As the capital city of Finland, Helsinki is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, there’s more to explore beyond the city limits. In this article, we’ll delve into eight unique day trip destinations around Helsinki, each offering a distinct experience that will leave you in awe.
1. Porvoo: A Medieval Town with a Rich History
Located 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, Porvoo is a charming medieval town that boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The town’s name comes from the ancient fortress on the river Porvoonjoki that flows through it. With its narrow streets and ancient buildings, Porvoo is like stepping into a fairytale.
- Distance from Helsinki: 50.9 km
- How to get there: Bus 848 from Kaampi Center (€6.40 one way)
- Must-visit attractions:
- Wooden warehouses on the waterfront (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Gothic cathedral
Porvoo’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved architecture, which dates back to the Middle Ages. The town was an important trading center during the Hanseatic League period and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Porvoo is the wooden warehouse district on the waterfront. These warehouses date back to the 17th century and have been beautifully restored to their original state. Visitors can explore these historic structures and get a glimpse into the town’s past as a major trading center.
In addition to its historical significance, Porvoo is also known for its picturesque surroundings. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the riverbank or explore the nearby woods on foot or by bike.
2. Loviisa: A Fortress with a Rich History
Located east of Helsinki, Loviisa is a town with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The town’s name comes from Swedish Queen Lovisa Ulrika, and its fortress has been a significant landmark for centuries.
- Distance from Helsinki: 89.8 km
- How to get there: Bus lines 848, S717, S721 (€9.00-€11.00 one way)
- Must-visit attractions:
- Linnake Bastion Ungern (remains of the old fortress)
- Neogothic church
Loviisa’s history dates back to the Swedish era, when it was an important fortress for defending against the Russians. The town’s fortress was built in 1754 and has been beautifully restored over the years.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Loviisa is the Linnake Bastion Ungern, which remains of the old fortress. Visitors can explore this historic structure and get a glimpse into the town’s past as an important military outpost.
In addition to its historical significance, Loviisa is also known for its stunning natural surroundings. The town is located on the coast of the Baltic Sea and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Lake Tuusula: A haven for Artists and Nature Lovers
Located 33 kilometers north of Helsinki, Lake Tuusula is a serene destination perfect for artists and nature lovers. The lake’s basin covers an area of 6 square kilometers, making it an ideal spot for boat trips or hiking.
- Distance from Helsinki: 33.8 km
- How to get there: Bus 665 from Terminal 5 (€7.40 one way)
- Must-visit attractions:
- Jean Sibelius’ house (home of the famous Finnish composer)
Lake Tuusula is a popular destination for artists, who come to inspire themselves with the lake’s serene surroundings. The lake’s basin is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, making it an ideal spot for hiking and birdwatching.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Lake Tuusula is Jean Sibelius’ house, which was once the home of the famous Finnish composer. Visitors can explore the house and get a glimpse into the life of this legendary musician.
In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Tuusula is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The lake has been an important center for artistic expression in Finland since the 19th century, with many notable artists having come to the area to find inspiration.
4. Hyvinkaa: A City with a Rich History and Cultural Heritage
Located 56 kilometers north of Helsinki, Hyvinkaa is a lively city that boasts a rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to the Finnish Railway Museum, as well as a modern church designed by architect Aarno Ruusuvori.
- Distance from Helsinki: 56.7 km
- How to get there: Train from Helsinki Main Station (€9.70 one way)
- Must-visit attractions:
- Finnish Railway Museum
- Modern church
Hyvinkaa’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was an important trading center for the region. The city has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City since 2013 and is home to many cultural institutions.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Hyvinkaa is the Finnish Railway Museum, which showcases the history of Finland’s railway system. Visitors can explore exhibits on the development of railways in Finland and learn about the impact of this mode of transportation on the country’s economy and society.
In addition to its historical significance, Hyvinkaa is also known for its modern architecture. The city is home to many notable buildings, including a church designed by architect Aarno Ruusuvori.
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5. Riihimaki: A Green and Cultural Hub
Located north of Helsinki, Riihimaki is a charming city that boasts green spaces and cultural attractions. The city is home to the Suomen Lasimuseo (Finland’s Glassmaking Museum) and the Riihimaki Art Museum.
- Distance from Helsinki: 69.3 km
- How to get there: Train from Helsinki Main Station (€6.40 one way)
- Must-visit attractions:
- Suomen Lasimuseo (Glassmaking Museum)
- Riihimaki Art Museum
Riihimaki’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was an important center for glassmaking in Finland. The city is home to many notable glassmakers and has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City since 2016.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Riihimaki is the Suomen Lasimuseo (Finland’s Glassmaking Museum), which showcases the history and development of glassmaking in Finland. Visitors can explore exhibits on the techniques used by Finnish glassmakers, including ancient methods such as blowing glass on a metal rod.
In addition to its cultural significance, Riihimaki is also known for its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, making it an ideal destination for hiking and birdwatching.
6. Tallinn, Estonia
Located just a short ferry ride from Helsinki, Tallinn is a charming medieval city that boasts stunning architecture and cultural heritage. With its walkable old town and picturesque streets, Tallinn is a must-visit destination.
- Distance from Helsinki: 85.9 km
- How to get there: Ferry from Helsinki (€35.00 one way)
- Must-visit attractions:
- Toompea Hill
- Aleksandr Nevsky Cathedral
- Santa Catherine Passage
Tallinn’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was an important trading center for the Hanseatic League. The city has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and is home to many cultural institutions.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Tallinn is Toompea Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the old town. Visitors can explore the hill’s narrow streets and historic buildings, including the stunning Aleksandr Nevsky Cathedral.
In addition to its cultural significance, Tallinn is also known for its stunning natural surroundings. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, making it an ideal destination for hiking and birdwatching.
7. Hanko: A Coastal Town with a Rich History
Located on the southern coast of Finland, Hanko is a charming coastal town that boasts a rich history. The town has been an important center for trade and commerce since the Middle Ages and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
- Distance from Helsinki: 55 km
- How to get there: Bus or train from Helsinki (€5-€10 one way)
- Must-visit attractions:
- Old town of Hanko
- Hanko Castle
Hanko’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was an important trading center for the Hanseatic League. The town is home to many cultural institutions and has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City since 2017.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Hanko is the old town of Hanko, which boasts stunning architecture and narrow streets. Visitors can explore the town’s historic buildings, including the stunning Hanko Castle.
In addition to its historical significance, Hanko is also known for its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, making it an ideal destination for hiking and birdwatching.
Conclusion
Finland is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage, offering many iconic landmarks and destinations for visitors. From the medieval towns of Porvoo and Loviisa to the stunning natural surroundings of Lake Tuusula and Hanko, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Nordic country.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Finland has a wealth of attractions and activities to explore. So why not start planning your trip today and discover all that this amazing country has to offer?
