12 days in Helsinki & Vaasa 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.

Pack the 6th (Mon) with family-friendly diversions at Linnanmaki Amusement Park. And it doesn't end there: admire the landmark architecture of Temppeliaukio Church, take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence, make a trip to Senate Square, and explore the world behind art at Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma.

For reviews, maps, more things to do, and more tourist information, refer to the Helsinki online travel planner.

Vancouver, Canada to Helsinki is an approximately 16-hour flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 10 hours traveling from Vancouver to Helsinki. Expect little chillier temperatures when traveling from Vancouver in May; daily highs in Helsinki reach 18°C and lows reach 7°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 8th (Wed) so you can travel to Vaasa.

Vaasa is a city on the west coast of Finland. Get out of town with these interesting Vaasa side-trips: Kokkola (The Toivonen Animal Park and Peasant Museum & Neristan (Old Wooden Town)) and Duudsonit Activity Park (in Seinajoki). Spend the 9th (Thu) among the memorable landscape of Kvarken Archipelago World Heritage Site. The adventure continues: examine the collection at Terranova, make a trip to Kaupungintalo - City Hall, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Huutoniemen kirkko, and steep yourself in history at Stromso.

To find where to stay, traveler tips, more things to do, and more tourist information, read Vaasa trip planner.

Traveling by flight from Helsinki to Vaasa takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Expect a daytime high around 15°C in May, and nighttime lows around 4°C. You will have some time to spend on the 14th (Tue) before leaving for home.