do only have a week in Finland and need to motor on, it’s time to head to your next destination on day 4 of your Finland itinerary.

A destination which is in the iconic north of the country… it is, of course, the fabled spot of Lapland!

Situated pretty far away, I’ve written a full post about how to travel from Helsinki to Lapland here , which I recommend you check out for the full lowdown.

After reading that post, you’ll also have decide where exactly in Lapland you want to head, as this region is huge and pretty spread out.

With a number of different resorts and towns to choose from, my top picks based on attractions and accessibility are Rovaniemi, Inari, Ivalo, Levi and Kemi

Check out these top-rated accommodation options in Rovaniemi if you want to stay near the official Santa Claus Village, otherwise if you need any more help deciding, check out this post I wrote about how to holiday in Lapland for less , or consider out my fav spot of Ranua.

Off the beaten track, Ranua is a great spot to get away from the tourist crowds and really will allow you to experience a truly authentic Finnish town, whilst still enjoying all the wonderful activities Lapland has to offer.

Accommodation-wise there, check out either Arctic Guesthouse & Igloos or Ranua Resort Holiday Villas for your stay here.

Anyway, once you do decide which part of Lapland you’re heading for, you can either take a long train journey (either during the day or overnight) to get there, or hop on a domestic flight up there.

Even the domestic flights, which are operated by Finnair, take an hour, so once you add in the check-in time, travel time to the airport and luggage collection, this is still a fairly sizeable travel day.

What this means is that even if you leave Helsinki in the morning, you’re not likely to arrive into Lapland until the afternoon, when you then have to settle into your new accommodation and this very different part of Finland.

If you’re travelling during winter and hiring snow gear in Lapland, then you’ll likely want to get this sorted following your arrival too.

And, if you still have some time left in the day, and the forecast is looking favourable, you may want to undertake a Northern Lights tour during your first evening in Lapland too!

Only possible during the winter months, just make sure you check the local Aurora app first – many parts of Lapland have their own free apps and this is a great way to ensure you undertake (and pay for) a Northern Lights tour, when you actually have the best chance of seeing them!

Day 5 & 6:

You now have 2 full days in Lapland stretching ahead of you and it pays to know that the time of year you’re visiting will hugely influence what sort of activities you get to enjoy.

For more details, check out my list of the top 10 things to do in Lapland , which details all my fav ones plus some of the iconic others, that take place during the winter months, which is when most people travel to Finland.

If you’re tight on a budget, then keeping your activities to a minimum is a great way to avoid costs spiralling out of control, so it really does pay to do your research and make your selections ahead of time.

As a base, 2-3 activities a day is plenty, as don’t forget enjoying a sauna, rolling in the snow or generally taking in the beauty of the landscape is delightful in and of itself.

Although that said, husky sledding or snowmobiling is hard to top!

Check out these top picks for more ideas…

Ranua Wildlife Park Guided Tour
Apukka Husky Adventure from Rovaniemi
Northern Lights Wilderness Tour with Camera

Thankfully, seeing Santa can be done at his official home in Rovaniemi for free.

Otherwise, if you undertake this Finland itinerary during the summer months, there’s lots of great hiking, lake swimming, boating and cycling to enjoy in the never-ending daylight you get this far north during May through July.

And finally, on your last day in Finland, it’s time to wrap up your Lapland activities and sadly head home.

If you’ve booked return flights, then you can head back to Helsinki and continue your adventures from there.

Otherwise, there are some international flights straight out of Lapland to some major European destinations, including London, which means if you’re heading home from Lapland and ending your Finland itinerary, this might be a better option for you.

More Time for Finland?

You can either explore more of Lapland, including the ski resorts further north or return to Helsinki and head out of the city to explore the middle lake regions of Finland, which have some stunning scenery and delightful walking opps.

Just enter your details below and I'll email it you - simple!

Information will be sent to the email provided above

Mini Travel Guide to Finland

When to Visit Finland?

In my opinion, the best time to enjoy your Finland Itinerary is definitely during the winter months between December and February, this is when you’ll see the most beautiful snow coverage and get this winter wonderland at its most scenic.

Visit Finland during December for the full festive experience, or consider January or February for cheaper winter rates, albeit with lower temperatures.

How to Travel to Finland?

Direct flights with Finnair from Helsinki arrive at all the Lapland airports – yes there’s more than one. Learn more in this article I wrote.

Otherwise, you can also fly direct to Lapland’s main airport from London and a few other major European cities.

From the best deals on all flights, I highly suggest checking out Skyscanner .

