Best Day Trips from Helsinki

Helsinki is one of the most famous cultural capitals of Scandinavia and a very popular place among tourists due to the many attractions it offers. However, this destination is also perfect to start discovering the nearby cities on half-day or full-day excursions, and to get to know the Baltic Sea from the deck of a ship.

Some of the best things to do in Helsinki include touring Porvoo and its picturesque historic center, taking a trip to Suomenlinna Fortress, touring the canals surrounding the Finnish capital, discovering Talli on a full-day tour and seeing the natural wonders of Porkkala.

If you ever find yourself in Helsinki with limited time but wish to explore Finland's rich history and charm in its deepest places, a half-day excursion to Porvoo, which is about 1 hour from the capital, could be the perfect choice. This trip will take you through the picturesque Finnish countryside in a comfortable bus, providing a relaxing and enriching experience.

The route of these experiences will usually begin with a scenic drive from Helsinki to Porvoo, during which you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Finnish hinterland. Arriving in Porvoo, which is about 50 kilometers from Helsinki but offers very different landscapes, you will find yourself immersed in the unique atmosphere of a historic village.

Here you can also explore Porvoo Cathedral, a historic landmark that has witnessed centuries of changes and events. Its stone walls hold fascinating stories and offer a full view of the city from its tower. You'll also have free time to stroll along the banks of the Porvoo River, enjoy a scenic tour and discover stores selling local products.

Porvoo's history dates back to the Middle Ages, and during your visit, you'll discover how this city has evolved over the years, maintaining its historic charm while embracing modernity. With its picturesque architecture, welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Porvoo presents itself as a Finnish gem that will transport you through time in just half a day.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 100 euros per person.
• Duration: between 4 and 5 hours.
• Advantages of these excursions: you will get to know one of the most beautiful villages in the interior of Finland in a short tour.
• Disadvantages of these excursions: you will not have time to visit Tallinn from the port of Porvoo, which is one of the recommended activities on this site due to its proximity to the capital of Estonia.

If you want to see one of the most fascinating sites around Helsinki, you can't miss a historical adventure with a tour to Suomenlinna Fortress. These experiences combine one of the best boat trips in the Gulf of Finland with a tour of the country's most important fortification.

Upon arrival at Suomenlinna Island you can explore the local museum, which tells the detailed history of the fortress and its crucial role in the defense of the region. Built in the 18th century by Sweden, Suomenlinna has witnessed changes in sovereignty over the years, from being a Swedish fortress to being part of the Grand Duchy of Finland under Russian rule.

Suomenlinna Fortress, located about 30 minutes from the capital, stands as a silent testimony to the strategic military importance it has played in the past. During your visit, you will explore its walls, bastions and subway tunnels, and you will also get to see one of the best museums near Helsinki, where you can find photographs, war information and military relics.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 45 euros per person.
• Duration: about 4 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will get to know one of the most popular attractions around Helsinki and visit the most important fortress in the country that functioned as a military base until 1970.
• Disadvantages of these tours: the winter weather can make this tour a difficult experience due to strong winds and freezing temperatures.

Helsinki is primarily a port city, so one of the best ways you will find to get to know its spirit is to participate in an excursion that takes you along the canals of this destination and also along the Baltic Sea, which is a very important strategic site in the region and has played a key role in the development of the Finnish capital.

These experiences, then, will offer you a unique perspective of the city, allowing you to discover its nooks and crannies from an aquatic perspective. You will cruise along the tranquil canals, surrounded by elegant architecture and cityscapes that reflect the perfect fusion of history and modernity, a characteristic that distinguishes Helsinki.

During the tour you will admire the grandeur of the city's landmark buildings, such as the Helsinki Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. In addition, this excursion will take you to the Baltic Sea, where the beauty of the horizon and the immensity of the water will captivate you. The panoramic views of the Finnish archipelago from the ship will give you unforgettable moments and you will also discover the shores of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.

These excursions will not only allow you to dive into the local history and distinctive architecture of the Finnish capital, but will also offer you the opportunity to connect with the tranquility and natural beauty of the Baltic.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 55 euros per person.
• Duration: about 3 hours and a half.
• Advantages of these tours: you will get to see the surroundings of Helsinki through the city's canals and also the sweeping views of the Baltic Sea in a single half-day tour.
• Disadvantages of these tours: they do not include stops, but simply offer a panoramic tour with recorded commentary.

One of the most fascinating experiences you can have in Helsinki is to discover Tallinn, the picturesque capital of Estonia, which is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. On a full day tour that will take you by ferry to the Estonian port, you will discover the medieval charm of this destination located on the other side of the Baltic Sea.

