Finland 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Helsinki

  • Destination: Helsinki
  • Transportation: Arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) and take a taxi or bus (approximately €20-€30) to your hotel
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel, such as the Hotel Lappee or the Scandic Marski Hotel
  • Things to know:
    • Finland uses the Euro currency
    • Weather in Helsinki can be chilly even in summer (average high 18°C/64°F)
    • Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service
  • Places to go: Visit the iconic Senate Square, the Uspenski Cathedral, and the Market Square (Kauppatori) to try some traditional Finnish food like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties)
  • Activities:
    • Explore the Design District, a hub for design shops and galleries
    • Visit the Museum of Modern Art (AMM), which features contemporary art from Finland and around the world

Day 2: Helsinki

  • Destination: Helsinki
  • Transportation: Walk or take public transportation to your destinations
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
    • Don’t forget to try some Finnish pastries, such as korvapuusti (cardamom swirls) or munkki (muffin)
    • Learn a few basic phrases in Finnish, such as hei (hello), kiitos (thank you), and hyvä (good)
  • Places to go:
    • Visit the Temppeliaukion Church, built into solid rock
    • Explore the Hietaniemi Cemetery, where famous Finns like Tove Jansson are buried
  • Activities:
    • Take a harbor tour to see Helsinki’s historic architecture and islands
    • Visit the Ateneum Art Museum, which features Finnish art from the 19th century to the present

Day 3: Espoo and Nuuksio National Park

  • Destination: Espoo and Nuuksio National Park (approx. 30 minutes north of Helsinki)
  • Transportation: Take public transportation (approximately €10-€15) or drive from Helsinki
  • Things to know:
    • Nuuksio National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Finland, with over 100 kilometers of hiking trails
    • The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, and skiing
  • Places to go:
    • Hike the Keimolanharju Nature Trail, which features stunning views of Helsinki’s skyline
    • Visit the Espoo Museum of Modern Art (EMMA), which showcases contemporary art from around the world

Day 4: Porvoo

  • Destination: Porvoo (approx. 1 hour north of Helsinki)
  • Transportation: Take public transportation (approximately €20-€30) or drive
  • Things to know:
    • Porvoo is Finland’s second-oldest town, with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages
    • The town is known for its picturesque old town and charming atmosphere
  • Places to go:
    • Visit the Old Town, which features cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and historic churches
    • Explore the Porvoo Museum, which showcases the town’s history and culture

Day 5: Return to Helsinki

  • Destination: Helsinki
  • Transportation: Take public transportation (approximately €20-€30) or drive back to Helsinki
  • Things to know:
    • Finland has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trains
    • Don’t forget to try some traditional Finnish cuisine like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) or salmiakki (salty licorice)
  • Places to go: Visit any last-minute attractions in Helsinki, such as the Seurasaari Island, the Sinebrychoff Art Museum, or the Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum

Visa Requirements:

  • As of 2022, EU citizens do not need a visa to enter Finland
  • Citizens of countries outside the EU may require a Schengen visa to enter Finland
  • Check with the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest visa requirements

Other Tips and Recommendations:

  • Pack layers for your visit, as the weather can be unpredictable even in summer
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Finnish sauna experiences at hotels or public saunas
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Finnish to appreciate the culture and people of Finland