Finland 7 Day Itinerary

Finland Travel Itinerary: 7 Days of Nordic Charm

Day 1: Arrival in Helsinki

  • Arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)
  • Take a taxi or bus (€5-10) to your accommodation
  • Visit the Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral (free admission)
  • Explore the Old Market Hall for traditional Finnish food and souvenirs
  • Try some traditional Finnish cuisine like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) or salmiakki (salty licorice)

Day 2: Helsinki

  • Visit the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (€7 admission, free ferry from Market Square)
  • Explore the Design District Helsinki, including the Design Museum (€10 admission)
  • Walk through the Esplanade Park and admire the beautiful architecture
  • Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna experience at one of the many public saunas

Day 3: Helsinki to Turku

  • Take an early train to Turku (approx. €30, 2 hours journey)
  • Visit the Turku Castle (€10 admission) and explore its medieval charm
  • Walk along the Aura River and admire the city’s picturesque views
  • Try some local specialties like ruisleipä (rye bread) or kalakukko (fish pie)

Day 4: Turku to Lakeland

  • Take a bus or drive to the Lakeland region (approx. 2-3 hours journey)
  • Explore the beautiful lakeside scenery and picturesque villages
  • Visit the Linnanmäki National Park for hiking and nature walks
  • Enjoy traditional Finnish cottage accommodation and local cuisine

Day 5: Lakeland

  • Take a boat tour on Lake Saimaa (approx. €50-100) to spot the endangered Saimaa ringed seal
  • Visit the Punkaharju Ridge for scenic views and hiking trails
  • Relax at your cottage or try some water activities like swimming or fishing

Day 6: Lakeland to Rovaniemi

  • Take a bus or drive to Rovaniemi (approx. 4-5 hours journey)
  • Visit the Arctic Circle and explore the Santa Claus Village (free admission)
  • Meet Santa Claus himself and send postcards from the North Pole
  • Enjoy traditional Lappish cuisine like karjalanpiirakka or salmiakki

Day 7: Rovaniemi

  • Explore the Rovaniemi Church and its beautiful architecture
  • Visit the Arktikum Museum (€10 admission) to learn about Arctic history and culture
  • Take a snowmobile or dog sledding tour (approx. €100-200) for an adrenaline-packed adventure
  • Depart from Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

Practical Information

Visa Requirements

Citizens of certain countries may need a visa to enter Finland. Check the Finnish Immigration Service website for more information.

Transportation

  • Flights: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the main international airport.
  • Trains: VR trains connect major cities, with frequent departures and affordable prices.
  • Buses: Matkahuolto buses cover a wide network of routes, with online booking available.
  • Car rental: Available at airports and major cities.

Accommodation

  • Helsinki: Range of options from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.
  • Turku: Cozy boutique hotels and traditional Finnish guesthouses.
  • Lakeland: Traditional cottages and rural accommodations.
  • Rovaniemi: Santa-themed hotels and cozy cabins.

Currency and Language

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Finnish (official), Swedish, English widely spoken

Safety and Health

  • Finland is generally a very safe country.
  • Take necessary precautions against mosquitoes and ticks in Lakeland.
  • Ensure you have adequate travel insurance covering medical expenses.

Tips and Essentials

  • Pack layers for unpredictable Nordic weather.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and nature.
  • Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning Finnish landscapes!
  • Try some traditional Finnish coffee and pastry at a local café.