Helsinki & Rovaniemi 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Fly to Helsinki

Depart from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) and fly to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL).

Enjoy the scenic flight to the Finnish capital.

Remember to check in online and arrive at the airport with sufficient time before your flight.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel in the city center and settle in.

Take some time to freshen up before beginning your Helsinki exploration.

Helsinki Central Station

Visit the Helsinki Central Railway Station, a monumental landmark designed by Eliel Saarinen.

Admire its unique granite walls, clock tower, and statues.

This station is a hub for public transport and a beautiful example of Finnish architecture.

National Museum of Finland

Immerse yourself in Finnish history from medieval times to the 19th century.

The museum's unique exhibits tell the story of over 1000 years of life in Finland.

Check for special exhibitions. Closing times may vary in December.

Dinner in Kallio

Enjoy a casual dinner in the trendy Kallio district, known for its diverse eateries and lively atmosphere.

Try traditional Finnish comfort food or international cuisine.

Helsinki Tram System Tour

Experience Helsinki like a local by taking a ride on the efficient tram system.

Choose a scenic route, like tram 2 or 3, to see many of the city's main sights.

Purchase a day ticket for unlimited rides. It's a great way to get an overview of the city.

Senate Square & Cathedral

Explore the iconic Senate Square and its surrounding neoclassical buildings, dominated by the majestic Helsinki Cathedral.

This is a central landmark and perfect for photos.

The square is often home to seasonal markets, especially in December.

Lunch at Old Market Hall

Enjoy lunch at the historic Old Market Hall (Vanha Kauppahalli), offering a variety of Finnish delicacies, fresh produce, and international foods.

Helsinki Design District

Wander through the Helsinki Design District, a vibrant area filled with design shops, art galleries, antique stores, and fashion boutiques. Discover unique Finnish design.

A great place for unique souvenirs or just to admire Finnish creativity.

Traditional Finnish Sauna

Experience an essential part of Finnish culture with a traditional public sauna session.

Relax and rejuvenate in the warmth.

Public saunas often have separate times or sections for men and women. Bring your swimsuit and towel.

Pre-Christmas Eve Dinner

Enjoy a festive dinner in a cozy Helsinki restaurant, savoring the atmosphere before the big Christmas celebrations begin.

Consider a restaurant offering seasonal Finnish dishes.

Morning Leisure & Departure Prep

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel, perhaps do some last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot in Helsinki.

Hotel Checkout

Check out from your hotel in Helsinki.

You can store your luggage at the hotel or at Helsinki Central Railway Station until your departure.

Lunch near Station

Have a convenient lunch near Helsinki Central Railway Station before boarding your train to Rovaniemi.

Board Santa Claus Express

Embark on the Finnish double-decker night train, the Santa Claus Express, from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. Experience the magic of traveling through the snowy landscape on Christmas Eve.

Book a private sleeping cabin for comfort. The train has dining cars. This is an overnight journey, you will arrive in Rovaniemi on the morning of December 25th.

Christmas Eve on Santa Claus Express

Enjoy the unique experience of Christmas Eve aboard the Santa Claus Express.

Dine in the restaurant car, relax in your cabin, and watch the winter scenery pass by as you head north.

Santa Claus Village

Spend a magical Christmas Day exploring Santa Claus Village.

Cross the Arctic Circle, meet Santa in his office, and send postcards from Santa's official Post Office. This Google Places attraction, 'Weihnachtsdorf', is the heart of Christmas in Lapland.

Entry to the village is free, but specific activities like meeting Santa privately or buying souvenirs have individual costs. Check opening hours for Christmas Day.

Festive Christmas Lunch

Enjoy a festive Christmas lunch at one of the cozy restaurants within or near Santa Claus Village, offering traditional Finnish or international Christmas dishes.

Reindeer Sleigh Ride

Experience a serene and traditional reindeer sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests, a quintessential Lapland adventure.

Several local operators, like StayLapland or Lapland Safaris, offer these tours.

Christmas Dinner

Savor a special Christmas dinner at a local restaurant in Rovaniemi, perhaps trying some Lappish delicacies or a traditional festive menu.

Northern Lights Hunt

Embark on a guided evening tour away from city lights into the dark wilderness, increasing your chances of witnessing the magnificent Aurora Borealis dance across the Arctic sky.

Companies like Book Lapland or StayLapland specialize in these tours.

Snowmobile Safari

Experience the exhilaration of a snowmobile safari through the breathtaking snowy landscapes surrounding Rovaniemi.

Guided tours often include gear and instructions. Providers like StayLapland or Lapland Safaris offer various options.

Lunch in Rovaniemi

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local restaurant in Rovaniemi city center, perhaps trying some traditional Finnish soup or a hearty reindeer burger.

Arktikum Museum & Science Centre

Delve into the Arctic region's history, culture, and nature at the Arktikum, which houses both the Provincial Museum of Lapland and an Arctic Science Centre.

This Tripadvisor/Google Places attraction provides fascinating insights into life in the North.

Souvenir Shopping & Free Time

Take some time to browse Rovaniemi's shops for unique Finnish and Lappish souvenirs, from handmade crafts to local delicacies, or enjoy some relaxing free time.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Rovaniemi, reflecting on your unforgettable Arctic adventures.