5 Essential Packing Items for a Finland Winter Trip

Good Camera
Thermal Socks
Hand & Feet Warmers

Learn more in this article I wrote all about what to pack for a winter trip to Finland .

Travel Insurance for Finland

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there it is, my ultimate Finland itinerary for 1 week travelling in this country.

Hopefully, it will help you enjoy an amazing trip to this country like I did.

Have you got any suggestions to add to the itinerary?

Don’t hesitate to drop them into the comments below… I’d love to hear them!

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ Ultimate 1 Week Finland Itinerary ”

I loved your article on 1 week itinerary to see highlights of Finland . Thanks.

Great to hear Vilas! Many thanks for your comments, best wishes Steph 🙂

I loved reading your Finland itinerary! It’s given me so many ideas for things to do when I visit Finland next winter. I’m especially interested in visiting Helsinki Cathedral, taking a sauna, going on a dog sledding tour, and seeing the Northern Lights. Thanks for sharing your tips and recommendations!

So great to hear this Ferida… enjoy! Steph 🙂

Finland Tours & Trips from Helsinki

Find your perfect adventure! We have 25 tours of Finland that start in Helsinki, Finland. The most popular month is August, and tour lengths range between 2 and 10 days.

25 Finland tour packages from Helsinki with 21 reviews

Northern Lights

Midnight Sun – 7 Days in Lapland

Super interesting listening to his facts about everything in sight. He was super friendly and accommodating.

In-depth Cultural

Small Group Helsinki and South Karelia in 5 days (Guaranteed departure)

Everything was easy. Transfer drivers were on time at each stop. The train rides to Lappeenranta and back were very comfortable.

€100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Finnish Lapland in Winter

Excellent trip in the wonderful outdoors!

Highlights of Helsinki & Lappeenranta - 5 Days

Helsinki & South Karelia Express - 5 Day

Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Finland Adventure to Lapland

Tolle und eindrückliche Reise

Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Helsinki - Turku - Tampere

Tailor-Made Private Finland Tour to Fairy Tale Lapland

Self-drive Tour Helsinki - Kuhmo With Happy Holidays Memories

Rovaniemi: The Northern Lights - 2 days

Folkways Finland

Finland in 5 days - Covering Helsinki and Rovaniemi

Metropolis Meets Wilderness: Experience a vibrant Helsinki and the serenity of Finnish nature.

The Land of Saunas: Uncover the exciting city of Helsinki and experience various Saunas

The Northern Lights of Finland (2024)

What people love about finland tours from helsinki.

Our experience with Nordic Unique was great. As a little older group some tours did not appeal to us and they were great about rearranging the itinerary. There could have been a little more communication prior to the trip. I would also suggest some kayaks at the lake. Our guide Matthias (Niales) was awesome!! He was patient, kind, knowledgeable and a great cook.

This was a lovely tour that I would recommend to anyone who is new to Finland. Everything was easy. Transfer drivers were on time at each stop. Alex, the tour director, made everyone feel welcome and important. His knowledge of the Nordic and Baltic states is amazing. And he seems to be fluent in just about every European language. The local Helsinki guide (I’m embarrassed to say I forget her name) was also knowledgeable and very happy to answer questions. The train rides to Lappeenranta and back were very comfortable. In Lappeenranta I was particularly spoiled as I was the only person for this leg of the tour, so I had the guide to myself. Arja was a delight. As a long time resident and business owner of the town, she knew it inside out. We strolled like old friends through the streets and pathways as I soaked up the beautiful scenery, culture and history of the this beautiful land. I would highly recommend this tour for the relaxing and informative time it provides.

Tours starting from Helsinki

Helsinki to Helsinki tours (16)
Helsinki to Rovaniemi tours (5)
Explorer from Helsinki (18)
Private from Helsinki (11)
Family from Helsinki (10)
Self-Guided from Helsinki (9)
Northern Lights from Helsinki (5)
Finland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

Discover TourRadar

USA East Coast Tours
Uganda Safari
Laos and Thailand December 2024 tours
Patagonia Santiago tours
Mekong Delta Summer tours
Eastern Europe Luxury tours
Western Europe Budget tours

What are you looking for?

Our epic 3 week finland road trip itinerary: south to north.

As part of our epic 3 month adventure around Scandinavia , we had just less than 3 weeks to spend in Finland.

Famed as the home to Lapland and, more importantly, Santa Claus, we were very excited to visit!

And with so much time to spare, we planned out a truly epic trip , driving from Helsinki to Lapland, taking us from the deep south to the northernmost point at the border with Norway.

