Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the captivating landscapes of Southern Finland, where each destination promises a unique blend of history, culture, and delectable cuisine.
Popular itinerary for a cultural and culinary tour of Finland:
Discover the allure of Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Senate Square, surrounded by neoclassical architecture and the iconic Helsinki Cathedral. Nearby, Uspenski Cathedral, a testament to Finland’s Orthodox heritage, stands tall with its striking red brick facade. Savor the city’s culinary delights, including traditional fish pie, rice-filled pastries, and creamy Solomon’s soup. Don’t miss the chance to try the unique taste of Finnish rye bread and salty licorice. In the morning, start your day with a hearty Finnish rice porridge.
Sail to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its fortress and stunning coastal scenery. Returning to Helsinki, you’ll find solace in the Kamppi Chapel of Silence, a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.
Your cultural exploration continues at Art Museum Ateneum, home to Finland’s leading art collection, showcasing masterpieces by renowned Finnish artists. Afterward, visit Temppeliaukio Church, or the Church of the Rock, a marvel of modern architecture built inside a solid rock, whose unique acoustics provide a stunning backdrop for musical performances. In the evening, dine at one of the city’s restaurants, savoring local delicacies.
Venture westward from Helsinki to Tytyri, a fascinating underground museum housed within an active limestone mine. Continuing to Lohja, a charming town nestled among lakes and pristine forests, you’ll discover the artistic heritage of the region at the Salo Art Museum Veturitalli. Further west, the historic city of Turku beckons with its medieval charm and iconic landmarks, including Turku Cathedral, the oldest church in Finland. Visit Forum Marinum, a maritime museum celebrating the nation’s seafaring heritage. In Turku, experience the cuisine of the Finnish archipelago with a slow-cooked lamb dish and a local pastry named after the poet Johan Ludwig Runeberg.
Discover the charm of Finland’s countryside. Journey north to Rauma, a town renowned for its well-preserved wooden architecture and rich maritime heritage. Immerse yourself in the glassmaking artistry of iittala, a town famous for its glass production. Continue to the medieval Hämeenlinna Castle, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Savor local delicacies like sautéed pork or venison with a delicious pie for dessert.
On your return to Helsinki, explore the enchanting town of Porvoo, with its charming wooden houses and cobblestone streets.
The 6-day trip covers approximately 435 miles, beginning and ending in Helsinki.
Day 1: Helsinki
Welcome to Helsinki! Today you’ll embark on a journey to discover the heart of this vibrant capital city.
Your adventure begins at Senate Square, surrounded by neo-classical buildings, including the majestic Helsinki Cathedral with its white façade and green domes. As you marvel at the cathedral’s grandeur, you’ll learn about its significance as a symbol of Finnish national identity. From here, make your way to the nearby Uspenski Cathedral, an awe-inspiring Orthodox church overlooking the city from its hilltop location. Admire its exterior made of red bricks and beautiful onion domes, and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
After visiting the cathedral, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Helsinki’s Old Town. Head to the docks where you’ll board a ferry to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site spread across a cluster of picturesque islands. As you explore the fortress’s fortifications, tunnels, and museums, you’ll uncover its fascinating history as a military stronghold and maritime center.
Upon returning from Suomenlinna Island, visit the historic Vanha Kauppahalli, the old market hall, offering a wide variety of Finnish delicacies, local produce, and traditional dishes. Be sure to sample Finnish specialties such as Kalakukko, a traditional Finnish fish pie; Karjalanpiirakka, a pastry filled with rice or potatoes; and Lohikeitto, a creamy salmon soup often served with Ruisleipa, rye bread.
Spend the night in Helsinki.
Day 2: Helsinki
Start your day with a hearty Finnish rice porridge, known as Riisipuuro. This traditional dish is made by boiling short-grain rice in water until it’s absorbed, then simmering it gently with milk until it becomes creamy. It’s usually served hot, topped with sugar and cinnamon.
Next, head to the vibrant Design District. Discover creativity at every turn, from charming boutiques and art galleries to innovative design studios. Stroll through the district, soaking up the city’s unique aesthetic before relaxing or picnicking in the serene and lush Esplanade Park.