The old town of Tallinn, located about 2 hours by boat from Helsinki, will be the first step of the tour. Its cobblestone streets will lead you through a maze of well-preserved medieval architecture, where you will discover the Town Hall Square, one of the most famous medieval squares in Europe, as well as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a masterpiece of Russian Orthodox architecture.

During the ferry ride to Tallinn from Helsinki you can also explore the local history and culture on a tour that includes everything from its fortified walls to the local street markets. In addition, you will enjoy some Estonian gastronomic specialties in cafes and restaurants in the historic center.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 170 euros per person.
• Duration: about 12 hours.
• Advantages of these excursions: you will get to know what is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world in an organized full-day tour.
• Disadvantages of these excursions: during the winter the ferry trip can be delayed and take up to 3 hours per leg, which will lengthen the tour.

If you want to enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of the Finnish forests, you can take a trip from Helsinki to Porkkala, a destination that has earned a reputation as one of Finland's most popular and outstanding natural sites. Just a short two-hour drive from the bustling capital, Porkkala offers a haven where visitors can unwind and soak up the country's lush nature.

On these excursions you can discover extensive forests, fairytale coastal scenery and the tranquil charm of the islands that make up the Porkkala region. This destination is also especially known for its hiking tra ils that wind through the countryside, allowing you to explore the local flora and fauna while enjoying panoramic views of the Baltic Sea. If you plan to visit Helsinki in winter you can also discover the snowy forests.

In addition to its natural beauty, Porkkala is also home to historical sites, such as the former Soviet military base, which adds an intriguing touch to the experience. You can explore ancient structures and learn about the unique history of this area. In short, a trip to Porkkala is an invitation to unwind, rejuvenate and discover a corner of Finland that combines the majesty of nature with a touch of fascinating history.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 115 euros per person.
• Duration: about 4.5 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will be able to explore the interior of Finland through its nature and get away from the urban hustle and bustle.
• Disadvantages of these tours: they are often expensive experiences.

You can book these tours in advance online or book them once you are in the city, although if you plan to visit Helsinki during the summer or during the high season months, I advise you to book before you arrive in the Finnish capital so that you can secure your place on the experiences and also save money, as rates are dynamic and last minute bookings tend to increase.

Also, if you book in advance you can combine any of these excursions with other experiences, such as the best Helsinki tours or you can also visit some of the best museums in the city, allowing you to get the most out of your visit, which will be ideal if you have a short stay planned to discover the Finnish capital in 2 days or even less time.

Also note that if you choose to hire the Helsinki Card pass, you can get discount on some excursions, such as the best boat tours in the Finnish capital.

Before embarking on an excursion from Helsinki, it is essential to keep in mind a few tips that will make your experience thoroughly enjoyable. First, consider planning ahead and choose the tour that best suits your interests and schedule. With the variety of options available, from historical tours to nature explorations, be sure to choose an alternative that will truly stimulate you.

Also, check weather conditions before you leave. Finland can have variable weather, and being prepared for weather eventualities will help you make the most of your excursion. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing, including a rain jacket, especially if your tour includes outdoor activities or you plan to visit Helsinki during the winter.

Helsinki is one of the best places in the region to use as a base, especially because it will allow you to see some very interesting cities, some even in neighboring countries. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a destination that you can not miss, because it is a ferry ride away and the journey is worth it. There you can experience the magic of its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture that characterizes it.

Another destination you should not miss during your excursions from Helsinki is Porkkala, a natural sanctuary that offers a quiet getaway from the bustling Finnish capital. With its extensive forests, coastal scenery and hiking trails, Porkkala allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Finland's nature. The former Soviet military base located in the region adds an intriguing tinge to the experience, combining the serenity of nature with a dash of 20th century history.

In addition, the city of Porvoo, with its old town and rich history, is worth exploring. From Porvoo Cathedral to the banks of the Porvoo River, every corner tells a unique story that connects you to Finland's past and even allows you to discover the wonders of the Baltic Sea from its harbor.

Opting for a guided tour from Helsinki rather than exploring the nearby sites on your own has several significant advantages. Having an expert guide will provide you with an enriching experience, as you will be able to get detailed information about the history, culture and highlights of each destination. In addition, guides often share anecdotes and local knowledge that you would be hard-pressed to find on your own.

In addition, guided tours from Helsinki offer convenience and efficiency. Itineraries are carefully planned, maximizing exploration time and ensuring that you don't miss any important attractions.

An efficient tour will be especially valuable if your time is limited, allowing you to enjoy the full experience without worrying about transportation logistics, schedules or potential setbacks. If this is your case, here is a list of things you can do to discover Helsinki in 3 days.

Safety is also a key consideration when opting for a guided tour. The guides know the region well and are prepared to deal with any unforeseen situation. Also, traveling with a group provides an extra sense of security, especially in lesser known destinations.