Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is a compact metropolis that boasts a vibrant cultural scene, stunning architecture, and an inviting atmosphere. Located on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is an ideal destination for those who enjoy a mix of urban life and natural beauty.
Trip to Helsinki, Finland
Day 1: Arrival in Helsinki and Evening Stroll
Welcome to Helsinki! On your arrival at the airport, after clearing customs and picking up your luggage, you can board the convenient and efficient public transport system to head to your hotel. Check-in at your hotel and freshen up a bit. To start your sightseeing, take an evening stroll through Helsinki’s famous Esplanade Park. It is the perfect place to relax and soak up the local culture. With live music, street performers, and restaurants, it is the perfect place to unwind in the evening and observe the vibrant Finnish city’s life. Finnish cuisine is all about fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, so make sure you stop for dinner and try some classic Finnish dishes.
Day 2: Helsinki City Tour
Today’s the day to explore the city! Start with a guided city tour, taking in the iconic landmarks of Helsinki. First stop is the Helsinki Cathedral located in the Senate Square; it’s a white, neoclassical cathedral with four green domes. From there, walk to Uspenski Cathedral, the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. Stroll down the city’s main shopping street, Aleksanterinkatu, and Old Market Hall to try some local delicacies for lunch. In the afternoon, you may visit the Rock Church, a famous church built inside a rock. Don’t forget to stop by the Sibelius Monument, a tribute to Finland’s most beloved composer, Jean Sibelius.
Day 3: Day Trip to Porvoo
Today, take an exciting day tour to the medieval town of Porvoo, located an hour’s drive from Helsinki. Enjoy the charming 18th-century wooden houses painted in shades of yellow, orange, and red, narrow streets, and quaint cafes. The town’s star attraction is the Porvoo Cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century and belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. If you’re a fan of Finnish chocolate and coffee, don’t forget to visit Brunberg Candy Factory while you’re in Porvoo. On the way back to Helsinki, you can stop at the beautiful Loviisa’s town, home to numerous old wooden houses, pristine beaches, and excellent restaurants.
Day 4: Suomenlinna Island
Enjoy a ferry ride to Suomenlinna Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Suomenlinna is a fortress located on a group of islands, which was built by the Swedish during the 18th century. It is now a popular tourist spot as well as a residential area, with around 800 people living on the island. Walk through the tunnels and fortifications, visit the museums, and enjoy the stunning sea views. There are several restaurants, cafes, and picnic spots on the island. You can also visit the Suomenlinna Church, a peaceful place with beautiful stained glass windows and Finnish architecture.
Day 5: Design District and Shopping
Helsinki is famous for its Design District. Spend today walking around the district, exploring the shops and galleries, and visiting the Design Museum and Galleries. There are plenty of locally made items in the shops that will serve as great souvenirs of your trip. Helsinki is a shopper’s paradise, so visit Stockmann, which is Helsinki’s biggest department store, for high-end shopping. For local handicrafts and hand-made items, visit the Market Square to find small boutiques selling Finnish crafts and clothing. This bustling market has been operating since the 1800s and is the perfect place to grab a traditional snack for lunch.
Day 6: Sauna and Nightlife
Today is for relaxation and partying! Try out the traditional Finnish sauna to relax your body and mind. Löyly sauna is a modern sauna with a unique design - with large windows looking out over the Baltic sea. In the evening, visit one of the many nightclubs, bars, or restaurants. Helsinki is also a city full of craft beer bars. Head to Konttori, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar, known for its creative cocktail menu, once known as one of the best bars in Europe.
Day 7: Departure
Time to bid farewell to Helsinki, and fly back home. If time permits, have one last Finnish meal and pick up some last-minute souvenirs from Helsinki. Don’t forget to take a final stroll in the city and take in all the beautiful sights before leaving.
