11 days in Helsinki & Espoo Itinerary

Finland's largest and most populated metropolis, the maritime town of Helsinki boasts varied architecture, a lively cafe culture, and plethora of picturesque natural delights.

You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Mannerheim Museum and Johannes Church. Your cultural itinerary includes sights like Kansallisgalleria and Motorcycle Museum of Finland. Change things up with these side-trips from Helsinki: Kotka (St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Beach Mansikkalahti, &more), Apulandia (in Lahti) and Porvoo (Cathedral of Porvoo & Porvoo Old Town). There's much more to do: stroll through Aurinkolahti Beach, see the interesting displays at Vantaa Art Museum, learn more about the world around you at Natural History Museum (Luonnontieteellinen Museo), and don't miss a visit to Hakaniemi Market.

For reviews, photos, and other tourist information, read our Helsinki trip builder site.

If you are flying in from Switzerland, the closest major aiports are Helsinki Vantaa Airport, Turku Airport and Tampere-Pirkkala Airport. April in Helsinki sees daily highs of 9°C and lows of 0°C at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 20th (Sat) early enough to go by car to Espoo.

Espoo is the second largest city and municipality in Finland. Start off your visit on the 21st (Sun): don't miss a visit to Ekenas Old Town, then get engrossed in the history at EKTA museum, and then pause for some serene contemplation at Church of St. Lawrence. On your second day here, examine the collection at Fagervik Museum, then pause for some serene contemplation at Pyhan Katarinan kirkko, and then stroll through Bellevue Beach.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, ratings, and tourist information, go to the Espoo trip builder app.

Espoo is just a short distance from Helsinki. In April, plan for daily highs up to 9°C, and evening lows to 0°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 23rd (Tue) to allow enough time to drive back home.