Along the way, we wild camped almost every night, drove through stunning Finnish Lakeland , hunted the northern lights and even stayed in some wondrous igloo hotels .

Sound exciting?

Well, it was!

And I’m keen to share with you our exact 3 week Finland road trip itinerary, which can hopefully help you in planning your own route here.

Our Finland road trip video guide

Interactive map of our Finland road trip itinerary

Travellerspoint

Pssst, do you need car rental for your Finland road trip? Then check out Discover Cars for the best prices!

Before I get stuck in, I just want to make it clear that, though this route is 95% the one we followed, we did have to alter course slightly to head up into Norway and get more propane gas, before returning to complete the rest of our route.

Also, our visit to Ranua Wildlife Park (on day 11) actually happened a couple weeks later when we returned to Finland with friends.

However, if that hadn't been the case, we would have slotted it in perfectly with where it is located on the route below.

So besides these 2 minor tweaks, the route is exactly the one we followed.

Lasting 19 days, so just shy of 3 weeks, you can easily lengthen some of the days and stop at a few other incredible spots in Finland.

So, without further ado, let’s get stuck in!

Week 1 In Finland

Day 1: helsinki to sipoonkorpi national park.

Though it’s the capital city, we didn’t actually spend any time in Helsinki.

Our ferry from Tallinn (Estonia) arrived quite late and there were no sites in Helsinki that we were particularly interested in seeing.

So, we decided to start our journey north and spend the night in the Sipoonkorpi National Park.

The drive isn’t very far, in fact many people visiting Helsinki likely take day trips out here.

We spent our night camping here and in the morning took a nice leisurely walk through the forest.

Day 2: Sipoonkorpi National Park to Lake Päijänne

As the 2nd largest lake in Finland, we were excited to head north here and take our first looks at the famous Finnish Lakeland .

We were not disappointed as this day was one of our most scenic drives in Finland.

From Google Maps, Lake Paijanne looks like hundreds of smaller lakes, because it is broken up by pieces of land all over.

This means that the roads and bridges cross over or next to large stretches of open lake, and the drive really is beautiful.

This night we camped at this spot here .

Oh yeah, before heading north, I recommend taking a detour to the small town of Porvoo.

We spent a few hours roaming the town, enjoying a local cafe and taking in the old wooden storehouses on the river there.

Day 3: Lake Päijänne to Mikkeli

There were no particular towns or attractions on the roads across to Mikeli, but the most enjoyable part of the day was just taking in the surroundings.

As one of my top tips below, I recommend taking the longer, less-trafficked roads when making your way through Finland.

Do exactly that here, and enjoy stopping off at the many picture-perfect spots to grab a few Instagram shots .

Day 4: Mikkeli to Savonlinna

Our main reason for heading to Savonlinna was to visit Olavinlinna , a well-maintained 15th century castle.

Located in the middle of a lake, it is a really cool site and is the northernmost stone fortress in the world.

The town of Savonlinna is also very charming, certainly one of the nicest places in Finland .

I highly recommend taking the longer route between Mikkeli and Savonlinna, heading down route 62.

This is one of the most famous and popular roads in Finnish Lakeland as it takes you right through Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland.

Much of the road is made up of bridges stretching over the lake, and this was perhaps my favourite day of driving in this part of Finland.

One random spot we stopped off at to walk to was Kummakavi .

This is a large boulder, perched precariously upon another rock below, making for one of the strangest yet most intriguing tourist spots in Finland.

Day 5: Savonlinna to Ukko-Koli

Before saying goodbye to the breathtaking Lake Saimaa, take the longer road east from Savonlinna towards Punkaharju Ridge Area .

It’s one of the best driving routes in Lakeland and well worth heading to.

After this, we headed north to Ukko-Koli , which is a scenic viewpoint located high in the Koli National Park.

Though it was only a few hundred metres higher than the lakes below, this is the first time we encountered snow in Finland.

By the time we reached the winding road up to the visitor centre, it seemed we had entered into a winter wonderland.

It makes sense that this is a popular ski resort, and to get to the viewpoint you actually park up and take a lift up to the base of the ski camp.

It’s then only a short walk to the viewpoint and you can take a number of other walking trails when here.

The views were incredible, and one of the highpoints of our Finland road trip.

Read Also: The Best Backpacking Destinations In The World (Finland is one of them!)

Day 6: Ukko-Koli to Tiilikkajärvi National Park

There are national parks all over Finland, and the one we ended up in on this day was Tiilikkajärvi.

If you’re touring Finland, then I recommend stopping here as well.

There is a big car park area, and even public toilets to use!

They have a fire pit by the lake and it’s even possible to call up and hire out the sauna there.

