11 days in Helsinki, Turku & Mariehamn 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.

Get a sense of the local culture at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Temppeliaukio Church. Museum-lovers will get to explore Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and Design Museum. When in Helsinki, make a side trip to see Nuuksio National Park in Espoo, approximately Espoo away. There's still lots to do: pause for some serene contemplation at Helsinki Cathedral, take in the spiritual surroundings of Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali), take a stroll through Katajanokka, and get to know the fascinating history of The Esplanadi Park.

For traveler tips, photos, other places to visit, and more tourist information, use the Helsinki road trip app.

If you are flying in from France, the closest major aiport is Helsinki Vantaa Airport. In August in Helsinki, expect temperatures between °C during the day and °C at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 7th (Wed) early enough to go by car to Turku.

Sitting at the mouth of the Aura River, Turku is one of Finland's quaintest and most historically rich towns.

You'll enjoy a bit of beach vacationing at Ispoinen Beach and Sauna and Vepsa Island. Naantali Old Town and Forum Marinum Maritime Centre are good opportunities to explore the local culture. There's still lots to do: step into the grandiose world of Turku Castle, take a spin around town with Bike Rental - by Carfield, take in the spiritual surroundings of Turku Cathedral, and admire the landmark architecture of St Henry's Ecumenical Art Chappel.

For maps, where to stay, ratings, and tourist information, go to the Turku trip itinerary builder website.

You can drive from Helsinki to Turku in 2 hours. Other options are to take a train; or fly. In August, daily temperatures in Turku can reach °C, while at night they dip to °C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 10th (Sat) to allow enough time to travel to Mariehamn.

Mariehamn is the capital of Åland, an autonomous territory under Finnish sovereignty. Get in touch with nature at Getabergen and Kobba Klintar. Get some cultural insight at Jan Karlsgården Outdoor museum Jan Karlsgården and Aland Hunting & Fishing Museum. Change things up with a short trip to Bomarsund in Sund (about 32 minutes away). And it doesn't end there: brush up on your military savvy at Aland Maritime Museum, see the interesting displays at Museumship Pommern, explore the engaging exhibits at The Aland Island Art Museum, and take in the waterfront at The Maritime Quarter.

For where to stay, maps, traveler tips, and tourist information, refer to the Mariehamn day trip website.

Getting from Turku to Mariehamn by flight takes about 2 hours. Other options: ride a ferry. In August, plan for daily highs up to °C, and evening lows to °C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 14th (Wed) so you can travel back home.