Best Day Trips from Helsinki

Helsinki is one of Scandinavia's most famous cultural capitals and a popular destination for tourists due to its many attractions. However, this destination is also a great place to start discovering nearby cities on half-day or full-day excursions, and to see the Baltic Sea from the deck of a boat.

Some of the best things to do in Helsinki include touring Porvoo and its picturesque historic centre, 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 want to explore Finland's rich history and charm in its deepest places, a half-day trip to Porvoo, which is approximately 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 start 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 kilometres from Helsinki but offers very different landscapes, you will find yourself immersed in the unique atmosphere of a historic town.

Here you can also explore Porvoo Cathedral, a historic landmark that has witnessed centuries of change 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 panoramic tour and discover local produce shops.

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 back in time in just half a day.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 100 euros per person.
• Duration: 4 to 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 Estonian capital.

If you want to see one of the most fascinating sites around Helsinki, you can't miss out on 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.

Arriving at Suomenlinna Island you can explore the local museum, which tells the detailed history of the fortress and its crucial role in the defence 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 underground tunnels, as well as visit 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 see one of the most popular attractions around Helsinki and visit the most important fortress in the country which served as a military base until 1970.
• Disadvantages of these tours: 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 to get into the spirit of the city is to take a tour along the city's canals and the Baltic Sea, which is an 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 tour will take you to the Baltic Sea, where the beauty of the skyline and the vastness of the water will captivate you. The panoramic views of the Finnish archipelago from the boat 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 immerse yourself in the local history and distinctive architecture of the Finnish capital, but will also offer you the opportunity to connect with the tranquillity and natural beauty of the Baltic.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 55 euros per person.
• Duration: about 3.5 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will get to know the surroundings of Helsinki through the city's canals and also the wide 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 ferry ride to the Estonian port, you can experience the medieval charm of this destination on the other side of the Baltic Sea.

Tallinn's Old Town, located about 2 hours by boat from Helsinki, will be the first stop on the tour. Its cobbled streets will lead you through a labyrinth 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 trip to Tallinn from Helsinki you can also explore the local history and culture on a tour that includes everything from the fortified city walls to the local street markets. You'll also enjoy some of Estonia's culinary specialities in cafes and restaurants in the historic centre.

Interesting details

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

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 vast forests, fairytale coastal scenery and the tranquil charm of the islands that make up the Porkkala region. This destination is also particularly well 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 snow-covered 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.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 115 euros per person.
• Duration: about 4.5 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will be able to explore inland Finland through nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• 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 peak 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 tours of Helsinki or you can also visit some of the city's best museums, allowing you to get the most out of your visit, which is ideal if you are planning a short stay to discover the Finnish capital in 2 days or even less time.

Also, keep in mind that if you opt for the Helsinki Card, you can get a 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 a thoroughly enjoyable one. Firstly, 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, make sure you choose an alternative that will really stimulate you.

Also, check weather conditions before you set off. Finland can have variable weather, and being prepared for weather eventualities will help you make the most of your excursion. Be sure to pack 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 as it will allow you to see some very interesting cities, some of them in neighbouring countries. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a destination not to be missed, as it's just a ferry ride away and well worth the trip. There you can experience the magic of its cobbled streets and medieval architecture.

Another destination not to be missed on your excursions from Helsinki is Porkkala, a natural sanctuary that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling Finnish capital. With its extensive forests, coastal scenery and hiking trails, Porkkala allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Finnish nature. The former Soviet military base 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 harbour.

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 unlikely to find on your own.

In addition, guided tours from Helsinki offer convenience and efficiency. Itineraries are carefully planned, maximising 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 transport logistics, schedules or potential setbacks. If this is the 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, travelling with a group provides an extra sense of security, especially in lesser-known destinations.