It’s also the starting point for a circular trail that goes around the lake.

In the summer months, I imagine this is a really great spot for berry picking and wild lake swimming.

It wouldn’t let me mark the exact spot on Google Maps, but the entrance is just to the right of this point here .

Day 7: Tiilikkajärvi National Park to Laahtanen

This wasn’t a particularly long day of driving, so we enjoyed a late start, and a lengthy stop off in the small town of Kajaani.

Here, you see the remains of Kajaani Castle; which is little more than a few remaining stone walls.

The road into town passes through the castle remains, so it’s not possible to walk in it.

Still, I really liked this little town, in particular Cafe Mokka , which was a great place to get some work done!

Week 2 In Finland

Day 8: laahtanen to kuusamon portti hotel.

After one too many nights spent wild camping, and in desperate need of a good hot shower, we figured it was time to stay at an official campsite for the night.

However, it’s not easy in October when there are no other campervans around and almost all campsites have shut down for the winter!

Luckily for us, we found ourselves ending near the Kuusamon Portti Hotel , one of the few resorts still open, and who also offered spots for campervans.

If you find yourself passing by this area, then I highly recommend staying here, it was actually one of the highlights of our day!

The couple running it are so friendly and it really is a lovely place to stay.

The other most noteworthy stop of the day was very unexpected!

At the side of the road, here , there is a giant field covered in hundreds of “Silent People” .

The owner of the land has filled the area with rows and rows of wooden people, all dressed in real clothing.

It’s really quite bizarre, and caused us to double take as we passed it by.

Like us, I recommend returning and checking it out up close.

Day 9: Kuusamon Portti Hotel to Oulanka National Park

Though this day wasn’t filled with very much distance to cover, we still ended up spending a good few hours driving.

Wel, we headed WELL off the main road and went high up into the mountains, entering a winter wonderland.

If you take the Route 8694 off the E10, it heads up higher into the mountains, and the winding, narrow roads are a lot of fun and the views are great.

If you visit at a similar time to us, then you might also find it covered in snow.

After heading past Juuma (a small town) we found a secluded camping spot at the side of the road well away from other houses, and it was great!

Sure, we were a little concerned about Russian bears and wolverines coming through the forest to eat us, but what’s life without a little excitement?

Day 10: Oulanka National Park to Salla

Oulanka National Park is another beautiful park, well worth visiting if it falls on your route.

But for us, the highlight of this day was a visit to the Salla Reindeer Park , located just south of Salla.

Once again, we were the only visitors, able to take a long walk through the snowy forests where the reindeer live.

They also offer the chance to meet huskies at certain times of the year and have an on-site nature exhibit that was quite cool.

That is, as long as you’re happy to see a range of stuffed animals, including birds, reindeer and lynx.

Day 11: Salla to Ranua Wildlife Park

polar bear at ruana wildlife park in finland

Rather than heading straight to Rovaniemi from Salla, it’s worth first heading southwest to the Ranua Wildlife Park .

We visited during our second trip into Finland in November, and it was a really unique experience.

Also a lot cheaper than other wildlife parks we’ve been to around the world, despite being home to a really cool array of animals.

For me, I was most excited to see polar bears, and I was not disappointed.

As well as this, they have dozens of other animals such as moose, wolves, reindeer, owls and beavers.

A visit here takes a couple of hours, just remember to wrap up warm as it can get cold out on the trail!

Day 12: Ranua Wildlife Park to Rovaniemi

wild about lapaland tour when roadtripping finland

By this point of your time in Finland, you are nicely inside the zone where you have good chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

That’s why, on our first night in Rovaniemi we decided to wild camp in hopes of seeing them.

We ended up camping on the shores of Lake Rukajarvi, at this spot here .

Here, you’ll find toilets, a large car park, a lake to swim in (if you’re that way inclined) and a hut for having fires and cooking food.

It seemed like the perfect place to see the Northern Lights, as you can chill by the fire, warm and cosy whilst keeping a keen eye on the sky.

It turns out we’re not the first to have this idea and it’s actually one of the most popular spots where tour companies come to help people find the Northern Lights !

So, if you are road tripping Lapland, then it’s definitely a great spot to camp for the night.

We also found out that, in the depths of winter when the lake freezes over, it’s a popular ice fishing spot as well.

On our second visit here in November, just 3 weeks after our first, the lake had completely frozen over and we went for a walk out on it!

Day 13: Day in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is one of the most popular places to visit in Finland , and this is unsurprising as it’s also the capital of Lapland.

Some refer to it as the “gateway to the Arctic Circle”, as it is situated right on the border.

