◦ Experience Finland · Helsinki → Lapland
South to north, your way
Rent a car in Helsinki, drive the length of Finland, and stay in our places along the way — from a villa near the capital, to an old schoolhouse in the lakeland, to a riverside cabin in Lapland. Fly home from Rovaniemi. This is Finland the way it's meant to be seen: on your own, at your own pace, off the beaten track.
◦ The route
- 1
Arrive
Fly into Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL) and pick up a rental car at the airport.
- 2
Vantaa — Villa Mehiläinen
A few days near the capital. A large villa with a sauna and a dojo — a soft landing, minutes from the airport.
- 3
Tahko — Wanha Koulu
A few days in the Finnish lakeland. An old schoolhouse turned lodging near Tahko — and if you like, come take part in the weekly building and spend time at the homestead (if I'm around).
- 4
Lapland — Lapland Riverside
A few days in true wilderness — a riverside cabin north of the Arctic Circle, near the Ylläs fells.
- 5
Fly home
Drive to Rovaniemi (RVN) and fly out.
◦ Getting around
The best way to get around Finland
Your own rental car is the best way to experience Finland — the freedom, the remote places, your own rhythm. Roads are excellent, quiet, and safe. Distances are long, so plan your driving days, and in the north watch for reindeer and moose at dawn and dusk. For the longest legs there are alternatives: VR trains (including an overnight train to Lapland that can carry your car) and Finnair domestic flights.
| Leg | Distance | Drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Helsinki-Vantaa → Tahko (Wanha Koulu) | ~400 km | ~4.5 h |
| Tahko → Lapland Riverside (Kolari) | ~700 km | ~8–9 h |
| Lapland Riverside → Rovaniemi airport | ~180 km | ~2.5 h |
Best seasons
Summer for the midnight sun and endless green; autumn for the ruska colours; winter for snow and the northern lights (plan for more demanding driving).
Book each place separately
Prefer just one stop? Every place can also be booked on its own — see Stay With Us.
◦ Questions · Experience Finland
How long does the trip take?
Most travellers spend 9–14 days: a few days at each stop plus driving days between them.
Do I need a car?
A rental car is the best way to do this route; the overnight train and domestic flights are alternatives for the long Lapland leg.
Can I book the places individually?
Yes — each place can be booked separately.
How far is Helsinki from Lapland?
Roughly 1,100 km end to end; this trip breaks it into comfortable stages.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer for midnight sun, autumn for colours, winter for snow and northern lights.