12 days in Helsinki 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.

Your inner history buff will appreciate Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Uspenskin Cathedral (Uspenskin Katedraali). Museum-lovers will appreciate Seurasaari Island and Open-Air Museum and Laurinmaki Crofter's Museum. Change things up with these side-trips from Helsinki: Espoo (Nuuksio National Park & Arctic Expedition), Arboretum Mustila (in Elimaki) and Teijo National Park (in Pernio). Spend the 24th (Fri) exploring nature at Sipoonkorven Kansallispuisto. Next up on the itinerary: take in the architecture and atmosphere at Helsinki Cathedral, find your balance on the water with some of the best stand-up paddleboarding in the area, trek along Santalahti Nature Trail, and take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence.

To find maps, ratings, reviews, and other tourist information, you can read our Helsinki road trip planning website.

If you are flying in from Australia, the closest major aiports are Helsinki Vantaa Airport, Turku Airport and Tampere-Pirkkala Airport. In May, daytime highs in Helsinki are 18°C, while nighttime lows are 7°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 31st (Fri) early enough to travel back home.