From here, you can go on all kinds of tours and take part in many of Finland's most famous activities.

Such as husky rides, reindeer visits and northern lights tours.

With so many things to do in Rovaniemi , we ended up needing three full days here.

Here’s what we got up to:

Went on a husky ride with Bearhill Husky
Stayed in the stunning Arctic Treehouse Hotel
Stayed in a glass igloo at the Arctic Snow Hotel
Went on a Northern Lights wilderness tour
Took part in the official Christmas opening ceremony at Santa Park (on our second visit in November)
Visited Santa Park and met the elves and MUCH MORE! (Also on our second visit in November)

Day 14: Day in Rovaniemi

This day was spent doing many of the activities listed above.

We also took some time to visit the city itself, which isn’t particularly big, but still a great place to pick up a few bits we needed for the rest of our trip.

We also got some work done at Coffee House Rovaniemi , which I highly recommend visiting.

Week 3 In Finland

Day 15: final day in rovaniemi.

Rovaniemi city in Lapland province in northern Finland

You get the idea …

If you plan on heading to Rovaniemi in the winter months, you should check out Cazzy’s complete guide to spending Christmas in Lapland .

Day 16: Rovaniemi to Pyhän Asteli

After staying at two amazing glass igloo hotels , it was time for us to jump back in the camper and head off on the road again.

But not for long, as that night we stayed at yet another igloo, this time Phyan Asteli .

Located a couple hundred kilometres west, we suddenly re-entered snowy Lapland and instantly fell in love with this area!

It’s a popular ski region and thousands flock here every year from late November onwards when the ski season gets underway.

For us, it was virtually empty so we had an incredible night stay, which you can read more about here.

The drive here is really cool as well.

Day 17: Pyhan Asteli to Levi

In our quest to see the elusive Northern Lights, we headed even further north, this time up to the Northern Lights Ranch , located just outside the popular city of Levi.

Which is once again one of the best places to visit in Lapland for skiing and a range of other winter activities.

I would 100% recommend checking out the Northern Lights Ranch, as their accommodation is amazing, located far enough outside of Levi to see the Northern Lights without light pollution.

Which we did, whilst chilling in our own private hot tub!

On the way up, we also stopped off at the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine .

It’s a really quirky thing to do, offering you the chance to dig out your own amethysts, in the traditional way they have been doing it here for generations.

You even get to keep one amethyst to take home, so long as it fits within your fist.

Read more about our experience at the Amethsyt Mine in Finland here .

Day 18: Levi to Inari

At this point in our trip, we actually had to make a 2 day detour all the way north to Alta (in Norway) to refill our propane gas tanks.

It turns out you can only refill Finnish LPG tanks in Finland, and we had just run out!

Our route cut back into Finland to Lake Inari, but it’s much easier just to drive straight between the two.

It turns out that Inari is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Northern Lapland as it offers some great opportunities for seeing the Northern Lights.

That night, we camped in a car park and walked to a fire pit ( located here ), just over a wonderful bridge with rapids flowing below.

With snow falling all around, we roasted sausages and ate them with sinappi mustard, in true Finnish tradition.

This was one of my top 3 wild camping spots, and it turns out this is another of the really popular spots to see the Northern Lights in Finland .

Whilst there, a few tour vans came in the night and parked up next to us, walking down to the fire pit to change their luck at seeing the Auroras.

Day 19: Inari to Kirkenes

The final day of our Finland itinerary took us north, along the shores of the massive Lake Inari (the third biggest lake in Finland) all the way across the border and up into Kirkenes.

There are lots of great photos pots to stop off at along the way and if you look at a map, the roads are surrounded on all sides by either lake or different national parks; a great way to end your road trip in Finland.

Other places to add to your Finland itinerary

As it’s such a big country, there are plenty of things to do in Finland , that we never got the chance to experience.

Based on our research, here’s a few added places in Finland we would love to visit, and will hope to do next time we return …

Archipelago National Park
Aland Islands

If you’ve visited Finland and have any places to recommend, let us know in the comments below so we can bookmark them for the future.

My 5 top tips for road tripping Finland

1. stock up on gas.

One issue we never anticipated in Finland was running out of gas.

Typically, you can visit an LPG station in most countries in Europe and they will be able to refill your containers.

Yes, many countries use different taps to fill the tanks so you should have adaptors for yours, however, this is not the case in Finland.

After lots of digging around, it turns out that Finnish gas stations only let you refill propane gas tanks if they are Finnish tanks.

