Finland-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Helsinki

  • Travel: Arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel or hostel
  • Things to Know:
    • Finland is a cash-based society, so make sure to have some euros on hand.
    • Learn some basic Finnish phrases like “hei” (hello) and “kiitos” (thank you).
    • Don’t be surprised if it rains in Helsinki - bring an umbrella!
  • Places to Go:
    • Esplanadi Park: a lively park with cafes, street performers, and live music
    • Senate Square: a beautiful square with historic buildings and the Helsinki Cathedral

Day 2: Helsinki Exploration

  • Transportation: Use public transportation or walk/taxi to get around
  • Places to Go:
    • Temppeliaukion Church: a unique church built into solid rock
    • Design District: explore the latest in Finnish design and shopping
    • Market Square: try some traditional Finnish food like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties)
  • Things to Know:
    • Try some fresh seafood at one of Helsinki’s many restaurants.
    • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the Olympiastadion building

Day 3: Espoo and Otaniemi

  • Transportation: Take the train or bus to Espoo
  • Places to Go:
    • Aalto University: explore the beautiful campus and learn about Finnish innovation
    • Nuuksio National Park: hike through stunning forests and lakes
  • Things to Know:
    • Try some traditional Finnish cuisine like salmiakki (salty licorice) or kalakukko (fish pie)
    • Visit the famous Espoo Market Square for local produce and handicrafts

Day 4: Lahti

  • Transportation: Take the train to Lahti
  • Places to Go:
    • Sibelius Lake: take a stroll around the scenic lake and enjoy the views
    • Hiirihauta Museum Village: learn about Finnish folklore and traditions
  • Things to Know:
    • Visit the beautiful Tervalahti ski resort in the winter or hike through the forests in the summer
    • Try some local specialties like Lahti’s famous chocolate cake

Day 5: Savonlinna

  • Transportation: Take the train to Savonlinna
  • Places to Go:
    • Olavinlinna Castle: explore the medieval castle and its stunning location on an island
    • Savonlinna Opera Festival: catch a performance of Verdi’s La Traviata or another classic opera
  • Things to Know:
    • Visit the picturesque town of Savonlinna with its cobblestone streets and charming shops
    • Try some local fish delicacies like pickled herring or grilled whitefish

Day 6: Imatra

  • Transportation: Take the train to Imatra
  • Places to Go:
    • Imatran Vesi Oy Water Park: cool off on a hot summer day with water slides and pools
    • Tahtola Nature Trail: hike through stunning forests and enjoy the views of Lake Saimaa
  • Things to Know:
    • Visit the beautiful Tahtola waterfall for some stunning views
    • Try some local specialties like Imatra’s famous meat pie or grilled salmon

Day 7: Return to Helsinki

  • Transportation: Take the train back to Helsinki
  • Places to Go:
    • Last chance to visit any of the places you missed earlier in your trip
    • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or trying out some local cuisine
  • Things to Know:
    • Make sure to exchange any leftover euros for a souvenir or two
    • Say hei and kiitos (hello and thank you) to everyone you meet on your travels!

Visa Requirements: EU citizens do not need a visa to enter Finland. Citizens of other countries may need a Schengen visa, which can be applied for at the Finnish embassy or consulate in their home country.

Other Tips and Reminders:

  • Try some local beers like Karjala or Lapin Kulta
  • Visit the beautiful botanical garden in Helsinki’s Töölönlahti Park
  • Learn about Finland’s unique education system and cultural values
  • Don’t miss the stunning Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) if you visit during the winter months!

Note: The itinerary is just a suggestion, and you may want to adjust it based on your personal preferences and interests. Additionally, be sure to check for any travel restrictions or COVID-19 protocols before embarking on your trip.