12 days in Helsinki & Turku 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.

Step out of the city life by going to Teijo national park and Nuuksio National Park. Explore hidden gems such as Bellevue Beach and Arboretum Mustila. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Helsinki: Castle Hill (in Porvoo), Hagen - Ramsholmen - Hogholmen (in Raseborg) and Fagervik Museum (in Inkoo). There's still lots to do: learn about all things military at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, take a stroll through Katajanokka, and stroll through Aurinkolahti Beach.

To plan Helsinki vacation without wasting time, ask Inspirock to design an itinerary.

If you are flying in from Canada, the closest major airport is Helsinki Vantaa Airport. In December, daytime highs in Helsinki are 3°C, while nighttime lows are -3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 4th (Fri) early enough to travel back home.

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

You've now added Turku Castle to your itinerary. Start off your visit on the 5th (Sat): brush up on your military savvy at Rauman Merimuseo - Rauma Maritime Museum, take in the architecture and atmosphere at The Church of the Holy Cross, and then delve into the distant past at Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova. On the 6th (Sun), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: kick back and relax at Ispoinen Beach and Sauna, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at St Henry's Ecumenical Art Chappel, then brush up on your military savvy at Forum Marinum Maritime Centre, and finally explore the historical opulence of Turku Castle.

To see more things to do, where to stay, photos, and more tourist information, go to the Turku trip site .

Getting from Helsinki to Turku by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: take a train; or fly. Expect a daytime high around -3°C in January, and nighttime lows around -9°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 7th (Mon) to allow enough time to drive back home.