It took a stupidly long amount of time for someone to tell us this, and anyway, the last thing you want is to run out of gas in northern Finland, especially if winter is fast approaching!

With nighttime temperatures of - 25 degrees Celisus, you need gas to warm your caravan.

In order to get some, we had to alter our route and head north from Levi into Alta (Norway) and then cut back down again to continue our Finnish road trip.

So, as a word of warning, have enough gas to last for your expected time in Finland.

Otherwise, the only alternative is to buy a Finnish tank of gas which costs more than 100 Euros.

2. Make use of wild camping

Without a doubt, one of the best parts of our entire road trip in Finland was the ability to wild camp.

Just like Sweden and Norway, Finland has the Right To Roam in their constitution which permits wild camping, as long as you follow a few key guidelines .

What’s great is all across Finland they have hundreds of purpose built camping spots, most with fires, toilets and chopped, dry wood.

Not only will wild camping save you a lot of money, it means you get to spend your nights sat round a campfire, enjoying the incredible surroundings and, hopefully, the Northern Lights.

Read More: How To Convert A Campervan (that's what we've done! :D )

3. Head off the main roads wherever possible

Compared to many European countries, Finland doesn’t actually have any major, multi-lane motorways.

Meaning, you are always pretty close to nature and able to enjoy spectacular beauty right at the side of the road.

However, instead of always following the quickest route north (or south), I recommend taking the smaller, more winding roads.

These will oftentimes take you through truly dramatic landscapes where few other cars are.

4. Visit in off-peak seasons

Or 3 week Finland road trip took place in the middle of October, which is firmly off-peak.

For our entire drive north from Helsinki to Rovaniemi , we only saw perhaps 2 or 3 other campervans on the road, and they were all headed south.

Better yet, not once did we stay in a wild camping spot and have any other campervans there, it was just us.

It was like we had the whole country to ourselves and it was incredible.

It also meant that there was very little traffic anywhere, so we had long leisurely drives everyday without traffic and without the need to feel like we had to reach a destination early.

The only issue you may face is that some attractions will be closed, and also that very few campsites are available.

That being said, we still found a few campsites, and scheduled to stay in one every 3 or 5 nights, depending on whether we needed access to any shower or charging facilities.

Oh yes, and make sure that, if you do plan to visit Finland in winter, that you have proper winter tyres! These are a must, especially when driving in Lapland if the snow comes earlier than expected, which it did in 2019 for us.

5. Avoid driving once the sun sets

One of the most dangerous times to drive in Finland is once the sun starts setting, because this is when moose come out to start feeding.

Most main roads in Finland aren’t lit by lights, so you might not see a moose until the last second when it’s too late.

Besides this, it can get very cold in Finland once the sun goes in, especially if you are up north in late autumn/winter time.

Meaning the roads can get icier and far more dangerous.

Personally, I never really liked driving at this time and always avoided it; much preferring to spend time unwinding by a campfire!

I hope you can tell from this that we really did love Finland .

I particularly love how diverse it is, where in the southwest the landscape is covered in gorgeous lakes and forests and in the north you are greeted by snowy Lapland and Northern Lights.

Of course, much of the latter two points will depend on which time of the year you visit!

If you have any other tips for road tripping Finland or think I missed off any great Finnish destinations or attractions, just leave a comment below .

For more help planning your own Finland road trip itinerary, here are some useful guides we published:

21 Incredible Things To Do In Finland
Finnish Lakeland: Our Ultimate Travel Guide
Christmas In Lapland: Everything You Need To Know

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

IMAGES

Complete Scandinavia
Detailed Map Of Finland
Physical Features Map Of Finland
The Ultimate 7 Day Finnish Lapland Itinerary for Winter + Map and Tips
Map of Finland
Finland Map

VIDEO

Summer 2023
Explore Finland in Winter
Finland tour #1 #1000subscriber
Finland Tourist Locations on GeoGuessr
Reason to travel to Finland in winter
Finland europe #europe #map #finland #colour