Continue with a visit to the tranquil Kamppi Chapel of Silence, a modern oasis amidst the city’s bustle. Immerse yourself in art at the Ateneum Art Museum, home to a vast collection of Finnish and international masterpieces from the 19th century to the modern era. Afterward, marvel at the architectural wonder of Temppeliaukio Church, the Rock Church, hewn into a massive rock. Marvel at the church’s serene atmosphere and stunning natural acoustics before continuing your journey.
From there, stroll around the picturesque Töölönlahti Bay area and admire panoramic views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Finlandia Hall and the National Museum of Finland. To conclude the day, head to the city center shopping district to explore Helsinki’s vibrant retail scene. From department stores to boutique shops, there’s something for everyone.
Spend the night in Helsinki.
Day 3: From Helsinki to Lohja, Salo, and Turku
Start your journey on Highway 18E, driving approximately 37 miles to the Tytyri Mine in Lohja. Explore the underground world of this active limestone mine on a guided tour. Learn about the mine’s history, discover the challenges of mining, and experience the unique underground environment – a maze of tunnels and caverns. Don’t miss the chance to attend a concert or multimedia event in the mine’s atmospheric underground hall.
From the mine, continue on Highway 18E for about 44 miles to the town of Salo. Immerse yourself in art and industrial history at the Salo Art Museum Veturitalli. Explore the museum’s vast collection of contemporary art in the unique setting of a historic railway warehouse. The diverse collection includes paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations by both local and international artists, showcasing a wide range of styles and themes.
Continue on Highway 18E for another 37 miles to the city of Turku to spend the night.
Day 4: Turku
Embark on a captivating walking tour, beginning at the majestic Turku Castle, where medieval history comes to life in its grand halls and atmospheric dungeons. From there, stroll along cobblestone streets to the iconic Turku Cathedral, which offers panoramic views from its tower. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the market square, sampling local delicacies and fresh produce.
After savoring Finnish specialties, stroll along the Aura River and visit the Forum Marinum Museum, home to historic ships, boats, and maritime artifacts. Continue with a leisurely walk through the charming streets of the Luostarinmäki open-air museum.
Conclude your day with a delightful cruise aboard the Ukkopekka steamship, departing from Turku to the small island of Loistokari, to explore the archipelago. Choose from a cruise that includes dinner, or savor dinner at one of the restaurants in the archipelago, sampling local specialties such as a lamb dish called Särä and Runeberg Torte, an almond and rum-flavored sponge cake. You’ll also find numerous breweries in the region, such as Rajakatu Panimo, Lapin Panimo, and Rocking.
Spend the night in Turku.
Day 5: From Turku to Rauma, iittala, and Hämeenlinna
Start your day by driving approximately 56 miles on Highway 18E to the coastal town of Rauma. Enjoy the charming, UNESCO-listed old town, renowned for its colorful 18th and 19th century wooden houses and rich history. Wander the narrow streets, exploring the town’s unique character, dining, and shopping.
From Rauma, continue your journey for about 112 miles on Highways 12, 2, and E63 to the town of Iittala. Discover the world-famous Iittala Glass Factory, renowned for its iconic designs by Alvar Aalto and other celebrated Finnish artists, including Tapio Wirkkala, Kaj Frank, and Timo Sarpaneva. Visit the outlet store for unique glassware and gifts.
From there, continue on Highway 12E for about 15 miles to Hämeenlinna and savor a meal at one of the local restaurants. Be sure to sample the traditional Finnish dish of pork cooked in a clay pot, known as Savijalkapossu, or a reindeer meat dish served with mashed potatoes, called Poronkäristys. For dessert, indulge in a rich blueberry pie called Mustikkapiirakka.
Spend the night in Hämeenlinna.
Day 6: From Hämeenlinna to Porvoo to Helsinki
Start your day by exploring the historic Häme Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress nestled on the shores of Lake Vanajavesi. Discover its rich history as a military stronghold, administrative center, and later, a Renaissance-style palace. Wander through its impressive stone walls and towers, immersing yourself in Finland’s medieval past through exhibitions, guided tours, and events, and enjoy the castle’s scenic grounds.
Afterwards, embark on a scenic drive of approximately 37 miles on Highways 12E and 55 to the charming town of Porvoo. Discover the town’s picturesque old town, renowned for its colorful wooden houses and cobblestone streets. Stroll along the banks of the Porvoo River enjoying the idyllic atmosphere and picturesque views and exploring the charming boutiques and cafes serving Finnish treats.
From there, take Highway 18E for approximately 31 miles back to Helsinki.