COMMENTS

Your Official Finland Travel Guide
Journey: Sauna meets design - the Finnish way. 0°C. Helsinki region: cloudy. Use this guide to plan a trip to Finland and immerse yourself in the country's nature, forests, lakes and culture.
The Ultimate 7 Day Finland Itinerary for Winter
Map of 7 Day Finland Winter Itinerary. To help you visualise this itinerary we've put together a map, which you can also see on Google ... If you'd like a guided tour of Finland, I can recommend checking out the options on TourRadar for Finland here, they have lots of tours at different prices from many operators, so you can choose one that ...
14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Finland (+Map)
Here's a look at the top tourist attractions in Finland: On this Page. 14. Old Rauma. 14. Old Rauma. Eevi Alanissi / Flickr. The small city of Rauma was founded in the 1300's, making it one of the most ancient towns in Finland.
Finland Tours: Things to Do and When to Visit Finland
Call us toll free at 800.340.5158. Enjoy crisp Nordic air, pristine landscapes, and cutting-edge cities on a tour of Finland with Collette. Learn more about our available Finland packages.
The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Finland Itinerary (Winter or Summer)
Day 5 - Tampere. On your 5th day in Finland, a quick hour-and-a-half train from Turku will bring you on a day trip to the quirky city of Tampere. Tampere is the second biggest city in Finland with a lot to offer but is regularly missed by tourists, making it a great destination for any trip to Finland off the beaten path.
Finland map & highlights
Finland's highlights sparkle like fairly lights across Lapland's snowscapes, the thick Taiga forest and its thousands of lakes. Click on our interactive Finland map to discover some of the best places to visit in both summer and winter, whether you're seeking wolverines, wild bears, snowshoeing or Sami hospitality. Home \ Europe \ Finland.
10 Best Finland Tours & Trips 2024/2025
Browse the best tours in Finland with 384 reviews visiting places like Rovaniemi and Helsinki. All Major Brands. Biggest selection. Best Prices. Shop 2,500 operators. ... View Map . Explorer ; Family ; Christmas & New Year +1 Finland in 5 days - Covering Helsinki and Rovaniemi ...
10 Best 7 Day Finland Tours & Trips
Find the best 7 day tours to Finland with TourRadar. Choose from 63 tours with 126 real tour reviews. Book now and save with TourRadar.com! Shop 2,500 operators. 4.5 stars on (6,064 reviews) ... View Map . Northern Lights ; Family ; Christmas & New Year +1 Magic of Finland & Arctic Adventure with Northern Lights & Glass Igloo ...
The BEST Finland Tours and Things to Do in 2024
Our most recommended things to do in Finland. 1. Rovaniemi: Marvel at the Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls. Discover the Korouoma Canyon, a 30-kilometer-long and 130-meter-deep canyon located southeast of Rovaniemi which offers breathtaking scenery all year round. During the winter, admire the stunning sight of waterfalls that have ...
10 Best Fully Guided Tours in Finland 2024/2025
Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Finland. Find the right fully guided tour for you in Finland. There are 59 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 10 days. The month with the most departures is August, making it the most popular time to visit Finland.
Finland Road Trip Itinerary
1. Day in Rovaniemi: The next stop on your road tri pin Finland is Rovaniemi, the city of Santa Claus On your first day, spend most of your time in Santa Claus Village (or with smaller kids in SantaPark ), visit a husky farm, and ride a snowmobile. Monument on Lordi's Square. 2.
Tourism Guide Finland
Finland has it all. From the incredible scattering of islands in Europe's largest archipelago, to the hilly countryside of Finnish Lapland, the landscape of Finland is a pristine paradise for nature lovers.With midnight sun in the summer, and the ephemeral allure of the Northern Lights in the winter, Finland possesses a wealth of rare beauty, a truly distinctive ambience.
Finland Summer Nature Tour
Finland Summer Nature Tour - 14 Days. View Map. Outdoorsy types will love this stunning tour of Finland that takes place during the long days of summertime. The adventure begins in the stylish capital, Helsinki, and Finland's oldest city, Turku, where you'll participate in a range of activities in a nearby archipelago facing Sweden.
Finland Tours & Trips
Discover Finland, from the cool capital of Helsinki to Lapland, the 'official home of Santa Claus' and a true winter wonderland, on a guided tour. You can choose from 24 guided coach and small group adventure tours to explore the beauty of Finland and neighbouring Scandinavian countries. Cross the Arctic Circle, travel pristine snowscapes on foot, snowmobile or dog sled and witness the ...
The 9 Best Finland Tours For Unforgettable ...
They focus on offering tailor-made tours to ensure their clients realize their dream holidays regardless of budget, group size or travel style. In a nutshell. More than just an Aurora-hunting trip, this 4-Day Finland Northern Lights Tour combines cultural interaction and active holidays in one short and nifty package.
Free Self-Guided Helsinki Walking Tour by a Finn (with Map!)
15. National Museum of Finland. The National Museum of Finland is one of the notable points of interest on this free self-guided walking tour of Helsinki. Designed by architects Herman Gesellius, Armas Lindgren, and Eliel Saarinen, and completed in 1910, it is a striking example of Finnish National Romanticism.
Local Finnish tour company
As a local Finnish tour company, we have expertise in organising customised as well as group Finland tour packages. We have contracted prices for hotels, our own car fleets, and vendor tie-ups to make your Finland tour hassle free and perfect. If you book your Finland tour with finlandtour.fi, you will get the best prices, expertise, knowledge ...
Ultimate 1 Week Finland Itinerary
Day 3: On day 3 of your Finland itinerary, it's time to take a day trip out of the capital to see some of the beautiful areas around Helsinki. And top of this day trip list is to Porvoo. Thought to be the oldest town in Finland, dating back to the Medieval times, it's the painted traditional buildings which are most famous here.
10 Best Finland Tours & Trips from Helsinki
Midnight Sun - 7 Days in Lapland. 4.5 (4 reviews) As a little older group some tours did not appeal to us and they were great about rearranging the itinerary. Destinations. Helsinki, Rovaniemi +3 more. Age Range. 14 to 80 year olds. Country Region.
Our Epic 3 Week Finland Road Trip Itinerary: South To North!
March 24, 2022. From Helsinki in the south to Inari in the north, our epic 3 week Finland road trip itinerary allowed us to see almost all of the Finland's best sites! As part of our epic 3 month adventure around Scandinavia, we had just less than 3 weeks to spend in Finland.
2 Weeks in Finland
Your summer adventure in Finland begins with three days in Helsinki. You'll have ample time to tour the 18th-century Swedish sea fortress of Suomenlinna, wander the medieval streets of Porvoo, and hike in the Archipelago Sea.After a relaxing evening on a sauna tour, a train brings you to Finland's oldest city, Turku.Get to know the city through the eyes of a local guide, then switch gears and ...
Finland Tours
10 days from $15,820. View this itinerary. New. The Treasures of Finnish Lakeland. Helsinki, Tampere, Jyvaskyla, Lahti, Lake Tuusula. Experience Europe's largest lakes district, taking in the natural & cultural delights of Finnish Lakeland. 10 days from $6,728. View this itinerary.
Active Finland Summer Adventure: Helsinki, Turku & Rovaniemi
The idea of visiting Finland might conjure up images of ice and snow, but this 10-day itinerary reveals the beauty of the Nordic country in the summertime. Spend time biking and walking around coastal Helsinki and Turku and explore the largest archipelago in the world. Then, take the train north to Rovaniemi in Lapland, and hike, canoe, and photograph your way through the unending days of ...

The Ultimate 7 Day Finland Itinerary for Winter

Finland Itinerary for Winter

Day 1: Helsinki

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Day 2: Helsinki

How to Get to Rovaniemi from Helsinki

Day 3: Rovaniemi

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi

Day 4: Rovaniemi

Day 5: Rovaniemi

Hiking / Snowshoeing

Ice Fishing

Snowmobiling

Husky Sledding

Visiting an Amethyst mine

Days 6 & 7: Head North

Where to stay in Saariselka

Where to stay in Kittilä

Map of 7 Day Finland Winter Itinerary

Finland Itinerary Overview

How to Get Around Finland in Winter

Tours of Finland in Winter

Further Reading for Visiting Finland in Winter

There are 22 comments on this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Finland

14. Old Rauma

13. Turku Castle

12. Helsinki Cathedral

11. Sami Culture in Inari

10. Lake Saimaa

9. Suomenlinna Fortress

8. Urho Kekkonen National Park

7. Skiing in Levi

6. Olavinlinna Castle

5. Old Porvoo

4. Experience a Finnish Sauna

3. Aland Islands

2. Snow Castle of Kemi

1. Northern Lights in Lapland

Map of Things to Do in Finland

Share this post:

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

10 Most Beautiful Lakes in Finland

10 Best Places to Visit in Finland

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Europe

6 Most Beautiful Regions in Finland

27 Top Tourist Attractions in Helsinki

17 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

15 Best Cities to Visit in Finland

10 Most Beautiful National Parks Finland

22 Top Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia

Get the Hottest Deals First!

What did Finland have in store for Tour Manager Kristen?

Destination Must-See's

Senate Square

Lapland Region

The Northern Lights of Finland

Destination Must-Do's

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

Husky Safari

Reindeer Safari

Santa's Home

Expert Advice

Featured Tours to Finland

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Talk to an Expert

View or Download

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Finland Itinerary (Winter or Summer)

How Many Days in Finland?

Getting To & Around Finland

Getting Around Finland

5 to 7-Day Finland Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Helsinki

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Day 2 – Helsinki

Day 3 – Porvoo

Day 4 – Turku

Where to Stay in Turku

Day 5 – Tampere